Peaceful Retreat in Middle America

Some of my readers will know that I like to feature retreats that are off the tourist trail in remote or less-frequented places. However, you don't have to go half-way around the world to find such places. Here is a retreat center near Loveland, Ohio about 20 miles away from Cincinnati called Grailville. It advertises, "A place of tranquility, spirituality, transformation and respect for the natural world since 1944." The scheduled retreats are quite eclectic - everything from aroma yoga to writing as healing to meditation, all scheduled in April. They also invite you to plan your own retreat, either alone or with as large a group as the facilities will handle in their guest cabins.

Now, more than ever, the world needs haven like Grailville, a sacred place to experience the beauty of the natural world. A few hours or days at Grailville can restore and rejuvenate you. We host retreats, programs, meetings and events. Come with your group or individually to nurture body, mind and spirit.
Our guests, often spiritual, education, healing and arts organizations, are accommodated in our five guesthouses which can host up to 75 overnight. Space for day meetings, workshops, and special events (such as weddings or reunions) is available for up to 200 people.
We offer programs affirming our authentic selves, creating space for the sacred, transforming our lives and addressing the needs of the world. Join us for spiritual retreats and celebrations, arts workshops, retreats and performances, women-only retreats that inspire and inform, and hands-on skill building workshops.
To read the original click here.

The website description goes on to describe the name, Grailville.

We are a center of the Grail in the United States and further the Grail’s vision of a world of peace, justice and renewal of the earth, brought about by women working together as catalysts for change.Grail members are connected by their spirituality. An ecumenical community of women, the Grail supports and celebrates each other’s spiritual paths. The Grail is committed to a shared vision of peace in a global community.

To contact this retreat center, go to the website, https://www.grailville.org and explore what is available. It says something that they have been in existence since 1944, probably longer than many of their members' ages.

Guide to Solitary Spiritual Retreat Centers

Some of you might want some time alone for reflection. Maybe there has been recent life changes or you just need some time to unwind and recharge. I personally find time alone very beneficial as a way to reflect upon what has happened and future directions. Here is a post that lists "hermitages, cabins and other places of spiritual reflection", thanks to the TAT Foundation. It might be just what you need.

His listing of retreat facilities will help you find a place of solitude to spend quiet time in reflection. Places offering only communal meals are included, and noted as such, for consideration of those doing fasting retreats. Places with shared kitchen facilities are included and noted as such. Facilities requiring previous instruction, active guidance or a particular belief-system are not included.
Many facilities require reservations, sometimes months ahead due to popularity. (For a last minute budget alternative, try an inexpensive motel room with kitchenette, especially during an area's off-season.) The majority are run by religious organizations but welcome all guests. Also, many either operate on a suggested-donation basis or reduce charges for those unable to pay the full amount. Costs under $40/night or the equivalent are noted as "economical." Stays of a week or longer are sometimes discounted. Note: click on the facility's site link for additional information.
To read the original click here.

thanks to Phil Franta for this picture

The TAT Foundation is an interesting group as well. It was founded by Richard Rose "to provide a forum for friendship and the spiritual search". They meet hold events 4 times a year at their Headquarters in West Virginia, and there are also various study groups hosted by individual members in their own communities. for $40 per year you could become a member of this non-profit, totally volunteer spiritual group.

While TAT has no dogma or creed, it does have a core viewpoint. These core values were eloquently described by one of the founding and still-active members as follows:
  The search for Truth and Self-definition through self-inquiry and...
  Honest and open discussion of the ways and means for accomplishing this among friends and fellow seekers.
The original is here.

If you wish to know more about TAT or about the retreat listings, contact TAT at tatsociety@tatfoundation.org or online at http://tatfoundation.org.