Presence, Prayer, and Writing from the Heart: A Contemplative Writing Retreat

As a frequent flyer in nature based retreats this was my second experience with "forest bathing". Jeannette and Simon were a powerful pair of facilitators and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Genesis as a retreat center was also very good. The staff were all very helpful and the facility exuded care and quality.

The Genesis Nature Immersion Experience with Simon de Voil and Jeanette Banashak was a deeply enriching and transformative offering. Rooted in both contemplative practice and ecological awareness, the experience gently guided participants into a renewed sense of connection; with themselves, one another, and the living world around them.

Simon and Jeanette bring a rare combination of wisdom, attentiveness, and reverence to their facilitation. They create a space where participants can slow down, listen deeply, and rediscover the sacred rhythms of the natural world. Through their guidance, nature is not simply observed but encountered as a teacher, a companion, and a mirror.

A central gift of the experience is the invitation to rediscover our interconnectedness. Participants are reminded that we are not separate from the more-than-human world, but intimately woven into it. This awareness opens the door to a deeper sense of reciprocity, recognizing that just as we receive from the earth, we are also called to respond with care, presence, and gratitude.

The practices and reflections offered throughout the immersion reveal how profoundly the natural world can teach us. We begin to notice patterns of patience, resilience, and mutuality that illuminate our own lives. Relationships, both human and ecological, are seen in a new light, inviting greater compassion, balance, and attentiveness. Even our understanding of the Divine is expanded, as we encounter God not only within but also alive and active in the unfolding of creation.

This experience is both grounding and awakening. It offers participants not just a retreat from daily life, but a return to what is most essential; connection, presence, and sacred belonging. Anyone seeking a deeper relationship with the natural world and a more integrated spiritual life would find this program profoundly meaningful.

The weekend was excellent. Diarmuid O'Murchu was clear, engaging and gave much for reflection. I am glad that it was not cancelled due to a small number of participants.
It was a more intimate setting and allowed Diarmuid the opportunity to call us by name.

My only disappointment was that I was told when I registered that a recording would be made of the session and sent to the participants. That proved not to be the case.

I attended the yoga retreat as a commuter, and had an excellent experience! Sally is a phenomenal teacher, instructor, guide, and director. I enjoyed the grounds thoroughly, and all of the Genesis staff were friendly and welcoming. The communal experience was peaceful and restorative as well. I felt inspired, renewed, awakened, and refreshed by the end - and I am already looking forward to the next retreat!

Mark Burrows was outstanding—his presentations were both inspiring and deeply engaging. He brings a profound understanding of the Mystics and skillfully weaves it together with poetry to create something truly beautiful. Genesis is a sacred place of peace and renewal, and I look forward to returning for future retreats.