Sunday, January 3, 2016

Defining A Sacred Retreat Northern California

By Raymond Brooks


One of the best places to find quiet and solitude is a retreat northern California. In fact, some of the best retreats in the world are located in the hills and valleys of central and northern portions of the state. As a result, residents and visitors often frequent these establishments on a regular basis.

Hot springs and resorts have been located in the area for years. As most of these centers were founded during the free love age of the 60s, many have a slant toward the counter-culture. When planning a trip to a resort or retreat in the area, it is often advised to check whether the location allows, discourages or encourages nudity while on-site.

When visiting a sacred retreat, one of the first things people notice is the silent stillness. Depending on location, there may also be sounds of nature which create a natural backdrop to the silence. At times, featuring the sounds of small mammals and other creatures, especially at dawn and late at night.

One spiritual center located between Marin and San Francisco, offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the area. The retreat owned by a spiritual leader has been operation for decades. As such, the area is quite well established with a small community forest on-site.

At this retreat, visitors will find over two thousand acres of pristine land and trails. Natural resources are also abundant with rivers and streams flowing through the area. Park Reyes National Seashore and the infamous Golden Gate Bridge are only a short drive from the center which also offers overnight lodging.

The area, home to some of the most stunning countryside, views and active wildlife is often considered one of the most beautiful areas in the world. Surrounding the acreage are the Point Reyes National Seashore to the west, and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area which almost serves as a moat to the retreat center.

Whether sacred or secular, these retreats offer the public a more exalted awareness and state of being that is quieter and purer than everyday life. While some centers charge a nominal fee, others do not. There are also those which offer overnight camping or lodging and meals for which there is often a charge, even at those which do not require an entry fee.

While most residents in the area have adapted to the retreat center, others wish the land would become a state or national park. It is doubtful that this will ever be the case as it seems the owners have no intention of selling. Ultimately, most residents are satisfied as if not for the center, the area would most likely now be a subdivision with housing rather than a place of quiet reflection.




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