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Outrageous Wellness
Explore out-of-the-box concepts with a mission to inspire authentic living and outrageous wellness. Join us as we share our unique perspectives and knowledge on how to inspire ourselves to discover the best version of ourselves. Find out how to use spiritual tools like tarot, Jungian archetypes and other techniques to reframe stress; incorporate mindfulness and astrology to calm your anxious inner child; create a crystal grid to set an intention and manifest success in your career. We are delighted to be on this journey of exploration, and to discover creative ways to heal and reach your highest potential.
Outrageous Wellness
Into the Abyss of Darkness Retreats: The Medicine of Silence and Shadow
Darkness retreats represent one of humanity's oldest spiritual traditions, practiced across cultures from South America to the Middle East, from indigenous traditions to monastic practices. Today, these powerful practices are experiencing a resurgence.
In this fascinating conversation with Keen of Dark Havens Darkness Retreats, we explore the transformative power of darkness as a catalyst for self-discovery. Keen shares his personal journey, which began with his excommunication from his fundamental Christian denomination, then through various spiritual modalities, before discovering darkness retreats as his path. His profound first experience on day five of a seven-day retreat became the turning point that ultimately led to his calling as a facilitator.
Unlike our typical approach to self-development where doing more is valued, darkness retreats invite us into the radical simplicity of being. Without visual stimulation, participants often access deeper layers of consciousness, forgotten memories, and profound insights about themselves and their purpose. The darkness functions as a perfect mirror, returning our projections back to us and creating opportunities for shadow integration that Carl Jung would surely appreciate.
The results can be life-changing. "People divide their lives into 'before darkness' and 'after darkness,'" Keen explains, sharing stories of transformed relationships, career shifts, and newfound clarity. Scientific research is now beginning to examine the neurogenesis and neuroplasticity that may underlie these profound changes.
Whether you're curious about consciousness exploration but hesitant about plant medicines, seeking greater clarity of purpose, or simply longing for the peace that comes from slowing down for a period of time, darkness retreats offer a powerful container for transformation. Listen now to discover how ancient wisdom might help us navigate our modern metacrisis.
Visit darkhavens.org to learn more about darkness retreats or find Keen's book "Darkness Speaks: An Invitation to Abyss" on Amazon.
You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!
