Overview
March 12–14, 2027
Camp Allen Retreat Center, Navasota, TX
Located midway between Austin and Houston
Cost: $755 ($645 before 2/12/27)
A limited number of private rooms are available for a $100 upgrade.
Please email with any questions.
For 25 years, Charles has led creative writing and yoga retreats in Texas and around the world. His early, groundbreaking work using yoga and meditation to support writers was featured in a Yoga Journal article in December 2003. Since then, he has continued introducing writers to the benefits of yoga and yogis to the rich, expansive world of creative writing.
Writers and yogis at every level of experience are welcome. Charles is known for creating a safe, supportive space where creativity can unfold, whether on the yoga mat, at the page, or when sharing work with others. Participation in all activities is always optional.
Facilitators
Charles MacInerney, E-RYT-500, has offered Yoga & Creative Writing retreats since 1995 and was featured in Yoga Journal for his pioneering approach to combining the two in retreat form.
He has studied yoga and meditation since 1971 and has taught since 1989. Over the years, he has worked with more than 20,000 students from around the world. As a professional public speaker, he regularly presents at national and international conferences, including the Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research.
Along with teaching yoga, Charles is certified through Amherst Writers and Artists (AWA) to lead writing groups. His essays have appeared in magazines, journals, books, and online, including Yoga Journal.
Yoga & Writing
At the center of this retreat is the pairing of Hatha Yoga, meditation, and creative writing. Charles and many of his students have found this combination deeply effective. Yoga helps energize the body, supports physical well-being, and brings attention back to the senses. Each class concludes with a long guided relaxation that quiets the mind and supports a creative Alpha brainwave state. After writing—often in a flow-of-consciousness style, without editing or filtering—we gather in small groups, and anyone who wishes may read aloud.
The Writing
Charles leads the writing sessions, which follow the Amherst Writers & Artists process developed by Pat Schneider. The approach is designed to help participants find their truest voice, write from the images, memories, and feelings they carry भीतर, and build confidence and skill. Several writing sessions take place each day in response to exercises Charles offers, though you are always free to ignore them.
Writers are invited to read their work aloud and respond to one another with what resonates: what we like, what we remember, and what moves us. At this stage of vulnerability, feedback is not focused on making the work stronger. Instead, the group works to maintain a safe, confidential space by honoring the writer, treating everything as fiction, focusing on the narrator’s voice, and keeping attention on the writing itself. Writers of all genres and experience levels are welcome. There are no acceptance criteria beyond a sincere desire to write, and no manuscripts are needed, since all writing is created during the retreat.
The Yoga
The yoga practice includes techniques that deepen awareness of subtle sensations and the movements of mind and body—beginning in stillness, moving into subtle movement, and then progressing to more active and challenging asanas. Students are encouraged to trust their own experience and body signals rather than any outside authority, including the teacher. This practice often leads to greater self-awareness, confidence, and independence.
The atmosphere remains relaxed, with an emphasis on enjoyment rather than effort. That does not mean the work is easy; it simply means that even demanding poses can be approached with joy rather than strain.
Facilities
Founded in 1921 by the Episcopal Diocese of Texas, Camp Allen is a year-round retreat center set on 1,100 wooded acres near Navasota. The property includes a conference center, lodge-style accommodations, two lakes for fishing, canoeing, and paddle-boarding, and several miles of trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
The lodge offers a covered front porch, a large back deck ideal for outdoor yoga, a comfortable lounge, space for indoor yoga classes and workshops, a spacious dining room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Satellite wifi and cable are available.
There are 3 bedrooms with 2 beds each and one larger room with 6 single beds, so registration is limited to 12 participants. Bed linens are provided, and there is a laundry room onsite.
Meals
Meals are a highlight of these retreats. All meals are mostly vegetarian, with a fish option for Saturday dinner, and they are delicious. Charles usually cooks the Friday evening meal and Saturday breakfast, while the remaining meals are typically catered by the retreat chef.
Guests are welcome to bring supplements, snacks, or other food items and store them in the kitchen as needed. If you have food allergies, please let Charles know at least 5 days before the retreat begins.
Fresh fruit, snacks, and a wide selection of teas are available 24/7. If you want coffee or other beverages, please bring what you need.
Meals often become a time for new friendships and lively conversation, though those who prefer solitude may also eat on the front porch or back deck.
What to Expect
Plan on about 2 1/2 hours of driving from Austin or 2 hours from downtown Houston. Please arrive between 4:30 and 7 p.m. on Friday to allow time for paperwork, unpacking, and settling in. If you expect to arrive later than 7 p.m., please let us know.
A light dinner will be served at 8 p.m., followed by the first workshop at 8:30 p.m. The retreat officially ends at 3 p.m. on Sunday, and the facilities must be vacated by 6 p.m. that evening.
The schedule includes plenty of time for yoga, writing, and sharing/responding to one another’s work. A detailed schedule will be included in your handout packet when you arrive. You are welcome to participate fully or skip any activity as your energy, mood, and interest guide you. A massage, nap, or walk may sometimes feel more appropriate than a class or workshop. Group discussion is also encouraged, and some of the best insights often come from the participants themselves.
What to Bring
Optional items include pen and paper, a camera, musical instruments, insect repellent, an umbrella, recreational gear such as a frisbee or binoculars, a hammock, coffee or snacks, floor pillows for the main meeting room, your own meditation stool or blanket, and books you would like to share.
A book table will be set up with titles related to yoga, spirituality, meditation, philosophy, fiction, and more. Participants may borrow books during the retreat and should return them when finished. If you would like to contribute favorite books, please write your name inside the cover and bring them along.
Texas weather can be unpredictable, so packing accordingly is recommended.
Testimonials
“Talk about a recharge for the body, mind & soul! The combination of writing and yoga is brilliant, keeping us refreshed & open for the flow that invariably comes.” ~ Anne G., Northampton, MA
“I shall forever draw pleasure and reap benefit from what I experienced and learned at the Mind/Body Creative Writing Retreat. The exercising and nurturing of the body was balanced with the same consideration for the mind and soul. The structure commanded respect for self and others, creating a safe environment in which to let your hair down, take off your masks and work, relax and play - or just retreat from it all!” ~ Jan Rasmussen
“This retreat opened up all of my creative outlets. I feel supported and ready to write.” ~ Carolyn Clark
“This retreat was for me a perfect combination of healthy living and community. I learned so much about writing just by listening to the work and the wise, inspiring teaching and leadership.” ~ Meg H., Andover, MA
“My self consciousness and inexperience with yoga did not matter a whit. I found a quiet slow pleasure in the movements.” ~ Gayle Miller, Artist & Writer, Austin, Texas
“Combining the physical limbering of Yoga genuinely stretched my creativity. I touched parts of my talent I was not able to reach before.” ~ Ron Seybold, Editor of a professional newsletter, Austin, Texas
Designed in a cozy lodge style, this shared room offers a simple and comfortable stay for guests who enjoy a communal atmosphere. Each room includes 2 to 3 beds, making it a practical option for friends, retreat participants, or solo travelers open to sharing space with others.
Bed linens are provided, so you can arrive with ease and settle in right away. The setting is suited to those who value a relaxed, unpretentious environment that supports rest, connection, and a peaceful retreat experience. With its warm lodge character and functional layout, the room provides everything needed for a comfortable stay while keeping the focus on the surrounding wellness experience.
Set beside the water, this double room offers a peaceful stay with a patio that opens to a lake view, creating a calm and restorative atmosphere from the moment you arrive. The bedrooms are designed to make the most of the surroundings, with views that bring the beauty of the lake into your everyday experience.
Guests can enjoy the comfort of a thoughtfully arranged space, along with a bathroom that also benefits from the lakefront setting. The patio provides a lovely spot to pause, breathe, and take in the natural scenery, whether you are starting the day with quiet reflection or winding down in the evening.
With its serene outlook and relaxed feel, this room is well suited for travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and a close connection to nature. It offers an inviting base for a restful stay, where the lake becomes part of the experience.
Designed for guests who appreciate extra space and a refined sense of comfort, this suite offers a relaxing stay with beautifully arranged areas for rest and downtime. The accommodation includes a private bathroom, a serene bedroom, and a welcoming living room, creating a balanced environment for both privacy and relaxation.
Step outside to the patio and enjoy an open-air moment with a pleasant view, adding another layer of calm to your stay. Whether you are unwinding after a day of exploring or simply enjoying a slower pace, the suite provides a comfortable setting that feels both spacious and inviting.
With its elegant layout and thoughtful separation of living and sleeping areas, this suite is well suited for travelers looking for a more elevated experience. It combines comfort, practicality, and a peaceful atmosphere in one refined retreat.
Wake up to calming views across the water in this serene lakefront room, designed for guests who want to stay close to nature throughout their retreat. Large windows and a private patio invite in natural light and create a peaceful setting for slow mornings, quiet reflection, or an evening cup of tea with the lake as your backdrop.
The room offers a comfortable bedroom space with a restful atmosphere, along with a bathroom that also enjoys lake views, adding a sense of openness and tranquility to your stay. Whether you are here for a wellness retreat, a restorative escape, or simply time away from the pace of daily life, this room provides an inviting place to unwind and recharge.
With direct access to the outdoors through the patio, you can step outside whenever you wish to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, and fully embrace the stillness of the setting.
Designed for guests who appreciate extra space and comfort, this elegant suite offers a refined stay with a separate living room, a private bedroom, and a well-appointed bathroom. The atmosphere feels calm and inviting, making it easy to unwind after a day of rest, exploration, or wellness activities.
Large windows and thoughtful layout details create a light, airy feel throughout the suite, while the patio adds another welcoming spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. From the suite and its outdoor area, guests can take in pleasant views that enhance the sense of privacy and ease.
Whether you are settling in for a peaceful solo stay or simply want a more luxurious retreat experience, this suite combines comfort, space, and a serene setting in one polished accommodation.
Since 1995, Charles MacInerney, E-RYT-500, has been leading distinctive retreats that bring together yoga and creative writing in a meaningful, inspiring format. His pioneering approach to combining these two disciplines was featured in Yoga Journal, reflecting the originality of his work and the depth of his experience. Charles has studied yoga and meditation since 1971 and has been teaching since 1989....
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Price
$755.00
Fri, Mar 12 – Sun, Mar 14