Write with greater ease and a sense of natural momentum.
Join author and writing teacher Sarah Selecky for a contemplative retreat designed to loosen the knots that may be holding your writing back.
You know you’re meant to write, and you’ve made the commitment. Yet somewhere along the way, the process became more difficult than expected. The mind keeps circling the same concerns, unfinished work starts to feel heavy, and the thought of completing what you began can feel overwhelming. You want to write what is waiting to emerge, but the path forward feels unclear.
Think of this retreat as a massage for your writing muscles. Each morning includes a teaching from Sarah, followed by a guided writing practice that helps you bring the lesson into your own work. You’ll explore how to make calm, intuitive creative choices, how to enter the parts of your story you may have been avoiding, and how rest and sleep can offer meaningful insight.
During this retreat, you will:
Afternoons are reserved for uninterrupted writing. As part of the program, participants will have two hours of solo writing time on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. Use the time to write, wander among the autumn leaves, take a yoga class, or simply rest.
If you feel tangled or blocked, this retreat offers space to return to your creative work with clarity and renewed momentum.
Recommended Reading: Sarah Selecky, Story Is a State of Mind: Writing and the Art of Creative Curiosity
NOTE: This program is suitable for writers actively working on a book-length project—fiction, memoir, poetry, or creative nonfiction—as well as anyone longing for spacious time to write and think. Please bring your work-in-progress, a laptop if you need one for afternoon writing time, a notebook, and several good-quality pens for the morning sessions.
Oct 12-15, 2026
4 day event
Daily Schedule:
Set within our eco-friendly Annex, this quiet and simple room offers a comfortable stay in a newer building connected to the main Shadowbrook property. It is a peaceful choice for guests looking for privacy, ease, and a restful atmosphere during their stay.
The room is available with either a queen bed or single bed options, making it suitable for one person or for you and a friend. Designed with simplicity in mind, it provides everything needed for a relaxed and uncomplicated experience.
Included:
A practical and tranquil option, this room combines comfort and privacy in a serene setting.
Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own room while still having access to convenient shared amenities. Thoughtfully located in Shadowbrook, this room offers a peaceful setting for a restful stay, making it a simple and practical choice for guests who value both solitude and ease.
The bathroom is located in the hallway and is shared with nearby rooms, providing a communal setup that remains convenient and accessible. This arrangement allows you to enjoy a more private sleeping space while keeping essential facilities close at hand.
Whether you are joining a retreat, a wellness stay, or simply looking for a calm place to unwind, this room offers a quiet home base with a balanced blend of privacy and shared comfort.
A practical and budget-friendly choice, this larger shared room is designed for guests who value simplicity, comfort, and a community atmosphere. With multiple beds and a same-gender setup, it offers an easygoing space to rest and connect during your stay. Gender expansive housing options are also available, creating a welcoming environment for a wider range of guests.
Located in Shadowbrook, this dormitory-style room is a great fit for retreat participants looking for an affordable lodging option without sacrificing a sense of belonging. Shared hallway baths complement the communal layout, keeping the experience straightforward and comfortable. Ideal for those who are happy to share space and enjoy the spirit of togetherness, this room supports a relaxed and accessible stay.
Author and writing teacher, Sarah Selecky brings a thoughtful and inspiring presence to every workshop and session she leads. With a focus on creative expression and mindful connection to the writing process, she creates a supportive space where participants can explore ideas, deepen their voice, and build confidence on the page. Her approach is warm, encouraging, and grounded in the belief...
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