One Day, One Guest: The Silent Retreat with Yera Gomez

The Silent Retreat with Kripalu faculty Jess Frey marked a very clear before and after in my life. I’d been curious and wanting to find a space like this for years, and little did I know that it would be just a couple of hours away from me. What made this even more special was that it was a scholarship opportunity, meaning I received this much needed time away completely free. I remember checking my booking confirmation many times because I could not believe it.

This would be my first time staying on campus and experiencing time—and myself—in silence for days. Jess’s presence immediately gave me permission to tend to myself and practice discernment. This time in my life was calling for a different kind of self-study. It was the beginning of September, requiring me to shift and switch gears with the season. It was a stepping stone in what would be one of the most powerful years of my life.

“I was craving this pause and silence more than I even realized. I left deeply inspired to be more connected to Kripalu, to collaborate, and to expand.”

I felt so much emotion in our opening circle as we prepared to enter silence. I remember feeling uncomfortable and not wanting to engage in much conversation beforehand, as my body was preparing for what was ahead. I knew I was about to meet myself right in the middle of my discomfort.

There was a sweet blend of meditation and writing practices woven throughout the day. Jess, being the experienced teacher she is, supported the process with just the right amount of input. She dropped gems of wisdom connected to the theme of each day.

On the last day, without giving away too much, during our closing, I had a big emotional release and cried alongside my peers. As a mother and teacher, I was craving this pause and silence more than I even realized. I left deeply inspired to be more connected to Kripalu, to collaborate, and to expand.

What a gift. I am so grateful for the alignment, and to be able to reflect on how much growth has unfolded simply by deciding to pause and receive.

The Kripalu Silent Retreat is offered throughout the year. For more information on dates, cost, and details, visit the program page below.