The 2009 autumn season was a time for the readers of Faith & Fitness Magazine to join the publishers for a weekend sabbatical at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Early on Saturday, October 17, 2009 people gathered for refreshment, physical strength and a renewed connection with God to leave the stress of life behind.
I was doing a Google search for “stress-induced” and found stress-induced hyperglycemia, stress-induced gastritis, stress-induced hair loss, stress-induced rash and many more. The potent effects of stress cause some serious physical conditions. Beyond poor mental, emotional and physical health the impact of stress in your spiritual life can be equally debilitating.
Studies abound on the scientific evidence that autumn foliage provides stress relief. Simply put, getting outside in cooler temperatures, a tranquil location, invigorating fresh air, natural fall scents and the visual stimulation of colorful autumn leaves all combine to create a healthier you.
THE SHENANDOAH SABBATICAL – YOUR TIME OF REFRESHMENT
A CASUAL SCHEDULE – The focus of this one-day mountaintop retreat is for you to take time to be alone with God. The agenda for the day reflected that solitary purpose. We developed a modest schedule to facilitate your sabbatical needs and goals and minimize distractions.
8 a.m. – Arrive at Skyland Resort Pollock Dining Room (see breakfast menu for the hardy breakfast offerings) For those who chose to arrive the night before, hotel reservations were made in the nearby towns of Waynesboro or Harrisonburg.
9 a.m. – Our morning gathering was next to a warm fireplace at the Skyland Resort. The cool temperatures in the high elevation brought heavy fog creating an even greater sense of being alone and away from the usual busyness. Brad Bloom, publisher of Faith & Fitness Magazine delivered the keynote address, How To Make The Most Of Your Sabbatical. Participants received a free copy of the book Surprises Around The Bend. After a brief time of conversation and prayer attendees either pursued their own morning retreat or joined in a morning walk along Blue Ridge mountain trails. A printable map outlines trails and roadways.
12 noon – Participants gathered back at the Skyland Resort for lunch (see lunch menu for optional lunch). After lunch there was a short time of sharing followed by the afternoon group walk through Whiteoak Canyon. Hikers saw an abundance of wildlife including black bear. A printable Whiteoak Canyon map shows the trail route. Participants wanting individual solitude chose to pursue activities separate from this group offering.
5 p.m. To conclude the day everyone gathered back at the Skyland Resort area to share their sabbatical day experiences and pray. By this time the upper elevation fog had changed over to an early season of blowing snow.
INSPIRATION – In addition to the conversations we shared as a group everyone received a copy of the book Surprises Around The Bend. It is a collection of short stories about 50 adventurous walkers like John Muir, Robert Frost, Mother Teresa, William Booth and others. To support the sabbatical experience in the mountains some participants also chose to bring with them a journal (to record thoughts and prayers) and a personal listening device (with music they find inspirational). Binoculars added to the viewing experience in lower elevations.
SAFETY DETAILS – While there weren’t any injuries we had available basic first aid for minor scratches, cuts, etc. Participants dressed appropriately for the rugged mountain environment. Layered clothing enabled them to adapt and maintain a comfortable body temperature. They wore appropriate shoes for hiking. Though they brought appropriate rain apparel it really wasn’t needed. As anticipated cell phone service was limited in the national park.
EXPENSES – There was no fee for the event. Participants were responsible for their own expenses. There is a $15 entrance fee into the park. Participants were responsible for their own food, lodging, and travel expenses.
If you would like to be part of the next sabbatical retreat then inquire now. YOUR PLANNED BREAK begins by making a reservation today. Contact Us and include your name, address and phone number.
