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Mindfulness Retreats in Raleigh/
Rest & Restore: A Half-Day Sabbath Experience
Rest & Restore: A Half-Day Sabbath Experience
October 17, 2026
Raleigh, NC, United States
1 day
20 person retreat
Highlights
Guided Sabbath Rest Experience
Guided Christian meditation and breath prayer
A contemplative prayer walk
Scripture-Centered Reflection & Prayer
Quiet journaling and personal prayer
Nourishing, Seasonal Lunch Included
Peaceful, Slow-Paced Christ-Centered Atmosphere
Details
What if rest wasn't something you earned, but something you received? The Sabbath Experience is a guided half-day journey into the practice of sacred rest. Designed for those who feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a slower rhythm, this experience creates space to pause, breathe, pray, and reconnect with God's presence. Together, we'll explore what it means to honor Sabbath—not as another item on a to-do list, but as an invitation into peace, restoration, and trust. Through restorative movement, Christian meditation, breath prayer, scripture reflection, journaling, and contemplative practices, you'll be gently guided into a deeper sense of calm and renewal. This isn't about productivity, self-improvement, or checking another box. It's about creating space to be with God. #During Our Time Together You'll experience: • Restorative movement and gentle stretching • Guided Christian meditation and breath prayer • Scripture reflection and stillness • Quiet journaling and personal prayer • A contemplative prayer walk • A nourishing lunch and unhurried connection • Practical inspiration for creating your own Sabbath rhythms at home #You May Benefit From This Experience If... • You feel exhausted by the pace of daily life • You struggle to slow down without feeling guilty • You desire deeper connection with God • You long for intentional time away from screens, responsibilities, and constant demands • You're curious about incorporating Sabbath practices into your weekly rhythm What You'll Leave With More than a restful afternoon, you'll leave with a renewed understanding of Sabbath and simple practices you can carry into everyday life. My hope is that you leave feeling lighter, calmer, more connected to God, and equipped to create space for rest long after our time together ends. Come as you are. The invitation is simply to slow down and receive.
Venue
Thomas G. Crowder Woodland Center
4.8 ★ 64 Reviews
The focus of the Thomas G. Crowder Woodland Center is on environmental education and fitness. The facility offers a variety of nature and fitness programs.
Free Parking
Meals
Meals provided
Lunch
Diets catered
Vegetarian · Organic · Raw
A light, nourishing meal will be provided to support your retreat experience, along with tea and water available throughout the day. Everything is designed to feel refreshing, gentle, and aligned with the peaceful flow of the retreat. Please indicate any dietary restrictions during registration.
Testimonials
1 / 2
Host
Vanessa Michele
Durham, NC, USA
Vanessa Michele is a Christian meditation teacher who creates gentle, faith-based practices to help you slow down, regulate your nervous system, and find rest with God at the center. Her approach is ...
1 language
English
Teaching for 7 years
Joined Insight Timer in Dec 2018
What's Included
Guided Christian Sabbath Rest Experience
Light Nourishing Meal + Tea & Water - A simple, refreshing meal provided during lunch, with tea and water available throughout the retreat.
Retreat Materials & Reflection Pages - All journal pages, reflection prompts, and retreat resources needed for the experience.
Not Included
Travel or Transportation Costs - Participants are responsible for their own travel to and from the retreat location.
Overnight accommodations - Nearby hotel options are provided for those traveling from out of town.
Additional Meals or Beverages - Only the provided light meal, tea and water are included. You're welcome to bring additional food or drinks if desired.
FAQs
Guest requirements
All levels are welcome
Men & Women are welcome
Cancellation policy
The remaining balance for the retreat is due 30 days prior to the start date. If this balance is paid earlier than these 30 days, you are eligible to cancel and receive a full refund of this remaining balance, provided you do so at least 30 days before the retreat begins.
