This August, a retreat blending yoga, meditation, and outdoor activities will unfold at Penn Roosevelt Lodge, nestled above Penn Roosevelt State Park within Rothrock State Forest. Dubbed “Wellness in the Wild,” the event aims to recreate the serenity and rejuvenation found in international retreats, this time much closer to home.
Inspired by her experiences at similar gatherings abroad, event organizer Jenn Dashem has curated a weekend itinerary brimming with yoga sessions, meditation practices, hiking excursions, campfires, and even hula hooping amidst the natural beauty of the state park.
Reflecting on the origins of the event, Dashem shared, “Our kids get to go to summer camps all the time, but as adults, we rarely have that opportunity. When I attended a retreat in Mexico last year, it felt like a transformative experience. I wanted to bring that feeling closer to home so more people could participate without needing to travel abroad for a full week.”
Attendees can expect a diverse lineup of activities including various yoga styles, mindfulness workshops, plant and herbal education sessions, cacao ceremonies, sound meditation, and a Saturday night dance party featuring local duo Anchor & Arrow — comprising Dashem and her husband, Matt.
Dashem emphasized the inclusive nature of the retreat, stating, “The diversity of presenters ensures it will be deeply nourishing for the soul. Participants will leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and possibly with a changed perspective on various aspects of wellness.”
Scheduled from noon on Friday, August 16, to noon on Sunday, August 18, the retreat offers accommodation options such as tent camping, a female-only bunkhouse, or private cabins, all inclusive of meals prepared by vegan chef Elaine Meder-Wilgus. Alcohol is prohibited during the event.
Dashem encouraged potential attendees, emphasizing that prior yoga experience is not necessary to enjoy the retreat. “Whether you’re curious about yoga, the outdoors, or natural wellness practices, this retreat welcomes everyone,” she affirmed.
While the schedule is structured, Dashem highlighted that all sessions are optional, allowing participants to tailor their experience. Above all, she hopes attendees will immerse themselves in the natural surroundings and enjoy the retreat at their own pace.
Registration closes on Monday, August 5, with space limited to 50 participants. Pricing ranges from $375 per person for tent camping to $475 per person for bunkhouse accommodation, and $2,500 for a private cabin accommodating five guests. Single-day passes are available for $250 per person. Pets and children under 18 are not permitted.
For further details or to register, visit jennydyoga.com/wellness-in-the-wild-retreat, or contact Jenn Dashem at [email protected].
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