Writing from Presence
With Caverly Morgan and Ashley Dahl
February 14 - 17, 2025
An Extended Winter Weekend Retreat
Winter, with its serene stillness and enveloping darkness, invites us into a deep space of introspection and creativity. Join us for an extended weekend where meditation meets the practice of writing, guided by author and spiritual teacher Caverly Morgan.
Imagine gentle rains, the hush of a forest, and muted skies as the backdrop for delving into contemplative writing practices that transcend conventional boundaries. Experience the profound support of channeling what lies beyond the ego, inviting it gently onto the page. Together, we’ll drop into deep listening and explore the boundless landscape of creative expression.
This retreat isn’t about producing a finished piece; it’s about journeying beneath the conditioned mind and attuning to the voice that emerges from the depths of your being and presence. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or simply curious about putting pen to paper, you’ll find an evocative invitation to explore this open and mysterious landscape. Through meditation and periods of silence, you’ll be supported in allowing creativity to flow freely and authentically.
This retreat will include:
- Meditation
- Writing exercises
- Silent time to explore what’s beyond the “rules” of conditioned writing structure
- Support in channeling what’s beyond the ego, inviting it onto the page
- Relational (social) Dharma practice that supports us in recognizing what veils truth
- Time for solitude
- Evening winter bonfire (weather permitting)
The backdrop of this retreat will be a hybrid of silence and relational (social) time. This retreat will also feature nature-based Yoga Nidra (guided relaxation) with Ashley Dahl, MSW, CMT-P, to further support you in tapping into your innate and boundless creativity, without effort.
We look forward to welcoming you into this extended weekend of winter beauty, deep listening and writing from presence.
About Whidbey Institute
Our time together will be held in the container of the Whidbey Institute, replete with farm houses and cabins dotting a serene meadow and woodlands. Nestled amongst a 106-acre conservation forest on South Whidbey Island, WA, the Whidbey Institute is dedicated to nurturing the conditions for transformational learning and growth.
Scholarships
We are offering three types of limited scholarship: Whidbey Island Residents, people who identify as BIPOC and/or part of a marginalized community, and those experiencing financial hardship. You can learn more and apply HERE. Interested in contributing to the scholarship fund? Thank you! You can do so HERE.
Faculty
Caverly Morgan is a spiritual teacher, non-profit founder, speaker and writer who blends the original spirit of Zen with a modern nondual approach. She is the author of The Heart of Who We Are: Realizing Freedom Together as well as A Kids Book About Mindfulness. Caverly is the founder of Peace in Schools, a nonprofit that created the nation’s first for-credit mindfulness class in public high schools. Her practice began in 1995 and has included eight years of training in a silent Zen monastery. She has been teaching contemplative practice since 2001. Caverly leads meditation retreats, workshops and online classes…
Learn more about Caverly Morgan
Ashley Dahl MSW, CMT-P is a contemplative guide, coach and educator. A champion of compassionate awareness, Ashley possesses a keen ability to infuse contemplative practice into daily life, work and relationships. She brings a presence of calm thoughtfulness and humor as she blends the teachings of wisdom traditions with modern culture. Through coaching, meditation and somatic relaxation, Ashley supports individuals and organizations to live their full creative potential without sacrificing their well-being. You can learn more about Ashley at openspacemindfulness.com.
Learn more about Ashley Dahl
