Awaken Your Inner Light: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
GilChrist Retreat Center

- GilChrist Retreat Center
- Retreat
- Southwest Michigan
- Spiritual Formation
Guests will embark on a transformative journey of personal growth in a serene natural setting. This retreat offers a diverse array of activities designed to promote healing and self-discovery, including yoga, energy work, forest bathing, meditation, journaling, and self-care practices. Participants will engage in sessions focused on navigating life transitions, fostering a supportive environment for healing.
The retreat incorporates NET holistic chiropractic care and draws from spiritual traditions of Christ consciousness and energy medicine, making it accessible to all, regardless of prior experience. The program strikes a gentle balance between group activities, such as social labyrinth walks, and personal reflection, with individual cabins available for solitude and introspection. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, attendees are encouraged to embrace the land, connect with themselves, and explore their inner journeys.
Theme/Focus: The theme of this retreat is "Awakening and Transformation through the Ascension Process." It centers on exploring the principles of ascension, personal and spiritual growth, and community connection. Participants will engage in practices that promote healing, mindfulness, and the integration of new insights into daily life, fostering a deeper understanding of their spiritual journeys and encouraging collective evolution.
Primary Objective
Understanding Ascension: The retreat aims to help participants learn the key principles and concepts of the Ascension Process, laying a foundation for personal transformation.
Secondary Goals
- Personal Growth: Identify and overcome challenges that hinder spiritual development.
- Spiritual Practices: Engage in meditation, energy work, and mindfulness to enhance spiritual experiences.
- Community Connection: Build supportive relationships with like-minded individuals.
- Integration: Learn strategies to incorporate new insights into daily life.
- Healing: Explore emotional and energetic healing methods for overall well-being.
- Guidance and Support: Receive expert guidance to navigate the Ascension Process confidently.
This retreat is for individuals seeking personal and spiritual growth, including:
- Spiritual Seekers: Those interested in exploring and understanding the Ascension Process.
- Personal Development Enthusiasts: Individuals looking to overcome challenges that hinder their spiritual journey.
- Wellness Practitioners: People interested in integrating meditation, energy work, and mindfulness into their lives.
- Community Builders: Those wanting to connect with like-minded individuals for support and shared experiences.
- Healers: Individuals seeking emotional and energetic healing.
- Guidance Seekers: Anyone looking for expert insights to navigate their spiritual path.
About the Facilitators
Dr. Jen Willoughby Vogtmann, founder of Inspired by Jen and the Blue Water Doula Collective, is a dedicated guide, occupational therapist, intuitive energy medicine practitioner, educator, and lifespan doula. She is devoted to guiding individuals through mindful living and meaningful transitions with care and compassion.
Dr. Theresa Piggot, founder of the Authentic Living Center, is a holistic chiropractor, NET certified doctor, and energy medicine practitioner known for her exceptional healing abilities. She is dedicated to helping clients restore their health and live their most authentic lives.
Retreat Schedule and Agenda
Day 1
- Arrival Time: 1:00-2:00 p.m. (check in)
- Activities/Workshops 3:00-5:00 p.m.: Welcome Session, Grounding Exercises, Energy medicine
- Communal Dinner 6:00 p.m.
- Evening Activities: Individual journaling, meditation, and reflection in private cabins.
Day 2
- Yoga 8:00 a.m.
- Communal Breakfast 9:00 a.m.
- Morning Sessions 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Hands on healing, Neuro-emotional Technique, Forest Bathing
- Communal Lunch: 12:30 p.m.
- Afternoon Activities: Time to unwind in nature or your private cabin 1:00pm-3:00 p.m., Heal the heart activity 3:00-5:00 p.m.
- Communal Dinner 6:00 p.m.
- Sound bath 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Day 3
- Yoga 8:00 a.m.
- Communal Breakfast 9:00 a.m.
- Morning Sessions: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: Ascension Process, Group Meditation, Closing Ceremony
- Communal Lunch 12:30 p.m.
- Check out 1:00-2:00 p.m.
*Schedule is subject to change
Participant fees: $725.00 private cabin or $650.00 shared cabin inclusive of all meals, events, and lodging. Accommodation includes Friday and Saturday dinners, Saturday and Sunday breakfasts, lunches and activities. Your lodging does provide private kitchens and baths.
Registration and Lodging Details
To register for the retreat, please contact Jen via email (click here) at or call her at (810) 292-0014.
Pricing
- Single Private Cabin: $725.00 (includes kitchen and bath)
- Shared Cabin: $650.00 (includes shared kitchen and bath).
- Both options are all-inclusive, covering all events and meals, including two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners.
- A $250.00 deposit is required to reserve your spot, with the final payment due by March 1, 2025.
Check-In/Check-Out
- Check-In: 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025
- Check-Out: 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2025
Please inform Jen of any food restrictions. Once you have registered and paid for the program with Jen, contact GilChrist to confirm your lodging using the online registration form (or by calling the main office at 269-244-1130 with any questions). For more information about the facility, see the complete GilChrist FAQ. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged!
Partners

GilChrist is the public retreat center of the Fetzer Institute. We support the Institute’s mission of helping build the spiritual foundation for a loving world by preserving a contemplative environment for healing self, society, and the natural world. We warmly welcome both groups and individuals and people of all faiths and affiliations.