I stumbled upon a video about someone’s profound experiences during a dark retreat in Germany. Though the details are hazy, the emotional depth—especially the sobbing—left a mark on me.
It stirred a curiosity about dark retreats, and I wanted to learn more.
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What is a Dark Retreat?
A dark retreat involves spending time in complete darkness, usually in a controlled setting, to encourage deep introspection.
This ancient practice, rooted in spiritual traditions, offers space for inner exploration, confronting fears, and transforming consciousness.
Free from distractions, participants focus inward, sharpen their senses, and access a deeper state of awareness.
The darkness acts as a metaphorical womb, providing a safe space to confront fears, explore emotions, and undergo transformative experiences.
What to Expect in a Darkness Therapy:
- Complete darkness for a set number of days.
- Solitude and time for meditation and reflection.
- Vivid visual hallucinations and heightened senses.
- Support and meal deliveries to maintain energy.
- Opportunities for deep personal growth and healing.
Discovering Sky Cave Retreat – A Spiritual Healing Retreat
Excited about this practice, I searched for dark retreats nearby and found Sky Cave Retreat in southern Oregon.
Booking took time—this isolation retreat is in high demand, and I waited nearly a year.
Scott, the facilitator, suggested a 4-day retreat instead of my original 7-day plan.
After paying half upfront, I awaited for this inner journey with nervousness and excitement.
Each day, my anticipation grew as I mentally and emotionally prepared for this transformative darkness retreat experience.
My Motivation and Expectations
My decision to set out on a dark retreat comes from a desire to learn more about myself.
I aim to observe my inner voices, confront fears, and break through any mental barriers that arise.
Though I expect moments of tears, fear, and anxiety, I hope to overcome them and emerge renewed.
Dark Retreat Benefits:
- Heightened self-awareness.
- Improved focus and meditation practices.
- Mental clarity and emotional healing.
- A deeper connection to gratitude and mindfulness.
- A rare opportunity to confront and process inner fears.
Preparing for a Dark Retreat:
- Research the retreat location and book early—these retreats are in high demand.
- Communicate dietary preferences, especially if you follow a specific diet like veganism.
- Pack essential items like snacks and personal comforts.
- Be mentally prepared to face solitude and your thoughts.
- Consider opting for integration support to help process the experience.
The retreat finally came, and though I was nervous, I decided to see it through.
My husband dropped me off before heading off to hike in Ashland, Oregon.
A week before our trip, Scott called to ask about my dietary preferences.
As a vegan, I appreciated their attention to detail.
Wanting to ensure I had ample snacks, I packed some additional items to bring along.
Scott provided detailed directions, as GPS was unreliable in this secluded area.
Though the journey got tricky near the end, a friendly neighbor helped us find the way.
First Impressions
Upon arrival, Scott warmly greeted us and drove me to my cave.
During our short drive to my cave, we discussed the itinerary.
The setting was beautiful, with caves on the hillside overlooking a serene valley.
My cave, carved into the hillside, blended naturally with its surroundings, creating an earthy, tranquil sanctuary for introspection and rejuvenation.
Despite being simple, the space was thoughtfully designed with everything I needed.
Interior Matters in the Sensory Deprivation Darkness
Despite it being mid-September, the cave maintained a comfortable temperature of about 68 degrees Fahrenheit with excellent ventilation.
The interior design of the cave was simple yet infused with love and attention to detail.
It had everything one could need and more.
A small stool sat in front of a low table where I enjoy meals and snacks.
A cozy double bed with cubby space at the foot of the bed provided a comfortable and convenient resting spot.
Between the table and bed lay a soft rug, where I did yoga, stretched, and simply rolled around.
A zero-gravity chair in the corner became my sanctuary for hours of dark room meditation.
Next to the chair is a meditation mat with a cushion for added comfort.
Additionally, a rolled-up yoga mat and massage foam roller were available for relaxation, rejuvenation, and contemplating.
The washroom is simple with a toilet and a sink.
A deep and spacious bathtub where I spent hours soaking is just outside the washroom in the main room.
One notable feature was the caged-in heater, not only providing warmth during colder months but also serving as a grounding tool to navigate the space in dark.
With the two entry doors always unlocked and two light switches equipped with covers, I felt reassured knowing I had the option to leave or turn on the light at any time during the experience.
This thoughtful consideration alleviated much of my initial fears, leaving me with the challenge of relying on my mental strength to stay committed to this sensory deprivation retreat.
Experiences in Dark Retreat
During my consciousness exploration in darkness, I had plenty of time to meditate, stare into the darkness, take baths, sleep, exercise, do yoga, do stretches, eat, snack, contemplate on life, and do everything else that I could think of to do.
There were moments of anxiety and fear on the first day in the dark.
But I was able to calm myself down by reassuring myself that I was safe and everything was okay and by moving my energy with activities like yoga.
Much of it was an inner journey in darkness.
By day 3, I was having a good day, but a new concern arose: preparing to come out into the light the next morning.
The Illusion of Time in the Inner Journey
Losing track of time was another challenge in this experience.
Besides the delivery of food every afternoon, the rest of the day and night blurred together.
Did I take a nap for 15 minutes or 2 hours? Waking up wondering if it was 3 am or 8 am, time slowed down when I sat with my own thoughts, yet it also seemed to fly by now that I am reflecting on the experience.
Heightened Senses and Visual Experiences
During the retreat, I experienced vivid visual hallucinations, mostly seeing floating red shapes in the darkness.
At one point, I woke up and could see the wall clearly, even though the door was shut and no light was present.
These moments were both eerie and fascinating.
Reflections and Insights of Mindfulness and Darkness
The experience brought me a deeper appreciation for everyday life and simple pleasures.
Things we take for granted—like light, food, and connection—took on new meaning after being removed from them.
It reminded me of the importance of family, friends, and the simple beauty of nature.
The retreat also gave me a fresh perspective on gratitude and the power of being present.
The sense of wholeness, oneness, and perfection in everything within my consciousness and in this reality overwhelmed me with appreciation and brought me to tears at different times in the darkness.
Meals and Support
Meals were delivered daily, sourced from Sky Cave Retreat’s organic garden.
The simplicity of each bite became an act of mindfulness, as I savored the tastes and textures with heightened awareness.
Scott, the retreat facilitator, checked in through the wall each day, offering support.
In my case, he suggested that I let my emotions come up and experience them in my body, using it as an opportunity to understand myself better instead of trying to avoid the feelings with self-talk and distractions.
This approach is quite different than learnings in my spiritual journey thus far, and I found if to have helped me process my feelings more deeply.
Nutrition
Sky Cave Retreat has their own organic garden where foods are grown for our meals.
The variety of food options every day ensures our nutritional needs, and the hot soup and tea included each day were heaven sent and so appreciated.
Enjoying each meal also became an inner journey in darkness.
The taste of each bite and the texture of each chew are heightened with gratitude.
At that moment, there’s nothing else that matters but the taste, the texture, and the action of chewing and swallowing.
Every cell and fiber of me is focused on the process of eating.
The action of eating highlighted the simplicity of the present moment.
The connection between nutrition and self-discovery is undeniable.
Here’s my journey into veganism and what it means to me if you are interested to know.
Afterthoughts
In hindsight, I wish I had opted for the additional integration support offered with this extended darkness experience.
Having a day before and after the experience to process and reflect could have deepened my understanding.
If you’re considering a dark retreat, I highly recommend staying those extra days for integration—it’s a rare opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a holistic retreat for self-reflection.
Completion and Self-Reflection
Eager on the morning of day 4, I had my breakfast, packed up, and did some stretches and meditation. There I am, just waiting for someone to come take me into the light.
I don’t know what time I got up to start preparing for my completion, but it seemed like I waited forever.
Finally, it was time! Time is now!
I was instructed to put black out eye mask on.
Then, I was led outside to a chair to sit down.
I was eager yet hesitant to take the eye mask off, wondering what it would be like to see the world I am so familiar with after 4 days in the dark.
I’ve grown to be comfortable in the dark!
The day light was so bright and hard to take, it was impossible to open my eyes immediately.
Little by little, I was able to open my eyes after taking the mask off.
It was like getting a second life and seeing the world through a new pair of eyes, through innocence and through appreciation.
Everything was so beautiful and lively.
My emergence from the dark and the consciousness exploration in darkness conversation with the practitioner were recorded by Sky Cave Retreat for my safekeeping.
The conversation helped me ground the main realizations received through the retreat and etch them deeper into my consciousness.
Talking about the experience right after I emerged into the light really helped me hold on to the experience and bring to the forefront of what’s important to me.
I so wanted to see my husband to tell him how much I appreciate and love him.
The gratitude I feel is overwhelming.
Each day in the dark, I gave thanks during meditation—for my family, their extended family, my friends, strangers, everyone in the city, state, country, on earth, throughout the universe, and beyond, across all dimensions.
Thank you Scott, your family, and everyone working at Sky Cave Retreat, for facilitating such a wonderful space of inner journey for us to self-realize.
It was a wonderful isolation retreat experience, and I would definitely do it again and might be ready for a longer period of time.
It’s like a break from our lives—not a vacation from work, but from our life.
A few days of having nothing but just your body and mind is very powerful!
If dark retreat is something that intrigues you, visit Sky Cave Retreat’s website and explore the site.
You’ll find plenty of information and revelations from different walks of life about their experience of the dark.
Experience the true and honest you, learn what’s most important, and return to simplicity, knowing you are perfect as the way you are – and the perfection of simply existing.
Conclusion and Recommendations
While my expectations for the dark retreat were initially tinged with anticipation of dramatic revelations, the experience unfolded in a surprisingly gentle and soft manner.
Instead of tumultuous upheavals, I discovered a profound appreciation for the simplicity of life and the inherent bliss found within it.
The dark retreat provided a unique opportunity for introspection and self-discovery, gently guiding me towards a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.
It was a journey that both strengthened and humbled me, revealing layers of insight and wisdom that I had not anticipated.
One of the most significant realizations from the experience was the concept of “dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing.
We often overlook the beauty and richness found in moments of stillness and simplicity.
The dark retreat allowed me to embrace simply being, find solace and contentment in the quietude of the darkness, and experience the simple bliss that accompanies it.
It’s not an experience for everyone, but if you’re seeking deep personal growth, a dark retreat like this might be just what you need.
It is an experience that has the potential to profoundly impact your life, offering insights and revelations that extend far beyond the confines of the retreat itself.
In the end, the dark retreat reminded me of the importance of finding balance in life—between action and stillness, complexity and simplicity, doing and being.
It is through this balance that we can truly appreciate the richness and beauty of existence, finding fulfillment in the sweet embrace of “dolce far niente” and the simple bliss it brings.
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Q&A Section
What is a Dark Retreat?
A dark retreat is a spiritual practice where an individual spends time in complete darkness to achieve deep introspection and personal growth. This ancient method is used to disconnect from external stimuli and focus inward, often leading to profound mental and emotional breakthroughs.
How long does a Dark Retreat last?
The duration of a dark retreat can vary based on personal preference and the facility offering it. Some retreats last for a few days, while others can extend to several weeks. Common durations are 3 days, 7 days, or 10 days, but it ultimately depends on the participant’s goals and experience level.
What are the benefits of a Dark Retreat?
Dark retreats offer numerous benefits, including deep relaxation, mental clarity, enhanced creativity, and emotional healing. Participants often report a heightened sense of self-awareness, reduced stress levels, and a stronger connection to their inner selves. It can also improve sleep patterns and promote a sense of peace and tranquility.
What should I bring to a Dark Retreat?
When attending a dark retreat, it’s essential to bring comfortable clothing and personal hygiene items. Many facilities provide basic necessities, but it’s always good to check in advance. Consider bringing a journal for after the retreat to record your experiences and insights. At Sky Cave Retreat, you can bring items for sound such as a singing bowl. I brought a simple stem of dried sage because the scent calms me down. It is your journey so bring what supports your excitement.
Is it safe to do a Dark Retreat?
Yes, dark retreats are generally safe when conducted in a reputable facility with proper guidance. Sky Cave Retreat, as an example, offers an environment designed to be secure and supportive, ensuring participants can focus on their inner journey without external concerns. Always choose a facility with good reviews and experienced staff.
How do I prepare for a Dark Retreat?
Preparation for a dark retreat involves both physical and mental readiness. Gradually reduce external stimuli like screens and bright lights in the days leading up to the retreat. Meditate regularly to become comfortable with silence and stillness. It’s also beneficial to follow a healthy diet and get plenty of rest before starting the retreat.
Can anyone do a Dark Retreat?
Dark retreats are suitable for most people, but it’s essential to consider your mental and emotional state before participating. If you have a history of severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on a dark retreat. The practice requires a level of emotional stability and readiness for introspection.
Are the changes from a Dark Retreat temporary or long-lasting?
The changes experienced during a dark retreat can be both temporary and long-lasting, depending on the individual and their commitment to integrating these insights into daily life. Many participants find that the clarity and emotional breakthroughs they achieve have a lasting impact, guiding them towards personal growth and improved well-being. However, like any profound experience, ongoing practice and mindfulness are essential to maintain and deepen these benefits over time.
Is there a button to call for help during a Dark Retreat?
In most dark retreats, there isn’t a specific button to call for help, but safety measures are in place. At Sky Cave Retreat, the doors are always unlocked, allowing you to leave at any time if anxiety sets in or you need to get out. Additionally, there are light switches in the room equipped with safety covers. These covers ensure that the lights can only be turned on intentionally and not accidentally, providing peace of mind during your retreat.
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