It is Tuesday in Mt. Pelion, Greece and we just spent two lovely hours in the Aegean Sea. The water is the perfect temperature, the sound of the surf is easeful and the salt content makes it easy to float.
Within easy swimming distance is a cave where we sang and experienced the smell of the ocean clinging to the rocks. In song and action, we reenacted one hunting party returning with their catch and another going out to sea. It’s fun to be here with some other creative beings!
At the foot of the cliffs, there are chaise lounges and umbrellas for rent, 20€ per pair. We grabbed a couple and now we are fifty feet from the ocean enjoying a simple lunch. From here we can see people jumping from one of the rocks into the sea.
Yesterday, we took an afternoon nap AND skipped dinner with the group in order to reenergize. Beth was/is fighting a cold.
When one travels with a group I believe that it’s imperative for people to separate from the large group – even if it’s only for a few hours of downtime. When I do this, I come back stronger.
Speaking of strength, one of the reasons we are here is to assess if our skills and personalities are suited to leading some retreats in the future. We are taking part in the activities, relaxing and learning from our leaders, but a small part of us is also assessing the structure of the program. My sense is that we can do this and do it well, so I’m beginning to think “Songwriting Retreat?” We like the idea of combining music, dance, yoga and local history/food.
