Secrets of Nature
Uncover the power of Conscious Nature Connection
Secrets of Nature Women’s Retreat
Step into the beauty of Lake Maria State Park, just an hour outside the Twin Cities.
May 8th-10th
October 3rd-5th
Monticello, Minnesota
Registration is OPEN!!!
Albert Einstein
Look into nature an you will understand everything better.
More than a backpacking trip…
Many of us feel an intuitive pull toward nature—sitting by tranquil lakes, walking through quiet forests, or watching the sky melt into sunset. On this retreat, you’ll step away from the distractions of daily life, turn off your phone, and learn the core practices of Laura Adrian’s signature Conscious Nature Connection methodology. These simple yet profound practices will help you connect with nature on a deeper level, revealing its secrets and wisdom.
Through this connection, you’ll experience greater energy, clarity, and a renewed sense of support to carry with you through life’s challenges. Nature becomes more than a backdrop—it becomes a path for personal and spiritual growth.
there’s no wi-fi in the forest but you’ll feel a stronger connection
What’s Included:
transformative activities integrated into the experience that support the theme. Expect a mix of guided meditations, group processes, and self-paced activities.
learn principles of Laura’s signature methodology, Conscious Nature Connection, for self-discovery, growth and healing through nature
introduction to backpacking, Leave No Trace ethics, and wilderness camping through Laura’s online course ($150 value)
2 nights of backcountry camping in Lake Maria State Park (state park parking pass not included)
expert wilderness guide Laura with Wilderness First Responder certification
two live virtual pre-trip meetings to support you in preparing for the trip. We’ll go over packing, training, as well as mental training for the backcountry.
small group of 8 participants max (one guide per 4 participants)
all high-tech lightweight basic backpacking gear such as headlamps, sleeping bag, pillow, camping pad, and cookware (with option to purchase gear for reduced rate)
meals prepared from organically and locally sourced ingredients (about 95%) Friday dinner to Sunday lunch + healthy snacks :-). We supply coffee (we know you’re wondering) as well as an assortment of teas.
Prerequsites
You are free from major spinal injuries
You can carry a 25-35 lb backpack for at least 1 mile stretches
You are looking to experience a deeper connection to nature, not just a vacation.
You are interested in the full group experience. You are able and willing to contribute, be proactive, and connect with all the participants.
About Your Guide
Laura Adrian
Laura Adrian is a yogini and meditator who finds beauty, awe and inspiration by directly connecting to the Earth whether in a city park or wilderness area. Since 2014 she has been offering retreats and expeditions across the Upper Midwest where she shares her adventurous spirit with seasoned adventurers or nature-curious folks. Laura is a Certified Wilderness First Responder and has spent over 365 nights in the wilderness. She is especially interested in creating supportive spaces for people new to nature and wilderness into nature. Through these experiences, Laura has encouraged women to develop wilderness skills, challenge themselves, and develop a more beautiful relationship with the natural world.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: We’ll meet around 1 PM near the trailhead and begin with a welcome circle. We’ll get our gear ready and set out for our adventure starting with a hike about 1 mile through wooded terrain. After making camp you’ll have time to explore and rest. We'll have a nice cooked dinner. In the evening we'll have a special program and a fire. There will be free time to relax, explore, and socialize.
Day 2: Wake up to a freshly cooked breakfast. We'll dive into our first workshop where we’ll explore the park and dive into core practices of Conscious Nature Connection. We’ll eat a tasty lunch, then deepen into nature connection practices through our second workshop. After some free time to rest, canoe, or explore, we’ll have dinner and an activity around the campfire.
Day 3: We’ll start the day with a freshly cooked breakfast. Then we'll explore the Rhythms of Nature and what we can learn from cycles in nature through our third and final workshop. We’ll pack up camp, have lunch and complete with a closing circle. We’ll be back at the cars around 1-2 PM.
Investment:
$800
Registration:
1) Sign up and pay the deposit of $200. You can also choose to pay in full.
Register here for May 8th-10th!
Register here for October 3rd-5th!
2) You will receive a welcome email regarding trip specifics, how to prepare, and plan. You’ll be able to contact Laura with pre-trip questions.
3) Expect pre-trip communication including packing lists, virtual meetings, and additional information to assist you in preparing for the expedition.
4) Balance is due 60 days prior to trip. Access to Intro to Backpacking course will start early March.
Cancellation Policy:
In the event you choose to cancel 60 or more days before the start of the trip, you’ll receive any payments made less the deposit. Cancellations made less than 60 days before the start of the trip will not receive a refund. Please consider purchasing travel insurance if you think you may need to cancel. You may transfer your space and payments made to another person suitable for the retreat (no cancellations will be made less than 30 days prior to the trip).
If payments are not made on time, your spot may be forfeited.
In the event of unsafe weather conditions, the trip may be adjusted the trip and/or the itinerary to ensure the safety of the group.
Whole Life Elevation LLC and its employees and its contractors have the right to remove anyone from a trip for any reason.
In the event of severe weather, natural disaster, government intervention, acts of god, etc, Whole Life Elevation may choose to cancel the trip. If this is the case participants can 1) attend the rescheduled trip or 2) receive a full credit towards another trip or service with Whole Life Elevation to be used within 365 days of retreat cancellation.