Autumn Saunter
A walking experience to support your soul.
“To “Saunter” means to wander and walk in a slow and relaxed manner. It comes from the french phrase, “a la Sainte Terre” - “to the holy land” and reminds us that all of our steps are on holy ground. ”
“Another fall, another turned page...”
“Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.”
Christa believes walking can be a powerful spiritual practice and is happiest on the trail. She has been profoundly impacted by the experience of pilgrimage both abroad and locally here in Ontario.
She’s a certified coach, and spiritual director and has had over 25 years of experience facilitating individuals and groups. Christa finds deep fulfillment in helping people slow down so they can wake up to their souls.
Needing to ground yourself for the season ahead?
You’re invited to slow down, and tune into your soul with the lessons from the glory of Autumn.
Are you looking for an experience to centre and ground in these complex days? Need a bit of time to move your body, and listen to your soul, all while walking in peace?
There’s something incredibly restorative about the rural, pastoral landscape of southwestern Ontario. This reflective walking experience will help you tune in, and gain clarity and perspective for the days ahead.
Give yourself the gift of slowing down, so you can wake up and listen to your soul. Walk yourself back to life!
8km Loop Trail around gorgeous Elora, Ontario
Known as “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village”, Elora is a quaint, idyllic spot with a gorgeous wooded/field trail surrounding the village. Elora is only 1 hour from Burlington, 1hr30 from Toronto, so you can start your day enjoying Elora’s iconic Farmer’s Market on the banks of the Grand River and continue exploring the shops, grabbing a coffee, or a bite at one of many amazing restaurants in town. Or, finish your reflective walking experience with dinner on one of the many patios. There’s a reason why they calling Elora, “Canada’s Most Road-Trippable” destination!
AND(!), it happens to be the Elora-Fergus Studio Tour the same weekend! Take it all in!
Date: Saturday, September 30, 2023
Time: 1:00pm start time (Walk at your own pace: it generally takes people 1.5 to 2.5 hours to walk)
Schedule:
Start: Meet in Bissell Park, on the banks of the Grand River in downtown Elora, in the same location as the farmer’s market! You’ll receive a full orientation that will include receiving a simple map showing you the 8km loop, and a reflective walking guide that will support your experience.
You’ll also receive a SoulPlay journal card to note your soul’s musings and a light trail snack.
You can walk at your own pace! People generally walk 3km-5km per hour, so this walk will take participants somewhere between 1.5-2.5 hours. The trail is flat, with the exception of one small downhill and a few stairs, with benches peppered along the path, making this walk well suited for most walking abilities.
During the walk you’ll be supported with self-guided reflective walking activities to help you tune into Spirit and Soul. You’ll pack your own water, and meander along a couple of flat trails, weaving over the Grand River twice, as you arrive back in the heart of the village.
Cost: $50.00 (includes taxes)
Includes:
pre-walking support, including what you’ll need to make your experience safe & comfortable
the map and full instructions to walk the straight-forward 8km loop trail.
on-the-trail reflective walking activities to help you tune in and explore the inner landscape of your soul
logistical support and trouble-shooting throughout your walk, should you need it
a SoulPlay Journal Card to jot down your thoughts
a small “autumn-themed” snack for you to take on your way
recommendations about great local spots to enjoy a sip & bite! The patio game is strong in this town!
*This experience is limited to 15 people. Sign up on your own, as a couple, or as a group of friends. You can even bring your dog!
Once you register, you’ll receive more information, directions to the park, and a guide to help you prepare a week before your walk.
Note: This is a “rain or shine” walking retreat! You may be surprised what walking in the rain has to teach you about yourself, your resistance, and resilience!
Land Acknowledgment: The retreat is operating in privilege on the traditional homeland of the Neutral, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee nations. We give thanks to and acknowledge the many Indigenous Peoples who call this region home. We hold with us in this space the recognition of the violence committed in the name of God against the Indigenous Peoples of this land, our fellow image bearers of God, as we work and pray for shalom. Today, this area is home to many indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island and we acknowledge the Mississaugas of the Credit.
Do you want your staff team to experience a half or full day retreat?
Contact Christa to discuss the possibility of working together.
