the wild edge of sorrow

A Day Retreat for Anyone and Everyone Who Wants to Honour and Process Grief
Through Ritual and Storytelling

key details and what to bring:

Location:

144 East 6th Avenue Vancouver, BC V5T 1J5

Join us at The James Black Gallery, a cozy Victorian heritage home in Mount Pleasant — a warm space to gather, rest, and share.

Date & Time:

December 7, 2025

10:00am - 4:00pm

Price:

$150.00 CAD or pay what you can

What to Bring:

A journal and pen.

A meditation cushion, bolster or comfortable chair as we will be sitting on the floor.

Blankets, pillows, or other items that help you feel cozy and supported.

A water bottle and/or tea thermos.

Extra layers or comfort items for circle time and to keep you warm.

A small personal offering for our shared altar — such as a photo of a loved one, a memento, or an object that evokes gratitude, joy, or reverence.

what if it's time to befriend the darkness? 🖤🖤🖤

This retreat is for anyone who is looking for the time and space to truly honour their grief. It’s a gathering for those who would like to share their story or simply sit in circle and listen within a compassionate, supportive community.

In our culture, we’re often taught to hide or downplay our pain. Yet unacknowledged grief doesn’t disappear. It settles into the body and spirit, quietly shaping our lives. The Wild Edge of Sorrow retreat is an invitation to meet your grief with compassion and courage, within a held and intentional space. By tending to sorrow, you create the possibility of softening, healing, and opening more fully to joy.

Maybe you're feeling…

Disconnected from your body
Like you have to hide your sadness
Like you were never given the time or space to grieve your losses
Weighed down by the sorrows of the world
Longing to be real about how you feel

If any of this sounds like you—this retreat is for you.

By making space for both grief and praise, we begin to experience life in its wholeness.

This day-long retreat is inspired by the work of Francis Weller (The Wild Edge of Sorrow), Joanna Macy (Coming Back to Life), Cathie Borrie (The Long Hello) and the teachings of Martín Prechtel, Toko-pa Turner, and Richard Wagamese.

Together, their wisdom informs a day of rest, journaling, sharing, ritual, and gentle movement.

You’ll be supported in acknowledging, or re-acknowledging, your loss, fostering resilience, and cultivating a deeper sense of presence, openness, and authenticity.

an intimate gathering to honour loss, held in kindness, and shared presence?

sign me up!

what to expect

Gentle Arrival:

Begin the day grounding through breath, gentle movement, and a 45-minute all-levels chill yoga and meditation session to settle the body and calm the nervous system.

Communal Altar:

Participate in creating a shared shrine to honour grief, intentions, and the stories you carry, connecting with the space and one another. You can bring photos or mementos, any symbol of your loss. We will light beeswax candles and burn incense.

Guided Reflection:

Explore the many forms of loss and how they have shaped your life through journaling and quiet contemplation.

Nourishment:

Enjoy a wholesome, home-made lunch and refreshing beverages, with the option to bring your own snacks or drinks.

Talking Circle:

Share your story, if you wish, in a safe, confidential space. Deep listening and presence are practiced, without advice or judgment.

Stone Ritual:

We will use stones to symbolically release grief in a silent, meditative ritual with the group. Rest and Integration: Ample time for meditation, quiet reflection, and rest is woven throughout the day.

Music & Song:

There will be a curated playlist and optional group song to enhance moments of stillness and connection.

FAQ:

What if I’ve never done yoga before?

No problem at all! The opening yoga session is gentle, slow-paced, and accessible for all bodies and experience levels. Most of the postures are done seated or lying down, with plenty of support offered. The intention is simply to help you arrive, relax, and prepare for the rest of the day.

I don't like talking circles, can I still be there?

Absolutely. You are welcome to participate in whatever way feels right for you. Listening deeply is just as powerful as speaking. We ask that everyone briefly introduce themselves, but you are not required to share your personal story unless you wish to.

Is food provided, or should I bring my own?
Yes, a nourishing lunch will be provided to support you throughout the day. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or comfort items if you’d like, but everything essential will be taken care of.

What if I become overwhelmed during the retreat?
This space is designed with gentleness in mind. If you ever feel overwhelmed, you’re free to rest, lie down, or step outside into the garden for fresh air. There’s no expectation for you to “hold it together” — all emotions and expressions are welcome, and you’ll be supported in moving through the day at your own pace.

How many people will be there?
The group will be intentionally small to create safety and intimacy, between 7 and 14 participants. This allows for both connection and spaciousness.

Is this retreat religious or spiritual in nature?
No, this retreat isn’t tied to any particular religion or belief system. Instead, it draws on universal human experiences of grief, healing, and community. People of all backgrounds, traditions, and spiritual orientations are welcome.

Can I attend if I’m grieving something other than death?
Absolutely. Grief shows up in many forms. The loss of a relationship, health, a home, a dream, or a sense of belonging, to name a few. All forms of grief are valid and will be honoured here.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is lots of street parking in the area and a paid parking garage across the street.