Returning to Harmony: Reflections from Our Shamanic Retreat in Danvers, MA
This past Saturday, September 27th, we gathered at Danvers Wellness Center for our first Shamanic Retreat: Return to Harmony & Wholeness, a one-day immersive journey hosted by Michael LoColle and Courtney Lillie. Our intention was simple yet powerful: to return ourselves back to harmony—within, with each other, and with the natural world around us.
The day began in circle, with a grounding meditation and the sharing of intentions. From the start, the group energy was open and warm, and it quickly became clear that this would be a day of genuine connection. Together, we explored the medicine wheel, learning about its symbolism and then creating our own. This practice sparked deep reflection, reminding us that balance and wholeness are always available when we align with the cycles of nature.
After a break for lunch—which flowed into beautiful, heartfelt conversations—the afternoon opened into practices of energetic clearing and protection. Each participant crafted their own feather smudge wand, a sacred tool to continue their work beyond the retreat. Later, we prepared for and received the first two Munay-Ki rites, energetic transmissions from the Peruvian shamanic tradition that connect us more deeply to Spirit, to our lineage, and to the Earth.
We closed with a ceremony of reflection and gratitude, honoring the journey we had just shared. What stood out most was not just the practices themselves, but the way participants showed up—deeply reflective, open, and willing to go beyond surface-level conversation. By the end of the day, there was a sense of community that felt timeless, as though we had known one another far longer than a single Saturday.
The feedback we received was heartfelt. Many participants expressed how much they had learned, how connected they felt to themselves, and how grateful they were for the experience. They left carrying not only the tools and teachings of the day, but also a renewed sense of calm, clarity, and connection.
For us as facilitators, hosting this retreat was both humbling and nourishing. It reminded us why we do this work: to share ancient practices that bring healing, to create spaces where people can breathe deeply and reconnect, and to remember together that we are the medicine.
If you’ve been seeking a spiritual retreat in Danvers, MA that offers both personal reflection and community connection, or if you’re longing for a stress relief retreat that brings you back into harmony, we hope you’ll join us for a future gathering. This retreat was just the beginning, and we’re grateful to everyone who made it such a powerful day.
With gratitude,
Mike & Courtney
