a Solstice Grove and a return to the yurt

Solstice Grove is a bit of a magical place. It’s located not far outside of Fairfax in Marin. Hidden within a grove is a family of yurts, cabins, a big house and moss covered trees. Tribe.net describes it as "a community of ecological, sociological, technological, and cultural activists and enthusiasts". It’s a community among the forest and a retreat once blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.

I first discovered Solstice Grove through the Seven Circles community, a community that leads Native American ceremonies and celebrations throughout the year. On that trip, I first met Astrid who then introduced me to Solstice Grove with a tour. We have since been in contact when she asked if I would like to kitty sit for her while she travels.  Blessed with the opportunity, I packed my bags.

I arrived in the rain from stress born in a world miles away. Driving through a dreary rainy day in a rental car that smelled like smoke and getting a ticket at the toll because I was without cash, I was happy to be leaving that and other stress behind. There was a warm welcome from Astrid at the door after I knocked to sound my arrival. A foreign sound to this door as Astrid explained that only the police knock and everyone is welcome in. Although she's never seen the police there.  It’s a community house. So I happily entered, taking off my shoes and joining Astrid in the kitchen where hot tea and and warm food were waiting. 

After Astrid left, I quickly made home for the yurt, a tiny little wooden bubble of peace and happiness hidden amongst the forest in the grove.

Inside the Yurt I named Bert, is one bedroom with a finished wooden slat door, three large windows placed evenly throughout the circle’s white wall between two mirrors, a skylight, a woodburning stove, a simple altar with animal inspiration and intention cards, and books beneath, a comfy bed and a small old metal desk. It is simple but hardly bare with thoughtful adornments and a pretty white cat named Luna.

Astrid has created a space that feels clear and and calm. It is perfectly conducive for spending time with one's self.

So I slept. It was about 2 in the afternoon. I stoked the fire while the rain danced on the circular skylight at the center of the yurt’s circle. And then I laid my head down and slept.

I spent the rest of my time at the grove exactly how I wanted. There was so little to “do” but I had the world to do. Sit with the fire and listen to it crackle. Stare at Luna and watch her purr. Then gaze at the la luna in the sky once the rain clears. Listen to the crickets. Wash up outside in the dark. Maybe meditate. Maybe walk in the woods. Maybe pray. Maybe sleep. Maybe head to the big house and get some work done. Maybe stretch. Maybe be.  The possibilities go for miles when there are miles to breath. No barriers but the ones you create.

Now to bring it all back to my real world, it was obviously an inspirational experience to retreat for a day or two. I highly suggest it. I only took a few picture with my phone camera and my favorite new app that seems to aid in communicating the experience. I hope you enjoy the images and...welcome to Solstice Grove.