Meditation Retreat Mental Health Disclaimer
Mental Health & Wellbeing
A silent meditation retreat is a beautiful, and intensive, experience. Long hours of Silence and meditation can bring up not only peace and clarity but also strong emotions and processes. For most people this unfolds gently, and with our care. We share the following simply so that you can arrive with honesty and clarity, and so that your time with us is safe and truly nourishing.
Who our retreats are for
Our retreats are most beneficial for those currently in a stable emotional and psychological state, who wish to learn to meditate, to know themselves more deeply, or to deepen an existing practice.
Our teachers
Our teachers are trained to guide meditation and spiritual practice, and they hold each participant with attention and love. Their support does not extend to individual mental health care, and they are not mental health professionals.
Not a substitute for treatment
A Cave of the Heart retreat is not a treatment for mental health difficulties, and it is not a substitute for professional mental health care. For this reason, Cave of the Heart Retreats and its teachers cannot be held responsible for any adverse effects, including the worsening of a pre-existing condition, experienced during or after a retreat.
If you have concerns
If you are living with, or have a history of, a significant mental health condition, for example severe depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or a recent period of crisis, we warmly ask you to write to us before registering. This is not to turn anyone away. It is so that we can understand your situation, and where it helps, coordinate with the person already supporting you. In some cases we may suggest a short conversation first, or beginning with a shorter retreat.
If you are in an acute or fragile moment right now, it may be the kindest thing to seek support close to home first, and to come to us when you feel more steady. The invitation remains open, always.
Before you book
When registering, we ask each participant to confirm that they have read this note, and that they do not have a severe mental health condition, or emotional challenge, that could be worsened or adversely affected by the intensity of a silent meditation retreat. If you are unsure whether a retreat is right for you at this time, please simply write to us at info@caveoftheheartretreats.com, and we will find clarity together.
With Love, The Cave of the Heart Retreats Team
