24-Hour
Men's SOUL-O Retreat
September 19–20, 2026
12 pm Saturday - 2 pm Sunday
@ private nature sanctuary in Bloomington, IN
Join Bret Eartheart, Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Forest Guide, to step back from the noise of daily life and reconnect with your inner wisdom, the living Earth, and the quiet voice within.
Join Bret Eartheart, Licensed Psychotherapist and Certified Forest Guide to slow down, unplug, and listen to the deeper call within. Gain clarity, rediscover your inner truth, reconnect with the power and medicine of the living Earth, remember the steady wisdom and strength already inside, and reclaim the man you want to be.
This is a modern, inclusive adaptation inspired by ancient and cross-cultural traditions of retreating into nature for reflection, insight, and renewal. While many Indigenous cultures have their own unique and sacred forms of vision questing, this experience is offered with deep respect and humility and as a contemporary opportunity for deep listening and communing with the natural world for healing, transformation, guidance, and spiritual awakening.
“This was an OUTSTANDING experience! The openness, vulnerability, and kindness of all of the men there made it miraculous. Being with the land in such a deep way and to unplug so fully gave me an opportunity to hear my inner voice like few other experiences ever have. Your retreat has helped me make connections I have been unable to in my busy life. I was able to hear my heart’s song here. It has been awhile. I am most grateful!”
Matt Andry
“Amazing doesn’t even cover it! I can’t believe it was only 24 hours and so many things came forth. Returning to Mother Earth and Father Sky made me remember how loved I am. I was finally able to weep for my dad in a way I’ve not been able to my entire life. An armor was unlocked. That is a freedom I didn’t even know was there. I forgave and let go and gave my heart fully to my life. Everything was better than I could have imagined. I’ve never experienced 24 hours like this truly in my entire life. I felt as if I traveled back in time and reconnected with the wisdom of ancestors and sages. I was able to let go, trust, and find forgiveness in my heart for some deep wounds. I feel free in a way I can’t describe other than to say thank you with all my heart. Bret, you continue to deepen my heart and soul in ways that I could never find without you. Love you man!”
Tim Ballard
Schedule
1 week before ~ We will gather on Zoom to guide you on how to prepare, both practically and spiritually, including how to make the most of the journey and feel nourished in mind, body, heart, and spirit during your Soul-O.
12 pm-3 pm ~ Opening ritual and men's circle to step into sacred space, get oriented, and set intentions. We will create a container of support to hold you throughout the journey.
3 pm-12 pm ~ You’ll enter into intentional solitude in a beautiful natural setting we've set aside for each of you. This time is yours for stillness, meditation, reflection, journaling, rest, creativity, and communion with the Earth and your own soul. You will have 160 acres of private nature sanctuary to explore, while also having a designated spot for sleeping that we will help you set up at the start. Bret will stay on the land this entire time, offering you assurance that support is available in any moment it's desired. During this time, you'll maintain a mindful and meditative sense of quiet and not interact with others, except for brief check-in's with Bret for emotional or spiritual support or guidance, as desired (or if there is an emergency, of course).
12 pm-2 pm ~ We'll gather for a closing ritual and circle to integrate the powerful medicine everyone received.
“AMAZING, AWESOME, and, without sounding too corny, I expect to be life-changing. Things need to change, and this was the key to opening the door. If you are a man, this is your opportunity to tap into the wisdom offered by your tribe, brothers and your inner wisdom. Bret is the ultimate guide on this amazing journey.”
Michael Kessler
FAQ
Is this for men only? Yes. We've decided for this particular Soul-O retreat to be for men only, offering a unique opportunity for depth and authenticity. We will, together, unplug from the pressures and noise of everyday life, listen to the wisdom within and of the land, and return home reconnected, centered, grounded, and much more present and alive.
*If you are an interested woman, please reach out to Info@CenterThrive.com, and we'd love to notify you of future opportunities for women.
What if I am completely new to an experience like this? Is it for beginners too? Absolutely. Wherever you are on your journey is perfect, and there is no prior experience necessary. We'll make sure you have everything you need to have a deeply rewarding experience.
Do I need to fast, or can I eat and drink? In traditional vision quests, fasting is an important part of the process, emptying ourselves to create space for higher guidance to enter. Some of you will choose to fast during your time of quietude. However, this is entirely optional, and you can have a different but equally potent experience from choosing to pack light meals and snacks. If eating, we encourage healthy foods that don't trigger cravings and desire, just to prevent inner "static" and to help you stay receptive to hearing the deeper messages.
Do I really stay quiet for that many hours? Why is that so important? Most of us live in a very noisy world, filled with responsibilities, routines, to-do lists, distractions, technologies, and the countless feelings, needs, and judgments of others. Amidst the noise, it can be hard to hear our own hearts, souls, bodies, inner knowing, callings, and spiritual guidance. As a result, many of us are living from outdated patterns, beliefs, and identities and are long overdue for realigning with the truth of our own souls. There is simply no replacement for the profound gift of slowing down, getting quiet, and listening to the deeper essence of who you are.
What will I do while I am on my own? This will be completely up to you and whatever you are called to do, moment by moment. Bret will provide a variety of exercises and options to help you open your intimate conversation with the Earth's wisdom, your own inner knowing, and whatever is sacred to you. However, there are no rules, and whatever unfolds is perfect.
Can I keep my cell phone with me? Keeping your cell phone with you will be optional and, if that would allow you to stretch into this experience while still feeling safe, it's no problem to keep it close. Others of you will prefer unplugging, and we'll keep your phones secure in a confidential space while on your Soul-O. Loved ones will be given Bret's cell number should anyone need to reach you in an emergency.
I feel nervous. How will it be to venture out into the forest on my own? One of the incredible benefits of an experience like this is that you get to expand beyond what may feel comfortable but in a truly safe environment. Bret will be nearby and outside the entire time, and you will have full access to him, should you need any support (physical, emotional, or spiritual) in any moment. Also, in Bloomington, Indiana, we don't need to worry about predators. Certain kinds of snakes are the only concern from April to October. However, we've never once come across a poisonous snake on this land, and we'll make sure you know what to do to keep yourself safe.
What if it's cold? Every season and variety of weather offers its own challenges and gifts. As the weather cools, bugs become minimal, and things like ticks, chiggers, and mosquitoes are a non-issue. With warm clothing and a good sleeping bag (we'll offer suggestions in your welcome note after registering), you will have everything you need to stay comfortable. Plus, there is a quieting in the forest as the temperatures drop, adding to the meditative stillness.
What do I need to bring? Are there special equipment needs? We will send you a welcome letter as soon as you register that includes a basic packing list. There is very little you need to bring, and we will provide simple tarps for shelter. A quality sleeping bag is the only item that will be especially helpful and, chances are, if you don't have one, a friend may let you borrow theirs. We'll offer suggestions and links as well. You may also want to bring layered clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, plenty of water, insect repellent, and a journal if you'd like to take notes of insights that arise.
What ages are invited? Anyone 15+ is warmly welcomed. (Ages 15-17 welcome, as long as accompanied by adult.)
What if I have limited mobility? Some of you will enjoy exploring the 160 acres during your Soul-O. Others will prefer moving slowly or staying still. There is no wrong pace. Whatever feels right to you is perfect. We can help you get to your base and with your camp setup. You can stay near your base at all times and wander minimally or not at all. Unfortunately, this is not wheelchair accessible. However, those with limited mobility are still invited to join. Please reach out to Bret at Bret@CenterThrive.com if you have any specific questions, needs, or concerns, just to make sure this is a wonderful match for you.
Where is this located? We will gather on 160 acres @ a private woodland sanctuary on the SW side of Bloomington, IN (directions sent upon registering).
Who will be guiding this Soul-O experience? Bret Eartheart, Licensed Psychotherapist, trained Forest Guide, and Co-Founder of the Center for Thriving Relationships, will be the facilitator and guide.
Are there refunds? Due to the intimate size, there are no refunds. However, you are warmly welcome to find someone else to take your place.
What if I have more questions? We are here to help! Email info@CenterThrive.com, and we'll make sure you have everything you need.
“This was such an insightful and beautiful experience. Our world is so busy with noise and distraction. This Soul-O allowed for unadulterated community and connection with other men. In addition, the alone time in the woods was magical and allowed for tremendous self insight gained in the silence. Thank you for this gift.”
Karim Abdelkader
Registration Includes
Orientation meeting over Zoom 1 week in advance of the Soul-O to answer questions and make sure you have everything you need and feel supported and held.
The entire guided experience by licensed Psychotherapist, Bret Eartheart (who has facilitated countless men's circles over the past 30 years and has also personally done multiple 5-day wilderness solo experiences that involved no shelter, food, or contact with others)
26 hours of support and guidance available from Bret
Tarps to provide shelter for sleeping
Simple snacks for the opening and closing circles
“Amazing. Absolutely wonderful group of men to share a journey with. Truly a life-changing, eye-opening experience to show that, through solitude, we can learn how truly connected we all are.”
Jason Barnett
Investment
Spots limited to 12 to provide individual support and mentorship.
*This experience sold out with a waitlist very quickly last round, so you are encouraged to register early to hold your spot.
Please email Info@CenterThrive.com with any questions.
$197 or 3 monthly payments of $79
I truly look forward to sharing this sacred time with you!
Abundant Love and Blessings,
Bret Eartheart
