Escape into tranquility just minutes from Chesterfield at Harmony Woods Retreat, where ancient maple trees and rolling meadows create the perfect backdrop for a transformative two-day meditation journey. This intimate weekend sanctuary, limited to 12 participants, combines guided mindfulness sessions with peaceful nature walks and nourishing vegetarian meals sourced from local farms.

Whether you’re a meditation novice or an experienced practitioner, our certified instructors craft personalized experiences that meet you exactly where you are. Unplug in comfortable, rustic cabins nestled within 40 acres of pristine New Hampshire wilderness, where morning mist and evening crickets become natural companions to your practice.

Join us for an accessible yet profound retreat that fits perfectly into your busy schedule. Just pack comfortable clothes, an open mind, and leave the daily grind behind for 48 hours of genuine restoration. Our next retreat begins this Friday, with monthly sessions scheduled throughout the year.

Your Riverside Sanctuary Awaits

Getting There

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Chesterfield, our retreat center is nestled in a peaceful woodland setting at 123 Tranquility Lane. From Route 9, turn onto Pine Grove Road and follow for 2.3 miles until you see our wooden welcome sign. Free parking is available in our designated lot, with overflow spaces available during peak times.

Upon arrival, head to the Welcome Center, marked by wind chimes and native plants. Our staff will greet you and provide your retreat schedule, room assignment, and a brief orientation tour. We recommend arriving between 8:30-9:30 AM on your first day to allow time for check-in and settling in. Look for the meditation bell tower – it’s your landmark for finding the main gathering space where all participants meet to begin their journey.

Natural Meditation Spaces

Our retreat features several thoughtfully designed meditation spaces that harmonize with Chesterfield’s natural beauty. The centerpiece of our outdoor sanctuary includes three distinct riverside meditation spots, where the gentle sounds of flowing water create a perfect backdrop for deep contemplation.

The Pine Grove clearing offers a sheltered space beneath towering evergreens, with comfortable meditation cushions arranged on natural stone platforms. Here, the filtered sunlight and pine-scented air create an instantly calming atmosphere. Our Hilltop Meadow provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it ideal for sunrise meditation sessions and mindful movement practices.

For those seeking more intimate spaces, we’ve created several hidden nooks throughout the property, each with its own unique character. The Moss Garden provides a cool, shaded retreat during warmer days, while the Wildflower Path offers a serene walking meditation route that changes with the seasons. Each space has been carefully selected to minimize distractions while maximizing connection with nature’s healing energy.

Your Two-Day Journey

Day One: Connecting with Nature

Your journey begins at sunrise with a gentle awakening meditation led by our experienced guides. As the morning mist lifts from the Chesterfield hills, you’ll be guided through breathing exercises that help ground you in the present moment. The serene natural setting provides the perfect backdrop for these mindfulness activities in nature, allowing you to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with yourself.

Mid-morning brings a mindful hiking experience through our woodland trails, where you’ll learn to engage all your senses. Feel the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, listen to the gentle rustling of trees, and observe the intricate patterns of nature around you. Our guides will teach you walking meditation techniques that you can practice long after the retreat ends.

After a nourishing lunch featuring local ingredients, you’ll participate in forest bathing sessions, embracing the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. This gentle practice involves simply being present in nature, allowing the peaceful environment to wash over you.

As the day winds down, gather around our meditation garden for an evening reflection session. Share your experiences with fellow participants, journal your thoughts, and participate in a guided visualization exercise under the setting sun. The day concludes with a calming meditation, preparing you for a restful night’s sleep in our cozy accommodations.

Day Two: Deepening Practice

Day Two builds upon the foundation established during your first day, introducing more advanced meditation techniques while maintaining a gentle, approachable atmosphere. The morning begins with an optional sunrise meditation session, followed by a nourishing breakfast shared in mindful silence. As the day unfolds, you’ll explore deeper breathing exercises and guided visualizations, complemented by a session of forest bathing in our serene woodland setting.

The afternoon focuses on integration practices that help you incorporate meditation into your daily life back home. You’ll learn practical techniques for maintaining mindfulness during everyday activities, from walking to eating to engaging in conversation. Our experienced instructors share valuable tips for establishing a sustainable home practice, including how to create a meditation space and develop a consistent routine.

The retreat concludes with a powerful group meditation session, followed by a heartfelt closing circle where participants share insights and intentions for their continued practice. You’ll leave with a comprehensive toolkit of meditation techniques, new friendships, and a renewed sense of inner peace. Our local guides ensure you have access to ongoing support through our meditation community, helping you maintain the momentum of your retreat experience long after you return home.

Essential Preparations

Packing List

To ensure a comfortable and enriching retreat experience, pack these essential items:

Meditation cushion or zafu (if you have one)
Yoga mat or blanket for comfort during sitting sessions
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes in layers
Warm socks and slip-on shoes for indoor practice
Light jacket or shawl (meditation halls can get cool)
Refillable water bottle
Personal toiletries and any necessary medications
Journal and pen for reflection
Small flashlight or headlamp
Insect repellent (during warmer months)
Sunscreen and hat
Rain jacket or umbrella
Light snacks (if allowed by retreat guidelines)
Watch or small clock (phones will be turned off)
Any personal meditation items (mala beads, etc.)

Optional but recommended:
Extra cushion or back support
Sleeping bag or blanket for outdoor meditation
Camera for nature walks (check retreat guidelines)
Travel-size first aid kit

Remember to pack light and mindfully – you’ll need less than you think. The retreat center provides basic necessities like bedding and towels, but it’s always good to double-check with the organizers about specific items they recommend or restrict.

Weather Considerations

New England weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to prepare accordingly for your meditation retreat. Summer retreats (June-August) offer warm, pleasant conditions perfect for outdoor meditation, though we recommend bringing light layers for cool mornings and evenings. Pack a sun hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent during these months.

Fall retreats (September-November) showcase stunning foliage and crisp temperatures, making it an ideal time for mindful nature walks. Bring warm layers, including a fleece jacket and rain gear, as weather can change quickly. Spring retreats (March-May) feature emerging wildlife and flowing streams, but be prepared for occasional rain showers and muddy conditions with waterproof footwear and rain gear.

Winter retreats (December-February) offer a uniquely peaceful atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes. Pack plenty of warm layers, including thermal wear, a heavy coat, and winter boots. We provide cozy indoor meditation spaces during inclement weather, ensuring your practice remains comfortable regardless of outside conditions.

Remember to check the local forecast a few days before your retreat and pack accordingly. Our facilities are climate-controlled, ensuring your comfort during indoor sessions throughout the year.

Local Amenities and Support

During your retreat, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable and peaceful stay. Our meditation center is nestled within walking distance of several cozy bed & breakfasts and local inns, each offering special rates for retreat participants. The nearby Chesterfield Village Store provides essential supplies, healthy snacks, and basic meditation accessories.

For those preferring a more immersive experience, our on-site accommodation includes simple but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms, clean linens, and meditation cushions. The retreat center features a fully equipped kitchen where our staff prepares nourishing vegetarian meals using locally sourced ingredients. We also cater to various dietary requirements with advance notice.

A 24-hour first aid station is maintained on the premises, and we have partnerships with local healthcare providers for any medical needs. The Chesterfield Medical Center is just a 10-minute drive away, and our staff includes certified first responders who are always on call.

Additional amenities include:
– Free Wi-Fi in common areas
– Filtered water stations
– Laundry facilities
– Nature trails and meditation gardens
– Indoor and outdoor meditation spaces
– Reading room with spiritual literature
– Small shop for essential meditation supplies

Our support team is available throughout your stay to ensure your comfort and peace of mind. We maintain strong connections with local wellness practitioners, including massage therapists and yoga instructors, who can provide additional services upon request.

A weekend meditation retreat in Chesterfield’s serene landscape offers more than just a brief escape from daily life – it’s a gateway to lasting transformation. As you conclude your two-day journey of mindfulness, you’ll notice subtle yet profound changes in your perspective. The combination of guided meditation sessions, peaceful nature walks, and mindful community connections creates a powerful foundation for continued personal growth.

Many participants report feeling refreshed, centered, and equipped with practical tools they can implement in their daily lives. The skills and insights gained during these retreats often extend far beyond the weekend, helping you navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and peace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, the supportive environment and expert guidance provide the perfect setting for deepening your meditation practice.

As you return home, you’ll carry with you not just memories of peaceful moments by the lake or quiet forest meditation sessions, but also a renewed sense of purpose and inner calm. This weekend investment in your well-being can be the beginning of a more mindful, balanced life journey.