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The Exceptional Family Member Program, Navy Gold Star, Wounded Warrior and Morale, Welfare and Recreation designed a free weekend Wellness Retreat at Pacific Beach for 60 multi-generational participants, ranging from ages 0-65, with various medical conditions and trauma impacts.
The design of the weekend was guided by a review of multiple research studies that showed the positive impact of nature-based and primarily nonverbal intervention activities on human health that supported restorative practices, celebrated curiosity, encouraged usual and unusual connections, and connecting with others. Activities included “forest bathing” in the Quinault Rainforest, fire pits and s’mores at sunset, mindful art through canvas painting and tie-dye.
Because EFMP, Gold Star and Wounded Warrior families have limited opportunities and capacity to engage in regular activities and are significantly more financially impacted than other military families, the weekend offered an opportunity to expand from survival to growth which was reflected in family comments:
“Trees were so tall you couldn’t see their tops and sometimes the sky”
“Saw a mushroom as big as a car
“Banana slugs
“Saw big foot run past me
“Prickly pickles hanging from the trees (a little voice singing the whole tour ride home, from the back)
“Breathe differently here, I feel so calm and present
“Enjoyed the bonfires, s’mores, and guitar
“S’mores on the beach around the campfire and someone playing the guitar. So thankful
“Went back to the trail on Sunday to hike it again
“We didn't want to leave”
“This is dreams come true”
The event was a success, providing participants a community with shared experiences, impacts, and healing through the wellness retreat activities.
