Summary
This weekend marked my second annual retreat at St. Margaret’s Hermitage—a snowy, serene space just outside Bartlett, Tennessee. It’s been a time for reflection, connection, and setting intentions for the year ahead. My days were a mix of rituals, journaling, walks in nature, and exploring practices like Chaos Magick and Active Imagination. Each activity felt like a step toward integrating my spiritual practices with my professional aspirations.
One powerful moment came during an Active Imagination session where I met archetypes like the Anima, Wise Old Man, and Trickster in a conference room within my mind. Together, we visualized the creative projects I want to bring to life this year—podcasts, writing, coaching, and a sense of intersectionality that bridges all aspects of my professional identity. These archetypes reminded me of the importance of leaning into chaos, trusting the process, and embracing bold risks.
I also worked with oracle cards to draw out messages from these archetypes, which reinforced themes of clarity, courage, and trusting my intuition. Through it all, I saw patterns emerging—crossroads, liminal spaces, and the need to let go of what no longer serves me. This retreat wasn’t just about setting goals; it was about grounding myself in the kind of person I’m becoming.
As I wrap up, my intentions for 2025 are clear: to integrate my work and spiritual practices, embrace creativity through Chaos Magick, and create a coaching program that weaves together tarot, astrology, and Jungian techniques. This retreat has been a powerful reminder that growth comes from stepping into the unknown and trusting the journey.
Takeaways
• Reflection and ritual during retreats create a powerful space for integrating spiritual practices and setting clear intentions.
• Active Imagination can help connect with archetypes, offering guidance and clarity on creative and personal goals.
• Embracing chaos as a source of creativity and growth requires letting go of control and trusting the process.
• Oracle card readings can reinforce themes like courage, intuition, and releasing what no longer serves us.
• Aligning professional and spiritual identities allows for a more authentic and fulfilling life path.
Quoteables
When chaos makes you uncomfortable, lean into it—that’s where the real growth happens. – Matt Stine
Retreats aren’t just about rest; they’re about recalibrating your soul and setting the tone for what’s next. – Matt Stine
The archetypes in your mind hold the keys to unlocking your creativity and courage. – Matt Stine
Letting go of what no longer serves you is not loss—it’s liberation. – Matt Stine
Integrating all aspects of your identity isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of reclaiming your power. – Matt Stine
Notes
Azariel Flame’s website
Book: Elemental Witchcraft by Heron Michelle
Course: Elemental Witchcraft by Heron Michelle
Work Your Light Oracle Cards by Rebecca Campbell
Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle Deck by Lorraine Anderson
Tenae Stewart’s Celestial Alchemy Astrology Certification
Rachel Star’s website
Chapters
• 00:00 - Introduction
Matt welcomes listeners and introduces the retreat setting at St. Margaret’s Hermitage.
• 02:15 - Reflecting on Last Year’s Intentions
A look back at journaling, lessons learned, and intentions achieved from the previous year.
• 07:42 - Embracing Chaos and Leaning Into Growth
Exploration of Chaos Magick, the fear of chaos, and its role in creativity and transformation.
• 12:08 - Active Imagination and Archetypes
A detailed recount of meeting inner archetypes like Anima, Trickster, and Wise Old Man during an active imagination exercise.
• 19:36 - Oracle Card Insights and Clarity
Using oracle cards to deepen understanding of the messages from archetypes and focusing on clarity and purpose.
• 25:11 - Setting Intentions for 2025
Crafting bold, integrative goals for creativity, professional growth, and spiritual alignment.
• 30:22 - Closing Reflections
Matt reflects on the retreat’s impact and the path forward, encouraging listeners to embrace their own transformational journeys.
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