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Transcript

S2E3.5: Live from St. Margaret's Hermitage

My Second Annual Spiritual Retreat

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.

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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

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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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