Caring for others is more than a job—it’s a calling. Whether you're a nurse, PCA, technician, aide, therapist, doctor, or family caregiver, your days are spent giving, helping, and supporting those in need. But who takes care of you?
If you’ve been feeling drained, overwhelmed, or in need of time to rest, reflect, and restore, the Creative Expression for Resilience Art Retreat at Big Raven Farm, April 10-13, 2025, is exactly what you need.
This retreat, led by Natalie Lu and Joleen Emery, is designed for those who spend their lives caring for others. It’s a chance to step away from the demands of daily life and truly focus on yourself—your creativity, your well-being, and your need for rest.
Why Caregivers Need Space to Recharge
Burnout among caregivers is at an all-time high. The long hours, emotional weight, and constant responsibility can take a serious toll. When you spend your days helping others heal, it’s easy to forget that you need healing, too.
Self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Creative expression is a powerful way to release stress, process emotions, and reconnect with yourself. Whether through painting, journaling, or mixed-media techniques, making art provides a way to slow down, breathe, and give yourself the opportunity to restore.
This Retreat is Designed to Take Care of YOU
At Big Raven Farm, you are not the caregiver. You are the one being cared for.
This retreat is not just about making art—it’s about nourishing your whole self.
What Awaits You at Big Raven Farm
- A Beautiful Escape – Nestled in the rolling hills of the Minnesota-Iowa-Wisconsin Driftless Region, Big Raven Farm is a peaceful, cozy retreat designed to feel like home. The stress of daily life melts away the moment you arrive.
- Deep, Restorative Sleep – No middle-of-the-night shifts, no early morning alarms. Just restorative sleep in a quiet, welcoming space where you can fully recharge.
- Incredible, Nourishing Meals – Forget about planning, cooking, or cleaning up. Every meal is lovingly prepared for you, with delicious, chef-made gourmet meals designed to nourish both body and soul.
- Optional Yoga & Movement – Melt away tension with gentle yoga sessions designed to relieve stress, ease aches, and restore energy. No experience is needed—just a willingness to stretch, breathe, and relax.
- Time for Yourself – No responsibilities, no demands, no one to take care of—except yourself. Whether you want to create, walk in nature, journal, or simply be still, this retreat gives you the space to listen to what you need.
Creative Workshops for Emotional Release and Self-Discovery
Art is a powerful way to process emotions, release stress, and tap into creativity—even if you don’t consider yourself “artistic.”
With guidance from Natalie Lu and Joleen Emery, you’ll explore:
🎨 Mixed-media techniques for self-expression
📝 Journaling prompts to help process emotions
🎭 Creative play to bring joy and curiosity back into your life
No experience? No problem. This retreat isn’t about making perfect art—it’s about exploring creativity as a way to heal and recharge.
A Supportive Community of Caregivers
Caregiving can feel isolating, but you are not alone. At this retreat, you’ll be surrounded by others who understand the challenges of giving so much to others. This shared experience creates a deep sense of support, understanding, and renewal.
A Retreat for Caregivers
If you’ve been searching for events for healthcare workers that go beyond professional training and focus on your personal well-being, this is it. This retreat is about you, your healing, and your joy.
Take This Time for Yourself—You Deserve It
You spend your days taking care of others. Now, it’s time to let yourself be taken care of.
Join us at Big Raven Farm from April 10-13, 2025, for a weekend of rest, creativity, and renewal.
🌿 Spots are limited! Reserve yours today and give yourself the gift of true self-care.