Big Raven Farm

Spending time on a farm can do more than provide a peaceful escape. Nature, animals, meaningful work, and community all play a role in emotional healing. Discover why farm environments are becoming powerful places for rest, renewal, and reconnection.

There is a quietness in the heart of winter that invites us to pause. At Big Raven Farm, that quietness is everywhere, in the soft light over the fields, the gentle sway of bare branches, and the hush that settles across the farm at dawn. It is in these moments of stillness that clarity and inspiration begin to emerge. I want to personally invite you to step into this stillness before the first hints of spring awaken the earth, and to explore it through two very special experiences at the farm this year: our cooking retreat from March 26 to...

The idea of retreat has shifted. What once meant stepping away from daily demands has increasingly come to resemble a curated version of everyday life. Many retreats now emphasize full schedules, multiple daily options, elevated amenities, and constant stimulation. While these offerings may appear supportive, they often recreate the very conditions people are trying to leave behind. At Big Raven Farm, we have observed something different. The experiences that support real restoration are not defined by abundance. They are shaped by silence, space, and simplicity. These elements allow the nervous system to settle and the mind to clear. For those...

The first time you consider attending a retreat, it can feel like stepping into the unknown. Retreats are meant to be restorative, grounding, and transformative. Yet, for many people, the anticipation of leaving familiar routines comes with anxiety. At Big Raven Farm, we have hosted hundreds of guests over the years, and we have learned what first-timers often worry about. Understanding these concerns can help you approach your retreat with curiosity instead of fear. This guide is for anyone feeling nervous about attending a retreat for the first time. We will explore common worries, how to prepare, and why these...

Gentle reflections from Big Raven Farm on slowing down, taking steady breaths, and remembering the importance of caring for ourselves and for one another.