The Urban Well at Saint James will host a retreat, Spiritual Healing: Connecting to Joy and Purpose in Our Lives, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., February 10 2024, for those dealing with general mental health and well-being or questioning their choices and relationship with alcohol, drugs or other addictive behaviors. Lunch is included. Participants will leave with a greater understanding of practices that can bring grounding, healthfulness and a connection with joy to their lives.

Erin Jean Warde, author of Sober Spirituality, brings a nonjudgmental or non-shaming approach to this vital work. The day will explore attitudes and barriers to accessing joy, enjoying the process of play, not just the outcome, and the power of meditation, prayer and other contemplative practices in our own healing. She will draw on insights from psychology, neuroscience, habit change research and Brené Brown’s Daring Way course. Breakout practices sessions will be led by Sandra Orndorff and Monica Mullen.