What if healing is not only about medicine, but also about place, connection, nature, and feeling truly cared for?
In this episode of Wellness in Every Season, Autumn Carter speaks with Barry Shimelfarb, founder of Carmel Retreats and steward of Cuddle Doon, about the power of retreats for healing, wellness, renewal, and relationship connection.
Barry shares his deeply personal journey as a single dad raising twin boys when he was diagnosed with advanced cancer in 2019. Through multiple surgeries, radiation, physical exhaustion, and uncertainty, he found refuge at his historic Carmel cottage, where the ocean, gardens, redwoods, spiritual reflection, and community helped him move from surviving to thriving.
Together, Autumn and Barry explore why retreats can be so powerful, especially during seasons of illness, grief, burnout, disconnection, or transition. They discuss the healing role of nature, meditation, prayer, visualization, creativity, social connection, romance, and intentional time away from the noise of daily life.
Barry also shares how Carmel Retreats offers private boutique retreats for one to two people, along with local wellness partners for yoga, spiritual hikes, spa experiences, nature connection, and meaningful restoration. Through Postcards for Healing, guests can nominate someone navigating illness, trauma, or hardship for a gifted healing stay.
Listeners can connect with Barry at www.carmelretreats.com, learn about Postcards for Healing at www.carmelretreats.com/postcards, and follow Carmel Retreats on Instagram @Carmel.Retreats and Facebook.
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