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The Weight of Joy

October 22 - 25, 2026

New York, NY, United States

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Hosted By

Alex Elle

83.7k followers

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4 days

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75 person retreat

Highlights

  • Learn how to honor the coexistence of grief and joy without minimizing either.

  • Restorative writing

  • Guided mindfulness practices

  • Meaningful dialogue

Details

Join Alex Elle in a restorative writing workshop exploring how grief and joy coexist in life's transitions—offering tools for clarity, self-awareness, and renewal. Grief and joy often coexist, especially in seasons of transition. Learn how to honor the coexistence of grief and joy without minimizing either. As we evolve beyond relationships, jobs, loss, family dynamics, or even past versions of ourselves, we are met with both endings and beginnings—sorrow for what no longer is and gratitude for what is yet to come. Letting go of what no longer aligns can feel like loss, even as it opens the door to growth. This workshop offers a reflective space to explore the dual presence of grief and joy through restorative writing, guided mindfulness practices, and meaningful dialogue. Together, we consider how the company we keep shapes our healing and how self-awareness can help us approach change with clarity, compassion, and care. Return home with a greater understanding of how to create space for both sorrow and sweetness in your daily life. Take with you original writings, ongoing prompts, and tools to navigate endings and beginnings with intention, resilience, and grace.

Location

New York, NY, United States

Rhinebeck, New York, is a charming Hudson Valley town known for its historic architecture, scenic river views, and vibrant cultural scene. With boutique shops, farm-to-table dining, art galleries, and seasonal festivals, it offers a welcoming blend of small-town charm and sophisticated leisure. Surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and nearby outdoor recreation, Rhinebeck provides a serene yet lively retreat just a short drive from New York City.

Venue

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies

4.3 178 Reviews

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Omega Institute for Holistic Studies is a non-profit educational retreat center located in Rhinebeck, New York.

Yoga Studio

Yoga Studio

Garden

Garden

Towels

Towels

Coffee / Tea

Coffee / Tea

Free Parking

Free Parking

Shower

Shower

Bathroom

Bathroom

Accommodation

Retreat Access without Accommodation

1 Spot Left

Participants to organize their own lodging or commuting.

$510 USD total

1 / 1

Meals

Not included - self catered

Each participant must book accommodations separately. This includes your room, all meals, and use of facilities and amenities

Schedule

Please note this course begins Thursday at 7:00 p.m. and has a special schedule: The retreat begins on Thursday afternoon with check-in, followed by an evening workshop session. Friday and Saturday each feature morning and afternoon workshop blocks, providing ample time for learning, practice, and group engagement. On Sunday, participants gather for a final morning workshop before checking out in the early afternoon. The schedule offers a balanced and immersive experience focused on workshop-based learning over four days. The above schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the faculty.

Host

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Alex Elle

Washington D.C., DC, USA

Alex Elle is an author, certified breathwork coach, and Writing to Heal facilitator who is passionate about building community & self-care practices through literature, language, and meditation.

1 language

English

Teaching for 6 years

Joined Insight Timer in Jan 2020

What's Included

Workshop

Not Included

Accommodation - Each participant must book accommodations separately.

Meals - Your choice of housing includes your room, all meals and use of facilities and amenities

Flights and Transportation

FAQs

Guest requirements

  • Recommended Reading: Joy Planner by Karst x Alex Elle

  • How We Heal: Uncover Your Power and Set Yourself Free by Alexandra Elle

  • When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chödrön

  • Less Is Liberation: Finding Freedom from a Life of Overwhelm by Christine Platt

Cancellation policy

The remaining balance for the retreat is due 7 days prior to the start date. If this balance is paid earlier than these 7 days, you are eligible to cancel and receive a full refund of this remaining balance, provided you do so at least 7 days before the retreat begins.