Soul Sabbatical: A Rest Retreat For The Culture

Saturday, September 19 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Ellis Park Terrace | Bronzeville, Chicago

In a world that constantly asks us to produce, perform, and push through exhaustion, Soul Sabbatical is an invitation to pause.

Set against the beautiful outdoor terrace at Ellis Park in Bronzeville, Soul Sabbatical is a restorative afternoon designed to offer intentional, multidimensional rest—particularly for those whose lives and labor rarely make space for it.

Rooted in the belief that rest is not a luxury but a necessity, this gathering creates a welcoming environment where community members can slow down, reconnect with themselves, and experience creative and embodied forms of restoration.

Throughout the afternoon, participants will be invited to move gently, breathe deeply, listen, reflect, and simply be.

• Gentle movement, stretching, and yoga with Wellness Bestie
• Sound baths designed to calm the nervous system
• Meditative DJ sets to create a soothing sonic environment
• Acoustic music session with Jessica Lá Rel
• Mindfulness and grounding exercises with Monica Hamilton
• Writing reflections and guided journaling with Pavielle Goldman

Guests can also nourish themselves with offerings from local vendors:
• Wellness Mocktails from Wellness Bestie

This event centers holistic rest—physical, emotional, creative, and spiritual—for individuals and communities whose relationship to rest has often been disrupted by the demands of work, caregiving, activism, and everyday survival.

Come as you are. Participate in what calls to you. Sit quietly if you need to. Stretch if it feels right. Write, listen, or simply breathe.

There is no expectation here—only an invitation to restore.

✨ What to bring

• A yoga mat or blanket
• A journal
• Comfortable clothing
• Water
• An open mind

Soul Sabbatical is a gentle reminder that rest is a practice, and it is something we deserve together. We've done our best, now it's time to rest.