What to Expect in and around Chelsea, Michigan



 Spirit of Generosity

In Jewish mysticism, human beings can “redeem” or elevate holy sparks that were scattered throughout the world during the creation process. Through small acts of generosity humans gather these scattered sparks and participate in repairing and restoring holiness to the world. Indeed, this is our responsibility and every act matters, no matter how small. 

Intrinsic to the retreat is this spirit of gathering holy sparks. We each help wherever we see that help is needed. In this way, we cannot help but create a collective experience charged with radiance, beauty and goodness. 

Check-in

This will take place Tuesday morning, from 8:30am-9:45am at the main entrance of the monastery, farthest away from the road. Please arrive on time to make this a smooth process and allow yourself time to settle before teachings begin.

What To Bring

Bring materials for writing and anything else you need to be comfortable during the retreat, extra snacks, special teas, or whatever you need. 

Wild Places Around the Corner

The retreat takes place as we approach the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, summer solstice. If you’re an early bird you might go for a walk and enjoy cooler summer temperatures in the morning at the nature preserve less than a mile away. You'll walk trails through meadow, around wetlands and west lake. Or go for an early morning swim in the precious spring-fed Pickerel Lake surrounded by wilderness, a 10 minute drive away. Night owls might go to the nature preserve for a walk after evening class and then enjoy the stars in the unobstructed big sky.

Transportation

The cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti share a comprehensive bus network known as The Ride. However, in rural communities like Chelsea, public transportation is so limited that getting around by car is often the only option. Car rentals abound at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Biking along the extensive, non-motorized Border-to-Border Trails and Rails-to-Trails corridors (see below) is safe and accessible to cyclists of all skill levels. However, connecting to destinations outside of these designated paved and gravel routes can include high-speed motor roads with no shoulder or bike lanes.

The AirRide (a.k.a. the MichiganFlyer) is a shuttle bus service connecting Ann Arbor and the Detroit Metro Airport.

Parking

Parking at the retreat is both free and plentiful.

The city of Chelsea offers free street and lot parking.