Do you crave deeper relational intimacy?
Do you want the skills & tools to cultivate connections to meet you somatically, emotionally, and energetically?
Are you yearning to grow, learn, and connect in community with like-valued folks?
Then read on for…
A High-Touch, High-Connection, High-Intimacy Retreat
Relationships are the foundation of our lives.
Authentic Relating and Contact Improv are amongst the most robust, impactful, and potent frameworks for expression and connection out there.
ARCI (are-key) Retreat is the unique child of the two–with the DNA of both, yet truly its own entity entirely. Rooted in Authentic Relating (AR) and Contact Improv (CI), ARCI Retreat goes beyond both to encompass supportive conscious relating and somatic practices that when woven together, deliver a holistic curriculum for full-spectrum intimacy.
Join us for this intimate journey into the heights and depths of what it means to be human together. In service of personal and relational expansion, we’ll learn, practice and play in somatic, emotional, and relational connection.
We will be hosted at a private estate nestled within ancient Redwoods—amongst the oldest and tallest trees in the world. From our venue, we’ll enjoy valley views, an onsite dance studio, direct access to miles of trails, thousands of acres of neighboring state parks, all topped off with our very own forest spa: a dry sauna, saltwater pool, & hot tub under towering Redwood trees.
Immerse in Relational & Personal Expansion in the Ancient Redwoods:
“This combination was really genius. The whole thing together was like psycho-emotional surgery… It was just masterful.”
Why Base a Retreat in Authentic Relating and Contact Improv?
Authentic Relating (AR) is a set of practices that enable you to engage in deep, meaningful, soulful conversations with anyone, anytime, anywhere. In learning the building blocks and principles of AR, we provide social scaffolding for our interactions–speaking from our core values with essential humility–for conscious communication and rich relating.
Authentic Relating asks us to break our unconscious programming and become awake and aware of how we show up in the world.
Through this practice:
We learn how to make the implicit explicit.
We gather the skills necessary for our ultimate self-expression.
We welcome more parts of ourselves and in turn welcome more of the world.
We practice courageous vulnerability, growing beyond our comfort zone as we dance along our Tender Edge.
We learn the art of empathy, and develop the much needed skills to truly Be With (all that is, ourselves and each other).
We increase our access to present moment self-awareness and attunement.
Contact Improv (CI) is an open source improvisational partner dance that’s been developing internationally over the past 50+ years, and is now a basis for dance communities worldwide. CI is silent but social, traditionally practiced without any talking or music. While improvisational, CI has a robust language of “pathways” from which to creatively combine for ultimate freedom and flow.
CI dance is based in relationship to others, including various types of physical contact, weight sharing, and spatial awareness–from the floor to finding “flight”.
Through this practice:
We learn the trust and artistry of falling (and flying!).
We develop embodied listening and embodied presence.
We find strength and possibility in counterbalance.
We celebrate the potential of the human body and our bodies' combinations.
We learn the mechanics of our forms, and how to creatively express with others.
We increase our access to present moment self-awareness and attunement.
ENTER: AR + CI (and beyond)
As we practice together in these ways, we open ourselves to the potential of deeper trust, more beauty and creativity, increased fulfillment in connection, and rewarding relationships to ourselves and others as we expand into personal and relational potential.
Amazing, Right?
“I grew so much, experienced more joy and connection than I thought possible in a week, and made life long friends. [ARCI] is an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
At this multi-day immersive retreat
Walk away with
A greater ability to engage in deep, meaningful, soulful conversations with anyone, anytime, anywhere
Embodiment of skills to lead any relationship toward greater understanding, deeper connection, holistic intimacy, and meaningful trust
Expanded self-awareness and increased connection to self somatically, emotionally, relationally, and soulfully
A range of the techniques and practices of Contact Improv and improvised partner dance, such as: CI pathways, weight-sharing, lifts, spirals, falls, Underscore, and much more alongside new dance partners
A deeper understanding of the psychology of trust, and how to build this in relationships somatically and emotionally for full-spectrum intimacy
The valuable nourishment of platonic touch, relational intimacy, and value-aligned community
An unforgettable week immersing in human potential, and from that birthplace, cultivating lasting connections in value-aligned community
What to Expect
Wake up to sprawling forest views. Start the day with an optional vocal activation or forest walk before communal breakfast.
Then surrender to the ARCI curriculum of Authentic Relating, Contact Improv, and supporting connective and embodiment practices. We’ll gather for each session in the main house, the on-site dance studio, or the outdoor dance floor under towering Redwoods. Nourish between sessions with deliciously crafted meals from our in-house chef.
Each evening will conclude with a different activity (think: Ecstatic Dance, breathwork, CI jam, and beyond!). Additionally, you’re free to punctuate your week with nature walks, spa moments, integration, and daily down-time.
ARRIVAL DAY: May 14
2:30 - 3:30: Arrivals + Settling Time
3:45/4:00 - 6:30: Opening Session
6:30 - 8:00: Dinner
8:00 - 9:30 Evening Activity
DAILY SCHEDULE: May 15-18
8:00 - 9:00: Vocal Activation (Optional)
9:00 - 10:00: Breakfast
10:00 - 1:00: Morning Session
1:00 - 3:30: Lunch & Break
3:30 - 6:30: Afternoon Session
6:30 - 8:00: Dinner
8:00 - 9:30 Evening Activity
DEPARTURE DAY: May 19
8:00 - 9:00: Vocal Activation (Optional)
9:00 - 10:00: Breakfast
10:00 - 1:00: Closing Session
1:00 - 3:00: Final Lunch + Departures
What’s Included
All meals, chef-prepared and vegetarian
5 nights of accommodation to suit your needs and budget (private room, couple’s room, shared room options, and camping)
2 half days and 4 full days of bespoke curriculum:
Authentic Relating
Contact Improv
Conscious connection through relational alchemy and embodied relating
Somatic practices
Contact Improv Jams
Underscore (a treasured practice of CI dancers)
Optional morning vocal activations
Ecstatic Dance
Breathwork
Nature walks into the ancient Redwoods
Evening bonding & integration activities, ranging from the cozy to the celebratory to the ceremonious to the comedic
A private cohort chat for support in ride-shares, pre- and post-retreat gatherings, and on-going connection
Full access to the saltwater pool, hot tub and dry sauna with epic views
and so much more…!
What’s NOT IncludeD
Transportation to and from the venue (though we will help you organize carpools)
If choosing the camping option, tents and bedding
Accommodation Options
Camping: flat ground and gorgeous views, indoor shared bathrooms - [FULL]
Shared Room: private quality air mattress, shared bathroom - [Almost full] $1950
Shared Room: sharing a king bed, shared bathroom - [Almost full] $1950
Shared Room: single bed, shared bathroom - [FULL]
Shared Room: two single beds, private yard entrance, private bathroom - $2200
Couple/Friend Room - one king bed, private yard entrance, private bathroom - $2150 each
Private Room: private balcony access, shared bathroom - [FULL]
Private Room: king bed, valley view, shared bathroom - $2400
Deluxe Private Room: private yard entrance, private bathroom - $2600
Partial Scholarships & Financial Assistance
We believe that any space is better with diversity and representation. Holding this value means that we hold ourselves responsible to extend a bridge in accessibility. To support that effort, we offer:
Partial scholarships of $100-$600 for folks that identify as BIPOC or LGBTQ+ (distributed until funds are depleted)
[FULL!] 2 discounted Work for Trade positions for folks that are financially strained
To be considered for either of these, simply indicate your interest and need in the Financial Assistance question when filling out your application.
Join us in the Redwoods:
“ARCI was a unique, magical, holistic movement and relating experience unlike anything I’ve ever experienced… I can say with 100% confidence that I experienced a profound shift in my connection to myself.”
A Venue Nestled in Ancient Redwoods
ARCI is hosted at a private estate immersed in ancient Redwoods, hugged by neighboring state parks. The property offers sweeping valley and forest views, fresh mountain air and plenty of privacy for our immersive experience.
We’ll be held in the airy, bright, and spacious home with wrapping windows and cathedral ceilings. We’ll dance in the on-site studio and an outdoor dance floor under towering Redwoods.
PLUS, between sessions we get to enjoy:
Salt-water pool
Hot tub with a view a view of tree-filled valley
Dry sauna with a view of Redwoods
Entire property to ourselves
Communing with Redwoods—among the tallest and oldest trees on Earth
Direct access to the Skyline to Sea Trail, a 29.5-mile hiking trail that descends from the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Pacific Ocean
GETTING TO THE VENUE
There will be multiple carpools organized from the Bay Area and LA to the retreat.
The exact details are released once your application is accepted and deposit is paid. The ARCI team will help you self-organize to coordinate rides.
To orient, the venue is:
40 minutes from Santa Cruz
45 minutes from San Jose
1hr from San Francisco International Airport
6hrs hours from LAX Airport
Meet the ARCI 2024 Team
Co-Founder | Organizer | Lead & Authentic Relating Facilitator
Ash Witham (she/they) is a dancer, creator, and facilitator. She has danced Contact Improv and trained in various conscious connection and mindful relating modalities around the globe over the past decade. With a passion for wholeness and full-spectrum intimacy, Ash utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to weave wisdom from shadow work, Authentic Relating, attachment theory, somatics and embodiment—to help empower you to create the life and relationships you most desire.
Ash is a course leader at Authentic Relating Training (ART) International and a certified coach through The Relateful Company. She has studied Embodied Transformation, and Somatics, Trauma, and Resilience with the Strozzi Institute, and is certified in Integrated Somatic Trauma Therapy through The Embody Lab.
She is also the co-founder of Shadow Academy (established Sept. 2021) an integrative course in shadow work, as well as the co-founder of ARCI Retreat (established May 2022)—the first retreat designed around the expansive intersection of Authentic Relating and Contact Improv. Thriving in experience design and creative collaboration, Ash is dedicated to innovating containers for personal and interpersonal transformation.
Ashwitham.com // @alchemy.with.ash
Contact Improv FacilitatoR
Hana Nubia Rakhshani (she/her) is a dancer, movement artist, and activist, specializing in contact improvisation, experiential anatomy, somatics and expressive arts therapy. Growing up in India, Her journey into dance began with seven years of Bharatantyam, a traditional temple dance form. Since then, Hana has been immersed in yoga study for 16 years, receiving her teachers certification in 2013. Coming from a Persian and Nicaraguan background, Hana has been passionate about cultures, graduating with a degree in culture anthropology. Her ethnographic thesis looked at contact improvisation as a cultural paradigm. To her, dance is a space where culture, ritual and symbology can blend with creative expression and therapeutic potential.
Since 2016, Hana has been studying contact improvisation, body-mind centering, the axis syllabus, and partner acrobatics. Her main focus has been on interconnecting movement and expression on the dance floor with movement and expression through everyday life. Hana has been teaching as well as creating community spaces for learning and jamming in Asheville, NC, (USA) since 2018. To Hana, movement and presence are the fertile ground for spirituality as well as revolution. Embodiment being the starting place to connect with health and wellness on a psycho-somatic and spiritual level. Her style of teaching blends metaphor, visual imagery, anatomy, technique and sensation based practice. @thesensingbody
Host & Venue Steward | Vocal Activator | Musician
Shanna Gilfix (she/her) is a singer-songwriter, collaborative recording artist, and soundbath guide, gifted with a silky, golden, honey-like voice. Dedicated to inspiring vocal empowerment, she specializes in guiding individuals to activate their voice through playful exercises that serve as joyful reminders of a birthright – the innate ability to use one's voice in song. As the vocal activation guide for ARCI Retreat in 2023, Shanna's magic resonated deeply with participants, fostering a transformative journey of self-discovery and vocal expression.
Shanna is also the visionary creator behind the Lion's Den Vocal Activation event, an immersive experience designed to unleash the full potential of participants' voices. With a passion for helping others embrace the authenticity of their vocal selves, Shanna continues to be a catalyst for empowering voices and looks forward to bringing her enchanting expertise to ARCI Retreat: Soma & Soul Edition. @shannagilfix.
Co-Organizer
Sophia Morgan (she/they) is a mover and feeler, dancing for over twenty years across Latin partner dances, contact improv, house, choreography, and ballet. A passionate advocate for accessibility and disability rights, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and racial justice, they have led digital accessibility programs with an intersectional focus for over five years, empowering people with disabilities with equal access in employment, e-commerce, and transportation.
Sophia believes in the transformative and healing power of authentic relating at the nexus of somatic embodiment, interpersonal connection, and systemic contexts. Certified in Somatic Attachment Therapy through The Embody Lab, and Authentic Relating Level 3 Leadership through Authentic Relating Training International (Feb 2024), Sophia is committed to bringing possibility to every interaction through presence and curiosity, and connection.
Chef
Aleya Wylde (she/they) “Within the confines of my kitchen, I weave a seductive tapestry of love, care, and attention to create meals that tantalize the senses and nourish the very essence of your being. Each dish is a symphony of flavors meticulously crafted to elevate your mind, invigorate your body, and awaken your spirit to new heights of pleasure.
As an artist of sustenance and a connoisseur of all things sensual, I pour my passion into every morsel, infusing them with a bespoke touch tailored to your individual essence. In 2018 I started my dance as a private chef for families and individuals, I have danced through a myriad of cuisines – from the vibrant realms of vegetarian cuisine to the primal allure of paleo, and the intricate wisdom of Ayurvedic traditions.
When not in the kitchen, I'm curating connective experiences as an EroSoma facilitator and Professional Sensual Domme- beckoning individuals and couples into presences, eros and aliveness.” @aleyawylde
Ready to immerse in a week of personal & relational expansion?
Join ARCI Retreat: Soma & Soul Edition
Testimonials
“This combination (AR+CI) was really genius. The whole thing together was like psycho-emotional surgery. I felt like I was on aya for 6 days! It was just masterful—the way this was combined felt so safe despite any lack that I felt exploring certain things personally. The way everything was held and facilitated felt really good.
I am so grateful—like major major. My entire life is changing now. In a way that's been long hoped… I'm noticing a greater saturation of myself in my own body. And I have internalized a big bag of new tools. [ARCI] even clicked some things into place for the work that I want to do in the world!”
Sascha | Ayurvedic Therapist. Los Angeles, Ca
“ARCI was a life changing experience for me. I had been to other Authentic Relating events before but this one was by far the most profound, healing, and meaningful—thanks to the people who were there, the skillful facilitation, the pairing with Contact Improv, and the time spent in Nature.
The facilitators created such a strong container that allowed for so much vulnerability and deep connection, and the pairing with Contact Improv, which is naturally so regulating and also encourages connection to one's body, brought a beautiful balance of mental and physical engagement. I can't say enough about how beautiful and profound the connection between Contact Improv and Authentic Relating is, with both encouraging and teaching such a strong connection to self and other.
And because naturally intense emotions can arise when you are living and relating closely to 20 something people, it was so beautiful and healing to be able to co-regulate through platonic physical touch and dance and connection from 20 something amazing humans, and learn tools to honor self and other in the midst of those emotions.
I grew so much, experienced more joy and connection than I thought possible in a week, and made life long friends. It is an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
OlivIa | Actress. Los angeles, CA
“The ARCI in May 2022 was a wonderful time. The care put into the container was palpable and in service of opening. And the permission, ohhh so much permission to be and feel and open and experience and grow.
Ash’s facilitation was refined and inclusive and beautiful. I left this experience with new lasting connections, and I feel lucky to have said yes to this unique moment in time!”
Dan | Therapist & Coach. Boulder, CO
“What a life changing retreat—by far my favorite.
It felt so good to be part of this group. This well-networked, healthy group. I felt more comfortable there from day 1 than any other retreat. And I felt like the best version of myself: I was self-expressed and seen and accepted and appreciated and loved—and I loved myself.
It was easeful and enjoyable to be present and embodied. The way the space was held from the beginning: humble, respectful, open. Following and honoring what's alive when needed and not always adhering to the schedule. Transparency over hiding. Empowering individuals and the group…
Most importantly, loving the people there helped me love aspects of myself. The one who is quiet, shy, suspicious. The one who speaks slowly. The one who struggles to take up space. The one who wants connection but doesn't know how to initiate. The one who is lonely. The one who doesn't know how to be vulnerable. The one who is insecure about being a beginner. The one who doesn't smile often, but shines so beautifully when they do smile.
I loved them all, and learned that all in me is lovable too.”
Daniel | Engineer. Santa Cruz, CA
“ARCI was a unique, magical, holistic movement and relating experience unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
I came in with CI experience and no AR experience, and instantly felt welcomed. The facilitators created such a generous sharing space, and navigated between vulnerability, joy, laughter, grief, deep feeling, and celebration with grace and consideration for the whole collective. I rejoiced in each dance, and can say with 100% confidence that I experienced a profound shift in my connection to myself, as well as a clarity around the kind of relationships I desire in my life.
Ash’s facilitation was honest and empathetic, and I felt that they were simultaneously a leader I could depend on and a peer I could relate to. That kind of generous leadership is rare, and Ash has that balanced capability in abundance.”
Marie | Teaching Artist. Los angeles, CA
“My experience of ARCI was beautiful and deep. The practices and facilitation offered allowed for a felt sense of connection in the group, and this helped my body to feel relaxed and open, which brought a feeling of belonging. I whole heartedly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to feel more at home and welcome in their body, and I would Love to be immersed in this container again.”
Kevin | Facilitator. Las Vegas, Nevada
“I attended ARCI at a crucial transition time in my life. I had NO idea what I was getting myself into, but when I signed up, I KNEW I had to be there. A friend at the time mentioned I should look into Authentic Relating, that I was already practicing it on my own. I didn't know what I was practicing was "a thing" until I stumbled upon ARCI. And while I had a dance practice too, I was very new to Contact Improv.
When I saw the unique combination of ARCI, I trusted my gut YES and applied immediately. I returned home from the retreat with my heart blasted open, a deepening and thriving relationship with AR & CI, and heartfelt relationships that I continue to tend.”
Katie | Natural Chef. Sebastopol, CA
“ARCI was more than I could’ve ever hoped for. Participating alongside my partner was the cherry on top, and SO valuable to the future of our relationship. It truly solidified our union. Thank you.”
Teri | Actress. Los Angeles, CA
You haven’t applied yet!?
FAQ
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The magic of this combination can only be experienced.
But practically speaking, the retreat is essentially:1/3 = AR
1/3 = CI
1/3 = going beyond both AR and CI, into supportive somatic, improvisational, nature grounding, empowering, or Embodied Relating practices. -
Because we ask the important questions in the application process, we’ll have an accurate understanding of the group’s experience level before you arrive.
Our CI facilitator is custom designing the ARCI contact sessions with all of this in mind, in order to meet the attendees exactly where they are at—and to tend to the likely possibility of mixed levels being present! -
Check out our testimonials.
Here’s a highlight from one:
”ARCI was a life changing experience for me. I had been to other Authentic Relating events before but this one was by far the most profound, healing, and meaningful—thanks to the people who were there, the skillful facilitation, the pairing with Contact Improv, and the time spent in Nature.”
During the application process we also intake the AR experience level of each participant. From this information, a mindful experience is crafted to create shared language and reality in the space.
Regardless of someone being “seasoned” or brand new to AR, we assure you you have never had an AR experience like this one ;) -
ARCI is intentionally held at a venue immersed in nature, as we consider nature to be a powerful, grounding, integrative, and supportive ally for the experience we'll share together.
Each day there is free time after lunch to lounge under the canopy of Redwoods towering over the venue or explore the trail at the end of the driveway (30 miles of trail at that!).
Throughout the week, we'll also have facilitated opportunties to connect or ground with nature.
Additionally, we get to enjoy two dance floors for our CI and Embodiment sessions: one indoor studio with spanning views and one outside directly under Redwoods!
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Arrival Day
2:30 - 4:00: Arrivals + Settling Time
4:00 - 6:30: Opening Session
6:30 - 8:00: Dinner
8:00 - 9:30 Evening Activity
Day 2-5
8:00 - 9:00: Vocal Activation (Optional)
9:00 - 10:15: Breakfast
10:15 - 1:00: Morning Session
1:00 - 3:30: Lunch & Daily Break
3:30 - 6:30: Afternoon Session
6:30 - 8:00: Dinner
8:00 - 9:30 Evening Activity
Departure Day
8:00 - 9:00: Vocal Activation (Optional)
9:00 - 10:15: Breakfast
10:15 - 1:00: Closing Session
1:00 - 3:00: Final Lunch + Departures
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The Vocal Activation sessions are optional and offered every other morning before breakfast.
This is an opportunity to connect to the essence of your voice, in a playful, welcoming, and supportive setting.
These sessions are led by Shanna Gilfix, who is known for providing a safe space for voices to come alive in fearless, playful, and bold ways.Through vocal warmups and exercises that range from making animal noises to creating harmonies—we’ll use our voices to both express freely and sing as a collective.
With the support of the facilitator and the group, you’ll be encouraged to let go of inhibitions and allow your voice to be the instrument of your soul's expression, releasing blockages that may be hindering your ability to express yourself fully. -
That’s right! All meals are vegetarian and prepared by a professional on-site chef.
In your application, we get ask about special dietary restrictions or needs and do our best to work with the chef to accommodate!Additionally, we have a mini fridge (and overflow fridge if needed!) for participants to store any food to meet their dietary needs and preferences.
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The venue is located in Boulder Creek, California on a 9.6 acre property immersed in ancient Redwoods:
40 minutes from Santa Cruz
45 minutes from San Jose
AIRPORTS:45min from San José Mineta International Airport
1hr from San Francisco International Airport
1hr 20min from Oakland International Airport
6hrs hours from LAX International Airport
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Yes!
There will be multiple carpools organized from the Bay Area and LA to the retreat.The exact details are released once your application is accepted and deposit is paid. The ARCI team will help you self-organize to coordinate rides.
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Yes! Besides ample flat ground for regular tent camping, we also have space to accommodate car camping if that is preferred.
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No—we are grateful to be hosted at a family’s vacation home.
We are renting from our Vocal Activator and Musician for the retreat, Shanna Gilfix’s family.
Ready to immerse in a week of personal & relational expansion?
Join ARCI Retreat: Soma & Soul Edition