Welcome to Stretching Forward, a retreat for women
“You have shown me how to be joyful and loving in my life.” - Kathy
“I leave here feeling very excited to stretch forward & continue embracing my life.” - Beth
"This retreat was one of the best experiences that I have had. And I’ve gone to a lot of retreats." - Verna
Stretching Forward
Step away from the everyday noise for a weekend of rest, connection, and deep breath. At a Stretching Forward retreat, you'll find a gentle space to pause, recharge, and simply be.
These self-care retreats are designed for women who are ready to take time for reflection, to honor the life they have, and to look ahead with curiosity and hope at all that life has yet to offer.
After being everything to everyone, it’s time for you. Settle into the serenity of Lakeside where the beauty of nature creates the perfect backdrop for rest, reflection, and renewal. Stroll along quiet streets, soak in peaceful moments, and savor the simple pleasures of each day as you reconnect with who you are and what brings you joy
At a Stretching Forward retreat, every detail is designed to help you slow down, celebrate yourself, and discover the next step on your journey. Come, breathe, and embrace this time just for you.
Dates are Set for 2026 Retreats!
Finding Purpose Today: Saturday, March 28, 2026. A 1-day retreat offered in Bay Village, Ohio. This retreat provides a time for women to examine the gifts they offer the world and explore the roadblocks to finding their purpose through reflection, journaling and sharing. A thought-provoking and stimulating time in community, it is a way to connect with like minded women.
Embracing Your Life, April 24 - 26, 2026. A 2-night retreat at Lakeside, Ohio. This retreat provides women a chance to harvest strength from their past, find courage to embrace the life they have, and take home an intention to stretch toward. Inspired by Joan Anderson.
Celebrate What’s Right With Your World, October 16 - 18, 2026. A 2-night retreat at Lakeside, Ohio. This retreat provides women the opportunity to see our world in ways that fill us with joy, gratitude, and energy and explore ways to be generous with ourselves. Inspired by DeWitt Jones.
In our busy lives, we miss the opportunity to find time to evaluate our lives.
Open your heart and mind as we explore how our past is only part of what shapes our future.
We are on the journey to become scholars of spirit and soul.
Consider joining us as we stretch forward and embrace the lives we have.
Blending nature, fellowship, solitude, contemplation, journaling, and activities, each retreat provides a way to bring grace and serenity to your life.
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You are invited to explore our site and get a feel for the journey ahead. Use the menu above to dive into our blog and bimonthly newsletters, find inspirational quotes, or get to know our locations and a little bit about Diane. You’ll also find detailed retreat information, a curated reading list, and stories from our community of past retreaters."
Click CONTACT below to receive the every other month newsletter, or for more information.
What to expect from a Stretching Forward retreat (click right and left to scroll)