Cost and What’s Included:

The cost of the retreat ranges from $650 ~ $700 per person, depending on specific lodging options, and includes the retreat program, lodging, and all meals.

The retreat center serves three home-cooked meals a day and can accommodate vegetarian and gluten free diets upon request.

Registration:

To register for LoonSong, first fill out this form. Then you will be notified to register through Pyramid Life Center’s website when they open registration in January of 2026.

Meet Your Guides ~

Emily Joan Smith (she/her) is a devotional singer, musician, sound healer, certified yoga teacher, and spiritual guide with nearly a decade of experience in curating intentional sacred spaces, building spiritual community, and leading heart-centered spiritual practice.  She is the founder of kirtan band Anahata Bhakti and the creator of The Heartsong Shala in Louisville, KY. Often melding her love of Truth-seeking with her love of song and music, her offerings are an invitation into sacred remembrance of the true nature of ourselves and all of life. 

Christina Rountree (she/they) is a ceremonialist, singer/songwriter, and intuitive guide. With training in counseling, Qigong, Reiki, spiritual companioning, and process facilitation, they bring over 20 years of meditation and healing practice into spaces of connection and renewal—inviting presence through movement, energy work, song, and soul-centered ceremony.

Charles Mitchell (he/him) is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His songwriting credits include “Hymn of the New Body,” “Servant of Love,” “This Moment,” “I Will Be Grateful,” and many more beloved favorites. He sings with the kirtan band Anahata Bhakti, in the sacred singing ensemble Joy Loom, and his songs have been part of healing ceremonies and workshops for years. Charles is also a qigong teacher, woodworker, music educator, permaculturalist, and devoted father and husband.

Retreat FAQ’s:

How far is Pyramid Life Center from Louisville, KY and how do I get there?

Pyramid Life Center is in Paradox, NY in the Adirondack State Park. It is roughly a 13 hour drive from Louisville. The closest airports to Paradox are the Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK) and the Albany International Airport (ALB), both located about 1.5 hours away by car.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Retreat check-in is at 4 pm on Sunday August 30th, with dinner happening at 5:30 pm. You are allowed to arrive on the grounds of the retreat center before 4 pm, but will need to wait until 4 to check in to your cabin.

Check-out of your cabin will be 10 am on Friday, September 4, followed by a brunch and closing circle.

What will the flow of our day look like?

Every day we will plan to have some kind of contemplative group practice offered in the morning, afternoon, and evening. This will include a daily session of meditation and gentle movement (like gentle yoga and/or qigong), and a contemplative group hike or paddle, which will include intuitive guided ceremony, song, and periods of sacred silence as we commune with the breathtaking Adirondack wilderness. In the evenings we will have singing and drumming circles around the fire overlooking the lake. In between the guided group practices you will have time and space to slow down and enjoy the grounds as your heart desires. You can swim, go on a walk, read a book on the beach, journal, connect with friends, nap, or nourish yourself however is most life-giving for you, and of course, be served delicious meals at the meal hall without needing to cook or do any dishes!

What will the weather be like?

The Adirondacks in the summertime is often in the high 60’s to high 70’s, sometimes low 80’s, during the day, and can drop into the 50’s at night. It can sometimes be a bit cloudy and rainy at times, though when the sun is out it is absolutely glorious. Make sure to pack lots of layers for warmth and rain gear. In the event of rain, we will move our group practices indoors and be super cozy!

Can I bring my own kayak/paddleboard?

The center has about 30 kayaks and 10 canoes for participant’s use, along with plenty of lifejackets for everyone. You are welcome to bring your own kayak or paddleboard, but you must clean it before putting it into the lake in order to prevent the spread of invasive hitchhikers from other ecosystems. Emily will bring cleaning supplies for this purpose.

Do I need to have singing or drumming experience to attend this retreat?

Absolutely not! All singing and drumming will be guided so that it is accessible and beginner-friendly. Songs and rhythms will be simple, repetitive, and easy to learn. Singing and drumming are fundamental to our humanity and we welcome all folks from all levels of experience to join us! You are also always welcome to simply listen if you are not quite feeling in the space to sing or drum. Letting the healing vibrations wash over you is it’s own potent medicine.

Do I need to bring a drum?

If you have a drum, shaker, rattle, or any other kind of percussive instrument, please do bring it! However, it is ok if you do not bring one. We will have a few extras. Dancing, clapping, vocalizing, and meditative listening are also other great ways to participate at a drum circle.

When are meal times?

Breakfast is 8 - 8:45 am, lunch is 12 - 12:45 pm, and dinner is at 5:30 pm.

What if I have specific dietary needs or restrictions?

The center can accommodate vegetarian and gluten free diets upon request. You are also welcome to bring your own special food items and store them in your cabin mini fridge.

Retreat Packing Recommendations:

• layers for warmth and other cozy accessories

• rain gear

• bug spray

• flashlight and/or lantern

• drum or other percussive instrument

• other musical instruments if you like!

• journal

• yoga mat

• blankets or cushions for ground or floor (chairs are readily available everywhere)

• bathing suit if you like a cool dip in the lake!

• small bag appropriate for hiking/paddling

• water bottle

• sunscreen

• extra towels

• sheet linens for beds (more info when you register with Pyramid Life Center)

What if I have other questions?!

Please contact Emily via this form