Summary

This weekend marked my second annual retreat at St. Margaret’s Hermitage—a snowy, serene space just outside Bartlett, Tennessee. It’s been a time for reflection, connection, and setting intentions for the year ahead. My days were a mix of rituals, journaling, walks in nature, and exploring practices like Chaos Magick and Active Imagination. Each activity felt like a step toward integrating my spiritual practices with my professional aspirations.

One powerful moment came during an Active Imagination session where I met archetypes like the Anima, Wise Old Man, and Trickster in a conference room within my mind. Together, we visualized the creative projects I want to bring to life this year—podcasts, writing, coaching, and a sense of intersectionality that bridges all aspects of my professional identity. These archetypes reminded me of the importance of leaning into chaos, trusting the process, and embracing bold risks.

I also worked with oracle cards to draw out messages from these archetypes, which reinforced themes of clarity, courage, and trusting my intuition. Through it all, I saw patterns emerging—crossroads, liminal spaces, and the need to let go of what no longer serves me. This retreat wasn’t just about setting goals; it was about grounding myself in the kind of person I’m becoming.

As I wrap up, my intentions for 2025 are clear: to integrate my work and spiritual practices, embrace creativity through Chaos Magick, and create a coaching program that weaves together tarot, astrology, and Jungian techniques. This retreat has been a powerful reminder that growth comes from stepping into the unknown and trusting the journey.

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Takeaways

• Reflection and ritual during retreats create a powerful space for integrating spiritual practices and setting clear intentions.

• Active Imagination can help connect with archetypes, offering guidance and clarity on creative and personal goals.

• Embracing chaos as a source of creativity and growth requires letting go of control and trusting the process.

• Oracle card readings can reinforce themes like courage, intuition, and releasing what no longer serves us.

• Aligning professional and spiritual identities allows for a more authentic and fulfilling life path.

Quoteables

* When chaos makes you uncomfortable, lean into it—that’s where the real growth happens. – Matt Stine

* Retreats aren’t just about rest; they’re about recalibrating your soul and setting the tone for what’s next. – Matt Stine

* The archetypes in your mind hold the keys to unlocking your creativity and courage. – Matt Stine

* Letting go of what no longer serves you is not loss—it’s liberation. – Matt Stine

* Integrating all aspects of your identity isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of reclaiming your power. – Matt Stine

Notes

* Azariel Flame’s website

* Book: Elemental Witchcraft by Heron Michelle

* Course: Elemental Witchcraft by Heron Michelle

* Work Your Light Oracle Cards by Rebecca Campbell

* Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle Deck by Lorraine Anderson

* Tenae Stewart’s Celestial Alchemy Astrology Certification

* Rachel Star’s website

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Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction

Matt welcomes listeners and introduces the retreat setting at St. Margaret’s Hermitage.

• 02:15 - Reflecting on Last Year’s Intentions

A look back at journaling, lessons learned, and intentions achieved from the previous year.

• 07:42 - Embracing Chaos and Leaning Into Growth

Exploration of Chaos Magick, the fear of chaos, and its role in creativity and transformation.

• 12:08 - Active Imagination and Archetypes

A detailed recount of meeting inner archetypes like Anima, Trickster, and Wise Old Man during an active imagination exercise.

• 19:36 - Oracle Card Insights and Clarity

Using oracle cards to deepen understanding of the messages from archetypes and focusing on clarity and purpose.

• 25:11 - Setting Intentions for 2025

Crafting bold, integrative goals for creativity, professional growth, and spiritual alignment.

• 30:22 - Closing Reflections

Matt reflects on the retreat’s impact and the path forward, encouraging listeners to embrace their own transformational journeys.

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