A Journey Through the Workshops
Each day began with yoga, or rather some stretching exercises, where we also learned some Yiddish phrases like:
- Krekhtsn (קרעכצן) – meaning “moaning” or “groaning,” it describes a sound of discomfort or pain.
Nobody was a yoga expert, and we all had fun following the instructor’s moves and stretching together. After yoga, the day was filled with a variety of workshops. Some participants had studied the program beforehand, while others dove in with pure curiosity, not knowing what each day would bring.
The programming touched on issues that might seem foreign to those outside the LGBTQ+ community, but for us, it was a chance to explore our deepest wounds and fears.
The workshops challenged us to confront the parts of ourselves that we often hide, even from ourselves. Whether it was accepting our bodies, our queerness, or facing the many fears that come with living authentically, each activity was designed to help us see ourselves as human souls who are loved and capable of loving others.
The facilitators created a space where everyone, regardless of their background, could grow. There was never any pressure or competition, and the pain and stories of each participant were held with mutual love and respect.
One of the most powerful aspects of the retreat was how quickly we developed a sense of community. Every workshop and exercise was done with the understanding that we were all there for the same reason: to heal. As we shared our stories, pain, and triumphs, we became not just participants in a retreat but a tribe of men supporting each other on our journeys.
The Unveiling of Layers
As the days progressed, we each shed layers of fear, shame, and pain. Emotions flowed freely as we worked through years of hurt and rejection. The sharing circles, which initially scared some participants, became safe spaces where we could release our thoughts without judgment, knowing that our stories might help someone else in their healing.
With every tear that was shed and every fear that was expressed, there was also a moment of bliss. The connections we made felt deep and genuine, built on the mutual understanding that we were all on this journey together.
One of the most impactful experiences was a ceremonial ritual held in a symbolic temple space. Participants walked in silence to soothing music in a beautifully decorated room. The space had areas marked with key phrases like “family,” “self-love,” “community,” and “queerness.” Each participant chose an area for meditation and contemplation, reflecting on shared struggles and supporting each other in silence. We closed the ceremony with a mantra-singing circle, where the frequencies of our voices created an atmosphere of pure joy and connection. “You are not alone on your journey!”
A Journey of Self-Love
As the retreat came to an end, I was filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the facilitators who created such a transformative experience, for the men who opened their hearts and shared their stories, and for the opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself.
This retreat was more than just a week away from the world. It was a journey toward self-love, self-acceptance, and deep connection. The Rainbow Men retreat gave me space to confront my fears, embrace my beauty, and find a tribe of amazing gay men.
We left the retreat not just as friends but as brothers, united in our commitment to healing ourselves and the world around us.
May our WhatsApp group remain active, sharing images and updates from each of us all around the world. I hope we’ll continue to share joyful moments, offer support in difficult times, or simply send a meme to make each other laugh.
To anyone considering a retreat like this, I say: take the leap. You might just find the healing, love, and community you’ve been searching for.
For more details on the workshops hosted around the world, check out their website: www.therainbowmen.com.
You can find also some of their upcoming retreats in our Retreat Calender Section .
