WELLNESS RETREATS
for those affected by cancer
Respite Retreats offers one-day retreats and mini retreats at our center located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Each retreat provides necessary respite to those affected by cancer through a range of holistic therapies and activities focused on healing the mind, body, and spirit.
During your retreat, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a variety of therapies and activities, which may include:
Yoga
Meditation
Music Therapy
Sound Therapy
Reiki
Nutrition Demonstrations
Bingo & Other Games
And lots of Fun!
Guided Imagery
Journaling
Art
Acupressure
Please note: Each retreat is unique, and not all activities listed above will be offered at every session. Activities are subject to change dependent on facilitator availability.
Our fundraising efforts and generous community support allow us to offer these retreats at no cost to participants. This gives individuals the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day challenges of living with cancer and instead focus on healing, personal reflection, and deepening their connection with themselves. All meals and program activities are included. If you require transportation assistance, please note it on the registration form, and we will do our best to accommodate based on available resources. Please reach out to Program Director, Erica Sullivan at ESullivan@respiteretreats.org with any questions.
A Special Note to Applicants:
This retreat is for you. You and your family deserve the chance to take a healing break from the realities of cancer. You matter, and your community has come together to offer you this experience as a gift. Please don’t hesitate to apply.
One-Day Retreats…
Are offered at no charge to adult cancer patients & their caregivers and includes all programming, materials, light breakfast, and lunch.
Each retreat provides necessary respite to those affected by cancer through a range of holistic therapies and activities focused on healing the mind, body, and spirit. Our group retreats range in size from 12-16 participants.
Retreats begin at 9:30AM and end at 4:00PM unless otherwise noted.
Take place at our Respite Retreats location, unless otherwise noted.
Respite Retreats
6021 University Blvd
Suite 175
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Day Retreat Upcoming Dates
November
2
9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
11:30 AM
Caregivers ONLY
November
9
Harbor East Cinemas
Mini-Retreats…
Are offered at no charge to adult cancer patients & their caregivers and includes all programming, materials, and snacks.
A five week series of 2.5-3 hour sessions which run from 5:30PM- 7:30PM unless otherwise noted.
Each session includes holistic experiences in a nurturing group setting, with a maximum of 8 participants per series. Participants are welcome to sign up for one, several, or all five sessions- whatever feels right for their journey. Attendees may also bring a guest, such as a caregiver, friend, or family member, to share in the experience.
Mini- Retreats take place at our Respite Retreats location, unless noted otherwise
Respite Retreats
6021 University Blvd
Suite 175
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Mini- Retreat Upcoming Dates
October
15
October
22
October
29
5
5:30 PM
November
Improv & Bingo
5:30 PM
Open Art Studio
5:30 PM
Meditative Art & Improv
5:30 PM
Art & Movement
STAY TUNED FOR 2026 PROGRAM DATES
〰️
IN-PERSON PROGRAMS WILL RESUME IN MARCH
STAY TUNED FOR 2026 PROGRAM DATES 〰️ IN-PERSON PROGRAMS WILL RESUME IN MARCH
Yoga & Meditation
Yoga & Meditation create balance and a sense of harmony in the mind, body, and spirit. We bring yoga and meditation practitioners to Respite Retreats to help patients and caregivers find a sense of calm and well-being.
Reiki
This complementary therapy works to balance energies throughout the body and can assist with stress reduction and relaxation.
Sound & Music Therapy
Sound and music have been used as healing therapies for thousands of years. Research has shown that sound therapy provides a feeling of calm and relaxation. Enjoy the soothing sounds created by an experienced sound therapist.
Art
Art therapy has been shown to combat depression, reduce stress and improve overall well-being while providing a creative outlet.
Massage
According to the National Institutes of Health, massage may provide benefits to cancer patients in the reduction of nausea, vomiting, pain, fatigue, and anxiety.
Journaling
Journaling helps improve mental health, helps you explore your emotions, and reduces stress.
Eligibility Requirements:
You are currently a patient who has cancer or you are within 6 months of being cancer-free.
You are the caregiver or family member of someone battling any type of cancer.
Participants and caregiver attendees must be 16 years old or older.