"A Day of Meditative Making" is a free full-day creative wellness retreat taking place on the tranquil shores of Lake Simcoe. This collaborative workshop, co-facilitated by artists J.J. Martyn and Doris Keppler, invites participants to slow down and reconnect with themselves through mindful stitching and neurodivergent-informed drawing.

Open to adults of all skill levels, this inclusive experience blends creativity and calm with an emphasis on mental health and emotional well-being.

The retreat will be held at the Cottage at Loretto Maryholme, a serene retreat centre that offers an ideal setting for inner reflection and connection with nature. The day will begin and end with a spiritual welcome and sending forth offered by A Spiritual Director of Loretto Maryholme, grounding the experience in presence and intention.
Participants will be provided with all necessary materials and treated to a locally sourced, nourishing catered vegetarian lunch and coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided.
 
This program combines two distinct but complementary meditative practices:

• Meditative Stitching with J.J. Martyn: Participants will learn gentle hand-stitched embroidery using meaningful or repurposed fabrics. J.J. will guide attendees through the calming rhythm of slow stitching as a tool for healing, creativity, and mindfulness. No experience is required—this is a non-judgmental, process-focused experience.

• Intuitive Neurodivergent Drawing with Doris Keppler: Doris will introduce participants to a meditative drawing method inspired by repetition, rhythm, and flow. While rooted in architectural insight, her intuitive approach centers emotional well-being and the expressive possibilities of line. This method is particularly accessible to neurodivergent learners and anyone seeking freedom from perfectionism.