We’ve created this packing list with recommendations on what to bring with you for this year’s Black Women’s Wellness Retreat as well as some other expectations for your time at the Garrison Institute! Each room comes equipped with: sheets, a pillow, blanket, bedspread, one bath towel, and a fan.

Weather in the Hudson Valley this time of year can be in the high-70s during the day and dip to the mid 50s in the evenings so please keep that in mind as you prepare. Individual rooms will be supplied with fans but do not have AC.

Additionally, please note that cell service and wifi connectivity will be limited throughout the campus. Individual rooms do not have wifi.

Please Note: It is your responsibility to ensure that your possessions are kept safe at all times. There are no locks on bedroom doors at the Institute.

  • COZY CLOTHING: sweats, yoga pants, t-shirts (keep it simple and bring something you can move in!)
  • THINK IN LAYERS: sweaters, scarves, wraps, fleeces, hoodies etc.
  • PARTY ATTIRE: Pack a fun and festive outfit that expresses your best self for our Black Women’s Wellness Retreat “Gala.” If you can, include purple to match our theme!
  • SHOES: Sneakers or something similar to explore outdoors in. Keep in mind that hiking trails may be muddy. We also recommend comfy shoes to wear around indoors.
  • BATHING SUIT: Saunas will be available for use at Garrison! Pack a suit or whatever you need to feel comfortable using the saunas.
  • REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
  • HEADPHONES
  • ITEMS FOR QUIET TIME: Think journal and pen or a book to read.
  • PREPARE FOR THE OUTDOORS: Think about what you’ll need to be comfy outside (i.e. bug spray, small flashlight, raincoat or umbrella, sunscreen and sunglasses, etc.)
  • CHARGERS: Be sure to pack any chargers you need for your personal devices.
  • PERSONAL PRODUCTS & TOILETRIES: Bathrooms will be communal so be sure to include flip flops/shower shoes with your toiletry items. One towel will be provided per participant, if you’d like additional towels you must pack your own.
  • SNACKS: The Roundtable will be providing light snacks throughout the day in addition to the three meals from Garrison. However, there is no onsite cafe to easily purchase additional food. If there’s something you know you’d like to have handy, we encourage you to pack them for yourself.

Black Women’s Wellness Retreat: Information Hub