TAOS RETREAT 2026

Step into six days of embodied renewal where movement becomes medicine, breath becomes clarity, and stillness becomes a refuge. Nestled in the soulful landscape of Taos, New Mexico, this retreat invites you to slow down, tune in, and reconnect to your vital life force (Qi) through daily Qigong, meditation, and intentional healing practices — all held by the elemental beauty of the high desert and the nourishing presence of a like-hearted community.

Each day blends QiGong and meditative movement with guided journaling and reflective writing sessions led by Dr. Michele Fazio and Erin Kumpf, DACM, LAc, inviting you to explore not only the landscape around you, but the terrain within you. Through this integration of body and story, you’ll cultivate deeper insight, presence, and energetic balance.

Leave with a body that feels spacious and alive, a nervous system recalibrated by presence, and a renewed connection to your inner rhythm — one you can carry home with you.

While some retreats offer a “wellness vacation,” this gathering is for those ready to meet their practice — and themselves — with depth, curiosity, and care.

Discover the stillness between movement.

  • Movement.

    Gentle Qigong practices designed to unlock tension, awaken energy, and reconnect you to the natural rhythms of your body and breath.

  • Meditation.

    Guided stillness practices that ground the nervous system, deepen awareness, and create space for emotional clarity and inner spaciousness.

  • Integration.

    The art of slowing down and listening — space to digest, reflect, and embody the transformation sparked through movement and stillness.

Retreat Highlights

  • Six Days and Five nights at the magnificent Mabel Dodge Luhan house

  • 2 daily guided Qigong sessions — morning energy cultivation & evening restorative practice with Erin Kumpf, DACM, LAc, Tier 2 Holden QiGong Teacher and Dr. Michele Fazio, Tier 1 Holden QiGong Teacher

  • Journaling and writing exercises with Dr. Michele Fazio

  • Breakfast & lunch every day by chef Sophia (all dietary needs can be accommodated)

  • Optional day trip to Ojo Caliente hot springs

  • Small intimate group (max 12 participants) for personalized attention & deep connection

Your Guides

Erin Kumpf, DACM, LAc

Erin Kumpf is a Tier 1 Certified Qigong Teacher through the renowned Holden Qigong School and holds a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine (DACM). With over a decade of clinical experience and a deep passion for energy medicine, Erin integrates the ancient wisdom of Qigong with modern Chinese medical principles to support healing, vitality, and emotional resilience.

Through her training with Holden Qigong, Erin has developed a strong foundation in breath-work, meditative movement, and internal energy cultivation. Her teaching style is grounded, accessible, and deeply compassionate—offering students the tools to regulate stress, restore balance, and reconnect to their innate strength and clarity.

As both a clinician and teacher, Erin bridges body and spirit, movement and medicine. Whether through private sessions, group classes, or retreat offerings, she empowers others to take an active, embodied role in their healing process.

Dr. Michele Fazio

Michele Fazio is enrolled in the Tier 1 Teacher Certification Training Program in the Holden QiGong School and has completed the Skill in Action 200hr Immersion Program. She holds a Ph.D. in English and teaches courses on writing, U.S. ethnic literature, and public humanities. Her approach to teaching is rooted in self-reflection and community-based learning. As a practitioner of qigong, she builds on this foundation to create an inclusive learning environment—one that promotes healing, transformation, and social justice. Michele has taught in various settings (higher education, physical therapy clinics, and advanced elder care) to deepen an understanding of how breath, movement, and meditation awaken and restore balance and vitality in the body and mind.

Why Taos

Nestled in the high desert where dawn stretches long and golden, Taos is a powerful energy vortex—a place where land, sky, and spirit coalesce. It’s no wonder creative souls—from Georgia O’Keeffe to Ansel Adams—have been drawn here by its call  . The Sangre de Cristo Mountains guard ancient pueblo land, and the light here carries a quiet clarity that inspires insight, healing, and transformation.

About the Mabel Dodge Luhan House

Your sanctuary for this retreat is the renowned Mabel Dodge Luhan House, a historic adobe compound that sits at the edge of Taos Pueblo. More than a retreat center, it’s living history—a salon of the creative and poetic, once home to artists like D. H. Lawrence and Georgia O’Keeffe  .

Expect:

  • Ancient warmth & soulful charm: Winding adobe walls, kiva fireplaces, and rooms echoing the names of artists and writers who once stayed here  .

  • Intimate gathering spaces: Cozy lounges and fire-lit porches perfect for evening Qi reflections, group sharings, and spontaneous laughter.

  • Nurturing rhythm of the day: Mornings in dew-covered gardens, afternoons under piñons, evenings beside crackling fires—each moment designed to gently ground, inspire, and renew.

  • Creative energy steeped in history: This place has held decades of poetry, painting, conversation, and soulful inquiry. When you breathe here, you absorb its legacy—and in return, bring your own story into the fabric.

Taos and the Mabel Dodge Luhan House together offer more than a location—they provide a conscious container for healing, growth, and scene-stealing inspiration. We can’t wait to share its magic with you.

Who this retreat is for

  • QiGong newcomers and experienced practitioners alike

  • Anyone craving soulful reset from stress, burnout, life transitions

  • Individuals open to energy medicine, somatic presence, and embodied wellness

Example Itinerary

  • 07:00 - 07:45 Morning QiGong

  • 08:15- 9:00 Breakfast at the center

  • 9:30 – 11:00 AM Writing Workshop + Guided Prompts + Sharing

  • 12:00 - 1:00 PM Lunch at the center

  • 1:00-3:00 PM Creative Free Time – journaling, poetry, drawing, knitting

  • 3:30-4:00 PM Afternoon Tea + Journaling Prompt

  • 4:30-6:00 PM Metal Element QiGong (Where am I and letting go)

  • 6:30-8:00 PM Dinner on your own / Optional Creative Circle

Please Read the Following Before Registering

YOUR DEPOSIT ACTS AS AGREEMENT TO THE TERMS & POLICIES  LISTED BELOW.

  • STARTS: Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM with orientation and dinner. Check-in to your room begins at 3:00 PM.

    ENDS: Friday, March 13, 2026 with breakfast.

    CHECK-OUT: Friday, March 13, 2026 by 10 AM.

    PLACE:  Mabel Dodge Luhan House — a historic inn and conference center, renowned as a retreat for artists, actors, writers, and musicians for nearly a century.

    ONLINE ZOOM INTRO SESSION: Receive access to an online intro session to discuss logistics, answer questions and engage in a 15 min QiGong Session to kick things off on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

    COST: $3100- $3600 USD depending on lodging (includes lodging, breakfast and lunch, closing dinner on Friday, instruction & materials).

    SPACE IS LIMITED TO 12 ARTISTS.

    Early-Bird Discount: $199 off when you register by November 30, 2025

    • Airfare

    • Ground travel

    • Travel insurance

    • Three dinners

    • Tips

  • Registration for EKAM QIGong Taos is $3100 - $3600 USD depending on lodging.

    You may pay in full or you may email us to pay a $500 deposit to save your spot and the remaining balance will be due by or on January 31, 2026.  We will reach out to you two weeks before January 31st with your final invoice.  If you are not paid in full by February 7th, 2026, we reserve the right to offer your space to our waiting list and/or the public, and to retain your deposit.

    Because registration is highly limited to 12 participants and significant planning goes into this event all deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Should you need to cancel before January 31st, you are responsible only for the $500 deposit. Those that paid in full will receive the remainder back as a refund. Any cancellation after January 31st, 2026 is non-refundable.

    PLEASE READ BELOW FOR IMPORTANT DETAILS.

    ➡️ All cancellations must be done in writing by emailing Erin at info@ekamqigong.com

     If you need to cancel we will offer your space to our waitlist and the public.  We can NOT guarantee that your space will sell. You also have the option to sell your space at a discounted price. If you choose to do so, you will be responsible to organize payment with the buyer.

    ➡️ In the case of acts of pandemic, disaster, war, border closure or unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to retain your fees and reschedule or make any necessary changes to the event.

    ➡️ If you need to cancel your trip or cannot attend due to Covid 19 or if you must leave the event due to contracting Covid 19 or developing symptoms, EKAM QiGong cannot provide any refund of any amounts you paid. Travel insurance is strongly encouraged and we suggest that you purchase travel insurance with Covid 19 coverage to provide protection from this possible risk.

  • Travel insurance is strongly encouraged for attending EKAM Qigong Taos 2026 to cover any complications, illnesses, or injuries that may occur. This includes situations where you need to cancel because you contracted COVID or are showing symptoms.

    You will be required to sign a release form before attending.

    • At EKAM QiGong 2026 you have a choice between premium or regular lodging based on availability. Each of the rooms at Mabel Dodge Luhan House are single occupancy with a rustic, Southwestern charm.

    • In keeping with the feel of Mabel’s era, there are no telephones, televisions, internet or alarm clocks in the guest rooms. A telephone and internet access are available in the common area of the Big House.

    • MDLH is not air-conditioned, but windows can be opened and fans are available.

    • Taos is at an altitude of approximately 7,000 feet above sea level. Please contact your doctor before your arrival if you have any chronic health issues.

    • Also included in the EKAM QiGong Taos 2026 registration is 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners, and refreshments including coffee, water, and tea.

    • Three of the evenings are left open so you can enjoy exploring the amazing restaurants Taos has to offer.

  • TRAVELING FROM OUTSIDE THE US

    • In most circumstances, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States, either from Canada or from other countries. There are, however, some exceptions to this situation. CLICK HERE for more information.

    • The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. CLICK HERE for more information.

    NEAREST AIRPORTS

    • Arriving at the Albuquerque International Sunport Airport (ABQ) it is approximately a 3 hours drive to Mabel Dodge Luhan House in Taos, New Mexico.

    • Arriving at the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) it is approximately a 1.25 hours drive to Mabel Dodge Luhan House in Taos, New Mexico.

    • Arriving at the Denver International Airport (DEN) it is approximately 5-6 hours drive to Mabel Dodge Luhan House in Taos, New Mexico.

    RENTAL CARS, SHUTTLES, & CAR POOLING

    • Your welcome email will contain a list of shuttle services that travel from the ABQ airport to Taos, New Mexico.

    • Prior to attending, many participants may want to coordinate car pooling before/after the intensive.  Please let us know if you are interested in doing so and we will help connect you.

    • If you prefer to NOT rent a car, the Mabel Dodge Luhan House is approximately a ten to fifteen minute easy walk to the historic Town Plaza where restaurants and shops are located.

    • Uber, Lyft, and Taxis are available in Taos, but are very sparse.

    ARRIVE EARLY / STAY LATE

    • The Mabel Dodge Luhan House is a popular retreat and conference center with events booked back-to-back throughout the year. If you wish to arrive early or stay later before or after EKAM QiGong 2026, rooms at the MDL House will not be available. Instead, Taos offers many beautiful Airbnbs and hotels for your stay.

    • Taos has a long history of attracting artists. The Taos Society of Artists, founded in 1915, played a crucial role in establishing the town as a major art colony.

    • The renowned painter Georgia O'Keeffe spent significant time in Taos and the surrounding area, drawing inspiration from the landscape for her iconic works.

    • The ancient Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Native American community, inspiring many artists with its unique architecture and culture.

    • This scenic route around Wheeler Peak, Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, the highest point in New Mexico, provides stunning landscapes that have been a source of inspiration for countless artists.

    • Harwood Museum of Art, affiliated with the University of New Mexico, features a diverse collection of works by Taos artists, including those from the Taos Society of Artists, the Taos Moderns, and contemporary artists.

    • Taos is known for its exceptional natural light and breathtaking landscapes, from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the Rio Grande Gorge, providing endless inspiration for painters, photographers, and other visual artists.

    • San Francisco de Asís Mission Church, an iconic adobe church, located in Ranchos de Taos, is famous for its stunning architecture and has been a subject of numerous paintings and photographs, including works by Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.

    • Taos is a popular destination for hot air ballooning, providing stunning aerial views of the desert landscape and mountains.

    • Green and red chiles are a staple in Taos cuisine, reflecting New Mexico's rich culinary traditions. Dishes like green chile stew and enchiladas with red chile sauce are local favorites.

    • Traditional New Mexican dishes are widely available, including tamales, posole, and carne adovada. Many restaurants in Taos offer these authentic flavors.

    • The Taos area is home to several wineries and vineyards, such as Black Mesa Winery, offering tastings of locally produced wines, often featuring unique blends and regional varietals.

    • Green Chile Cheeseburger is a must-try in Taos, the green chile cheeseburger is a local favorite, combining the spicy kick of green chiles with a classic cheeseburger.

  • Email me at info@ekamqigong.com and I’ll happily share more about the schedule, travel logistics, accommodations.

Follow Me On Instagram

@erinkumpfalchemyofmovement

 FAQs

  • If you would like to attend please contact me. We will then be able to confirm what spaces are available and provide you with the payment details.

    A 25% deposit is required to secure your place. This is a non-refundable deposit so please make sure you can attend the event.

    The remainder of the amount is due 12 weeks before the retreat. Once paid, this is also non-refundable.

    If we do not already know you (through either previous retreats, private classes etc) please include a description about yourself when enquiring.

  • In the unlikely event that EKAM QiGong has to cancel the retreat due to force majeure circumstances (including but not limited to death, illness, family emergency, natural disasters, acts of war, or other unforeseen events beyond EKAM QiGon’s control), participants are required to claim any refundable costs through their travel insurance. Therefore, it is essential that you arrange comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage. While EKAM QiGong will not be directly liable for refunding any payments made for the retreat, travel, transfer, or other associated costs, we will provide the necessary documentation and support to assist you in making a claim with your insurance provider. This clause does not affect your statutory rights under the United States consumer protection laws.

    Cancellation by you - If you are unable to attend the retreat you will lose the 25% deposit if you give more than 12 weeks notice. If you cancel with less than 12 weeks to the retreat you will forfeit 100% of the retreat cost.

  • Taos can be reached:

    By CAR: The address of the retreat center is 240 Morada Lane, Taos, NM 87571. Specific directions will be provided to each participant about a month before the retreat.

    By PLANE: Albuquerque airport is a 3 hour drive to Taos. Santa Fe airport is a 1 hour 15 minutes drive to Taos. Denver airport is 5-6 drive to Taos.

Location:

Mabel Dodge Luhan House, 240 Morada Ln, Taos, NM 87571

Getting there:

By PLANE: Albuquerque airport is a 3 hour drive to Taos. Santa Fe airport is a 1 hour 15 minutes drive to Taos. Denver airport is 5-6 drive to Taos.