Field Notes 8 | 24
In the rhythm of our daily lives, it’s easy to feel untethered, as if we’re caught in a world that demands too much, too fast. The unrelenting pace, the clamor of responsibilities, and the endless noise—whether from the ceaseless news cycle or the pressures we place on ourselves—can leave us feeling scattered, ungrounded, and yearning for something that seems just out of reach. Many of us wake each day with a quiet, persistent longing for moments of true presence and to realign with our values and what truly matters—to recalibrate and find our footing again..
At Rituel, we understand this intimately. Here, you’ll find a refuge where the noise of the world fades and life’s pace naturally slows. Our guests often speak of the immediate sense of relief they feel upon arriving—a gentle unwinding as they step into the embrace of nature. Here, you can finally release the tension that has quietly built up, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself, your spirit, and a community that welcomes you just as you are.
ON THE LAND | 8.24
When we first began transforming this gorgeous, yet raw, piece of land into what it is today, we intentionally designed it to be in harmony with nature. I still remember those early months of breaking ground during the quiet and chaos of Covid—Glenn and I sweating under the sun, laying the stone deck ourselves, reconnecting with each other and the natural surroundings. Even in those initial stages of construction, we could feel the land's visceral impact.
The natural surroundings at RITUEL are more than just a backdrop—they’re an essential part of the experience. That’s why the retreat is thoughtfully crafted with organic architecture and ecological design, intentionally created to help you connect deeply with the beauty and energy of the environment.
HERBAL GROUNDING PRACTICE | 8.24
As the summer sun dries out much of the Santa Monica Mountains, the California sagebrush—also affectionately called cowboy cologne—remains vibrant and fragrant. If you find yourself walking in the hills, take a moment to seek out this resilient plant. When you find it, pause and allow yourself to connect with its energy before harvesting a small sprig. If you don’t live in an area where sagebrush grows, you can do this same exercise with a sprig of lavender.
~ Once you have your sprig, find a quiet space to settle. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, inviting your body to relax and your mind to quiet. Feel the support of the ground beneath you.
~ Gently crush the sprig between your fingers, releasing its aromatic oils. Bring it to your nose and inhale deeply, allowing the scent to fill your senses. Notice any memories or feelings that arise as you breathe in the fragrance.
~ As you continue to breathe, imagine the calming energy of the plant flowing through your body, soothing your nervous system and easing any tension. Let its natural properties bring balance and comfort to both your body and mind.
~ When you feel ready, take a final breath, offering silent thanks for its presence in your practice. Gently open your eyes, carrying the grounded, peaceful energy with you as you continue your day.
~ If you wish to deepen this grounding practice and enjoy its benefits more often, you might consider sewing a small pouch and filling it with sagebrush or lavender —you can place it under your pillow as you sleep and in your pocket during the day, or add either plant to your bath for a deeper sense of relaxation.
Remember, this simple connection with nature is always available to you, whenever you need to return to yourself and the earth.
PRACTITIONER HIGHLIGHT | 8.24
We are delighted to introduce Keiko Matsuo, our extraordinary qi massage therapist and energy worker to those who don’t know her yet. With her intuitive touch and deep understanding of the body’s energy systems, Keiko brings a profound sense of balance and healing to everyone she works with. Her sessions are a unique blend of therapeutic massage and energy work, designed to release tension, restore harmony, and rejuvenate both body and spirit.