2023 Mind Like a River, Heart Like a Stream 2-Day Mindful Float Retreat
July 2, 2023

Nine Midwest Alliance for Mindfulness members floated the peaceful Niangua River near Lebanon, Missouri, connecting with nature in community during this 3 day, 2 night mindfulness and compassion cultivation retreat. The gentle Niangua River is located in south central Missouri, flowing south to north, and emptying into the Lake of the Ozarks. The river’s name comes from an Osage Nation leader named Nehemgar, meaning “bear”. Most of the land around the Niangua River is undeveloped, filling this area with pristine natural beauty. We passed through beautiful Bennett Spring State Park where more than 100 million gallons of clear, cool water join with the river each day. Each day we convened around mealtimes for mindful eating, meditation, mindful communication, and music making. The video starts with a slideshow and footage of the float starts at about 2:15.