PAUSE:
A Gathering to Reflect & Reconnect
Camping Information
During our weekend retreat we will be camping on a field which will be close to our designated parking lot (less than five minutes walk), so you can keep some gear in your car if needed. There will be access to outdoor showers and out houses as well as common gathering areas for engaging in arts, dancing and stretching.
In order to be prepared for your camping experience here is a comprehensive list of things we suggest you bring to be able to take care of your needs:
CAMPING ESSENTIALS:
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Tent
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Rain tarp
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Cot and or sleep pad/ mattress
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Sleeping bag and/or blankets
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pillow
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flashlight/headlamp
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Bug-spray that works best for your needs
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Sunscreen that works best for your needs
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Rain gear
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Bug-jacket
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Warm and Cozy layers
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Swimming suit
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Towel
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Walking/Hiking footwear
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Enough clothes to keep you feeling warm and well (prepare for weather that may be very warm at some points and very cool at others)
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An extra set of clothes (just in case)
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Extra socks
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Water Bottle
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Eating kit: utensils, plate, bowl
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Travel mug/ non travel mug for tea/ broth/electrolytes
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Toilletries
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Any specific medical equipment/ tools to meet your daily needs
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Any prescription medications
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Antihistamines if you are environmentally sensitive
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EPI-Pen if you have any allergies that can become anaphylactic responses
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Tick Removal Key/Kit
OTHER (optional)
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Dancing Shoes
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Water Shoes/Crocks (for walking in the river)
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Yoga Mat
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Meditation seat/ cushion
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Favorite stretchy healing toys/tools
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Journal and pen
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Sketchbook and drawing supplies
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Books
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Favorite Art Supplies
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Soft Ambient Musical Instruments (if you'd like to offer soft ambience)
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Silly Costumes
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Tuque & Mittens (if you get cold easily)
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Favorite Comfort item (ex: your teddy bear, favorite blanket)
Preparing for Bugs & Tricky Plants
Mosquitos
We are not expecting lots of mosquitos for this weekend of August 29th - September 1st. However there will be mosquitos present especially during dawn and dusk hour. In order to prepare for mosquitos bring long socks, cover shoes or boots, long sleeve shirts, and thicker hoodies to minimize open skin access points. You may also consider bringing a mosquito head net, or vest if you prefer.
Ticks
Ticks are a growing concern in Ontario, especially during the warmer months, because some species—like the blacklegged tick—can carry Lyme disease. As tick populations expand due to climate change and changes in wildlife habitats, the risk of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses increases across the province, including in parks, wooded areas, and grassy trails. Being aware of ticks and taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of illness.
To protect yourself, wear long sleeves, pants, and light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily. You can consider using insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Stick to the center of trails and avoid brushing against tall grasses and shrubs. After spending time outdoors, do a full-body tick check—look closely at hidden areas like behind the knees, underarms, scalp, and groin. If you find a tick, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers and clean the area. Early detection is key to preventing tick-borne diseases.
Poison Ivy
Not all people are allergic to the oil that’s found throughout this plant, but for those who are and who come into contact with it, the result in an allergic rash and physical discomfort. In order to minimize a potential uncomfortable encounter with this plant wear long socks, closed toe shoes and pants when walking on the trails and on grass. If you choose to walk on sandals or barefooted, make sure you know how to recognize poison Ivy and that you are mindful of where you step as you explore the land.
There are many patches of poison Ivy in our camping grounds so please be cautious through your explorations and walks through the land. To learn more about Poison Ivy start HERE
Wild Parsnip
Wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is an invasive plant known for causing a severe skin reaction upon contact with its sap when exposed to sunlight. Although we have not come across any Wild Parsnip along the camping area or the hiking paths, we know that Wild Parsnip is in the area, and it is a plant to keep in mind, especially while hiking on the farther-out trails.
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Pause Gathering Care Team
We will have a Nurse on site through the weekend with first Aid station for responding to any situations that may occur. This being said, prevention, being knowledgeable of the elements, mindfulness and being careful through your explorations are essential for a safe and easeful flow in our gathering through the weekend.
We will send more information and much more detail in our welcoming program package which will be sent out to all registered participants in mid-August.
