The conditions & protocols for the supporter are just as important as the conditions and protocols of the hygienic darkroom.
An 8-day (and longer) retreat requires a minimum of 3 supporters during the darkness component of the retreat: 2 supporters onsite and 1 supporter available to run errands.
The Role of the Supporter
The supporter enables profound rest for the retreatant. Having completed a successful 4 and/or 8-day retreat, they are qualified as a co-supporter, then become qualified as a supporter.
Their role is vital for the success of the retreat.
It is an honour to be the supporter for a retreater.
The task requires consistant dedication and vigilance during the darkness component of the retreat. Not difficult, yet not easy. Being available requires a positive attitute rather than a worrying attitude. Worrying that things will go wrong. Rather it is important to maintain the outlook that things will go right – that the retreatant is comfortable and resting – that if the retreater needs anything she will write a note.
The supporter maintains a restful atmosphere around themselves and around the physical building of the retreat.
They are ready, willing and able to attend to the retreater when needed.
4-day hygienic darkroom retreat
A 4-day retreat can be fully DIY. A supporter, although a great benefit, is not essential during a 4-day retreat.
You will need:
– a fridge containing meals which do not require warming
– plentiful easy-access pure water
– a full large fruit bowl
– an ability to block any light leaks which are impossible to detect until you have been in the darkroom continuously for 24 hours
– to be sure that the ventilation, cooling and warming will run smoothly
– a backup system in place if the electricity mains shuts off for a time to keep the ventilation operating.
the band* 