Eleven University of Wisconsin-Superior students found calm and connection this past weekend during the Unplug to Reconnect retreat at Camp Amnicon in South Range, Wisconsin. The overnight retreat was organized by UW-Superior’s Pruitt Center for Mindfulness and Well-Being, the Mindfulness Club and Campus Recreation. It has been offered each spring and fall semester for the past three years.  

“This retreat is about disconnecting from constant notifications and reconnecting with each other — looking into each other’s eyes instead of a screen,” says Sean Monnier, Campus Recreation program manager. Participants are invited to put their phones away during their stay, or even leave them at home, and be fully present with themselves and one another. 

The agenda was loosely structured, allowing students to join any available activities that interested them, from relaxing pastimes to outdoor adventures. At times, groups gathered around jigsaw puzzles and bonfires on the beach. Some ventured out on hiking trails or canoed on the Amnicon River. There was also room for quiet, solo activities, such as journaling, meditation or even napping.

On Sunday morning, most of the group came together in the lodge for guided, yoga-inspired stretching led by UW-Superior student and Campus Recreation group fitness instructor, Hannah Kubarek. Later, everyone gathered in a circle and shared how the retreat had impacted them.  

“I live a very busy life, always thinking about my to-do list,” Kubarek shared. “I initially thought I have too much to do to come on this retreat, but it was nice to take this time for me — to step back and decompress. It’s been really lovely.” 

Others shared words or phrases to describe their experience, including change of pace, refocus, openness, intent, nature, tranquility and bliss.  

Life as a student can be busy and occasionally stressful, especially as final exams approach. Unplug to Reconnect provided a welcomed opportunity for rest and renewal, as well as space for students to share that experience with one another.