Jean Ricks-Ayer, LPC

12/21/2024

Winter Solstice is here—the longest, darkest day of the year. Also, a reminder that despite all of the holiday hustle and bustle, we are in resting and reflection season, my friends.

I’ve heard a lot this past week, from people feeling guilty for a lack of holly and jolly, merry and bright, twinkle and jingle. Instead, they're feeling an inclination toward stillness, hibernation, and sleep. My response? “Of COURSE!”, and then, a quick list of all the reasons why there may be a little less glee and more… Clark Griswold:

It's cold.
It’s dark.
Everything is so damn expensive.
We’re still recovering from one of the most polarizing elections in history (“recovering” might be strong…).
Wasn’t it JUST Thanksgiving?!
Didn’t we JUST DO the forced family time?!
We. Are. TIRED.

Also, did I mention it’s resting season? The creatures are hibernating. So are the trees. Why aren’t we? [Fill in every obligation here]

Listen, I’m just here to say, that it is OKAY if you’re not feeling it this year! It’s okay if you are feeling slow, feeling quiet, or feeling introverted. Part of resting season, and a focus of winter solstice, is quiet reflection and introspection. Instead of criticizing yourself for doing the holidays the “wrong way”, take some minutes, lean into yourself, and listen. What do you hear? What do you need? Can you find a way to honor that? Even if for just a few minutes…

If you’re feeling down, feeling sad, grieving—so many are—know you’re not alone. This season, the darkness, the holidays, bring up SO much, for so many. Take a breath, lean in, listen: Are there moments of joy? Even one? Is there a speck of light?

Find your heart, hold it in your hands; find your breath, feel it in your toes.

Take a breath.
Lean in.
Listen.

Rest.

There is sunshine on the other side; I promise.

❤️

08/13/2024

Looking for two more people to join my women's healing retreat experience in October--it has been described as "life changing!"

The retreat will be held October 11-14, 2024, in Steelville, MO in a luxury riverfront home on 20 private acres. All rooms are private. Attendees are welcome to attend solo or bring a (woman)friend.

The intention of the retreat is release and restoration, and will include:
✨ restorative yoga
✨ somatic massage
✨ energy healing
✨ breathwork
✨ healing circles
✨ private healing sessions
✨ fresh, chef-prepared meals
✨ Also, rest, relaxation, and quiet time.

Feedback from Last year’s retreat Guests:

❤️ "This was one of the best experiences of my life. Jean is such a calming, guiding presence that made sharing and being vulnerable a comfortable experience. I was able to release and heal in a safe space, and left feeling so much lighter and clear minded.”

❤️ “I believe this weekend was life-changing for me.”

❤️ “THE FOOD!!! Was simply exceptional. Down to every last detail.”

❤️ “Jean brought together women as strangers, and we left as a tribe of sisters who still talk to this day. We came from all walks of life with different experiences and journeys, but we all shared the need to heal, and healing in community was something we did not know we needed. Each experience we had was meticulously thought out.”

$2,500/pp or $2,000/pp if you'd like to share your room with someone.

Please click the link below for photos of the property and for more information:

A Full Moon Healing Retreat for Women in Steelville, MO

08/05/2024

I'm getting excited for my annual Full Moon Women's Healing Retreat in October! There are only two spots left, and if this appeals to you, I'd love to have you. Or, if you know someone who might be interested, I'd love it if you shared!

Last year's retreat was SO special, and I know this one will be too.

The things you want to know:
October 11-14, 2024
Steelville, MO on 20 private, riverfront acres.

Reiki and Breathwork with me!
Restorative yoga with the amazing Alicia Delaney of Slow & Steady Yoga
Somatic movement and healing with Rachel Tate of Earth Body Somatics
Fresh, chef-prepared meals by Chef Mindy of MJ’s Feast -Personal Chef & Events
Healing circles
Private bedrooms
Plenty of space and time to slow down, unwind, and reconnect to yourself and the earth.

Here's a link to learn more, and sign up!

A Full Moon Healing Retreat for Women in Steelville, MO

05/17/2024

I'm so excited about my upcoming summer retreat in August! This one is for women+, and all about reconnecting to Self, spark, and joy. I'm collaborating with so many incredible women, to offer a really special, engaging experience!
Our schedule includes:
✨Breathwork and Reiki with me and Brooke Brasfield, LCSW
✨Restorative yoga with Alicia Delaney of Slow & Steady Yoga
✨Dance for Embodiment with Molly Eames, Sexuality Educator & Embodiment Coach
✨Sound Bath with Suzanne O'Connor Rodgers, LPC
✨A Kayak River Float on the Beautiful Meramec River
✨Onsite, chef prepared meals by award winning Chef Mindy of MJ’s Feast -Personal Chef & Events
All of this will be held at a beautiful, spacious river property on more than 20 private acres in Steelville, MO. All rooms are private, unless you'd like to bring a friend and share! There are only 3 rooms left, so if you're interested reach out!
You can learn more and see photos of the property at the link below. Of course, you may reach out with any questions.
https://www.facebook.com/events/3304488253190561/

Send a message to learn more

05/15/2024

A little article about my work, and how I got here. Hope you enjoy!

Alright - so today we've got the honor of introducing you to Jean Ricks-Ayer, LPC . We think you'll enjoy our conversation, we've shared it below. Hi Jean , thanks for joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career? Abso...