Bernie Freytag

he/him - Central New York State

LYB Retreat Team

About me: I have been a TBI survivor since 2000, and have found salvation within mindfulness, yoga, movement, art, and words. Travel may be my biggest passion, both physically and mentally. These journeys can fascinate me daily by the power of the brain...and I do owe this outlook primarily to my TBI experience.

Why LYB: Somehow over the years, I found "mindfulness" and "yoga/movement" as healing tools on my own, but I knew something else was still missing. Once I came to a LYB retreat as a participant, I realized that the missing piece was "community". So, I started volunteering right away. Since then I've learned I could help others, while they could also help me. It's all reciprocal and is the most beautiful thing I've ever experienced. The folks at LYB are my people and it's no exaggeration that when I'm at a retreat I feel like I've come home.

Superhero: I find it impossible to pick just one Super Hero and could list so many and decided to take a different route. I have 3 super heroes and they are all dogs. I've had 3 dogs throughout my adult years and each one has shown me the qualities I'd like to have as a human. To be present, to be grateful, to not be embarrassed, unconditional kindness. Thanks, Doogie, Floyd, and Izzy.

Resources: Outside of LYB, I am an artist and author, and you can connect with me on Instagram (@wanderingbernie) or my website (berniefreytag.com).