Relax, re-energise and revitalise
A mini retreat - yoga, yoga nidra, sauna, plunge and pizza!
Saturday 9th August, 2.30 - 6.30pm, Chepstow
Join me for an afternoon of saunas, plunge, yoga, yoga nidra and pizza - what’s not to love? Tucked in the courtyard behind Stonerock Lodge in Chepstow is a hidden wellbeing gem, and I am delighted to be hosting an afternoon of deep rest alongside the contrasting therapies of cold water immersion and heat exposure (plus some delicious pizza thrown in to boot!). This will be a relaxed day in a safe environment, so even if you are (literally) dipping your toe into exploring the wonders of hot/cold immersion, you are most welcome.
At a glance
An afternoon to re-energise and revitalise all aspects of your body, mind and soul
Gentle movement inspired by yin yoga, hatha, restorative and somatic education
Deeply restful yoga nidra shown to release muscle tension and reduce stress and anxiety - all done while lying down!
Hot and cold immersion therapy with two saunas and six plunge pools
Optional 15minute reflexology sessions at additional charge
Shower and private changing areas plus outdoor space to sit and relax
A maximum of ten people
Closing the day with award winning pizza
The day
You are invited to this energising and restful mini retreat with experienced yoga teacher and retreat leader Mel Skinner.
Taking place at the Stonerock Lodge, tucked away at the bottom of Chepstow’s high street, we’ll start our day with a welcome and introduction, followed by some relaxed and gentle yoga practice and a long, dreamy yoga nidra to help you rest at the deepest level. After the yoga nidra you’ll have the chance to re-energise and revitalise your whole being with sauna and plunge pools. It is up to you how long you spend moving between hot and cold - there is also outdoor seating to relax and unwind, plus additional mini foot massages available to fill the afternoon.
According to research at Oxford Brookes, cold exposure is often linked to reduced inflammation, enhanced immune function, improved mood and reduced stress and increased blood flow. There's also evidence that cold immersion can lower cortisol levels, which helps with stress.
Heat exposure has some great cardiovascular benefits. It increases heart rate and blood circulation, endorphin release for mood and pain relief, and the activation of heat shock proteins which protect cells and aid recovery, which is why people often feel more energized after a sauna.
Yoga nidra is a form of meditation done lying down. Activating different brainwaves, including the theta brainwave associated with dreaming and creativity, and the delta brainwave associated with deep rest, yoga nidra is similar to sleep, and leaves you feeling refreshed, calm and very relaxed.
We’ll close our day with a short and informal closing circle, then sit together and enjoy delicious pizzas from award winning Stonerock pizzeria.
“I’m so grateful for all the wisdom and opportunities to rest that you give. It all really really helps me to heal and keeps me grounded and regulated. You really do have such a positive impact on me - thank you ”
The food
Stonerock Lodge is a multi award winning Restaurant and Take Away which has been producing Neapolitan influenced Wood Fired Pizza and International Cuisine since 2016. They cater for Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free Diets and source most of our ingredients as locally as possible. They will be providing pizzas for us at the end of time, to fill those hungry tummies.
You’ll get the chance to specify what type of pizza you want when booking - take a look at the menu here first. If you’d like to order anything extra, please note there will be an additional charge for this, which you will need to pay on the day. This includes any drinks you’d like to order.
Stone Rock Lodge is a family-owned business, comprised of two Georgian town houses. Conveniently located in the centre of Chepstow, in walking distance to all the town’s amenities it is the perfect launch pad for exploring The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. They have twelve nature inspired en-suite bedrooms, each named after a local species of Flora, Fauna or Fungi.The restaurant has an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and traditional artisanal preparation, winning numerous National Awards including Best Pizza in Wales and The UK Gold Award for Outstanding Pizzeria.
The retreat area features a Wood Fired Sauna, Cold and Ice Plunges, and a Wellness Studio- we will have sole use of the retreat space for the entirety of the afternoon.
The venue
The Schedule
2.30pm - Arrive, welcome circle, group intro
3pm - gentle movement with yoga nidra
4pm - sauna and plunge
4 - 5.30pm - £15min reflexology sessions, please request when booking
5.30pm - closing circle (please give yourself enough time to shower and dress before the closing circle)
5.45pm - pizzas
6.30pm - depart
Price
£65 early bird - ends 9th July - use the coupon code PLUNGE when booking
£75 full price
Please see full terms and conditions here.
Terms and conditions
Mel be providing yoga equipment, although you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer. There is no wear to wear special “yoga clothes”, just be comfortable.
For the sauna/plunge you will need your swimsuits, towels and suitable footwear ie flip-flops. There is a changing area with a toilet and shower.
Please bring water bottles to stay hydrated.
Please carefully read the terms and conditions laid out by Stonerock Lodge before booking onto this retreat day. You can find them here. You will be asked to confirm that you have read and agreed to these terms when making your booking.
Prepare for your retreat
A note on self-care
You must not be under the influence of any drugs, alcohol, medication or other substance affecting your mental or physical state before using the sauna and plunge. If you have any concerns about your health, please obtain permission from your GP before using the Sauna.