An “un-doing” day
Rest, journal, eat and gaze
Sunday 5th October, 10am - 4.30pm
Nuthatch Retreat, near Blakeney, Forest of Dean
Join myself and Nuthatch owner and incredible caterer Nemia for a day to let yourself really, truly rest. This is a day of “un-doing”, where we will release the stresses and tensions of the body, relax and calm the mind, and give ourselves permission to just be, and in doing so, enjoy the beauty all around us.
Let go of the shoulds and coulds, of the expectations and responsibilities, and melt into relaxation in this beautiful heart of the Forest.
At a glance
A gentle day of releasing tension, resting and reflecting
Gentle movement inspired by yoga and somatic education
Deeply restful yoga nidra shown to release muscle tension and reduce stress and anxiety - all done while lying down!
Snacks on arrival, morning tea, a two course lunch and cake before leaving - you won’t go hungry!
Optional 15minute reflexology or massage sessions at additional charge
A maximum of ten people
The day
Welcome to a day where you don’t really need to do anything at all - the hardest bit will be giving yourself time and space to be here!
In yoga philosophy there is a concept of “aparigraha”, which can be translated as “non-grasping” or “non-possession”. We will bring the quality of “non-grasping” to our practices on this retreat day, where the movement is gentle and soothing, keeping our nervous systems grounded and rested. Yoga nidra is the ultimate of “non-doing”, where we rest our busy minds and enter into a state similar to sleep, thought to bring deep rest and greater creativity through the release of delta and theta brainwaves.
On arrival you’ll be greeted warmly with teas and coffees and light snacks, before we enter into gentle movement. After this movement, which is inspired by restorative yoga, yin yoga and somatic education, there will be more refreshments, followed by yoga nidra, perfect for those exhausted,sleep deprived and restless.
In the afternoon, after a delicious home cooked lunch, there will be time for you to journal, and if you choose,receive a 15minute reflexology or massage treatment from either Nemia or Mel. You can also use this time to sit in the garden, weather allowing, and read,chat, or simply “gaze as long as sheep and cows”, in the words of poet William Davies.
Drop out of striving and straining, and give yourself permission to rest, nourish and simply be. And exhale…
“Thanks for all your wonderful classes which have really helped with my Long Covid. I cannot recommend you highly enough. You have such a relaxing calming way about you that your sessions are an absolute balm!”
The food
Mel has worked on and off with Nemia for years, bringing Nemia’s much loved home cooking to retreats and events. Nemia is loved for her fresh, healthy ingredients which definitely don’t lack on style, taste or indulgence. We’ll start the day with snacks and tea and coffee on arrival, energy balls mid morning, a delicious two course lunch (expect filling soups and warm wintery salads, depending on the weather) and some delicious cake to end the day.
Nestled on a hillside, this single-storey lodge offers a tranquil escape -with calming interiors, mid-century furniture, lush indoor plants and sumptuous finishes that create a space that feels both homely and indulgent.
Why not extend your stay by booking Nuthatch as your accommodation? Find out more here.
The venue
The Schedule
10am - arrival, cups of tea, snacks,
10.15 - welcome circle
10.30 - somatic style movement
11.30 - tea and snacks
12 -yoga nidra
1pm - two course lunch
2pm - Journalling, reading and just relaxing - plus optional 15 minute foot massage by Mel / massage by Nemia
4pm - Closing circle
4.30pm - departure
Price
TBC
If you’d like a 15minute reflexology or massage treatment with myself or Nemia, this will be an an extra cost of £15, payable in cash on the day.
Please see full terms and conditions here.
Terms and conditions
Not much is needed - just be comfortable, warm, and bring your journals and pens, or a book if you’d rather sit, relax and read.
Mel will provide yoga equipment, but if you’d rather bring your own, please do.
All food and drink will be provided, although you may like to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout.
Prepare for your retreat
A note on self-care
A retreat can be wonderfully relaxing, allowing you time to focus on yourself and taking away the every day stresses of life. However retreats can also be times of emotional release, as slowing down often offers the chance for reflection and contemplation. It is recommended that you slow down before your retreat if possible, and also allow yourself time to return to the everyday world, and avoiding making any unnecessary social engagements or obligation.
It is good to prepare for all weathers, especially when retreating in the UK! For this reason, I recommend wellies and/or walking boots, waterproof clothes, comfy warm socks and slippers, a warm jumper or two, hat and gloves, sunscreen, and swimming clothes (when relevant).