Join Louise and mindful artist, Eleanor Langton for this ‘Nature’ retreat to explore the various forms of rest and how they can support your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. 

Be immersed in Nature while you rediscover the joy of your creative self.

When did you last try new things?

Trying new things sparks the beginners mind which is curious and open. It effortlessly creates presence and focuses the mind, moving us away from negative thought patterns.

When did you last do something just for the joy of it?

Our busy lives mean we rarely have time to play, to do things just for the joy of them, without fear of failure or an end goal. When we do, we can release our tendencies for perfectionism and instead find our innate creativity.

When did you last immerse yourself in the healing hands of Nature?

Nature can captivate our attention, ignite inspiration, and facilitate healing. When we reconnect to the abundant benefits that she can offer, we discover an endless source of joy, calmness and wellbeing.

When did you last give yourself time to deeply rest?

In our 24/7 world, rest is often seen as a weakness, and we only stop when the to-do list is complete or when our bodies force us to. By slowing down and pausing we give ourselves a chance to reach our full potential and live life with a feeling of wellness. 

Here’s what Louise and Eleanor have planned for this retreat:

MOVE.

Louise will guide you through a gentle, mindful yoga practice that will shift energies, shake out tension, and open your imagination, ready for the creative part of the retreat. She will weave in theory around the various forms of rest and how we can bring these into everyday life.

RECONNECT.

To conclude the morning, we’ll explore Nature-based mindfulness meditation focusing on reconnecting with the land and ourselves as a way to rediscover the joy of your creative self and provide deep, healing rest.

CREATE.

In the morning session we will gather inspiration from the natural surroundings and create our own paintbrushes from materials gathered. Eleanor will discuss how she interacts with surroundings and finds inspiration through drawing, photography and collecting. 

In the afternoon, using our found material, our paintbrushes and ink we will explore abstract mark making processes in a mindful way. Students may want to draw realistically from natural items collected, or they might respond intuitively to the environment and crest an abstract piece. 

REST.

To complete the day, Louise will really slow things down using long held restorative yoga poses and breathwork to deeply calm and rest the nervous system.

She will conclude the day with reflections on how we can bring the Art of Rest into daily life. You will also receive resources following the day to continue to explore what you’ve learnt.

This Art of Rest 'Nature' Retreat is for you if:

•    You’re interested in exploring various forms of yoga (you could be a complete beginner),

•    You're keen to reconnect with Nature and discover how she can support your wellbeing,

•    You’re looking for some creative inspiration - on the mat - and for life,

•    You’re curious about (or very interested in) mindfulness, meditation and / or creative wellbeing techniques,

•    You’d love to unlock your creativity or maybe creativity is already part of your life, and you’re interested in more mindful or self-reflective practices to go alongside it,

•    You have an open mind to play, and are keen to be supported in trying new things,

•    Life feels full and you’re looking for a day to break from routine and give yourself time to rest,

•    You recognise the uplifting benefits of connecting with Nature and like-minded souls, eating fresh food and unplugging from technology,

 This retreat is for everybody, complete beginners are very welcome, come just as you are!

The day will look something like this:

09.45-10.00 – Arrival at Michael's Folly where you'll be welcomed with a summer drink,

10.00-10.15 – Welcoming circle to set intentions, ground and become present,

10.15-11.15 – MOVE. Gentle, mindful yoga led by Lou,

11.15-12.00 – RECONNECT.  Nature-based mindfulness meditation focusing on reconnecting with the land and ourselves led by Lou,

12.00-13.00 – CREATE. Art of Rest ‘Nature’ workshop led by Eleanor,

13.00-14.30 – Plant-based, homemade nourishing lunch (provided),  

14.30-15.30 – CREATE. Complete your art piece led by, Eleanor,

15.30-16.45 – REST. Restorative yoga led by Lou,

16.45-17.00 – Closing circle, reflections, Q&A.

Location

Our Art of Rest 'Nature' will take place in the peaceful and unique surroundings of Michael's Folly in Epping Green, near Hertford, Herts, set amongst woodland, a moss labryinth, orchards and kitchen garden. We’ll practice outdoors with Nature as much as possible but will also have the cosy, warm space of the heated Strawbale Studio to retreat to.

If you have any queries don't hesitate to get in touch - [email protected].