In this nurturing two-day workshop, we will explore the profound wisdom of somatic movement practices that invite us to slow down, listen deeply, and discover the natural intelligence of our bodies. The workshop draws on lessons and principles from “external arts” like karate and peak performance training and practices from “internal arts” from ancient traditions of Qi Gong, Tai Chi, meditation, and yoga. We will learn to cultivate presence through gentle, mindful movement.

At the heart of this retreat lies the art of deep rest – a vital yet often forgotten skill in our fast-paced world. Through carefully guided practices, we will explore how subtle movements, conscious breathing, and energy awareness can create pathways to release tension, anxiety, and stress. Participants will learn accessible techniques that honour softness as a source of strength and restoration.

The workshop weaves together guided movement explorations, periods of meditation, and spacious silence. We will create a safe, supportive container where emotions can be felt and expressed through the wisdom of the body. Special attention will be given to practices that can be easily integrated into daily life, empowering participants with practical tools for self-regulation and renewal.

By embracing gentleness and working with rather than against our nervous systems, we discover how less effort often yields deeper healing. This retreat offers an invitation to rest in the present moment while developing a more compassionate relationship with our bodies and ourselves. The workshop also invites the development of somatic energy practices as a support to other contemplative practices.

The retreat will include guided somatic movement sessions, meditation, embodied breathwork, and time for reflection and discussion. All bodies and experience levels are welcome.

In this retreat, we will explore the important roles of pleasure and bliss that arise from meditation practice. Guided by meditation instructions from the Mahamudra lineage of the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, we will examine how meditation on the mind’s nature can evoke both rapturous sensations and the peaceful happiness of contentment. In turn, we will investigate the many benefits these blissful experiences can bring—calming physical tensions and mental agitation, gathering scattered attention, uplifting low energy, and opening a doorway to deeper states of concentration.

The retreat will include guided and silent meditations, with explanations of the practices and time for Q&A and discussion.