Winter Solstice retreat & restore

Join Sofia and Ailie for an afternoon to retreat, ground, rest and restore. The session will involve:

• Winter Solstice ceremony & ritual

• Somatic techniques to calm the nervous system

• A gentle yoga flow & movement practice to embody the seasonal energy, release tension and replenish resources

• Frequency & vibrational Medicine through attuned soundscapes & a cosmic sound bath

• Optional Savasana adjustment, Reiki & pressure points

• Sharing of delicious treats & winter warming herbal tea.

Join the retreat

Winter the season to retreat

The Winter Solstice marks the darkest point in the solar cycle, astrologically it’s the beginning of Winter and after this point the days gradually begin to get lighter. It is the season to withdraw, rest and restore in preparation for renewal in Spring. Many creatures go into hibernation, diapause or torpor to conserve energy. Even trees and plants can go into a form of dormancy in which metabolism and growth are significantly slowed, with energy being reserved in the roots ready to direct towards new growth in Spring.

The Cailleach, the Goddess of Winter

In Celtic folklore the energies of Winter Solstice are reflected in the Cailleach, the Goddess of Winter, often depicted as an old hag, veiled, wild and untamed. Representing the bones of the Earth and the harshness of Winter weather, the Cailleach reminds us of the vital phase of destruction and decay within the natural life cycle. This decomposing phase is necessary for renewal and growth. Taking inspiration from the Cailleach we can feel held by the Earth to release and let go, composting what ever does not serve us, to create space and nourishment for renewal.

Embracing the art of Wintering

Winter is the season to retreat, slow down and compost to restore energy and prepare for new growth. This retreat session will embrace the art of wintering through the weaving of creative therapeutic techniques that honour the energies of Winter. Marking the Winter Solstice creates space for us to step out of the busyness of everyday life, to draw awareness to what is happening in both our inner and outer worlds. When we allow ourselves to drop, rest and receive, we can feel the body sign with relief and our energy levels restore. Combing gentle replenishing yoga, with cocooning sounds, delicious homemade treats and herbal teas will provide the retreat experience for you to replenish.

How does sound amplify the yoga practice and deepen the retreat experience?

Sounds have been used in many cultures around the world in ceremonies, rituals and for healing purposes for thousands of years. The basis of sound therapy is that everything in the universe is made from vibrating energy fields and that sound frequencies and vibrations help restore balance and harmony, which are natural states that emerge when proper resonance is restored.

This retreat session will include the sounds of many instruments such as the gong, drum, Tibetan bowls, rattles and other tones and frequencies to amplify the energies of the practice, guide through various states of being and into the depths of inner wisdom and relaxation. The benefits of sound therapy include stress and anxiety reduction, deep relaxation, and emotional release by calming the mind and activating the parasympathetic nervous system. It can promote physical and mental balance, stimulate the immune system, and facilitate a state of heightened awareness and personal transformation. Sound vibrations are believed to clear energetic blockages, improve mood, and induce a meditative state for overall well-being.

Is the Winter Solstice Retreat suitable for anyone?

This retreat is designed for individuals over 15. The yoga practice will be gentle, adaptable with lots of options. If you have any injuries or conditions that you are worried about, you are welcome wish to discuss with us in advance, please contact us or let us know when booking. Due to the vibratory effects, group sound baths are not generally advised for people with a pacemaker or in the first trimester of pregnancy. Feel free to get in contact with any questions or get in touch with your health care provider for advice.

Come and experience this full body, mind and spirit Winter Solstice Retreat session.

Practicalities

This reetreat will be held and weaved by Ailie Tam (Yoga Rewild) and Sofia Barnes (Love All Ways Yoga). It will take place at the Beehive Centre, 19A Stretford Rd, Whitehall, Bristol BS5 7AW

Bring any items you may need for the yoga practice and sound bath, this might include: a yoga mat, a bottle of water, a pillow, blanket, bolster, eye mask or anything else to feel warm and comfortable. If you need to borrow any items let us know. Tea and delicious treats will be provided.

Pay what you can afford sliding scale.

• Supporter £45 - for those feeling generous & supportive

• Regular - £35 - for those on a healthy income

• Concessions £25 - for those on a low wage, in receipt of benefits or experiencing financial difficulties