Wintering: Reflections
Wintering: Reflections from Our First Retreat Day of the Year
Our first retreat day of the year unfolded with the gentle rhythm of wintering - slowing down, listening in, and allowing the quieter season to shape the pace of our bodies and minds.
We began with time to gather and reflect, poetry threaded through the morning like soft breadcrumbs guiding us inward. Storytelling was woven into a yoga practice designed to help everyone arrive gently — not rushing to do, but easing into being.
Participants were invited space and time in the studio to reflect upon Wintering from personal experience.
Later, we stepped outside for a mindful walk, waking up the senses with cold air on skin, birdsong, and the simple beauty of noticing what’s here. Nan Shepherd’s words from The Living Mountain echoed in our hearts:
“It is a grand thing to get leave to live.”
A reminder that presence itself is the gift.
A muddy, refreshing walk around the lowlands.
We were nourished by a hearty winter lunch: warming minestrone, crunchy fresh slaw, kombucha, and homemade banana bread - all gluten and dairy free - before moving into a candlelit creative session. With charcoal and still life, we explored shadow, light, and the quiet poetry of dark and contrast.
Bringing some colour but also comfort, a warming minestrone and a winter raw salad for lunch was a real highlight.
The day closed with a deeply settling yoga nidra flowing into sound healing - a long exhale for nervous systems and tired minds.
This beautiful space was held by Helen and Dave, with the wonderful Angharad as part of the team, and lovingly supported by UpCircle Beauty - our heartfelt thanks.
🌱 Next up: Imbolc Day Retreat – 1st February
Only 2 places left. If you’re craving a gentle reset and a return to what matters, you’re warmly invited to join us. Join us here (Booking Link)
