A Deeper Connection - Half Day Retreat
Meditation - presence - journaling - shinrin yoku (forest bathing)
03 Oct 9.30am Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire

 
'To meet each other at the level of soul, silence & presence'

You are invited to join us for this wonderful opportunity to spend time in one of the most beautiful forests in the UK, exploring the arts of Shinrin Yoku, Meditation, Being in Presence and Journaling.

Step away from information overload, to-do lists and daily dramas and step into nature. Here, with the trees, birds and stream as your guide, you can tune back in to yourself and the natural world; of which you are a part. The events of the day are designed to help you form a deeper connection with your authentic self.

We will experience:

  • Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) - the practice of immersing ourselves in nature using our senses and present moment awareness to connect to the other-than-human world and it's wisdom.

  • Meditation - cultivating authentic presence and loving awareness.

  • Journaling - processing your experience, gaining self awareness and personal insight.

There will be an opportunity to use the cafe and toilets around the half way point.

We will finish by sitting together to enjoy a picnic (please bring your own) before we leave.

The Location
We will be spending the morning enjoying the lushious woodland at Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge. Every view here is stunning - magestic trees, enchanting waterfalls and soothing streams are around every corner. It's the perfect location to step away from the stresses and strains of daily life and return to nature and to yourself. 

This is National Trust land. There is a car park which is free to members (you still need to display a ticket but don't need to pay) or £5 for the day for non-members. Please note car parking spaces are limited so if possible do arrive a little early to ensure you have a space. Car sharing, where possible, would be advised.

We regret this route is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven ground. We are planning a more accessible event later this year - do get in touch with us to register your interest. 

The route involves steps, mud and uneven paths. We will be taking it slowly and stopping at regular intervals.

Your Hosts
You will be guided by my friend Natalie Rossiter and myself.

Natalie is a counsellor, mindfulness teacher and shinrin yoku practitioner based in Salford. Her work centres authenticity and compassion and the key factors for growth and healing. You can find out more about her here.

What to Bring

  • A picnic, including something to drink

  • Walking boots or other sturdy footwear

  • Waterproof and weather appropriate clothing

  • Payment method for the car park and if you want anything from the cafe

  • A journal and pen

Fee
£40 Per Person (Plus a small booking fee)

Tickets
Tickets are availble through Eventbrite

Please note that this retreat is limited to 10 people plus the two hosts (but please see the note below about people from the same house or support bubble)

COVID-19 and safety
To keep this event safe and work in line with current guidelines we will maintain social distancing - minimum 1 meter, 2 where possible at all times. We will work in 2 groups of 6, including us, so maximum participants from different households is 10. If you are buying a ticket for yourself and someone in your household or support bubble we'd really appreciate it if you could let us know so we can make another ticket available. If you or anyone you live with develops symptoms within 14 days of the event please do not attend. 

We look forward to spending a beautiful Autumn morning with you!