Retreats

Amongst the Trees: Nature Retreat - Reconnect with Yourself and the Natural World

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About This Retreat: 

Amongst the Trees: Nature Retreat - Reconnect with Yourself and the Natural World

The ancient woodlands of Lisnavagh are a perfect place to fully immerse yourself for the day in nature. Surrounded by magnificent trees, the day will focus on connecting with nature through Forest Bathing in the morning; and reconnecting with your inner child through fun, creative, nature based activities in the afternoon. Deep in the woods all day, we will emerge only for a delicious, healthy lunch cooked by Lisnavagh Kitchen. We will close the day around an open fire, with a beautiful cacao
ceremony as darkness draws in.

Arrival: 10am tea/coffee/biscuit
10.00am – 12.30pm Forest Bathing (walking about 2km)
1pm – 2pm Lunch
2.30pm – 5pm Nature Based Activities in the woods including
an open fire
5.30pm Depart Lisnavagh

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Start Date:

November 9, 2024

Days:

1

Saturday, 9th November

Price:

€120 per person (see link to purchase tickets) What to Bring:  Warm clothes, including a hat  Waterproof coat and trousers  Sturdy outdoor footwear  Water bottle

Includes: 


Forest Bathing Walk:
Embarking on a guided forest bathing walk is an immersive journey that taps into the practice of Shinrin-yoku, a term that originates from Japan and translates to forest bathing or taking in the forest atmosphere; This practice involves a mindful walk through the forest, guided by your professional facilitator, with the intention of connecting deeply with nature for therapeutic benefits. Unlike a hike or a nature walk, forest bathing emphasises a slower pace and a sensory connection to the surrounding environment, encouraging participants to engage all their senses to absorb the restorative effects of the forest.


During a guided forest bathing walk, participants are invited to notice the “extraordinary within the ordinary” with gentle mindfulness exercises. The activities are designed to bring the mind into the present moment, connect deeply with nature, reduce stress, and enhance wellbeing.


Scientific research has shown that spending time in natural environments like forests can have profound effects on health, including lowering blood pressure, reducing stress hormone levels, enhancing immune system function, and improving mood and cognitive functioning. By participating in a guided forest bathing walk, individuals not only have the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life but also to reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. This practice serves as a gentle reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of preserving our natural world for generations to come.

Lunch is vegetarian and served in the dining room of Lisnavagh House. Using natural and organic ingredients we strive to nourish you with our vibrant dishes.

Nature Connection activities:

Gather at basecamp in the woods after lunch to connect with your inner child! Try your hand at survival skills like den building and fire lighting. Get creative with arts and crafts from natural resources. Challenge yourself on the ropes, experience some nature based games and finish up around the open fire with a beautiful cacao ceremony to nourish and ground yourself, giving gratitude to nature’s abundance that we will have enjoyed all day.


Find your inner child by enjoying the activities through exploration, play and learning. The idea of the inner child pertains to the deep-seated, child-like aspects within all of us, encompassing our capacity for wonder, joy, innocence, sensitivity, and playfulness. You are invited to rediscover and nurture your innate curiosity and joy for life through direct engagement with the natural world. This reconnection with both nature and your inner child can pave the way for a more compassionate, balanced, and sustainable way of living on our planet.

Nestled in the heart of nature, surrounded by the serene beauty of trees and the untamed wilderness of the woods, this special day offers a unique sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life - grounding oneself in nature thereby benefitting mentally, spiritually, physically and emotionally.


The tranquil haven at Lisnavagh provides a space for individuals to reconnect with themselves and the natural world, fostering a sense of peace and rejuvenation. Immersed in the wild, one cannot help but be reminded of the intricate connections that bind us to the earth and its myriad of life forms.

About Your Teacher: 

The Teacher for this event

Johanna Wakeham

For over 10 years Johanna has been running nature based activities in beautiful outdoor settings. She is a professional Forest Bathing Guide, dedicated to sharing the joys and benefits of this unique experience in nature. Leading groups and individuals to reach a deep sense of relaxation through varied mindfulness activities, participants are able to connect deeply with nature, and themselves.


She is also an Integrative Forest Therapy Practitioner specialising in mental health programmes and corporate well-being. She is specialist on the Heritage Council
programmes for Heritage in Schools, and runs a successful Forest School for children. She expresses herself creatively through using nature’s resources for arts and crafts and also loves foraging for wild food.

Living locally now after travelling and working around the world, she is a life-long learner, enjoys wild spaces and time with family and friends.

Some Benefits of Forest Bathing:


 Reduces tension and stress
 Improves mood and creativity
 Boosts Immune system
 Reduces anxiety, fatigue, anger, depression
 Improves Concentration
 Blood pressure reduced

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Testimonials

What our clients say

"This was my first retreat experience and it exceeded my expectations…The food was a delight and joy to eat.'

— December 2019

"The cookery demo had some great ideas to go away with…"

— Yoga & Cookery Retreat February 2019

I just wanted to say thank you again for a lovely weekend. I feel so rested! I really enjoyed Pam’s classes. The food was delicious. I will be back again at some point!

— Ruth, January 2019

"Nothing compares. A beautiful place and wonderful experience"

— November 2018 Yoga Sleep Weekend

"The food was exceptional and the cookery demo added to my enjoyment of the food."

— November Yoga & Cookery 2018