Death, dying, and grief can be taboo for so many, Eileen felt it was vital to raise awareness having been through the deepest and most transformative experience of her life. The awkwardness, avoidance, and secondary losses she encountered affected her. She needed to find soul friends who understood what she was going through. She knew if she needed this so must others as well. Death and dying teach your souls so much about living, the life cycle. Here, you choose courage to heal your pain, so you do not transmit it.
Like sunflowers, you can face the light and befriend the shadows, when there is no light, you can turn to each other for support. Sessions can include poetry, song, dance, mindful walks in the retreat house gardens, clay, and meditation, self-care, energy or holistic massage, mindful craft. Everything is optional and by invitation, in a safe and nurturing space. Nature invites healing, and El Campello, Alicante, Spain the location is ideal for all of the activities: mindful attention in the mountain, wildflower strolls, or by the miles of sea in both directions.
This retreat can offer numerous benefits for individuals navigating the challenging journey of grief. Combining mindfulness practices with a retreat setting creates an environment conducive to healing, self-reflection, and support. Here are some key benefits of a mindfulness and grief retreat:
1. Emotional healing
- Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help individuals process and navigate intense emotions associated with grief.
- The retreat setting provides a safe space for participants to express their emotions, fostering emotional release and healing.
2. Mind-body connection
- Mindfulness encourages participants to connect with their bodies and become more aware of physical sensations. This connection can promote a holistic approach to healing by addressing both the mental and physical aspects of grief.
3. Coping strategies
- Participants learn practical mindfulness techniques that can serve as coping strategies during moments of grief and sorrow.
- Mindfulness equips individuals with tools to manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions, helping them navigate grief more effectively.
4. Self-discovery and reflection
- The retreat environment provides a peaceful and reflective space for individuals to explore their thoughts, memories, and feelings associated with loss.
- Mindfulness practices promote self-discovery and a deeper understanding of one’s own grief process.
5. Community and connection
- Sharing the retreat experience with others who are also grieving creates a sense of community and understanding.
- Group activities and discussions foster a supportive environment where participants can connect with others who share similar experiences.
6. Reduced isolation
- Grief can often lead to feelings of isolation. A retreat allows participants to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, reducing the sense of loneliness.
- Group activities and shared moments create bonds that extend beyond the retreat, offering ongoing support.
7. Renewal and restoration
- Mindfulness practices in a retreat setting contribute to a sense of renewal and restoration. Participants can take a break from their daily lives to focus on their well-being and find moments of peace.
- Engaging with nature, if the retreat is held in a natural setting, can further contribute to a sense of renewal.
8. Holistic wellness
- Many mindfulness and grief retreats incorporate holistic wellness practices, such as yoga, massage, or spa treatments, promoting overall well-being.
- Holistic approaches can enhance the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of healing during the grief journey.
9. Tools for resilience
- Mindfulness equips participants with tools to build resilience in the face of grief. This resilience can help individuals navigate future challenges with a greater sense of strength and adaptability.
10. Guidance from experts
- This retreat features experienced facilitators, and mindfulness instructors who provide guidance and support throughout the process.
- Expert-led sessions can offer valuable insights and personalized assistance tailored to the unique needs of participants.
This mindfulness and grief retreat, by addressing the multi-faceted aspects of grief, can provide a transformative experience that supports individuals in their journey toward healing and resilience.
Classes
- 11:00 - 13:00 Mindfulness and spiritual wellbeing with John
- 15:00 - 16:30 Soul and nature, grief support with Eileen Pugh
Daily schedule
Sunday, June 1st
- 14:00 Arrivals and welcome
- 19:30 Dinner and introduction
- 21:00 Meditation with John
Monday, June 2nd - Tuesday, June 3rd
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Yoga on the beach (optional)
- 11:00 Tea or coffee
- 11:30 Mindfulness with John
- 13:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Session with Eileen
- 16:00 Rest and one-on-one therapies
- 19:00 Dinner
Wednesday, June 4th - Rest day
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Trip to the market
- 13:00 Lunch
- 14:00 Rest and one-on-one therapies
- 19:00 Dinner
Thursday, June 5th - Saturday, June 7th
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Yoga on the beach (optional)
- 11:00 Tea or coffee
- 11:30 Mindfulness with John
- 13:00 Lunch
- 14:30 Session with Eileen
- 16:00 Rest and one-on-one therapies
- 19:00 Dinner
Sunday, June 8th
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Yoga on the beach (optional)
- 11:00 Tea or coffee
- 11:30 Airport
- 13:00 Lunch
- 14:00 Airport