This retreat is particularly aimed at those who have attended some of Hayley’s previous retreats at St Beuno’s but is open to others who have been practicing yoga for some time.
Please note: there will be no 1:1 spiritual direction offered on this retreat
As before, the retreat will provide the space for daily, led yoga practices. Along with the held silence and chance to rest, these practices help create space and time for deeper spiritual connection. Exploring movement, breath and mediation practices daily on and off the mat, we hope to inspire a different feel and flow to life. This retreat emphasises engagement with experience as a way of coming into union with God, as one previous participant puts it: The space, silence and yoga allow you to feel whole and meets you wherever you are in your spiritual journey.
Hayley will lead three Yoga practice sessions on Saturday and Sunday, and two on Monday morning, that tune into the season of Winter, and rhythm of the day. Using the method of a varied postures,breath, and Vinyasa (combined ‘flow’ movements) to energise in the morning; slow,mindful movement, breath andmeditation prior to lunch; and an evening restorative and Nidra (yogic sleep) practice to bring harmony to mind, body and soul. As an experienced practitioner, Hayley will explain the benefits of the different practices, and after each practice she will offer material for reflection and contemplation. Each evening Hayley will lead a short meditation.
There will be the opportunity for a dialogue and discussion about the philosophy and wisdom of Yoga with a Q and A at the beginning of the retreat (please email questions in advance). There will also be an optional discussion session for sharing readings, thoughts and poetry The retreat will be largely held in silence, with plenty of encouragement to spend time in nature alongside your stay.
Previous retreatants feedback:
This retreat was an immersion into a nurturing space for all experiences of yoga and those who seek stillness to find and hear God.
This has been a fascinating retreat that answered questions I didn’t know I had!
To Bring: A yoga mat (we have yoga mats and blocks you can borrow), A warm blanket and Yoga props you use (i.e. Bolster, block & strap). You may also wish to bring any readings/poetry you may like to share as well as your own journal for writing.
Bio
Hayley Lennard has studied and taught English language, humanities, and religious education. She is also an accomplished Yogi, working both as a therapist and teacher with training to an advanced level. She has developed and delivered a Yoga and Mindfulness programme for students and staff in schools and as a therapist she worked in hospitals, rehabilitation units and care homes. She believes in the healing power of prayer and forgiveness and sees living in harmony with nature as imperative for our time.
