Residential Retreats
September 30-October 6, 2024: Moulin de Chaves, France
- fully booked: join the waiting list
April 2-6, 2025: Sharpham House, Devon
September 29-October 5, 2025: Moulin de Chaves, France
or email [email protected]
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Living in Love
Yoga, Meditation & Embodied Dharma Moulin de Chaves, Cubjac, France September 30th - October 6th 2024 - fully booked: join the waiting list On retreat we use each moment as a gateway to enter into a deep and authentic relationship with life. We cultivate an atmosphere of love which extends in all directions: towards each other, the natural world and this very tender human body, heart and mind. Every piece of the constellation brought home and held in love. We draw on ancient practices to support this journey: practising Iyengar and Yin yoga to establish a stable and relaxed presence in the body; Meditation to remain anchored and aligned with the luminous warmth of this presence; Dharma teachings to illuminate the nature of suffering and liberation; psychological enquiry to recognise limiting beliefs and feel the emotional currents behind them; and authentic connection (with nature, each other and our deepest intentions) to help release what no longer serves us and nurture what is ready to grow. Living within the embrace of these practices, we open to receive life’s mystery and participate more authentically in its aliveness. We come to live in love. The retreat is in silence and digital free. You are guided to discover the wonderful benefits of relaxing habits of distraction to encourage a deeper connection with life. Silence, teachings and mindful dialogue allow us to come together in deep trust and support as we let go of old armouring and the normal ways we define ourselves and others. It creates a very loving supportive space between us. Many people are surprised to discover how healing and nurturing silence feels, and how intimate and connected we feel with others within it. Typical daily schedule 7.30-8am meditation 8am breakfast 8.50-9.40am work meditation/karma yoga 10am-1pm yoga and meditation 1pm lunch 3pm optional silent river swim (for those who prefer to swim with others) 4-7pm yin yoga, meditation, questions & answers 7pm dinner 8.30pm meditation Some previous yoga experience is necessary but all levels other than complete beginners are welcome. Previous experience of meditation may also be helpful, but the emphasis on these retreats is to revisit the essential elements of these practices in order to experience the essence they offer, rather than to explore advanced practices. Each person is invited to grow into feeling more alive from exactly where they are. Moulin de Chaves is a dedicated retreat centre grounded in the Buddhist tradition of Insight Meditation. The retreat centre is situated by a stunning river which flows both underneath and around the building, and is delightful for swimming! In the cool of the mornings, we practise Iyengar yoga and meditation in the spacious purpose-built Tara Hall. In the warmth of the afternoons (weather permitting), we practise yin yoga and meditation outside on the deck by the pond. Moulin de Chaves is a place where mindfulness and the Dharma are deeply imbued in every corner and each offering - from the statues and altars scattered through the grounds, the delicious vegetarian organic and locally sourced food (vegan and gluten free catered for), to the staff and volunteers who are all committed to meditation practice and service. The care and love is truly palpable. In line with this ethos (and to keep their costs to a minimum), you will be asked to offer 50 minutes of karma yoga each day: washing up, veggie chopping, cleaning or gardening. For many people, this invitation to practise loving presence with an everyday task can be as transformative as the formal practices. www.moulindechaves.org Getting there: Moulin de Chaves is just outside the village of Cubjac in the Dordogne area of France. The nearest train station is Perigueux (7/8 hours by train from London). The nearest airports are Limoges, Brive and Bergerac (Ryanair, accessible by taxi and train), and Bordeaux (many airlines, accessible by train). Travel share will be supported and encouraged. More info on getting there will be available on booking and can also be found here. PAYMENT For accommodation and all meals: 2 person smaller room, shared bathroom - €460 2 person room, shared bathroom – €520 Single cabin, shared bathroom - €580 Single room, shared bathroom – €640 2 person room, private bathroom – €670 Single room, private bathroom – €730 A limited number of assisted places are available for those who cannot afford the full price in exchange for additional Karma Yoga. Please enquire directly with Anna at [email protected] for more information. For my teaching I offer these retreats using the Dana system, an ancient method of conscious exchange. Dana is a practice of both giving and receiving. It invites us to receive experiences of gratitude, generosity and appreciation as well as feelings of scarcity and lack. It asks that we look more closely at our motivation and expectations, demanding that we step out of a transaction mindset (how much can I get from this moment and how little can I give?) and into a generosity mindset (how deeply can I receive this moment and what would I like to offer in return?) Dana helps us strengthen the nourishing flow of reciprocal and sacred relationship by bringing it into everyday life. After the retreat I ask you to reflect on what you received from the week and what you would like to offer to support me in return. I trust you to choose an amount that is right for us both. One that feels like you are making a real commitment to your practice while respecting your financial situation on the one hand; and one that honours my experience and teaching (about 7 hours per day) and reflects what you have received from the retreat on the other. What is generous for one person is not at all for another! Dana allows for a genuine space of reflection on generosity, mutual support and growth that is not about comparison, doing the right thing or getting a good deal. Like all things in life, it is a practice. And like all practices, it can feel a little uncomfortable at times! Please trust that there is a jewel in the centre of that discomfort which is enlivening and liberating for all. |
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✨ To reserve your place, please email [email protected] to check for availability. Please let me know what experience you have, if any, with yoga, meditation and silent retreats, and why you are excited to join us (not needed if we already know each other!) ✨
Feedback from the 2023 retreat at the Moulin...
Thank you so much for a such a transformative and special week at Moulin de Chaves. I cant accurately put into words the changes and insight I experienced during the time with you, and the whole group, but can articulate that it will stay with me forever. I have a better understanding, if nothing else, of the extreme importance of getting out of my head and into my heart and body... This calmness and quiet I tapped into was under so many layers that a week of silence and constant mind body connection was necessary. I am eternally grateful for the time with you, your teachings, and such a beautiful collective of minds and souls. It was magical and the effects long lasting, with ripples of wisdom and insight throughout my world and parts of self. Looking forward to next year and whatever events I can get to along the way. ~ Miriam (therapist)
What did I want from my week? Deep rest and inspiration. Suffice to say - with immense gratitude - the week and you gave me this in spades and on many levels, from proper breathing in every posture and sequence, right through to the entire way you teach from 'presence' with such fierce grace and gentle courage. It bears repeating that the insight and blessing you transmit is a rare and precious thing. ~ Hannah (yoga and meditation teacher)
I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the retreat that you "animated" and incarnated last week... You held this space gracefully, even when we were walking on the edge. You managed to hold the group as a group, weaving ties between each of us and caring for each of us individually. It is the first time I experienced this in a retreat or a workshop, and cultivating interbeing is, for me, invaluable. You offer a feminine understanding and embodiment of the Dharma… ~ Virginie (mindfulness teacher and academic)
I wanted to thank you very cheerfully for the wonderful and incredible week… I did not know what to expect exactly but the result was certainly beyond any - even unknown - expectations. I attend regular yoga / meditation weeks but it has never been as powerful. Everyday was a kind of step forward… I feel something happened with the practice of meditation ... a real step ahead, with an integration of meditative state (rather than an "exercise"). Thank you for that and all the rest. The last day was extremely powerful and emotional. As a French person, I can sometimes be a little behind all the "love and compassion" stuff but that was exactly what I felt! ~ Agnes (meditation teacher)
It's hard for me to find words that describe the experience of the retreat and all you brought to it. I was nourished and able to connect to myself and the world in a unique and deeply meaningful way. I am filled with gratitude and love for you and all you share during the retreat and beyond. ~ Holly (teacher)
Thank you so much for a such a transformative and special week at Moulin de Chaves. I cant accurately put into words the changes and insight I experienced during the time with you, and the whole group, but can articulate that it will stay with me forever. I have a better understanding, if nothing else, of the extreme importance of getting out of my head and into my heart and body... This calmness and quiet I tapped into was under so many layers that a week of silence and constant mind body connection was necessary. I am eternally grateful for the time with you, your teachings, and such a beautiful collective of minds and souls. It was magical and the effects long lasting, with ripples of wisdom and insight throughout my world and parts of self. Looking forward to next year and whatever events I can get to along the way. ~ Miriam (therapist)
What did I want from my week? Deep rest and inspiration. Suffice to say - with immense gratitude - the week and you gave me this in spades and on many levels, from proper breathing in every posture and sequence, right through to the entire way you teach from 'presence' with such fierce grace and gentle courage. It bears repeating that the insight and blessing you transmit is a rare and precious thing. ~ Hannah (yoga and meditation teacher)
I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the retreat that you "animated" and incarnated last week... You held this space gracefully, even when we were walking on the edge. You managed to hold the group as a group, weaving ties between each of us and caring for each of us individually. It is the first time I experienced this in a retreat or a workshop, and cultivating interbeing is, for me, invaluable. You offer a feminine understanding and embodiment of the Dharma… ~ Virginie (mindfulness teacher and academic)
I wanted to thank you very cheerfully for the wonderful and incredible week… I did not know what to expect exactly but the result was certainly beyond any - even unknown - expectations. I attend regular yoga / meditation weeks but it has never been as powerful. Everyday was a kind of step forward… I feel something happened with the practice of meditation ... a real step ahead, with an integration of meditative state (rather than an "exercise"). Thank you for that and all the rest. The last day was extremely powerful and emotional. As a French person, I can sometimes be a little behind all the "love and compassion" stuff but that was exactly what I felt! ~ Agnes (meditation teacher)
It's hard for me to find words that describe the experience of the retreat and all you brought to it. I was nourished and able to connect to myself and the world in a unique and deeply meaningful way. I am filled with gratitude and love for you and all you share during the retreat and beyond. ~ Holly (teacher)
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Living in Love
Yoga, Meditation & Embodied Dharma Sharpham House, Devon, UK April 2-6 2025 On retreat we use each moment as a gateway to enter into a deep and authentic relationship with life. We cultivate an atmosphere of love which extends in all directions: towards each other, the natural world and this very tender human body, heart and mind. Every piece of the constellation brought home and held in love. We draw on ancient practices to support this journey: practising Iyengar and Yin yoga to establish a stable and relaxed presence in the body; Meditation to remain anchored and aligned with the luminous warmth of this presence; Dharma teachings to illuminate the nature of suffering and liberation; psychological enquiry to recognise limiting beliefs and feel the emotional currents behind them; and authentic connection (with nature, each other and our deepest intentions) to help release what no longer serves us and nurture what is ready to grow. Living within the embrace of these practices, we open to receive life’s mystery and participate more authentically in its aliveness. We come to live in love. The retreat is in silence and digital free. You are guided to discover the wonderful benefits of relaxing habits of distraction to encourage a deeper connection with life. Silence, teachings and mindful dialogue allow us to come together in deep trust and support as we let go of old armouring and the normal ways we define ourselves and others. It creates a very loving supportive space between us. Many people are surprised to discover how healing and nurturing silence feels, and how intimate and connected we feel with others within it. Typical daily schedule 7.30-8am meditation 8am breakfast 9.30am-1pm Iyengar yoga, meditation 1pm lunch Siesta, time in nature, reflexology 4.30-7pm yin yoga, meditation 7pm supper 8.15-8.45pm meditation (outdoors when possible, including fire ceremony one night) Some previous yoga and meditation experience is necessary but all levels other than complete beginners are welcome. The emphasis on these retreats is to revisit the essential elements of these sacred practices to allow each person to grow into feeling more alive from exactly where they are. If you are unsure, contact me. Reflexology practitioner Louisa Potter will be offering treatments to complement and deepen our work together. Treatments will include hot stones and essential oils tailored to each client. Sharpham House and its estate is set in a majestic location high above on the banks of the River Dart in South Devon. It is close to Totnes station, 2.5 hours from London by train. . Its stunning 550-acre estate includes a swimming pool, gardens, woodland, river walks, a wild swimming pontoon and rolling hills. The food is delicious: vegetarian, abundant, mostly organic and locally sourced. The spaces inside the house are inspiring: staying here feels like we enter another era. PAYMENT for single accommodation and all meals (rooms in brackets are already taken) Ensuite Single: £760: (Lime), (Yew), Beech Heritage Single: £760: (Ruth Ash), (Thomas de Sharpham), (Capability Brown) Premiom Single: £660: (Ash), (Richard Durant), (Robert Taylor), Tulip, Philemon Pownoll, Chestnut Standard Single: £560: (Oak), (Holly), (Monkey Puzzle), Elm, Edmund Bastard, Elizabeth Durant, Cherry Accessible Ensuite Single: £560 Claire Milne Assisted places: payable by Dana (please apply explaining your circumstances) PAYMENT for my teaching I offer these retreats using the Dana system, an ancient method of conscious exchange. Dana is a practice of both giving and receiving. It invites us to receive experiences of gratitude, generosity and appreciation as well as feelings of scarcity and lack. It asks that we look more closely at our motivation and expectations, demanding that we step out of a transaction mindset (how much can I get from this moment and how little can I give?) and into a generosity mindset (how deeply can I receive this moment and what would I like to offer in return?) Dana helps us strengthen the nourishing flow of reciprocal and sacred relationship by bringing it into everyday life. |
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After the retreat I ask you to reflect on what you received from the week and what you would like to offer to support me in return. I trust you to choose an amount that is right for us both. One that feels like you are making a real commitment to your practice while respecting your financial situation on the one hand; and one that honours my experience and teaching (about 7 hours per day) and reflects what you have received from the retreat on the other. What is generous for one person is not at all for another! Dana allows for a genuine space of reflection on generosity, mutual support and growth that is not about comparison, doing the right thing or getting a good deal. Like all things in life, it is a practice. And like all practices, it can feel a little uncomfortable at times! Please trust that there is a jewel in the centre of that discomfort which is enlivening and liberating for all.
✨ To reserve your place, please email [email protected] to check for availability. Please let me know what experience you have, if any, with yoga, meditation and silent retreats, and why you are excited to join us (not needed if we already know each other!) ✨
Feedback from previous retreats...
Thank you for the beautiful gift of this retreat. Words can't translate what this week has been for me. Thank you hardly seems enough to encompass the gratitude I feel for creating and holding this safe space, which you have done so effortlessly and with pure love... As I think of returning back to the routine of life I am conscious not to fall back into old habits that do not serve me. I know the path is long but I also know that there is a part of me, hidden in the depths of muddy waters, that knows, believes and feels I am worthy of love. Of loving myself... Thank you for helping me find her. ~ Tawny (yoga teacher)
I’m bursting with love and joy and gratitude. I feel so blessed to have been there. Thank you as always for guiding us deeper and deeper into this heart space. ~
Tara (headteacher)
My retreat with you came at a time of great turmoil in my life. Spending the week with you, listening to your teaching and being allowed the space and time to reflect on my situation, listen to my body and understand what I needed was invaluable. I can only thank you because here I am a year later happier, healthier and stronger both in mind and body and very much looking forward to another wonderful week with you. ~ Emma (IT professional)
Your incredible skill, for me, is your ability to make one of my body, heart and mind. I feel I work on my thoughts and emotions just as much as I do on my body, sometimes even more. It’s the perfect way to truly care for myself, nurture, learn and grow in the gentlest and bestest way I can imagine. ~ Ruth (coach)
I have been blessed with the opportunity to attend many of Ayala’s retreats over the years. Ayala shares her wealth & depth of knowledge, from an anatomical, spiritual and emotional perspective, in the most authentic & poetic of ways that leaves you feeling supported and safe to allow you to reconnect with your most vulnerable self. Ayala’s experience from a wide variety of practices, including yin, meditation, Iyengar, flow, silence, all come together beautifully to create a retreat whereby beginners through to experienced teachers can enjoy the safe space she holds. I personally find Ayala’s retreats to be a sacred space that have helped me hugely in my teachings, practice & personal growth. ~ Simone (yoga teacher and osteopath)
A quiet yoga retreat with Ayala, is pure bliss and the most wonderful gift I can give to myself. In a world where everything swirls past You in an incredible speed, it’s such a treat to be able to find blissful stillness and quietness. To be offered a safe space where Your body is guided through meaningful yoga and a mindful stillness where no obligations or judgments are being forced upon You and where You really, really can rest in just being You. A retreat like this leaves You feeling strong, in body, mind and heart. In the quietness Your brain finds peace and strength and a revoked creativity takes You to magical places You could never even imagine. And all this surrounded by women with whom You share so much love and compassion through the silence. I love these retreats and can’t wait for the next possibility to join, but it also inspires me in daily life. It has become important to offer myself quietness, gentleness and time off the normal hectic routine. ~ Lena
As a first timer on retreat I found the week to be a truly unique and beautiful experience. It’s amazing to observe - against the backdrop of a gorgeous rural landscape - how a group of people can bond over the course of a week without talking. Ayala’s yoga teaching seamlessly blends both the practical and reflective; the fundamentals she introduced into our classes are still with me in my practice nearly a year later. The positions are suited to all styles and ability levels, making it easier to listen to your body, not your ego! ~ Ellie (doctor)
I never thought I could get so much from a couple of days away. A couple of days that would normally pass in an instant as I rush around with my family, not observing the minutes slipping away as I focus on the next one rather than the current one. Then I stop. And I take the time to spend 2 days in a beautiful space. With warmth, comfort, nourishing food. And hours of restorative yoga and insightful teachings. I’m given the space to be quiet, to feel. To connect my mind and my body. To really think and to find myself again. Ayala is an inspiration. She creates a beautiful and safe environment. I feel so refreshed when I return and I’m quickly working out when I can go again. ~ Sophie (environmental activist)
Thank you for the beautiful gift of this retreat. Words can't translate what this week has been for me. Thank you hardly seems enough to encompass the gratitude I feel for creating and holding this safe space, which you have done so effortlessly and with pure love... As I think of returning back to the routine of life I am conscious not to fall back into old habits that do not serve me. I know the path is long but I also know that there is a part of me, hidden in the depths of muddy waters, that knows, believes and feels I am worthy of love. Of loving myself... Thank you for helping me find her. ~ Tawny (yoga teacher)
I’m bursting with love and joy and gratitude. I feel so blessed to have been there. Thank you as always for guiding us deeper and deeper into this heart space. ~
Tara (headteacher)
My retreat with you came at a time of great turmoil in my life. Spending the week with you, listening to your teaching and being allowed the space and time to reflect on my situation, listen to my body and understand what I needed was invaluable. I can only thank you because here I am a year later happier, healthier and stronger both in mind and body and very much looking forward to another wonderful week with you. ~ Emma (IT professional)
Your incredible skill, for me, is your ability to make one of my body, heart and mind. I feel I work on my thoughts and emotions just as much as I do on my body, sometimes even more. It’s the perfect way to truly care for myself, nurture, learn and grow in the gentlest and bestest way I can imagine. ~ Ruth (coach)
I have been blessed with the opportunity to attend many of Ayala’s retreats over the years. Ayala shares her wealth & depth of knowledge, from an anatomical, spiritual and emotional perspective, in the most authentic & poetic of ways that leaves you feeling supported and safe to allow you to reconnect with your most vulnerable self. Ayala’s experience from a wide variety of practices, including yin, meditation, Iyengar, flow, silence, all come together beautifully to create a retreat whereby beginners through to experienced teachers can enjoy the safe space she holds. I personally find Ayala’s retreats to be a sacred space that have helped me hugely in my teachings, practice & personal growth. ~ Simone (yoga teacher and osteopath)
A quiet yoga retreat with Ayala, is pure bliss and the most wonderful gift I can give to myself. In a world where everything swirls past You in an incredible speed, it’s such a treat to be able to find blissful stillness and quietness. To be offered a safe space where Your body is guided through meaningful yoga and a mindful stillness where no obligations or judgments are being forced upon You and where You really, really can rest in just being You. A retreat like this leaves You feeling strong, in body, mind and heart. In the quietness Your brain finds peace and strength and a revoked creativity takes You to magical places You could never even imagine. And all this surrounded by women with whom You share so much love and compassion through the silence. I love these retreats and can’t wait for the next possibility to join, but it also inspires me in daily life. It has become important to offer myself quietness, gentleness and time off the normal hectic routine. ~ Lena
As a first timer on retreat I found the week to be a truly unique and beautiful experience. It’s amazing to observe - against the backdrop of a gorgeous rural landscape - how a group of people can bond over the course of a week without talking. Ayala’s yoga teaching seamlessly blends both the practical and reflective; the fundamentals she introduced into our classes are still with me in my practice nearly a year later. The positions are suited to all styles and ability levels, making it easier to listen to your body, not your ego! ~ Ellie (doctor)
I never thought I could get so much from a couple of days away. A couple of days that would normally pass in an instant as I rush around with my family, not observing the minutes slipping away as I focus on the next one rather than the current one. Then I stop. And I take the time to spend 2 days in a beautiful space. With warmth, comfort, nourishing food. And hours of restorative yoga and insightful teachings. I’m given the space to be quiet, to feel. To connect my mind and my body. To really think and to find myself again. Ayala is an inspiration. She creates a beautiful and safe environment. I feel so refreshed when I return and I’m quickly working out when I can go again. ~ Sophie (environmental activist)