We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the busyness of Christmas. So perhaps this year we might set ourselves the intention of slowing down, drawing inwards, taking time to nourish ourselves as well as others, and enjoy the blessings the season offers.
As we flow from the Celtic New Year of Samhain (end of October) into the deepening dark, it seems a perfect time to celebrate and honour that light within the heart that is always present. Of course, we might not be seeing it if our awareness is drawn elsewhere … And so in this special morning retreat, we will be coming together to bring awareness to that inner Light as we prepare for the sacred season of the Winter Solstice and all the holy days celebrated in this time (Christmas, Hanukkah and many more).
On this special morning, we’ll be sharing some practical techniques so support your intention, whatever it may be. This event is particularly inspired by the teachings and living heart presence of St Hildegard of Bingen who skillfully combined the traditional wisdom of indigenous European paganism with the heart-centred teachings of Christ in a way which illuminates the hearts of many, even 800 years after her passing. A celebrated herbalist, physician, poet, composer, community leader, ecologist, radical visionary and more, Hildegard really is, as Matthew Fox put it, “a saint for our times.”
Outline programme
10am Welcome, Introductions
10:15am Deep Heart Rest
10:45am Exploring the Gifts of Solstice & Christmas together
11:15am Tea break
11:25am Preparing Scented Oils with Intention
12:15pm Heart Meditation & Creative Writing: Poetry or Prayers from the Heart
12:55pm Closing Circle
Additional Resources:
A recording with Mardava of how to make a delicious Leek & Fennel Soup for yourself to enjoy for lunch after our morning together or any time you wish.
A recording of the event to enjoy any elements or even the whole thing, any time you wish.
For the scented oil making, you will need to bring a clean jar, a nice cold-pressed oil of your choice, and dried rose petals.
How do I book?
Spaces are limited and advanced booking required - scroll down to find the booking form.
Exchange: For the live workshop and the recording of the delicious soup making, we ask for an exchange of £30. Special offer: if you bring a friend, they can come for half price (just £15)! If you can’t join live on the day, this event will be recorded so you can enjoy it anytime.
Support: If finances are an issue, please get in touch. We may be able to help. And if finances are abundant and you’d like to support our ability to support others, donations are always welcome.
Teaching Team
Mardava is a Reiki Master & yoga teacher, sound healer, heart singer and Heart Of Living Yoga Meditation Facilitator. She has a passion for cooking from her heart to nourish all levels of being. She is the living embodiment of gentleness and a great joy to be with. Mardava lives in Derbyshire where she is part of the local Heart Of Living Yoga sangha and a member of the Flowing with Life team.
Vishwam is a yoga minister as well as experienced yoga teacher & teacher trainer, wellbeing coach & writer, bodyworker & retreat leader. Spending time with a beautiful group of souls on a shared voyage of discovery absolutely makes his heart sing. Vishwam loves to listen, to laugh and to spend time in the healing presence of nature. He offers a special quality of inner silence and stillness for those who are seeking peace. Vishwam currently lives with his partner, Paul, in Shetland.
Hildegard Von Bingen (1098–1179) was a Benedictine nun, abbess, composer of heavenly music, medical herbalist and physician, poet, visionary, and heart-centred revolutionary living in the Rhine Valley. She is known for her dedication to honouring the sacredness of nature, including human life, and speaking out for justice and for joy. Her life and wisdom teachings are a central inspiration on this morning retreat. If you’d like to learn more about Hildegard of Bingen, you might enjoy one or more of these books from our online presence at Bookshop.org
