The Alchemy of Change · Retreats
A journey back to yourself
One day, a small group, and permission to stop performing being well.
Breathe in
Five and a half seconds in, five and a half out — the pace at which
heart-rate variability peaks. This is where the day starts.
What the day holds
Ten until four. The shape stays the same; the depth is set by whoever is in the room. Nothing is compulsory — including the parts that look compulsory.
The day is built as an arc,
up and then carefully back down.
10.00
Arrival, tea and opening circle
No small talk required. How the day works, and what consent looks like here.
10.30
Orientation to the nervous system
A short plain-English map, so that what happens later in the day makes sense rather than just happening to you.
11.00
Trauma-informed breathwork
Titrated and slow, with an exit at every stage. Intensity is a choice, not a target.
12.30
Lunch
Provided, seasonal, and eaten without a phone in sight.
13.15
Somatic & fascial movement
Slow, floor-based, nothing athletic. Suitable in a chair if that is what your body wants.
14.30
Guided meditation
Settling, rather than striving. Sleeping through it is allowed.
15.05
Integration & journaling
The part people skip and later wish they hadn't. What surfaced, and what you want to do with it on Monday.
15.40
Closing circle
Short, and finished by four. Then home, gently, with a follow-up note a few days later.
The space
A light, quiet studio, opening onto fields
Everything is laid out before you arrive: a mat, a block, an eye mask, headphones for the breathwork, and your own Alchemy of Change workbook.
Before you book
Is this retreat right for you?
This is likely to suit you if
- You have done some talking and want to work somewhere else now.
- You are functioning, but tightly wound, and want a day to unwind properly.
- You're curious to see how breathwork might support you.
- You feel more comfortable in a small, intimate group.
Please talk to me first if
- You are in acute crisis, or currently unsafe. A retreat is not the right container.
- You are pregnant, or have a cardiovascular or respiratory condition — some breathwork will be adapted or left out.
- You have experienced psychosis, or are in early recovery.
- You are unsure. A five-minute call settles it either way.
Dates & booking
Places are held the moment payment clears. Dates close automatically once the last place goes.
Book your place
Practical questions
Before the day
What should I bring?
Loose clothes you can lie down in, warm layers, and a notebook. Mats, blankets, bolsters, tea and lunch are all provided.
Is food included?
Yes — lunch and drinks throughout. Dietary requirements and allergies are asked for at checkout, so tell us there and it is handled.
Do I need any experience?
None. Most people arrive having never done breathwork. The day is built so that a complete beginner and someone ten years into their own practice both get something out of it.
What is the cancellation policy?
The £50 deposit is non-refundable. You can reschedule to another retreat date at any point up to 14 days before the one you booked.
Is the venue accessible?
If you have specific access needs, email before booking and I'll tell you honestly whether the venue will work for you.
Can I pay in instalments?
Paying a deposit now and the balance later is designed to spread the cost. If that still doesn't work for you, get in touch and we can talk it through.