Pause
Saturday 22 August | 10am-4pm | St Albans | £115
Feel better in your body
When did you last make space for yourself? These days, life often feels like it’s asking us for more – more time, more energy, more attention. We move from one thing to the next, juggling work, family and endless to-do lists, often putting everyone else’s needs before our own. When life is this full, it’s easy to lose sight of how we’re feeling. Not because we don’t care, but because there’s rarely any space to notice.
Pause is an invitation to make that space.
Over the course of the day, you’ll slow the pace, move your body, breathe deeply and spend time away from the constant demands of everyday life. There’ll be no pressure to achieve anything or be anyone other than yourself. Just the opportunity to stop, notice and give yourself the attention you so often give to everyone else.
As the day unfolds, you may discover what you can let go of and what can happen when you create a little space: more ease, more clarity, more energy, and a greater sense of feeling at home in your body. Sometimes, a pause is all we need.
What to expect:
- Restorative movement
Therapeutic yoga and somatic movement practices to bring you back into balance. - Pranayama (breathing) techniques
To support the nervous system. - Restorative rest through Yoga Nidra
A guided meditative journey into deep relaxation to help you feel revived and refreshed. - A nourishing vegetarian lunch
Limited spaces available. All levels of experience welcome.
Location
Greenwood Hall, St Albans United Reformed Church, Watford Road, Chiswell Green AL2 3HG.
A light airy space, with plenty of free parking, located just off the Watford Road in St Albans.
Cost
£115
If it feels right for you, we’d love to have you. Places are limited to 10 to create a relaxed and personal experience.
Schedule
Morning:
- Welcome tea and introduction to the Pause retreat.
- Restorative integrated yoga and somatics practice.
Lunch:
- A light vegetarian lunch.
Afternoon:
- Guided Yoga Nidra practice
- Pranayama (breathing) practice.
- Closing circle.
What to bring
- A yoga mat.
- A blanket and a cushion for the Yoga Nidra.
- Drinking water. Tap water is available.
- Wear comfortable clothing that you can move easily in. Layers are recommended.
- A willingness to let go.
This retreat day is for you if:
- You feel like you’re constantly on the go.
- You find yourself putting everyone else’s needs before your own.
- Your days feel full and you can’t remember the last time you stopped to check in with yourself.
- You want to feel calmer, clearer and more comfortable in your body.
- The idea of having nowhere to be and nothing to achieve for a few hours sounds like a relief.
About Denise Gaskell
For many years, Denise has embarked on a journey to take charge of her physical and mental wellbeing, seeking independence in her healing process. Yoga has been Denise’s steadfast companion for over 40 years, illuminating paths and offering insights that have profoundly shaped her identity and transformed her relationship with chronic pain.
Denise’s passion for learning has led her to develop a deep understanding of anatomy and effective strategies for self-managing both physical and mental challenges. Through somatic movement, Denise has discovered techniques that not only contribute to the development of a more balanced body but also enhance the depth of her yoga practice.
Denise’s mission is to share this knowledge, empowering her students to take control of their own health and wellbeing in the hope that they will experience the transformative benefits that yoga and somatic movement have gifted her.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attend if I've never done yoga or somatics before?
Yes. This retreat is open to complete beginners as well as all levels of yoga practitioner. In order to get the most out of the day, you must be able to get up and down off the floor.
Can I attend if I've never done yoga or Somatics before?
Yes. This retreat is open to complete beginners as well as all levels of yoga practitioner. In order to get the most out of the day, you must be able to get up and down off the floor.
Are there any contraindications for the retreat?
If you have existing health conditions or are taking medication, please ensure that you have consulted your GP before taking part in this day retreat.
Can I pay in instalments?
If you would like to pay in instalments, please get in touch to discuss your options.
What is the cancellation policy?
All bookings made in all Moving into Stillness workshops and retreats are strictly non-refundable. All purchases are final. If you do not attend a workshop or retreat in which you are enrolled, you will forfeit your payment. If you would like to transfer your place to someone else please get in touch.
Still have questions? Get in touch.
All events are subject to the Moving Into Stillness Terms and Conditions. Your space is guaranteed on the retreat once you have made a payment. Bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable.