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Charlotte Church’s Samhain Retreat offers a five-day journey into ancient Celtic wisdom, inviting guests to reconnect with nature, tradition, and the spiritual energy of the season. Hosted at The Dreaming from 28th October to 1st November 2024, this retreat promises an immersive experience at Wales’ award-winning wellness haven, recently named “Wales Spa of the Year” by The Times and Sunday Times.
Nestled within the stunning Elan Valley, The Dreaming offers the perfect backdrop for a journey inspired by Samhain, an ancient Celtic festival marking the end of harvest and the beginning of winter. Traditionally celebrated on 1st November, Samhain is believed to be a time when the veil between our world and the spirit world is at its thinnest—a moment for reflection, transition, and connecting with those who came before us.
A Journey Guided by Celtic Wisdom
At the Samhain Retreat, guests are invited to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors, exploring ancient practices and engaging in rituals that foster a deep connection with the earth and the spirit world. Each activity has been thoughtfully curated to help participants cultivate mindfulness and intention during this season of reflection and renewal.
Kerry Sanson, the lead facilitator, draws upon her profound understanding of ancient Celtic traditions to lead grounding practices and rituals. Her approach is both deeply rooted in history and accessible, providing guests with a meaningful connection to the essence of Samhain.
A Transformative Creative Experience
Music plays a central role in this retreat, with Briony Greenhill, an accomplished musician and singer, leading a transformative sound session. Her work explores themes of human depth, creativity, and the power of sound to shift consciousness, offering guests a chance to experience music in a deeply personal and spiritual way.
Throughout the retreat, participants will have opportunities to explore their creativity through various hands-on activities. From the ancient art of spirit mask-making and nature mandalas to dancing at dawn in a silent disco, these experiences encourage guests to express their own spiritual journey in new and dynamic ways. There are also opportunities for crafting earthenware, further grounding the experience in the natural elements.
A Ceremony to Embrace Samhain’s Spirit
The retreat culminates in a powerful ceremony on the final evening, inviting participants to embody the spirit of Samhain and deepen their connection to those who came before. Rachael, the “End of Life Soul Doula,” facilitates a closing circle that gently explores the themes of death, transformation, and renewal. Her ceremony is designed to offer guests a new perspective on life’s transitions, embracing the darkness while celebrating the light within.
A Place for Rest, Reflection and Rejuvenation
Set within 47 acres of lovley Welsh landscape, The Dreaming offers a serene environment for reflection and rejuvenation. Guests can explore natural plunge pools, cleansing waterfalls, and expansive grasslands, all of which enhance the sense of reconnection to the earth and self.
According to Charlotte Church, “Autumn is a profound time for acknowledging endings and preparing for new beginnings. The natural world’s inward shift mirrors our own need for reflection and renewal, making this retreat the ideal moment to immerse oneself in the rich traditions of Celtic and Welsh lore.”
Accessibility for All
To ensure inclusivity, The Dreaming offers a “Pay What You Can” space at every retreat, making it accessible to those who may otherwise miss out on opportunities for rest and healing. Given the high demand, recipients are chosen at random from a waiting list.
Samhain Retreat Details and Pricing
For £720 – £1800, guests receive a thoughtfully curated programme, four nights of luxury accommodation, and nourishing, home-cooked meals prepared by Head Chef Zac, featuring produce from The Dreaming’s own garden. This all-inclusive retreat promises a holistic experience, providing the time and space to rest, reflect, and reconnect with the rhythms of nature and spirit.
As spaces are filling quickly, those interested are encouraged to secure their place soon for what promises to be a potentially life-changing journey.
Samhain Retreat
For more details and booking, click here.