The coming of spring invites rejuvenation and new beginnings. Working with birch water and nettle tea (as well as lots of cold river bathing) this retreat will be a deep and restorative cleanse; a chance to slough off the husk of winter and prepare for the movement of spring. It will also be an opportunity to reflect, to steer yourself towards a more authentic path for you, whilst making meaningful and fun connections with others.
About this retreat
The ground gives us many plants to help align ourselves with the seasonal cycles. On this retreat we will work with the potent and generous birch tree and stinging nettle, native plants that grow almost everywhere in the northern hemisphere. Learning to work with these two plants stands your body in good stead for the year ahead, while also aligning us with our ancestors who called on their assistance, not just as food and medicine, but as clothing and shelter too.
We will fast for three days. Prior to which we will guide you in taking notice of your diet, eating conscientiously in the lead up to the event. After learning how to gather nettles and tap birch, we will only work closely with these two plants, albeit in a multitude of ways, for the rest of our fast. Through some beautiful nature connection activities, periods of solitude and sharing within the group we will guide you deeper into the quieter world of the plants…and…yourselves.
We want you to come away from this experience with:
A renewed appreciation of the difference between a bodily need and a mind-based want.
An embodied sense of abundance, trust and simplicity.
A bond with these plants that will last a lifetime.
Curiosity about the natural world around you.
Knowledge about these plants to share with others.
Cost: £80 plus VAT
Plant Listening is a not-for-profit organization whose work aims to make nourishing experiences with nature available to all. This reflects the minimal cost of the retreat, covering only food, firewood and facilitator's travel costs. Paying this ensures a place on the retreat, and beyond this we welcome donations for the experience, facilitation and teaching given.
We have 8 places available for this retreat.
Location & Logistics
We will be located in a secluded and private spot in the wilds of Galloway in Scotland. Surrounded by moorland, woodland and very near the coast, we have the benefit of a range of habitats to support and inspire us. Our location is also within a UNESCO biosphere and is one of Scotland’s only Dark Sky Parks - offering opportunity for incredible star-gazing.
With spacious pitches for individual tents, a heated shared bell tent and a large kitchen and hearth, we will strike the perfect balance between the wild outside and the safe within.
Accommodation is camping only.
4 spaces available in our bell tent on a first come first served basis and must be confirmed with us in writing before the event to avoid disappointment!
Pitches available for tents/tarps
Limited parking available for camper vans (Please check with us first as the access road is unpaved and narrow)
Location: Cauldside, Glen Farm, DG7 2HG
Are children allowed?
No. Unfortunately, due to the nature of a fasting retreat, this isn't suitable for children.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Unfortunately, as we are located on a sheep farm, we cannot have dogs on-site.
Guides
Myself and Tamara Colchester will be your guides. More on Tamara can be found here.
If you feel called to this then please enquire here (team@plantlistening.com) and we will answer any questions you might have and send you the registration details.