Joy + Play: A Winter Day Retreat

Reconnect to Your Child-Like Self

As the winter chill settles in, we invite you to join us at the stunning Deśa Retreat in Jan Juc for a day of nurture, reconnection, and non-doing. This is not just a retreat; it’s an invitation to soften, to put down the to-do lists, and to remember the version of you that knew how to play, wonder, and simply be.

Together, we will create a cozy, supportive sanctuary where psychology meets soulful practice. Through the lens of "Joy + Play," we’ll explore what it means to reconnect with your childlike self and realign with the values that bring joy to your life.

A group of about 16 women and 2 men posing outdoors, smiling, with green trees and plants in the background during what appears to be late afternoon or early evening.
Two women smiling and holding drawings with colorful, abstract, and line art designs, surrounded by seated elderly people in a cozy room with shelves and cushions.
A group of people gathered outdoors in a garden, listening to a woman speaking. The setting includes trees, bushes, and a brick fire pit with some smoke rising from it.
Group of people participating in a workshop or group activity in a well-lit room, sitting on the floor and chairs, with materials and notes spread out on black mats and the floor. The room has wooden floors, a bookshelf with supplies, and a sign that says 'JOY' on the wall.
A woman stands on a stage in front of a wooden wall, holding a paper, while a group of people sit on black mats on the floor, some with notebooks and drinks, in a well-lit room with large windows, plants, and ceiling panels.
Group of diverse adults participating in a seated indoor workshop or class, drawing on paper with pencils, on mats and cushions, with sunlight streaming through a large window.

Reviews

“What a wonderful warm and soothing day we had with Sarah and Emily. It was fun, relaxing but with great combinations of learning new skills & practising more known ones with our truly lovely leaders Sarah & Emily & a whole group of like minded people!

 What a treat. I’m looking forward to the next one already !! 

Thank you Sarah & Emily” 

— Fiona Cooper

“The Winter Day Retreat lived up to the theme - Joy & Play. Sarah & Emily’s programme flowed beautifully and I felt enriched, incredibly happy and left the retreat with a full, grateful heart.

I can  highly recommend a retreat with Sarah & Emily who  gently guide you through the day & participation is what is most comfortable for you.

A most beautiful experience”

— Sue Rothwell

“This day gave me the encouragement to be my true self and not a people pleaser. Experiencing this beautiful day, with the guidance of Sarah & Emily, l came away with a sense of understanding myself better. Through my values and believing in the kindness and compassion towards myself and others does create a beautiful world within and around myself.

This special Retreat day was so important for my mental health. 

Thank you dear Sarah and Emily. Looking forward to what comes next. 

— Lyn

What to Expect

  • Gentle, Accessible & Playful Movement: A fun yoga practice designed to wake up the body with kindness, suitable for all levels.

  • Guided Meditations: We drop deeper when we sit together.

  • Inner Values Workshop: Experience Emily’s signature values workshop. 

  • Journalling Session: Be guided through a step-by-step process for self-reflection.

  • Community Connection: Time to share, laugh, and connect with like-minded souls in a beautiful, natural environment.

  • Rest & Rejuvenation: Plenty of space to go inward, let go, and feel held.

Your Facilitators

Emily Toner | Psychologist & Mindfulness Teacher Emily brings a deep understanding of human flourishing and psychology-informed tools to help you navigate your inner world with curiosity and compassion.

Sarah Blangiardo | Yoga & Meditation Teacher Sarah specialises in creating inclusive, playful spaces through movement and meditation, helping you drop out of your head and into your body.

A young woman with long red hair smiling while sitting on a grassy field scattered with yellow flowers. She is wearing a white sleeveless top and pink striped pants. The background features trees and a blue sky.
Close-up of a woman with curly hair smiling outdoors, wearing a black tank top and a gold necklace, with a blurred background of water and rocks.
Group of women and a girl taking a selfie outdoors with a forested hill in the background.

Sample Schedule

  • Attendees ease into the morning with a delicious platter around the open fire. Starting with a welcome circle to set the tone.

  • Sarah’s Movement, Connection and Stillness practice

  • Emily’s Values workshop

  • Lunch is at a nearby Cafe

  • Sarah runs a creative mindful workshop using a range of mediums

  • A meditative nature walk guided by Emily

  • We'll end the day with a closing circle before attendees head home for the evening.

Emily and Sarah hold this Day Retreat twice a year

March + July 2027

Register your interest

Register your interest