Softness Within - Kea Retreat

Softness Within

MY RETREAT

Softness Within will be a retreat focused on reconnecting us to our natural essence. Through yoga, ceremony, ritual, embodiment, arts, aromatherapy, somatics, plant medicine and contemplative practices we will be guided home to a deep sense of reverence towards our personal path, the wisdom of nature and our body.

Gentle Wake-up Flow, Meditation & Visualizations, Pranayama, Chakra Flows.

Restorative Yoga, Mantra Practice, Embodiment, Art.

 

Special offerings

A meditative internal cultivation practice that uses the tea plant in a ceremonial setting to cultivate slowness, mindfulness and deeper states of being.

 

A movement practice designed to get us out of our head and into the currents of sensation in our body. This practice opens the doorway to fully experiencing the present moment, to understanding our emotions and to reclaiming somatic aliveness and sensuality while using creative expression to integrate and reflect.

 

In this offering we explore the power of the voice through mantra chanting – a devotional yogic practice that provides a heart-opening experience which connects us to the sacred within.

A workshop in which we discover and express the beauty within us through various forms of writing practices. Awakening our creative force, exploring the subconscious layers of our being and allowing us to communicate with and expand our perception of the outer world through the inner process of creation 


 

  • Manouk de Bijl
  • Manouk de Bijl
  • Manouk de Bijl
  • Manouk de Bijl
  • Manouk de Bijl

Manouk de Bijl

Your teacher

Growing up in the Netherlands, I lost touch with my authentic self while conforming to societal pressures, a disconnection that eventually manifested as chronic illness. Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 2015, I embarked on a transformative journey of holistic healing, exploring the deep connection between emotions, trauma, and physical well-being. Through somatic practices, natural treatments, and profound inner work, I not only healed but discovered a calling: to guide others in reconnecting with their bodies and embracing their innate power.

 

For the past few years, I’ve shared this wisdom as a teacher and facilitator, offering classes and workshops worldwide. My work creates safe spaces for self-discovery, blending movement, mindfulness, and somatic healing to help others rewrite limiting narratives and unlock their authentic potential. Together, we explore the body’s wisdom, cultivating self-love and empowerment that radiates into every aspect of life.

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WHAT YOU WILL TAKE HOME

  • How to connect to our sacred essence
  • How to create seasonal rituals to support emotional well-being
  • Self-care tools
  • How to hold a personal tea ceremony
  • Meditation practices
  • Connect with like minded people / community
  • Reverence for nature

Retreating with us

  • 5 days/nights long, from Sunday to Friday
  • Full board in an upscale traditionally designed cottage with private balcony
  • Two yoga classes per day
  • One meditation or celebration/ceremony per day 
  • 3 abundant and delicious meals each day (cooked using our fresh farm and sea produce)
  • One group dinner at Kea Retreat’s family’s taverna
  • Yoga equipment and accessories (mats, blocks, bolsters, straps, and blankets)
  • Pickup and drop off at ferry station
  • Swimming pool with in water lounging section
  • Vegetable garden
  • A private bay
  • Spontaneous dancing every night

Additional Activities:

Kayaks – venture into the sea with our kayaks, double or single, to discover caves and more isolated beaches.

Snorkeling – for those looking to discover what’s lurking under the surface and meet our local fish, or do some shell diving, snorkels and goggles are available.

Illoulida – walk down to the ancient capital, Ioulida, during sunset hours to explore the beautiful architecture and small shops (clothing, ceramics, local produce).

Island boat trip – set sail around the island on a calm ocean bed to uncover hidden corners of the island that can only be experienced by boat.

Hikes – the island is full of ancient trails that cross through farmlands and forests, up greeny hills, or down to secret shores with ruins from the 12th century BC.

Kastriani monastery – drive up the windy cliffs of the northern peak of the island to the breathtakingly beautiful blue and white Greek orthodox monastery that overlooks the Aegean sea.

Winery – have a picnic between the grape leaves of Kea Retreat’s vineyard while sipping on their locally grown wine.

Arts and crafts – feel free to use the art supplies situated on the shelf and let your creativity flow.

Music and Instruments – strum away at the guitar or play the tibetan bowls to the intoxicating sounds of nature.

Relax – unwind by picking a book off of the shelf and laying down on one of the outdoor beanbags, hammocks, or couches, or take a few more steps down to the beach and soak up some sun.

TEACHER’S NOTE

This retreat is about reconnecting to a deep sense of belonging both to ourselves, to each other and to the land. It will be a safe, healing space that will bring us together in community to connect to each other, celebrate, and cultivate joy and resilience.

By slowing down and reconnecting to the elemental wisdom and the rhythms of nature we will align with the beauty of the present moment. It’s a week of creating bliss, space to reflect and abundant self-love.