The Necessity of Coming Home to Ourselves
After returning from a recent working trip to Tenerife, I found myself reflecting on the profound importance of creating space for transformation in our lives. Looking out at the Atlantic Ocean, I was reminded of the power that comes from stepping away from our everyday environments to reconnect with our deeper wisdom.
Many of us have become experts at meeting external demands. Leaders, caregivers, professionals – we excel at solving complex problems, supporting others, and pushing through exhaustion. Yet alongside this expertise often comes a diminished connection to ourselves, a relegation of our own needs to the bottom of an ever-growing list.
This pattern is particularly evident among the accomplished individuals I work with. Their capability and giving nature often leave little room for self-connection, creating a gradual disconnection from inner wisdom and joy.
In those rare quiet moments when we truly listen to ourselves, we often recognise that something needs to change.
The Evidence for Retreat Experiences
Research consistently shows that changing our environment can help shift perspective and create space for new insights. Studies on nature exposure, particularly in forest and ocean settings, demonstrate measurable benefits for stress reduction and mental well-being.
Chronic stress is known to affect our brain function, particularly in areas related to decision-making and creative thinking – the very capabilities we need to envision and create change in our lives.
When we physically remove ourselves from familiar environments, our brains have the opportunity to form new neural connections and patterns of thinking. This is why retreat experiences can be so powerful – they create the conditions for seeing our lives from entirely new perspectives.
These findings align perfectly with what I’ve observed over my years working with clients: when we step away from our everyday demands in the right supportive environment, transformation becomes possible.
When people create distance from familiar patterns, they gain clarity about themselves. This clarity serves as the foundation for meaningful and lasting change.
The Hidden Costs of Disconnection
When we continue living from a place of disconnection, the costs manifest in various ways:
- Days blur together in cycles of responsibilities and obligations
- Night-time rumination becomes a familiar companion
- A persistent sense that something is missing creates underlying dissatisfaction
- Physical exhaustion combines with mental restlessness
- We recognise the need for change, but struggle to find a clear path forward
The question becomes whether we wish to invest another precious year of life in these patterns, or if we’re ready to create the space necessary for transformation.
Why Transformation Requires Physical Space
Throughout human history and across cultures, retreats have served as powerful tools for transformation. This is because meaningful change requires SPACE—physical, mental and emotional space that is difficult to create amidst the constant demands of daily life.
Introducing: The Portugal Nature Embrace Retreat
A Transformative Journey
The Portugal Nature Embrace Retreat (1-7 September 2025) offers a rare opportunity to experience deep transformation in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural settings. This carefully crafted experience goes far beyond a typical holiday, creating the ideal conditions for reconnection with one’s deeper self and wisdom.
The Setting: Terceira Island, Azores
The retreat takes place at a 5-star luxury resort on Terceira Island in the Azores, just steps from natural volcanic pools where participants can swim in mineral-rich waters. Every room offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, where dolphins and whales are regular visitors.
The Azores provide a unique environment for transformation:
- Pristine natural beauty with minimal tourism development
- Volcanic landscapes including one of only two volcanoes in the world that can be physically entered
- Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming with dolphins
- Lush forests with trails through ancient laurel trees
- A mild climate even in September, ideal for both land and water activities
The Transformative Journey Includes:
- Evidence-based compassionate meditations grounded in mindfulness principles
- Restorative yoga sessions accessible to all levels
- Wild swimming in volcanic pools known for their mineral properties
- Forest bathing practices inspired by nature connection traditions
- Mindful movement sessions focusing on embodied awareness
- Nourishing, locally-sourced cuisine prepared by our dedicated chef
- Individual coaching session to address specific personal goals
- Optional whale watching and dolphin swimming excursions
- Luxury accommodation with ocean views
- Structured reflection time for integration of insights
- One night in Lisbon before flying to the Azores
The Before, During and After Approach
What distinguishes this retreat experience is the comprehensive care that extends well beyond the week together:
Before the Retreat:
- Personal welcome conversation to understand specific needs and intentions
- Pre-retreat reflection questions to clarify intentions
- Detailed preparation guidance
- Connection with fellow participants through a private WhatsApp group
- Assistance with travel arrangements
After the Retreat:
- Integration session to support bringing insights home
- Follow-up conversation 30 days after to address challenges and celebrate progress
- Customised resources based on individual transformation goals
- Access to the retreat alumni community for ongoing support
Is This Retreat Right for You?
The Portugal Nature Embrace Retreat is specifically designed for individuals who:
- Feel depleted from consistent giving to others
- Are at significant transition points in life or career
- Sense there’s something more, but struggle to access it
- Require deep rest and rejuvenation
- Are prepared for meaningful, lasting change
This retreat isn’t suited for those seeking temporary solutions or simply a luxury holiday. It’s designed for people who are ready to invest in deep, lasting transformation with evidence-based practices in an extraordinary setting.
Investment in Transformation
The retreat is thoughtfully priced to balance accessibility with the value of the experience:
Luxury Solo Suite:
- Early Bird (until 5th May): £2,540 (saving £200)
- Regular price: £2,740
- £350 deposit secures your place (non-refundable)
- Flexible monthly payment plans available
Superior Twin Accommodation (per person, sharing):
- Early Bird (until 5th May): £2,070 (saving £200)
- Regular price: £2,270
- £350 deposit secures your place (non-refundable)
- Flexible monthly payment plans are available
Early Bird Offers: Bookings confirmed by 5th May include a complimentary Coaching Power Session (value £250) plus an exclusive Azorean gift collection.
The investment includes all accommodation, meals, retreat activities, and transfers from Terceira Airport. Flights and Lisbon accommodation are not included. Average round-trip flights from Edinburgh to Terceira are approximately £390.
Limited Places Available
The Portugal Nature Embrace Retreat maintains an intentionally intimate setting, with a maximum of 11 participants. Five places have already been secured by wonderful individuals who are committed to their transformation.
For those who feel drawn to this experience, it’s worth acknowledging that intuition. Our inner wisdom often recognises what we need before our rational mind catches up. This may be the invitation needed to prioritise personal wellbeing and transformation.
Next Steps
There are two ways to move forward:
1) SECURE YOUR PLACE
Click on the button below to pay a deposit and secure your space.
2) ARRANGE A DISCOVERY CONVERSATION
If you have questions or would like to chat about any of the plans and how they can support and guide you to powerful change, email us here, and we can arrange a chat with Angie.
Creating Space for Life-Changing Transformation
The Portugal Nature Embrace Retreat represents an opportunity to create the space needed for meaningful change—a chance to disconnect from habitual patterns and reconnect with inner wisdom.
As one participant eloquently stated: “I arrived seeking rest but discovered myself instead.”
I look forward to welcoming committed individuals to this extraordinary setting and witnessing their transformative journeys unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is previous experience with yoga or meditation necessary? No previous experience is required. All practices are suitable for beginners, with modifications offered for varying levels of experience.
What if I have concerns about my physical fitness? All activities are optional and adaptable. The retreat philosophy focuses on nurturing rather than challenging physical limits.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated? Yes, all dietary needs are catered for. The chef creates delicious, nourishing options for all participants.
What is the journey to the Azores like? Flights connect from Edinburgh to Lisbon, then Lisbon to Terceira. Detailed guidance is provided, and assistance with bookings is available if needed.
Is the Azores a safe destination? The Azores are considered among the safest travel destinations globally, with low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and stable weather patterns.
What weather can be expected in September? September in the Azores typically offers pleasant temperatures (20-25°C/68-77°F), minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for both land and water activities.
Can accommodation be shared with a friend? Yes, the Superior Twin accommodation is perfect for friends travelling together.
What if I’m interested but unsure about committing now? Let’s have a chat. We have other retreats coming up in the future, so you won’t miss out on the transformative experience