Release, Reclaim, and Radiate is a retreat for women who want to discover, activate, and embody their soft feminine power. Through a variety of energetic practices ranging from qi gong to ancient womb awakening meditations and somatic dance we will release energetic blocks and activate our life force energy (shakti). In doing so, we help:
* connect with our natural inner joy
* clarify our authentic sense of self
* more fully radiate our light and purpose in the world.
This is a unique opportunity to connect deeply with your inner self and with other like-minded women in a supportive, sacred, nourishing and playful environment.
Held at the beautiful Bethel Farm retreat center in Hillsborough, NH, prepare to enjoy 50 acres of flowering rolling hills, organic gardens, a fresh pond, sauna, hiking trails and six freshly prepared vegetarian farm to table meals. Bring a journal, a sense of inspiration and curiosity and a desire to connect deeply with yourself and other women in this serene setting.
Qi Gong: Qi gong is an ancient practice of breathwork and gentle movement, Qi gong is the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, and martial arts. This practice involves deep breathing, visualizations and intentional hand mudras combined with gentle motions that allow us to activate the acupuncture meridians. No prior experience is necessary. This style of Qi gong can be done standing, seated or lying down.
Womb Awakening: Womb Awakening refers to ancient practices to reconnect individuals with their inner creative power and feminine energy. It emphasizes the importance of the womb (as an energy center more than an organ) as a source of intuition, transformation, soft power, and creative expression. These practices are led through guided meditations and gentle movements.
In this retreat, we will use a Womb Medicine Wheel to work through archetypes and elements of the feminine. Specifically, we will do meditations and practices to connect with the maiden, mother (aka "creator" or "lover"), and wise woman archetypes. Through our practices, we will also access the elements of earth, fire, wind, and water as they pertain to certain qualities such as intuition, rootedness, flow, passion, etc.. Healing and balancing these internal archetypes and elements allows us to connect with our personal radiance and authenticity.
According to Laura's Womb Awakening teacher, Nathalie Zukerman, of the Institute of Feminine Arts: "Our Wombs can hold trauma and ancient memories. As we enter the temple of our body we begin to bring awareness to this sacred gateway and have the ability to move any stuck and stagnant energy that may reside there. As we spiral through these depths and layers within our bodies, with awareness we start to clear and release old energy and patterns that no longer serve us. In doing so, we begin to awaken and ignite our feminine essence. We can then open into deeper love, into pleasure and abundance in our life’s journey and relationships."
Somatic Dance: Personal comfort or experience with dance is not necessary! This is simply a way to allow music and movement to transmute old energy so that you can embody a new way of being that we discover through the Qi Gong and Womb Awakening. Some women choose to close their eyes, sit in one place and feel the music move through them while others enjoy moving their bodies more freely without inhibition. The only expectation is to do what feels comfortable for you and your body.
What should I bring?
* a journal and pen
*comfortable clothing for movement (think "layers" for May in New England)
* walking shoes
* an open heart ready to connect with yourself and others.
* Snacks will be provided, but if you prefer to bring your own snacks or teas, you can bring what you prefer
Will there be free time during the retreat?
Yes! The retreat schedule includes downtime to relax, reflect, or explore the surrounding area. You can use this time to journal, connect with others, or simply unwind in nature.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 30 days before the retreat start date receive a full refund minus a $75 processing fee. After that, deposits are non-refundable.
For any other questions, please email: DrLauraChan@gmail.com
I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist with a private practice in Nashua, NH. I am also certified as a Qi Gong instructor through the Institute of Qi Gong and Integrative Medicine and a Womb Awakening facilitator through the Institute of Feminine Arts. I am passionate about wellness: my own, others, and the worlds. Through my own journey, I've learned that energetic practices, laughter and community with other women are essential ingredients for well-being. When not at work, I can be found playing with my two sons, dancing, or exploring the outer world or my inner world through the meditative and energetic practices I'll share with you.
As your retreat facilitator it is my priority to create a safe, supportive inclusive space where you can grow and move at your own pace. With compassionate, trauma-informed care from my support facilitator, Zsuzsi Gero, LMHC, our focus is ensuring you feel seen, supported and empowered throughout this beautiful and transformative journey.