An Autumn Day Retreat:
Return to Self
As the beautiful warmth and light of summer begins to recede and we move into autumn, the energy shifts and so must our practices with food, movement and self-care. The wisdom of nature and leaning in to our ‘evolutionary knowing’ arises from within, if we listen.
Join Laura, Registered Yoga Teacher, Ayurvedic Therapist, Nutritional Scientist & Edelle, Clinical Psychoneuroimmunologist, Compassionate Inquiry Therapist, and Nutritional Therapist for a full day retreat at Anam Kara Wellness.
Together they bring more than 50 years of expertise encompassing modern clinical science combined with evolutionary medicine and ancient Ayurvedic wisdom.
Agenda
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Opening Circle
Edelle & Laura
We begin the day by arriving together, settling into the space, and setting the tone for a grounded and supportive experience.
10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Warming and nourishing tea
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Compassionate Inquiry Workshop
Edelle
This session is influenced by the work of Dr Gabor Maté and offers a gentle space for self-exploration. Together we will explore: Authenticity vs attachment How protective patterns may develop in response to early life experiences The relationship between beliefs, emotions, body sensations, and tension A somatic exploration of what is present in the body This is not about being pushed to share beyond your comfort. The emphasis is on curiosity, compassion, self-awareness, and safety.
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Hatha Yoga
Laura
A grounding yoga practice to support embodiment and presence, including: gentle movement longer holds heating breathwork kriyas for cleansing Nauli Kriya for purification This practice is designed to help participants reconnect with the body in a mindful and supportive way.
12:45 PM - 02:00 PM
Ayurvedic Lunch
A nourishing seasonal lunch inspired by Ayurvedic principles, offering warmth, grounding, and support for the autumn season.
02:15 PM - 03:00 PM
Guided Forest Bathing
Edelle & Laura
We will spend time in nature through a guided forest bathing practice, with an emphasis on: stillness noticing sensory awareness connection with the natural environment This part of the day invites a quieter rhythm and supports nervous system regulation through the restorative effects of nature.
03:00 PM - 03:15 PM
Tea
03:15 PM - 04:30 PM
Ayurveda and PNI - seasonal living in autumn
Laura & Edelle
In the afternoon, we explore seasonal wellbeing through the lenses of Ayurveda and Psychoneuroimmunology. Topics include: food and drink for the autumn season breathwork daily routines self-care practices meditation movement and the doshas evolutionary medicine the science of heat and cold from Psychoneuroimmunology how heat and cold may be used supportively in chronic disease when appropriate This session is designed to introduce practical and accessible ways of supporting resilience, regulation, and seasonal balance.
04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Optional Sauna and Cold Water Immersion Experience
The day concludes with an optional guided sauna and cold-water experience for those who wish to take part. This element is offered in a careful and supportive way and is entirely optional. It may be of interest to people curious about the relationship between heat, cold, recovery, resilience, and nervous system regulation.
05:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Closing Circle
Edelle & Laura
We end the day together with space to reflect, integrate, and close gently.