The Heart of Interconnection: Awakening Self-Compassion, Power and Belonging
4-day retreat with meditation and mindful movement
07 May 2026 - 11 May 2026
Leader: Ratnadevi and Kristine McKenzie-Janson
Cost Information: Course fee: £220 via Living Mindfulness website
Accommodation costs: £264 single room, £392 for two people sharing a twin, £148 dorm. Full board and lodging costs.
Course outline
4-day retreat with meditation and mindful movement
Thursday 7 – Monday 11 May 2026
for people with some previous experience, suitable for mindfulness CPD
with Ratnadevi and Kristine Mackenzie-Janson
Life can pull us in countless directions, leaving us feeling isolated even in the midst of activity and company. This retreat offers a chance to pause and re-set, to reflect and be profoundly nourished by the natural beauty and welcome of the island. We can give ourselves space to rest deeply and to remember what sustains us: our connection to ourselves, to each other, and to the living world around us. Interconnection isn't just a wise concept – it allows us to plug in to a deep sense of belonging and support. As we settle into the quietness of the island, we discover we can meet our struggles with both gentle and fierce self-compassion rather than harsh judgment. We deepen our ability to feel our feelings, honour our needs, protect what matters, and draw inspiration from the web of life itself. When we discover our heart's orientation and come to trust it, our inner strength and resilience grow and we go back to "normal life" with a refreshed sense of purpose and agency.
Mindful movement is highly effective in down-regulating our stress levels and settling our nervous system, particularly when done spaciously and with an emphasis on presence and enjoyment in our body as it is. It will help us to feel well-toned and grounded in our sensory experience, less prone to mental proliferation. We are drawing from several disciplines: Chi-Kung, Yoga, Feldenkrais Method and fascia stretches. It doesn’t require any particular degree of fitness and flexibility, and people with particular health issues should get in touch with Ratnadevi prior to booking. On the retreat we flow organically between movement and stillness, learning to see, hear, smell and touch the world with fresh appreciation and open-heartedness, doing less and being more. Some of the meditations on this retreat will explore kindness and compassion, developing skills to be more accepting and caring towards ourselves, others and the world. Acknowledging any inner objections or doubts is part of the process, as we encourage all of ourselves onto this organic journey.
Once we have got to know each other a bit, much of the time will be in silence, including mealtimes and overnight. This will give us the opportunity to go deeper, while still feeling in connecting with others. In fact, allowing ourselves to be nourished by a growing sense of being part of something bigger, is a large part of our intention for the retreat. It can be so relaxing to the hard-working parts of us that are so used to striving on our own. There will also be opportunities to share what’s emerging in small groups. Weather permitting some practice will take place outside, in the peaceful and magical setting of the island – maybe doing walking meditation among the horses.
How to book
In order to secure a place on the retreat, you must pay the tuition fee (which includes hall hire) of £220 on the Living Mindfulness website. We recommend you book soon to avoid disappointment.
Once you have registered for the course, please book with us via this page. Use the Book Now button in the sidebar and select 4 nights from 7 - 11 May (Please note the default booking option is for two guests)
Important: The retreat starts with supper on the first day and finishes after breakfast on the final day. It is important to attend for the whole duration of the retreat, to ensure the best experience for yourself and the group.
The retreat is not suitable for people who experience major mental issues. If in doubt, please contact Ratnadevi or Kristine prior to booking.
Contact: info@livingmindfulness.net or kristine.m.janson@gmail.com