Let’s slow down and create space to breathe and reflect in the stillness of winter.

~ this retreat is now sold out ~

Surrounded by nature and supported by a conscious community, this retreat offers an intentional pause—an invitation to gently take stock, release what no longer serves and reconnect with inner clarity as we step deeper into a season of rest.

Step away from the rush of everyday life and gift yourself the space to slow down, reflect on this quiet meditation retreat. Over 3 days and 2 nights, we will explore many types of Meditation, Mindfulness, and Breathing practices to give the entire system a gentle reset.

Guided by Carolyn, you’ll be immersed into an easeful sense of quiet with her most cherished Mindfulness practices—all thoughtfully woven together. The entire experience will fill you with all the grounding and solitude (in a supportive group environment) you seek.

Held in the heart of nature and surrounded by a community of kindred spirits, this retreat offers the opportunity to pause, look within and listen more deeply to your own inner wisdom.

Location:
This retreat will take place at Nectar Yoga, a beautiful sanctuary 20 mins off the coast of Vancouver on the ancestral and unceded territory of Nexwlélexwm (Bowen Island, BC). Our practice space at Nectar is in a beautiful geodesic dome that is nestled into the trees alongside a babbling creek.

Included in the Experience:

• Seated & Walking Meditations on the Nectar Trails

• Guided Breathwork practices

• Mindfulness Lectures, Journalling and Self Inquiry

• Brief Periods of Silence

• Restorative / Yin Yoga (not a huge focus on this retreat)

• Workbook and Welcome Gift

• Optional Ocean Meditation + Guided Cold plunge on Day 2

• Optional Thermal Spa circuit at Mist Thermal Sanctuary (Nectar's sister property)

• All Vegetarian Meals & snacks by Nectar Catering

• Rest and time connecting to nature
  

If you're planning to share a Double or Triple room, please coordinate with your roommate or friend and book together. We’re unable to guarantee pairing you with a roommate. A detailed welcome email with all the retreat info will land in your inbox within 48 hours of purchase.

View alternate retreat dates here.

PRICES ARE LISTED IN CAD

“I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for such an amazing experience at your retreat. It was so well planned! So full of experiences and important time for myself to reflect, unwind and decompress from what has been one of the most challenging years of my life. Your retreat reminded me to not forget to put myself first so that I can remain strong not just emotionally but physically. You are very good at what you do! Not everyone in life finds their calling. You certainly have. Thank you for an unforgettable experience Carolyn.”

— Lorelie

Frequently Asked Questions

• I am new to yoga and meditation. Is this retreat suitable for me?

  There is always a mix of levels in each group, so everyone is welcome from beginner to continuing student. Instruction is accessible to all levels, with a variety of modifications that all levels can use to adapt.

• What kind of yoga do we practice on retreat?

  Carolyn created and teaches Spa Yoga, which is a blend of Hatha, Restorative, Slow Flow and Breath. It's super mellow, restorative, and with a big focus on breathing. In the mornings, Spa Yoga is more of a ‘slow flow’ class and in the afternoons, it leans towards Yin and all types of Breathwork.

• How to get to Bowen Island?

  A quick ferry from Horseshoe Bay! Check www.bcferries.com. This ferry is not reservable in advance. Arriving at least 30 minutes early is recommended.

• I will be late for our first day / first class. Is that ok?

  Yes! We can put a mat down for you and you slide into the class whenever you arrive, or simply meet us at the first dinner. This is your retreat. Take your time. Unfortunately, discounts cannot be offered for this.

• What do I need to bring?

  The brochure for the retreat you’re interested in includes a packing list. Things you won’t need to bring are linens, bedding nor yoga mats or props! A detailed reminder what to pack will be sent out one month prior to the retreat.

• I’d like to share a room but I don’t have a roommate. Can you help me find one?

  We can do our best to help you to find a roommate in a different room. It’s likely this will work out.

• What’s the food like? What if I have specific needs or allergies?

  Yes, we are able to accommodate many needs, such as gluten-free, dairy free or vegan. On this 3 day retreat, there will be three meals daily. All meals are primarily organic vegetarian cuisine and plated individually. Please ensure that you communicate extra dietary information clearly in a separate email, after registering.

• Can I attend if I am pregnant?

  Absolutely. A retreat is a lovely way to care for your growing body and to prepare for the changes that lie ahead. Carolyn is a certified prenatal instructor and has also been through the experience herself. She offers many tips and modifications for pregnancy.

• What if I don’t have a car?

  Public transportation: When you arrive on Bowen Island, find the Bus Stop close to the Red Library. You will get on the 280 (Snug Cove to Bluewater) bus. Tell the driver you are getting off at 720 Gardner Lane. You can pay for your fare with a Compass Card, credit card or cash. Any transfer you receive from the Vancouver buses will work on Bowen Island with no extra charge.

  Foot/hitchhiking: For a real taste of the Bowen Island lifestyle, hitch a ride with a local. Either wait on the road or at any of the designated "LIFT" spots and stick out your thumb. You should get a ride—and a new friend—in no time.

  Sadly, we are unable to help organize transportation nor coordinate any carpooling.

• How do I confirm my spot?

  Fill out the sign up form. The deposit (non-refundable) can be sent by purchasing directly through Carolyn’s website shop. A confirmation email will be sent within 36 hours, welcoming you to the retreat and to share more information with you.

• What payment methods do you accept?

  Credit Card is accepted through the store on Carolyn’s website, PayPal or Wise Transfer (for International participants). If you’d prefer to receive an invoice first, let us know via info@carolynannebudgell.com.

• When are final payments due?

  After paying the deposit, you can choose to pay the remainder in 1 or 2 installments. One instalment would be collected 4 months prior to the retreat or two instalments would be collected 6 months prior and 4 months prior.

• What’s the cancellation policy?

  The deposit is non-refundable. Please note that it is the responsibility of the participant to schedule travel and plan accordingly to arrive on time. Please note that there shall be no refunds or discounts for arriving late, leaving early, flight cancellations, extreme weather situations or any force majeure conditions, as well as travel delays or illness.

  We wish we could compensate people for unforeseen circumstances, but we have incurred expenses.

  If you need to cancel and there is adequate advance notice, the remainder (after the non-refundable deposit) might be refunded, only if your spot is filled.