A 35-hour program to unlock the transformative power of breath

Join Carolyn in a comprehensive 5 day course at Nectar Yoga on Bowen Island, designed to help you explore the profound benefits of breathwork for both personal wellness and professional application. Dive deep into the when, where, and how of various breathwork practices, including techniques for both down-regulating and activating the nervous system to achieve optimal health.

This program features a blend of practice teaching, engaging lectures, and lively discussions, ensuring you gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Perfect for anyone passionate about breathwork and pranayama, this course equips you with the tools to effectively teach diverse groups and demographics.

When:

Wednesday, February 17 - Sunday, February 21st, 2027

During your stay, you’ll have access to:

• Shared or private accommodations
• Forested walking trails and quiet rest spaces
• All meals, snacks, and tea/coffee
• Towels, bedding, and basic toiletries are provided in all cottages

Curriculum Includes:

The Narrative of Health & Wellbeing
Exploring the wellness industry and how it influences our clients’ and students' understanding of health. 

The Nervous System + Breathwork Research
A deep dive into the science behind breath and its impact on regulation and resilience.

Rest & Recovery
Understanding the physiology and importance of true rest, and how breath supports it.

The Anatomy of Breath
A clear, accessible look at the structures and mechanics of breathing.

Foundational Breath Practices
A wide array of techniques from soothing pranayama to energizing, activating breathwork.

Timing, Planning & Theming
How to sequence and theme breath practices and meditations for intentional impact.

Teaching to All Levels
Skills for adapting breath guidance to meet diverse bodies, experiences and needs.

Core Teaching Principles
Voice, authenticity, inclusive language and how to empower students from where they are.

The Inner Work
Committing to your own healing journey—as both teacher and student.

You'll Walk Away With:

• A grounded understanding of all course topics—plus the confidence to define and discuss key concepts and research

• Experience teaching accessible breathwork practices to a range of student levels

• Tools to refine your voice, presence and intuition as a facilitator

• Trauma-informed language skills for clear, compassionate instruction

• Clarity on your personal boundaries, values, and self-care rituals as a practitioner

• An extensive Manual curated exclusively for this program

• Yoga Alliance Continuing Education credentials / 35 hours

• Pre training homework materials and recordings to own forever

• The opportunity to schedule a private 1 hour Zoom check-in with Carolyn following the training (included in the training cost)

Training Schedule:

(times subject to minor changes)

Wednesday Feb 17

3:00pm Check-in
3:45pm Orientation
4:00-5:30pm  Welcome Circle + Mapping the Work
5:30pm Dinner
8-9pm Foundational Pillars

Thursday / Friday / Saturday

7:30-9:30am Practice Principles + Foundations
10:00am Breakfast
11:00-1:30pm Core Concepts + Toolbox Talk
3:30-5:30pm Teaching Essentials, Skills + Knowledge Weaving
5:30pm Dinner
7:30-9pm Wisdom Session + Integration

Sunday Feb 21

7:30-9:30am Living the Teachings + Closing Circle
10:00am Breakfast
11:00am Checkout

Frequently Asked Questions

• 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.

• 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. However, we strongly suggest booking with a friend to avoid paying the solo room rate.

• 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 two 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.