Embracing Elderhood: the gift
At the feast of Sinterklaas (Santa Claus or St Nicholas), we examine the gifts we have to give and what gifts we want in this season of our lives. For women 55+, some perhaps returning from previous Elderhood retreats, to build on our wisdom, insight and intent.
In the post-menopause season of our life there are changes in our body, changes in how we are seen and heard, changes in our spirit and our aims. Now we’ve maybe explored our elderhood, let’s embrace it.
Almost unique among mammals, human women continue their life long after reproduction stops. In the ‘grandmother hypothesis’ of evolutionary biology it is to support the thriving of children; in hunter-gatherer society to know the history and cycles of the land. An elder is an older, influential member of a family, tribe, or community, but it is clear that this influence is soft power, and earned by grace, not claimed.
Make space for your soul to rest and maybe catch a glimmer of what next with:
- gently embodying restorative yoga
- guided journalling for deeper diving
- circle to say what’s on your heart out loud
- yoga nidra for intuitive insight
- meditation walk on the land here for grounding
Plus delicious vegan soulfood to nourish, and a warm, welcoming space.
You can read a blog on Fiona’s enquiry with elderhood, and maybe this piece too, Are you an Elder?
What they say
What a wonderful day. Fiona invites you to be where you are and to find what you need. I gained insights from the retreat day as well as finding a deeper peace about my life. A beautiful mix of yoga practice, solo space, communal engagement, gentle teaching, nourishing food, nature walks to name some of the gifts. An experienced retreat leader and coach – highly recommended.”
O, BathMy thanks for a beautiful experience and a day to reflect on with deep realisations that will continue to unfold. I benefited from time out to think, journal, be really listened to, coddled and cosseted, wholly fed and nurtured in the peace of Viveka Gardens. I loved the warmth and peace, the unhurried rhythm of time, the enveloping restorative yoga, the wonderful wholesomeness of hospitality and Fiona’s loving and liberating guidance. As a result of the day I want to live each day more appreciatively, with my body, in creation, with wisdom and in faith. My main takeaway is about growing in grace and the freedom to be me. M, North Tawton
I have just been on another beautiful retreat day at Viveka Gardens. Fiona creates a safe space and guides the day in a sensitive, empowering way. I have come away restored, calm and ready to embrace new things. The food is also absolutely gorgeous. Thank you Fiona. B, Black Dog
Embracing Elderhood Day Retreat: The Gift
Sunday December 6th
10 – 4
£75
Viveka Gardens is keen to make yoga available to all – bursaries for those on low/no income. Please contact to discuss
Living in tune with the rhythm of nature and internal seasons is a key value at Viveka Gardens.
Autumn into winter has a sense of rest, quiet reflection and going deeper.
With restorative yoga, yoga nidra, meditation walk on the land, journalling, circle and yummy vegan soulfood, a day retreat at Viveka Gardens gives nourishment and new perspective. There’s nurturing vegan soulfood, a warm and welcome space, and experienced and intuitive holding from Fiona, owner and host.
