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Nothing to become. Something to liberate.
Liberation Retreats are immersive journeys into the practice of becoming more free. Rooted in Buddhist Dharma, contemplative and embodied practice, and the wonderfully inconvenient reality of being a human being.
This isn't about fixing yourself, becoming a successful stoic, or getting so regulated that nothing pisses you off anymore. Quite the opposite.
Over five days, we step outside the usual momentum of life and create space to look more closely at what is actually happening: in the body, in our emotions, in our relationships, in the stories we tell ourselves, and in the patterns we keep repeating even though we know better.
Unfortunately, awareness has side effects. You may notice things you can no longer un-notice.
*** What do we mean by liberation? ***
We carry more than we realize: histories, habits, defenses, fears, longings, identities, old strategies and ways of relating that once made sense — and sometimes still do.
Liberation isn't about getting rid of all of this. It's about developing enough awareness, capacity and freedom that these patterns no longer have to make every decision for us.
Through meditation, T’ai Chi, embodiment, emotional exploration, movement, breath, communication, relationship work, partner and group practices, nature, ritual, dance, tea and plenty of unstructured time, we explore where we contract, disappear, perform, protect ourselves, hold on — and where something might be ready to move.
Sometimes that brings peace. Sometimes it brings an uncomfortable realization on a Tuesday three weeks later. Both count.
The aim isn't to become permanently calm, endlessly positive, or some perfected version of yourself, but
To know yourself.
To trust yourself.
To express yourself.
To become more fully yourself.
To be more alive.
That is liberation.
*** Your facilitators ***
Katie "Hoku" Kirkland brings together psychology, mindfulness, meditation and group facilitation, alongside years of entrepreneurship and cross-cultural experience. Her work is rooted in relational awareness and a long-standing contemplative practice.
Devin Francis Rivard studied Religion and Traditional Eastern Arts at Naropa University and spent seven years studying Yang-style T’ai Chi with Bataan Faigao and nearly a decade studying with Buddhist teacher Reginald A. Ray, including several dathüns (month-long retreat). He has taught meditation, facilitated men's groups, studied Nonviolent Communication, and is a certified NLP Master Practitioner. He currently continues his Buddhist study with Khenpo Karten Rinpoche and is a T’ai Chi and meditation instructor, professional masseur and craniosacral practitioner.
Samuel Engelen facilitates our exploration of connection and attraction: how we approach one another, recognize interest, create chemistry, navigate boundaries and allow connection to unfold. His approach is practical, playful and grounded in respect — less How to Get Anyone to Like You in Seven Easy Steps, more learning to stay present with desire, uncertainty and the courage to express genuine interest.
Stela Ursa offers an individual Akashic Records reading to each participant who wishes to receive one. Through vivid visions and impressions, she describes her work as seeing through a window into stories, connections and truths beyond the boundaries of ordinary knowing.
*** Five days, with room to breathe ***
Our days have a rhythm rather than a packed schedule: early meditation or T’ai Chi, shared organic vegetarian meals, morning workshops, practice and Dharma talks, spacious afternoons for rest or optional individual work, afternoon tea, and evening circles, ceremonies or practices.
There is nature. There is community. There is a hot tub. We make no promises that enlightenment will occur in it.
Participation is invitational. You don't need previous meditation, retreat or embodiment experience, and you don't need to be particularly flexible, enlightened or good at sitting cross-legged. Chairs are always available.
Your stay, all meals and the full retreat program are included in the €2,222 retreat price. Optional massage, craniosacral work and additional private coaching sessions for integration can also be booked separately.
16 participants only.
Come as you are. We'll work with what's actually there.
There's no need to be ready. Only willing.
***My recommendation ***
If this sounds interesting to you so far, I recommend taking the time to read through our carefully cultivated website. We have put time into our website so that it can convey what this journey will be like and what we offer. Have a read, and see if it calls to you. If it does, then we'll see you there. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
katiehokukirkland@gmail.com
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