Zen and the Art of Wild Swimming 3 Day Retreat

Zen and the Art of Wild Swimming 3 Day Retreat

Immerse yourself in this in the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands on this unique three day retreat.

By Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven

Date and time

Tue, 3 Sep 2024 18:00 - Fri, 6 Sep 2024 14:00 GMT+1

Location

Gualachulain Bothy

Gulachulain Bothy Glen Etive PH49 4JA United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Contact the organiser to request a refund.
Eventbrite's fee is nonrefundable.

About this event

* FULLY BOOKED PLEASE MESSAGE TO BE ADDED TO THE WAIT LIST *


“It is not the case simply that there is water in the world; within the world of water there is a world." Zen Master Dogen


Immerse yourself in this in the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands on this three-day wild swimming retreat combing ancient Zen wisdom, open water safety and the latest science on cold water therapy and wellbeing.

You will have the opportunity to swim in a variety of locations in one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland. The retreat will include a river swim, a sea loch and a waterfall plunge pool as well as the chance to enjoy a longer swim and pick up tips on technique. Beginners to Zen and meditation are welcome.

We are staying in the cosy wee bothy of Gualuachulain situated in remote Glen Etive. There is very limited phone signal so it's the perfect location to unplug and soak up the view. The bothy is warm and comfortable but is very basic. To see pictures of the bothy go to Gualachulain Bothy – Glen Etive Holidays. You will need to have a sleeping bag and pillow and swim kit, either swimsuit or wetsuit plus sturdy trainers or boots and a full set of waterproofs as we may hike to one of the swims. All food is provided with delicious vegetarian catering. A full kit list will be issued nearer the time. Due to the nature of the shared sleeping area this retreat is women only. The retreat is small scale and there are only six spaces available.

The daily schedule will look something like this:

0700 Morning Meditation

0800 Breakfast (silence ends after breakfast)

0930 Cold Water Safety

1000 Breathwork and Movement

1100 Wild Swim

1300 Lunch

1400 Dharma Talk, Discussion and Reflection

1530 Tea and Cake.

1600 Free time (optional activities including swim technique, longer swim, litter pick)

1800 Dinner

2000 Discussion, Reflection and Journalling

2130 Evening Meditation (silence begins)

Is this retreat for me?

If you can swim and want to learn more about how wild swimming can become a spiritual practice then this retreat is for you. A sense of adventure and willingness to get out of your comfort zone will really help you get the most of this experience. Plus, a sense of humour and love of tea and cake are essential!

To ensure swim safety, you must be able to swim. A length of an indoor pool without stopping is a good starting point. All swims will be guided by a fully qualified and insured STA Open Water Swim Coach. As with all activities there are risks involved and you are advised to take out your own insurance for the trip. Swim destinations may vary depending on the weather and water conditions on the day. The guide is responsible for all decisions regarding water safety.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Your deposit is non-refundable unless we are able to fill your space. If we are able to fill your space you will receive your deposit minus a £20 admin fee. Cancellations within four weeks of the start date are non-refundable.

Do you cater for vegans or GF diets?

All the catering will be vegetarian, please let us at the time of booking if you have any allergies or are non dairy or GF.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?

You need to be able to swim a length of an indoor pool without stopping. All swims are optional and will vary in length and duration.

Do I need a wetsuit?

No, you can swim in a regular swimming costume although you may find that the water temperatures in the Highlands are colder than England. A pair of neoprene socks or river shoes are great for protecting your feet and making entry and exit from the water easier.

Is there any way I can prepare for the cold before coming?

Yes, you can acclimatise by taking cold showers - simply turn down the shower to cold for 10-15 seconds and work your way up to a minute.

Can men come along?

Sorry, not for this retreat due to the shared sleeping space.

Should I take out insurance?

As with all activities there are risks involved and you are advised to take out your own travel insurance for the retreat. Swim destinations may vary depending on the weather and water conditions on the day. The guide is responsible for all decisions regarding water safety.

Organised by

Mountain Yoga Kinlochleven

Penny is a qualified teacher with a long career in education specialising in Buddhism, Philosophy of Religion and Beliefs in Society. Penny has practiced yoga for over 30 years. She first came across yoga as part of her university studies in Hinduism and has practiced in various styles and traditions over the years. She is also a keen mountaineer with many years of experience climbing in the UK, European Alps as well as Norway, Canada and the Himalayas. Yoga, meditation and climbing have been constant themes in her life, complementary practices that nurture and satisfy both body and mind.

Penny started her yoga teacher training with the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) and holds a BWY Foundation Certificate in Yoga and a 200 hours Yoga Teacher Training in Zen Yoga. She is registered as an RTY200 with Yoga Alliance and has continued her yoga journey with the Seasonal Yoga Academy and holds an Advanced Seasonal Masters Certificate. She is a trained Meditation and Mindfulness Teacher and is a Junior Zen Teacher under the guidance of Zen Master Julian Daizan Skinner. Penny is a qualified Mountain Leader, holds a BASP Emergency Outdoor First Aid Certificate and is a member of the Mountain Training Association. She loves wild swimming and holds an STA Open Water Swim Coach qualification and is fully insured for both mountain and water based activities.

Penny is a partner in Wild Yoga Glencoe taking you through the seasons with a unique series of day, overnight and weekend retreats. For more details check out www.wildyogaglencoe.co.uk

For more details visit www.mountainyogakinlochleven.co.uk & www.wildyogaglencoe.co.uk

'See you on a mat or a mountain'.

On Sale 1 Jun 2024 at 00:00