Autumn Retreat

Escape to the serene beauty of North Wales for an unforgettable wellness retreat designed to nourish your body, mind, and spirit. Nestled among rolling hills and tranquil landscapes, this retreat invites you to reconnect with yourself and others in a space that fosters deep healing, reflection, and rejuvenation.

Led by passionate and experienced facilitators,  Sonja. With over 20 years of experience in therapy, now specializes in providing training for mental health professionals. She is also in the process of co-writing her first book. Bringing a blend of physical, emotional, and creative healing to this transformative experience. Nicola brings her experience of nutrition, creativity, love for the outdoors and compassion to the retreat. A healthcare professional since 2002, specialising in training and clinical supervision, providing emotional and psychological support to nhs staff. 

 
The goal of this retreat is to offer you a transformative space for rejuvenation, reflection, and reconnection. Whether you are looking to set some intentions, rest, heal, deepen your self-awareness, or simply take a break from the demands of daily life, this retreat offers a welcoming, authentic, and deeply supportive environment.

Come join us in North Wales, where nature’s tranquillity meets the power of mindful movement, creative expression, and healing. Let us help you reconnect with your inner self and rediscover the joy of living authentically.

“Always go a little further into the water than you feel you're capable of being. Go a little bit out of your depth and when you don't feel your feet are quite touching the bottom, you're just about in the right place to do something exciting” David Bowie 

What to expect…
Meditation and Mindfulness: Awaken your inner peace with guided meditations and mindfulness practices that bring you into the present moment, surrounded by the healing energy of nature.
Yoga and Somatic Movement: Explore gentle yoga and somatic movement sessions designed to release tension, enhance body awareness, and promote emotional release, all in the supportive, non-judgmental environment of the retreat.
Connect with Nature: Walk with us and enjoy this grounding, mindful experience, allowing your body and mind to switch off from the world and enjoy the peace and tranquillity nature offers. 
Cold Water Immersion: Awaken your senses and revitalize your energy with a transformative cold water experience in nature, designed to invigorate your body and refresh your mind.
Sharing Circles: Deepen connections with others through supportive, heart-centered sharing circles, where vulnerability and authenticity are welcomed.
Outdoor Fires and Music: Enjoy the magic of outdoor fires under the stars, accompanied by music that uplifts and soothes the soul.
Psychoeducation: Learn from Sonja’s expert guidance on trauma-informed approaches, offering tools to help you understand and heal your emotional wounds.

Creative Sessions: Release your inner creativity, allow yourself to play, reignite your inner child. Use our creative sessions to help understand all of your different parts. Create your own masterpiece, as your reminder of how amazing you are and what you can take from the retreat. 

Rest and Restore: Using the beautiful surroundings, and the abundance of space, take a bath in our spectacular Victorian roll top baths, take a nap in the spacious bedrooms, dine together (or alone) in our beautiful dining room. One of the bonuses of our location is the amount of space, you can immerse yourself as much or as little as you choose (there's no pressure to do anything) 

Meet your hosts 

Nicola:

 When I was first asked to write about myself, my immediate reaction was, “I’m not writing a bio!” But after a quiet word with myself, I realised — I have nothing to lose and so much to be proud of.

I see myself as a lifelong learner. I began my NHS career as a paramedic in 2003, later transitioning into nursing in 2012. I’ve always viewed my role in healthcare as a privilege. I started nursing in the community because I wanted to meet people where they’re most at ease — in their homes. That setting offered a unique and deeply human perspective on care, one that inspired me to further my training and become a district nurse. That year of study gave me not just qualifications, but clarity about who I am and how I want my career to grow.

Each day I spend in this role is enriched by the people I meet and the lives I’m invited into. I bring my whole self to every moment — whether I’m holding someone’s hand as they take their last breath, supporting a mental health crisis, or treating a minor health issue with the respect it still deserves.

One of my greatest passions is teaching. I love to share knowledge and support newly qualified nurses as they find their feet. I don’t pretend to know everything — I lead with honesty and creativity. My approach includes crafts, games, poetry, and fun — things not often seen in the traditional structure of the NHS, but that create space for connection and real learning.

I’m a Professional Nurse Advocate, which means I provide clinical supervision and emotional support to nurses — I listen, I guide, and I hold space. I’m also proud to be a Queen’s Nurse, a recognition I worked toward for many years. And while I hold those titles with pride, my greatest achievement is being a mum to my three wonderful children.

Sonja:

"Whenever I’m asked to write about myself, my hope is that you see the real me. I’ve been working with people my entire career (30 years), but it was only when I became a therapist that everything fell into place. I finally felt I was where I belonged.

My experiences, both personal and professional, have been rich and nurturing, embracing a personality I’d describe as spirited, bold, and deeply caring. I have worked in many fields relating to trauma and love every aspect of it. As a result, I often find myself working most of the time—but I don’t see it as “work.”

The foundation of everything I do is connection and communication: building trust through congruence, empathy, and compassion. I’m also continually working on myself and likely will be for the rest of my life. The ability to grow, develop, and learn is such a special gift the universe offers to all living beings. What we choose to do with this magic is truly limitless.

I feel excited, privileged, and humbled to be spending time with others at the retreat, offering some of my knowledge that might help you on your journey. I’m an open book (at least, I like to think so!), and I can’t wait to get to know each and every one of you".

I’ve reached a point in life where, through challenges, growth, and experience, I’ve developed deep gratitude for the everyday and the simple. I remain curious, creative, and committed to meaningful connection. I embrace change, I welcome challenge, and I believe wholeheartedly in authenticity — and in people.

It’s a privilege to be invited to be part of this beautiful retreat. I look forward to bringing creativity, holding space, and contributing to a safe, welcoming environment. I’m truly excited to be part of it.
 

So what are our ethics, values, and vison with our retreats…

We believe it's important to share this with you, as it will give you a true sense of who we are, the foundation upon which this space is built, and what you will be supporting and engaging with should you choose to book with us.

• VULNERABILITY
• SAFTEY
• COMPASSION
• DIVERSITY
• AUTHENTICITY

“A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT INVITING PEOPLE TO PAUSE, REFLECT, AND EVALUATE THEIR NEXT/CURRENT STEPS...”

"A SPACE FOR GROWTH AND LEARNING, WHERE WISDOM FLOWS NOT JUST FROM THE FACILITATORS BUT FROM EVERYONE, CELEBRATING THE BELIEF THAT EACH PERSON HAS SOMETHING VALUABLE TO OFFER."

• HONESTY
• ACCESIBILITY
• COMMUNITY
• ADAPTABILITY
• OPENNESS

"WE STRIVE TO CREATE A SPACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN TRULY CONNECT WITH THEMSELVES AND OTHERS THROUGH AUTHENTIC RELATING, FOSTERING DEEPER RELATIONSHIPS BOTH INWARDLY AND OUTWARDLY."

"OUR GOAL IS TO FACILITATE AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE INDIVIDUALS CAN EXPLORE NEW SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES, CULTIVATING SELF-AWARENESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH."

Extra information…

• A deposit is required to secure your place. Upon booking, you will be directed to a booking form where you will confirm your payment preferences (full payment or payment plan).
• All meals are included in the ticket price (three meals per day, and of course plenty of snacks!).
• Once your deposit is confirmed, you will be directed to a booking form. This form helps us understand your specific needs (e.g., dietary requirements, accessibility, etc.).
• If you have any questions, please feel free to email us — we are happy to assist you. You can also request a phone call when you contact us.
• Free parking is available directly outside Llantysilio Hall.

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Common questions…

What if I’ve never attended anything like this before and feel nervous about coming to an event like this? Or what if I’ve never meditated before or feel anxious about exploring new things?
Please remember, you can go at your own pace, and you will be fully supported throughout your journey. There will be plenty of space for reflection, and our trained therapist and supportive staff are available if you feel you need extra assistance.

Do I need to attend all the sessions at the retreat? I sometimes prefer alone time.
You are not required to attend all sessions. We encourage a relaxed and flexible approach, allowing you to do what feels best for your energy and healing journey. We understand the importance of personal space and have scheduled time for journaling, meditation, nature walks, or socializing — whichever you prefer.

I like to plan and have all the details in advance.
We understand the need for detailed planning and will send you an information pack prior to your arrival. This will include everything from directions (with pictures) to details about the food provided and maybe even the predicted weather!

Will there be alcohol available?
This will be a sober weekend, focused on wellness and clarity.

What clothing should I bring?
Comfort is key for this weekend. A recommended packing list will be provided to ensure you're prepared for all activities.

What if I have specific dietary, medical, accessibility, or disability needs (or anything else that requires special support)?
Once you’ve booked, you will be directed to a separate booking form where we can gather more detailed information. This will help us tailor the retreat experience to meet your individual needs. If you have any questions before booking, please feel free to email us at sonja@yourspacetherapy.org or nicolawelsh76@gmail.com We completely understand the importance of clarity, especially when it comes to specific needs, and we're happy to provide any information you may need.

What happens if I need to cancel? Our retreat has been provided with ethical values, creating a space accessible for all, which means our prices have been kept to an absolute minimum. Any cancellation will be considered on an individual basis. If your place can be covered by another person, we will gladly provide a refund.

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Hope to see you soon!

Looking forward to you joining our retreat family 

Sonja & Nicola  xx