The Retreat ~ 20th -24th April

The Retreat.

Imagine yourself surrounded by the timeless beauty of a Celtic Rainforest, where midsummer’s golden light dances through the trees, and the whispers of nature invite you to slow down and breathe deeply.

This isn’t just a retreat—it’s a heartfelt invitation to step away from the noise, the distractions, the endless demands, and into a space where you can truly connect. This is your moment to nurture your soul, care for your heart, and rediscover the profound stillness and strength within. Let the rhythm of nature guide you back to yourself, to a life of balance, calm, and belonging.

The Transformation.

What if you could feel safe, supported, and seen, all while embracing the comfort of community and the beauty of personal growth? This retreat offers just that—a sanctuary where busy hands calm minds, where the warmth of a fire invites kinship, and where every moment is crafted to help you feel grounded and whole. This is your choice to set aside the weight of daily life and embrace a journey of transformation. Choose connection over disconnection, nurture over neglect, and profound self-acceptance over doubt.

Over five unforgettable days, you’ll embark on a journey carefully designed to soothe, inspire, and renew:

Compassion-Focused Therapeutic Approaches: We will help you to gently uncover the kindness and self-acceptance you deserve, with skill and care.

Creative Crafting: Let your creativity flow as your hands shape something meaningful, calming your mind and nourishing your spirit.

Life Coaching: Find clarity and confidence as you explore your next steps with our expert guidance.

Fireside Gatherings: Feel the warmth of community as stories and laughter weave connections that last a lifetime

Sound Bath with Singing Bowls: Let the soothing tones wash over you, dissolving stress and restoring harmony to your body and soul.

Every element is intentionally woven together to support your nature connection, inspire self-discovery, and create a transformational experience that stays with you long after the retreat ends.

Your Hosts

Jackie Roby

I am one of the UK’s leading forest school trainers and outdoor learning experts and have been working with groups outdoors for over a decade and a half.

I am a qualified forest school leader, and have worked for many of Bristol's green institutions including the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project, Bristol Zoo and the Forest of Avon Trust. I am a founder of The Hawthorn Project, a weekly outdoor project for women in recovery.

I have a PGDip in Education, am a trained Montessori practitioner as well as a qualified Sound Healer and Reiki practitioner. I am currently studying for a qualification in Wilderness Therapeutic Approaches.

Dr Sophie Payne

I am a Clinical Psychologist who finds my home in the wild. It comes naturally to me to help people on their journeys, using the wilderness to support them in feeling safe, challenged and to grow. 

I have twenty five years’ of experience working with people as a clinical psychologist and coach. I have provided psychotherapy to people living with stress, trauma, physical health conditions and mental health issues. When I coach people it is often about getting balance in their life. I know what it is to lead a busy and sometimes frantic life and to be on the road to burnout. I find joy in being active in wild places, travelling far and wide and finding adventure. These days the adventure is more about my personal journey and finding balance and peace in nature. 

In terms of my career I am Chartered with the British Psychological Society . I have worked in Academic and Clinical Psychology. I have been a Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in Mental Health Services in Military Mental Health, and an Operational Manager working in Physical and Occupational Health Services in the NHS. I now have my own private practice providing Psychotherapy and Coaching. 

I use lots of tools to help people; my favourite being Compassion Focused Therapy. Helping people to find compassion for themselves and others and to receive compassion is so important in a world that can feel harsh and unrelenting. Now I use the outdoors to help clients go on an inward journey of self care and adventure.

 FAQs

  • The Retreat runs from Monday 16th to Friday 20th June.

  • The Retreat will be held at the beautiful Wye Valley Sculpture Garden in Tintern, NP16 7NX.

  • This retreat is for anyone who wishes to reconnect with themselves

  • No.

  • No. But we will give you tea and cake.

  • No. See here for recommendations.

  • As community is at the heart of what we do, you’re welcome to come as your own, safe in the knowledge that you will find your tribe. You’re also welcome to bring a friend!

Get in touch.

If you have any questions about The Retreat or you just want to say hi, we’d love to hear from you. Simply fill in this form or drop us an email at hello@wildelemental.co.uk