Events
Leigh Marsden offers a variety of transformative retreat experiences in the picturesque South Canterbury region. Designed to nourish your body, mind, and soul, our retreats combine yoga, breathwork, meditation, vegan cuisine, and immersion in nature to help you connect with your inner landscape, recharge, and find balance.
Retreat Offerings
Evening Retreats
Join us for rejuvenating evening retreats, perfect for unwinding after a long day and reconnecting with yourself through gentle yoga, calming breathwork, and meditation under the stars.
Overnight/Weekend Retreats
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with our overnight and weekend retreats. Indulge in a comprehensive wellness experience, including extended yoga sessions, deep breathwork practices, silent meditations, wholesome vegan cuisine, and opportunities for reflection and connection.
Day Retreats
Immerse yourself in a full day of self-care and rejuvenation with our day retreats. Experience a blend of yoga practices, breathwork sessions, guided meditations, and nourishing vegan meals amidst the tranquil beauty of nature.
Silent Retreats
Leigh has a special passion for silent retreats and is proud to offer budget-conscious silent retreats in Peel Forest, NZ. Please note that bookings for our 2024 silent retreats are now closed.
2025 retreat bookings are now open
Upcoming Events
Women's Evening Retreats
Retreat Dates:
-
1st October 2024
-
8th October 2024
Time:
-
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Cost:
-
$80 per person
Experience Includes:
-
Enjoy deep silence and relaxation as you rotate through:
-
Hydrotherapy spa
-
Traditional wood-fired sauna
-
Relaxing breathwork and sound bath
-
End the evening with a delightful supper and live guitar music.
-
Men's Evening Retreat
Retreat Dates:
-
3rd October 2024
Time:
-
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Cost:
-
$80 per person
Experience Includes:
-
Enjoy deep silence and relaxation as you rotate through:
-
Hydrotherapy spa
-
Traditional wood-fired sauna
-
Relaxing breathwork and sound bath
-
End the evening with a delightful supper and live guitar music.
-
Spring Warmer
Retreat Date:
-
26nd September 2024
Location
-
The Arcade Ballroom, Timaru
Time:
-
7pm - 8:30pm
Cost:
-
$22 per person
Experience Includes:
Join us for invigorating breathwork, heating yoga poses and flow sequences, with guided relaxation to balance. Supported by live music from Jezer.
Relaxing Afternoon Retreat for people with life-limiting illness
Retreat Date:
-
9th November 2024
Location
-
St Albans Community Centre, Christchurch
Time:
-
1pm - 4.30pm
Cost:
-
$95 per person
Experience Includes:
Enjoy a deeply relaxing afternoon retreat co-hosted by experienced retreat facilitator Leigh Marsden and End-of-Life Doula Sarah Campbell-Simpson Sanctuary (sanctuarynz.co.nz). Open to all people navigating this journey. Support people are welcome. Wheelchair accessible venue.
-
Gentle yoga with floor and chair options (no experience needed)
-
Soothing sound bath with singing crystal and brass bowls and chimes
-
Gentle breathwork to promote relaxation
-
Guided meditation to facilitate present moment awareness
-
Afternoon tea (GF/plant-based options available)
Silent Yoga and Meditation Retreat May 2025
Retreat Dates:
-
9 - 11 May 2025
Location:
-
Koru Lodge, Spencer Park (Christchurch)
Time:
-
1pm, 9th May - 9am, 11th August 2025
Cost:
-
$195 per person
Experience Includes:
Enjoy a budget-friendly retreat with deep silence and a variety of activities including seated and walking meditations, yoga, and plant-based meals amidst nature.
-
2 nights of shared accommodation
-
5 plant-based meals (gluten-free options available)
-
4 yoga and breathwork sessions (suitable for all levels)
-
1 guided walking meditation
-
2 guided seated meditations
-
Temple Gong Meditation
Silent Yoga and Meditation Retreat August 2025
Retreat Dates:
-
8 - 10 August 2025
Location:
-
Koru Lodge, Spencer Park (Christchurch)
Time:
-
1pm, 8th August - 9am, 10th August 2025
Cost:
-
$195 per person
Experience Includes:
Enjoy a budget-friendly retreat with deep silence and a variety of activities including seated and walking meditations, yoga, and plant-based meals amidst nature.
-
2 nights of shared accommodation
-
5 plant-based meals (gluten-free options available)
-
4 yoga and breathwork sessions (suitable for all levels)
-
1 guided walking meditation
-
2 guided seated meditations
-
Temple Gong Meditation
-
What should I bring to a retreat?We recommend bringing comfortable yoga attire, a yoga mat, water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, any personal items or medications you may need, and an open mind ready for relaxation and rejuvenation.
-
Are accommodations provided for overnight/weekend retreats?Yes, accommodations are included for overnight and weekend retreats. We provide comfortable lodging options amidst the beauty of nature to ensure a peaceful and restful stay.
-
Is prior yoga experience required to attend a retreat?No, our retreats are suitable for practitioners of all levels, including beginners. Our experienced instructors tailor the sessions to accommodate various skill levels, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported.
-
Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated?Absolutely! We understand the importance of nourishing your body with wholesome meals. Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
-
What is the cancellation policy for retreat bookings?Our cancellation policy varies depending on the retreat type and duration. Please refer to the specific retreat details or contact us for more information about our cancellation policy.
-
How do I book a retreat?To book a retreat, simply contact us through our website or email us at us at leigh.marsden@gmail.com. Our friendly team will assist you in choosing the right retreat for you and guide you through the booking process.
-
Are payment plans available for retreat bookings?Yes, we offer flexible payment plans for select retreats. Contact us to inquire about payment plan options and availability for your desired retreat.
-
Can I attend a retreat alone, or do I need to come with a group?You are welcome to attend our retreats solo or with a group of friends or family members. Our retreats provide a supportive and inclusive environment where you can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate new friendships.
-
What can I expect when it's over?Take it slow after class. You are welcome to spend a few minutes to ground yourself and slowly get up with gentle stretches. Feel free to discuss your experience with others or myself but do not feel obligated to do so if you don't want to. As you go home, some people may feel more energized and creative, while others can feel just about ready for bed. Expect the vibrations to still be working 24 to 48 hours after the session
-
Are pets allowed at the retreats?As much as we love furry friends, we typically do not allow pets at our retreats to ensure the comfort and well-being of all participants.