Winter Wellness Wales

Arrive in Pantperthog, ready to check into your cosy and peaceful accommodation. Your home for the next three nights is the world-renowned Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT). CAT is an eco lover's dream set in the foothills of South Snowdonia, home to some of the most special landscapes and wildlife areas in Europe.

Feel inspired: Get acquainted with your retreat companions, before taking a guided tour of CAT. Learn about the history of the unique site and of CAT. Take a look at how renewable energy is used onsite and view the unusual variety of environmentally responsible buildings. The tour also takes in CAT’s beautiful organic gardens and some of the impressive 30 acre site, with its seven unique habitats including heathland, woodland and meadow, each hiding an amazing story and an important mission. It’s impossible not to be inspired by the diversity of your surroundings and the ongoing sustainability projects.

Nourish: Sit down for a delicious evening meal. When it comes to dining at CAT the ethos is ‘straight from plot to plate’ meaning the menu is made up of ingredients grown in the centre’s own allotment or responsibly sourced from the local area.

Set your intentions for your winter retreat in an evening yoga session. Designed to start shifting stagnant energy, so you can enjoy the coming days with a clear mind and a relaxed body.

It's time to roll out your yoga mat for your first yoga session of the day. Starting with Pranayama (breath work) your yoga instructor will guide you through postures to stretch, strengthen and release tension from your body. Ending the session with ‘savasana’ a short guided meditation to leave you feeling relaxed and ready for the day ahead.

After a tasty breakfast head out for a morning hike from the centre grounds. Wander into the Dyfi Forest and enjoy walking amongst the conifer and beech trees. Breathe in the crisp winter air, as you tune into the pace of your surroundings.

Get crafty: Back at the centre, tuck into a well-prepared seasonal lunch. Next, it’s time to embrace your creativity and make your own winter wreath. Take a wander around CAT's gardens and woodlands, collecting beautiful natural materials. Back inside, learn to create your own wreath using CAT's own coppiced willow and your own foraged materials. Feel your stresses melt away as your hands are kept busy creating your own little celebration of Winter.

Soothe your soul: Following a hearty meal with your new friends, gather for a yoga nidra session. Practised lying down, yoga nidra is a meditation that provides the ultimate sense of relaxation. With a new found sense of peace snuggle up in your cosy rooms for a deep night’s sleep.

It’s time for your morning yoga practice. Breathe, stretch and reset. Your yoga instructor will guide you through another blissful practice. Take the class at your own pace, yoga is not about ability, but about harmony between your mind and body.

Mind over matter: After another delicious breakfast, wrap up warm and head out for a mindful walking experience. As you walk, let your mind wander, take in your beautiful natural surroundings and let go of the distractions that usually occupy your mind day to day. With encouragement from your guide, learn to use your senses to bring yourself into the present moment.

Checking in: Back at the centre take some time to yourself after lunch. Tea and cake will be served in the communal space. An opportunity to sit down as a group and check in with the intentions set at the start of your retreat.

Gather for a final dinner with your new friends. Connect, share experiences and enjoy your lovingly prepared meal. End the day by joining your yoga instructor for a restorative yoga and meditation session.

Leaning into your new routine, participate in one last pre-breakfast yoga session. Sealing your retreat intention and perhaps setting a new one to take home with you.