Mindfulness Retreat: Tune into Your True Nature
Mindfulness Retreat: Tune into Your True Nature
Siimply Canvas Farm, 748 Chemin du Charrier, 47120 Saint-Jean-de-Duras, France
Up to 20 in group
August 2 - 7, 2025
Retreat Highlights
- Mindful walking meditation to ground and connect with the Earth
- Deep nature walks to explore the interconnectedness of all life
- 5 Rhythms dance sessions to awaken creativity and self-expression
- Gong bath meditation for profound relaxation and inner harmony
- Sound healing practices to restore balance and calm the mind
- Empowering self-advocacy workshops for self-awareness and growth
- Guided reflections and group sharing for personal insight and connection
- Delicious vegetarian meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients
- Quiet time for rest, reading, and reflection in nature
- Immersive experiences that deepen your connection to the natural world and your true self.
About this Retreat
Mick McEvoy is an experienced mindfulness teacher, nature connection guide, and permaculture expert. With over 20 years of experience in mindfulness practice and nature-based healing, Mick’s work is rooted in the belief that true healing comes from reconnecting with the Earth and our inner selves. He is the head of the permaculture garden at Plum Village, where he oversees the cultivation of food for the Buddhist monastery. His teachings combine mindfulness, movement, and the wisdom of the natural world to inspire deep transformation and growth.
Rachel Butt is a skilled meditation teacher, sound healer, and holistic practitioner with over 20 years of experience in mindfulness and transformative practices. With a background in music, law, and social justice advocacy, Rachel’s journey led her to explore the healing power of sound, meditation, and deep listening. Through her workshops and retreats, she helps individuals connect to their inner wisdom, fostering self-awareness, compassion, and harmony. Her approach integrates the therapeutic qualities of sound with mindfulness, empowering others to live in alignment with their true nature.
Details of this retreat
The Tune into Your True Nature mindfulness retreat offers a transformative 5-day experience to reconnect with yourself and the natural world around you. Set in the serene Dordogne countryside at Simply Canvas Farm, this retreat combines mindfulness, nature-based healing, sound therapy, and movement practices to help you cultivate inner peace, clarity, and self-awareness.
Guided by Rachel Butt and Mick McEvoy, the retreat includes a range of transformative activities such as guided meditation, mindful walking, gong baths, and 5 Rhythms dance, all designed to deepen your connection to your true nature. The retreat also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life, inviting you to explore your personal relationship with nature and self-care.
The peaceful surroundings of Simply Canvas Farm, run by Sandra and Santi, former monastics of Plum Village, provide the ideal setting for relaxation and reflection. With nourishing vegetarian meals, comfortable accommodations, and ample time for personal quiet moments, this retreat offers a supportive space to step away from the demands of daily life and cultivate a deep sense of inner peace and connection to the Earth.
Guided by Rachel Butt and Mick McEvoy, the retreat includes a range of transformative activities such as guided meditation, mindful walking, gong baths, and 5 Rhythms dance, all designed to deepen your connection to your true nature. The retreat also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life, inviting you to explore your personal relationship with nature and self-care.
The peaceful surroundings of Simply Canvas Farm, run by Sandra and Santi, former monastics of Plum Village, provide the ideal setting for relaxation and reflection. With nourishing vegetarian meals, comfortable accommodations, and ample time for personal quiet moments, this retreat offers a supportive space to step away from the demands of daily life and cultivate a deep sense of inner peace and connection to the Earth.
Schedule
Daily Schedule of Tune into Your True Nature Retreat:
07:30 - 08:00: Mindful Sitting and Movement – Begin the day with a gentle meditation and movement practice to awaken the body and mind.
08:00 - 08:30: Breakfast – Enjoy a nourishing, vegetarian breakfast to energize your day.
09:30 - 11:30: Morning Program – Engage in mindfulness practices, nature walks, or sound healing sessions guided by Mick and Rachel.
12:30 - 13:30: Lunch – A wholesome, freshly prepared vegetarian lunch.
15:30 - 17:30: Afternoon Program – Continue exploring mindfulness, meditation, and movement, with sessions like 5 Rhythms dance or gong bath meditation.
19:00 - 20:00: Dinner – A delicious and nutritious vegetarian dinner.
20:00 onwards: Evening Activities – Relax with an evening program, such as campfire sessions, silent reflection, or group sharing.
The schedule is designed to provide a balanced mix of guided activities, personal reflection time, and moments for relaxation, all in the peaceful setting of Simply Canvas Farm.
07:30 - 08:00: Mindful Sitting and Movement – Begin the day with a gentle meditation and movement practice to awaken the body and mind.
08:00 - 08:30: Breakfast – Enjoy a nourishing, vegetarian breakfast to energize your day.
09:30 - 11:30: Morning Program – Engage in mindfulness practices, nature walks, or sound healing sessions guided by Mick and Rachel.
12:30 - 13:30: Lunch – A wholesome, freshly prepared vegetarian lunch.
15:30 - 17:30: Afternoon Program – Continue exploring mindfulness, meditation, and movement, with sessions like 5 Rhythms dance or gong bath meditation.
19:00 - 20:00: Dinner – A delicious and nutritious vegetarian dinner.
20:00 onwards: Evening Activities – Relax with an evening program, such as campfire sessions, silent reflection, or group sharing.
The schedule is designed to provide a balanced mix of guided activities, personal reflection time, and moments for relaxation, all in the peaceful setting of Simply Canvas Farm.
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
Simply Canvas Farm, Siimply Canvas Farm, 748 Chemin du Charrier, 47120 Saint-Jean-de-Duras, France
Directions
Here are the ways to travel to us:
Train: Take the high-speed train to Bordeaux (allow at least an hour in Paris to change trains), then continue on a regular train to Sainte Foy la Grande (10 minutes from us). You can arrange a transfer with us for the last stretch. The total journey takes around 8 to 9 hours. For train tickets, check the French site: https://www.sncf-connect.com/. People often find tickets cheaper here, especially if booked more than two months in advance when discounts are available.
By car: A few weeks before the start date, we’ll create a WhatsApp group for those interested in carpooling.
Plane:
• Fly to Bergerac (30 minutes from us). We can arrange a transfer for the final part of the journey for an additional fee.
• Alternatively, fly to Bordeaux Airport, which has many international flights. From there, take the tram to the train station and a train to Sainte Foy la Grande. A transfer can be arranged for the last leg of the journey.
Transfer: A transfer is needed from Sainte Foy la Grande or Bergerac to our location. We collaborate with a local transfer service.
Rental Car: If you plan to stay longer, a rental car is convenient as there is no public transport to our location. If you land in Bordeaux, a rental car is also a practical option.
Train: Take the high-speed train to Bordeaux (allow at least an hour in Paris to change trains), then continue on a regular train to Sainte Foy la Grande (10 minutes from us). You can arrange a transfer with us for the last stretch. The total journey takes around 8 to 9 hours. For train tickets, check the French site: https://www.sncf-connect.com/. People often find tickets cheaper here, especially if booked more than two months in advance when discounts are available.
By car: A few weeks before the start date, we’ll create a WhatsApp group for those interested in carpooling.
Plane:
• Fly to Bergerac (30 minutes from us). We can arrange a transfer for the final part of the journey for an additional fee.
• Alternatively, fly to Bordeaux Airport, which has many international flights. From there, take the tram to the train station and a train to Sainte Foy la Grande. A transfer can be arranged for the last leg of the journey.
Transfer: A transfer is needed from Sainte Foy la Grande or Bergerac to our location. We collaborate with a local transfer service.
Rental Car: If you plan to stay longer, a rental car is convenient as there is no public transport to our location. If you land in Bordeaux, a rental car is also a practical option.
Accommodation
Cottages: Choose from one of three charming cottages, each offering a cozy and peaceful retreat. Each cottage features 2 comfortable rooms with either a shared or private bedroom option, accommodating one or two guests per room. Guests will enjoy the homey atmosphere, with a living area, kitchen and bathroom and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Perfect for those seeking a quiet, intimate space with the comforts of home. You share an entire house with 1 or 2 other people. Safari Tents: For a unique glamping experience, stay in a spacious safari tent, offering either a shared 1 or 2-person room. Each tent is fully equipped with box spring beds, a designated bathroom nearby (shared with 2 to 3 people), and a cozy sitting area for relaxation. You’ll also have access to a private veranda with views of the beautiful Dordogne landscape, ideal for moments of reflection and peace. Bring Your Own Tent or Campervan: For those traveling with their own gear, Simply Canvas Farm offers a peaceful spot to set up your tent or park your campervan. You’ll have full access to the farm’s amenities, including communal bathrooms, the swimming pool, and shared spaces for relaxation and socializing, all while immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. No matter your choice, every accommodation at Simply Canvas Farm provides a comfortable and serene environment to connect with nature and yourself during your retreat.
Shared safari tent for 2 people
Safaritent for 1 person
Bring your own tent or campervan
A single room to your self in a cottage
A share room for 2 in a cottage
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Simply Canvas Farm, located in the serene Dordogne region of France, offers a peaceful retreat center surrounded by nature. Founded by former monastics with over 30 years of mindfulness experience, the farm is dedicated to sustainable living and holistic well-being. With beautiful permaculture gardens, cozy accommodations, and a tranquil atmosphere, it provides the perfect setting for mindfulness retreats, allowing guests to reconnect with themselves, nature, and each other.
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
The vegetarian menu at the Tune into Your True Nature retreat is thoughtfully prepared to nourish both body and soul. Using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients from Simply Canvas Farm’s permacultur
What's Included
- 5-day retreat program with mindfulness, meditation, and nature-based healing practices
- Delicious, freshly prepared vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Snacks
- Coffee, tea and water
- Accommodation in safari tents, cottages, or camping with your own tent or campervan
- Access to Simply Canvas Farm's beautiful permaculture gardens and peaceful surroundings
- Shared or private bathroom facilities, depending on accommodation choice
- Hammocks and outdoor spaces for relaxation
- Use of the communal space for rest and reflection
- Access to the farm's swimming pool for relaxation
- Quiet time for personal reflection, journaling, or rest in nature
- Opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive, nurturing environment
What's Not Included
- Your trip to Simply Canvas Farm
- Transfer from the airport or trainstation if needed
- Little snack and drinks extra's like you can take from our honesty fridge like ice cream, soda's or other
