We invite you to leave behind the more hectic urban environment and bustling islands and treat yourself to some warm, sunny days with plenty of space to dream, create, write and play.
This five-day idyllic Greek island retreat will explore some different approaches to creativity. We might use our imagination to create an expression and realisation of our deep, basic desires to shape a clear mental picture of what we want.
We will be coming together in an environment where we can give flow to our creative juices in community; to write and express ourselves around areas of interest, whether a blog, a book idea, a project presentation, web content, poetry, letters, short-stories, reviews, scripts for podcast ideas or content for public talks. We will also look at how mixed-media content can be added digitally to add richness to our creation.
The power of journaling on a daily basis can often be witnessed in the writing of morning pages. It's interesting to observe how daily journaling can be effective in unlocking creativity and building self-awareness.
All are welcome. You don't have to be a writer to join us. In fact there are many other things to do on the island without even writing at all. This will just be an optional morning focus and a theme running through the week.
Tickets are very limited so grab yours while you can.
The heart of this gathering will be our creative hub, whether through writing, expressing ourselves through audio, art, music, dance or whatever our chosen medium, conceptualising new projects and opening up routes to realising those dreams. By calling in our creative muses we can enjoy the fruits of a transformational week. Doing this together will also help us through any creative blocks and other challenges, enabling new levels of awareness to evolve.
We welcome inexperienced writers and will provide a supportive space where we can all develop new skills and ways to express ourselves.
We will be holding:
- A dream sharing circle
- A session for conceptualising and realising ideas
- Journaling & creative writing together
The programme will also include early morning well-being activities such as yoga and meditation with ample opportunities for swimming and time off to enjoy the serenity of the island to the full. There will be an optional boat excursion (additional fee) to the island’s hidden beaches and coves, walks on traditional paths, imposing mountains and ancient ruins.
We will immerse ourselves in local nature, history, myths and customs as we delight in the wild herbs, encounter goats living free in the mountains and and watch birds of prey circling. We will enjoy sharing stories, conversations and delicious local fresh food and drink at the local tavernas.
Iraklia is the perfect setting for enjoying the simplicity of small island life - stark and beautiful, the most westerly island of the Small Cyclades, one hour south of Naxos. It is quiet and traditional, unspoilt and an ideal destination for aspirating creatives, writers, walkers and meditators alike.
We will arrange to meet you when you arrive by ferry (the Ferryhopper app is recommended for timings and routes). The hotel enjoys views over the port which is a ten minute walk down the hill and amazing sunrise views (the best in Greece?) from two minutes walk the other way. The wonderful Livadi beach (which also offers naturism) is a 15 minute walk south.
Here's the view from close to the newly built yoga shala
