Te Whenua Retreat
Welcome
"Welcome to Te Whenua Retreat, a peaceful, rural homestead flanked by mountains and wide skies. Our retreats offer a doorway, not to somewhere else, but back to yourself. Whilst our spacious home, delicious plant-based cooking, and purposefully designed yoga & meditation space offer a real sense of deep rest and ‘stepping away’ from life, we gently, with no timetable, support you in rediscovering your own inner flame. Not then, a retreat from your life; rather a return to it, in your uniqueness and wholeness." - your retreat host, Jenny Lomas
Te Whenua Retreat is located in Gibbston, just 20 minutes from Queenstown airport, in Otago, Aotearoa (New Zealand). Map
Why are retreats so vital for full aliveness?
In the fast flow of modern life, it’s easy to lose touch with ourselves as we navigate daily demands, juggle responsibilities and are the anchor for others. ​​ The essential need for deep rest is crucial, and I understand how exhausting (and often unacknowledged) the daily grind can be. And also, in choosing a retreat, we’re admitting that we are seeking more than can be offered by a spa break. In a safe, supported and peaceful environment, deep nervous system rest allows us to open to what’s been humming (or perhaps nagging) in our soul. With gentleness, we open up to the parts of ourselves that haven’t been witnessed, welcomed and honoured. We remember what inspires us, what motivates us, and particularly around midlife, we are able to envisage our future in ways that newly inspire us. This is a deep and rich process. It sometimes feels like we could untangle our lifetime of thoughts and feelings by ourselves, but most of us haven’t been taught how to proceed effectively and gracefully. I am here to be a companion and guide, and to walk along-side you at whatever speed you wish. Often, deep rest is the only medicine we need right now. There is no urgency, no 10-step process. This is not about self-improvement or acquiring more knowledge, and this is not about quick (but shallow) transformations. This is an orientation overflowing with possibilities, that becomes our life’s work, joy, inspiration and devotion - not something to strive for but an inspired awakening to gently allow.
"One of the things that is most magical is how time seems to expand into what feels like weeks, even after you've only been at Te Whenua for a few hours. It's a melting pot of the peaceful landscape, nourishing food, Pema's sweet nature, and most especially Jenny's intuitive way of understanding what you need. This retreat was the perfect recipe for deep, genuine rest. I''m so grateful for the last few days and feel comforted by the idea of coming back."​​​