(Calming our nervous systems as we move into the Christmas period.)

Connecting with our own heart and the hearts of others , to reduce isolation in challenging times and be with the Christmas period with greater ease.  These days will be a time of mindful guided reflection and nurturing self-care based on current neuroscience and psycho-spirituality.

These days are for those of all faiths and none.  Christmas can be both a time of great excitement and joy for many and a time of sadness and loneliness for others.  We will check in to be present to our inner world at a time that can be both joyous and chaotic for many of us at the same time.  bringing up all kinds of expectations where we can so easily disconnect from the world around us to stay well.  We will step back, practise mindfulness, noticing the inner weather pattern of our lives, and learn to self-regulate with safety and calm.

We have beautiful grounds for walking, especially 11km of sandy beach, wholesome food, a comfortable ensuite bedroom room for rest and some calming spaces, to sit in peace. You will have plenty of time for your own space and if you do not wish to attend sessions, that is ok too. We do not provide mass during the retreat but you will have access to our beautiful prayer room with the blessed sacrament present if you wish to avail of it.

Michael Dillon, is the Director at Ballyvaloo, he is a psychotherapist by training with specialist training in Trauma work and is a certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist. In the past he has worked with the MEND programme (Domestic Violence Intervention Programme in the South East) for over 10 years, as a therapist with the HSE in Counselling in Primary Care (CIPC) ,the Self Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) and in counselling management.

He has a life long interest in spirituality and has a degree in theology

(5 hours CPD for attendance)

(2 Nights)