The Retreat

When was the last time you allowed yourself to play and truly have fun? It’s so easy to lose sight of joy as we get caught up in our endless to-do lists and the demands of daily life. At this retreat immersed in nature in the mountains of southern Portugal, we will create a nurturing space where you can slow down and reconnect with your inner child’s natural creative spirit.

Together we will explore any blocks that may come up as you re-ignite your playfulness. Through guided sharing circles, creative activities, gentle yoga, breathwork, meditation and sound healing, we will embark on a journey of playfulness and healing.

Absolutely no art experience is necessary just a willingness to be vulnerable and open to allow the process to flow through. Creativity is a natural and Divine given form of expression open to everyone.

There will be plenty of opportunity to relax, hang out in a hammock, swim in the pool, read a book, journal and immerse yourself in nature.

This is your time to prioritise yourself, listen to the whispers of your inner child, and bring more balance, creativity, and joy into your life. Let’s come together to heal, grow, and play.

Who is this retreat for?

This retreat is designed for anyone ready to dive deep into their inner healing recognising that true healing comes when we face, feel and transcend our shadows, thus unburdening and setting free our vibrant inner-child.

During this retreat, you will be guided to explore and release the blocks that prevent you from experiencing true fun and connection. This transforming process will not only enhance your personal well-being but will also positively impact how you relate to others—whether in love partnerships, family, friends or within your broader community.

Meet the Facilitators

Camilla Bergman Retreat facilitator

Camilla is a highly experienced yoga teacher, retreat facilitator, and project manager with a background in playwork and education. She began her career leading art sessions for children and teens in inner-city London and later facilitated magazine design workshops for young adults and intergenerational art projects for council run facilities and schools in London.

Now based in Portugal, she co-owns Rural Escapes Portugal, a retreat and holiday centre she and her husband built as a sanctuary for healing and transformation. With over 12 years of teaching experience, Camilla specialises in Hatha and Kundalini yoga, with a focus on supporting those in recovery. She has trained extensively with renowned experts, including Nikki Myers (Y12SR – Yoga of 12-Step Recovery), Carolyn Cowan (Mastering the Addictive Personality), and Durga Leela (Yoga of Recovery), as well as Trauma-Sensitive Yoga. Her studies with master sound healer Don Conreaux further enrich her holistic approach.

In recovery since 1999, Camilla draws on her personal journey to create safe, inclusive spaces for healing. She has taught yoga in diverse settings, from Lewes Prison to Brighton University, Virgin Active, and Cascade Recovery Centre. Since 2014, she has led retreats in Tenerife and Portugal and continues to teach at Rural Escapes Portugal, Point-O Rehab Centre, and online through bu-evolution and private classes.

Blending yoga, art, and holistic healing, Camilla’s work offers a deeply transformative experience.

Jan Buis – breathwork practitioner

Jan spent much of his life searching for truth and shedding the protective masks that many wear to navigate struggle. His journey of self-discovery led him to sacred medicines, breathwork, and sound healing, which provided profound insights and lessons.

Deeply influenced by A Course in Miracles and Advaita Vedanta, Jan believes that true happiness comes from within by uncovering and releasing inner blocks. His work is rooted in this non-dual perspective, guiding others to find authentic joy through deep inner exploration.

With a background as a trained group facilitator, specialising in addiction recovery, and an experienced social worker, Jan connects with people on a heart level. As a professional musician, he incorporates sound healing and pineal-toning into his practice. He is also a Certified Breathwork Practitioner (Global Professional Breathwork Alliance), using breath as a powerful tool for transformation.

Through breathwork, sacred medicines, and sound healing, Jan helps others release what no longer serves them and step into a more fulfilled, authentic life.

Daily Schedule example

• 8-9.15am  Gentle yoga
• 9.30-10.30 Light breakfast
• 11-1.15pm Daily creative play
• 1.30-2.30pm Lunch
• 2.30-5.45pm Free time and on two days we will include activities such as breath-work and a walk in the mountains. You will be encouraged to use this time reflectively. Sketching and writing tasks may be given.
• 6-7pm Dinner
• 7.30-9pm Sharing circle focusing on a topic followed by a restorative grounding practice.

The price is 800€ for shared accommodation or 900€ for single. We require a 100€ deposit to hold your place. The deposit is non refundable. The full amount needs to be paid by  3 April, 2025.

There are options to stay at Rural Escapes Portugal for longer after the retreat has ended, please feel free to enquire about this.

For enquiries and bookings please email Camilla directly at info@ruralescapesportugal.com or send a WhatsApp message directly to Camilla +447786527686.

For enquiries and bookings please email Camilla directly at info@ruralescapesportugal.com or send a WhatsApp message directly to Camilla +447786527686.