A Forest of emotions: Fire’s light and wood’s growth
Qigong, creative expression and nature in the new forest
Date: 24 May
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Cost: £60 - £80 sliding scale. This means you can choose what you pay within that range based on your current financial situation.
Location: Coda Arts and Music, Chewton Farm Road, Walkford, Christchurch, BH23 5QL
A forest of emotions
Join Rakhee Jasani and Carmel De'Lissier for A Forest of Emotions, a transformative retreat nestled in the heart of the New Forest at CODA.
Description of Workshop
This day of movement, meditation, and creativity invites you to reconnect with your inner vitality, explore the emotional energies of Wood (growth and transformation) and Fire (creativity and joy), and cultivate a deeper awareness of the natural world.The morning begins with guided Qigong with Rakhee, using flowing, mindful movements to awaken your body’s energy, calm the mind, and release emotional blockages. Through walking, standing, or seated meditation in nature, you’ll deepen your connection to the land, moving with a sense of reverence for the rhythms of the earth. (If you prefer a seated practice, let us know in advance.)
As the day unfolds, explore the emotional dance of anger, joy, and transformation through movement, breath, and self-expression. In the afternoon, Carmel will guide an intuitive creative session, encouraging a mindful, playful approach to materials, colour, and form. Using natural and repurposed materials, this session invites you to honour creativity as a process of connection rather than consumption—no experience needed, just curiosity and an open heart.
The day concludes with a shared soundscape and deep relaxation, leaving you feeling nourished, renewed, and connected—to yourself, to nature, and to your own creative spark. Rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and accessibility, this retreat offers a welcoming space for self-care, creative renewal, and emotional balance.
Step into a day of renewal, self-expression, and connection—book your place today.
What to Expect
During this retreat, you’ll:
Experience gentle Qigong—a mindful movement practice designed to release tension, restore balance, and awaken your energy. No experience needed - just curiosity and an open heart.
Engage with the Five Phases in Qigong—explore the dynamic energies of Wood (Spring) and Fire (Summer) to understand how they shape our emotions and physical well being.
Immerse yourself in nature—participate in a walking, standing, or seated meditation in the beautiful setting of the New Forest, connecting to the elements and releasing emotional blockages.
Tap into creativity and self-expression—express yourself through intuitive, playful art with natural materials, exploring color and form as a way to release and explore emotions.
Gentle journaling—reflect on your thoughts and emotions, creating space for deeper connection and self-awareness.
No experience required—whether you’re new to Qigong, art, or simply seeking a mindful day in nature, this retreat is open to all levels.
What to Bring
A packed lunch (we’ll have a break midday)
Layers for warmth and comfort (it’s always good to be prepared for the changeable weather of the New Forest!)
Comfortable clothing for movement (you’ll want to feel free and relaxed)
A journal (for reflective time and gentle writing exercises)
An open mind and a willingness to explore and create!
Why You Should Join
Are you feeling disconnected from your creativity?
This retreat offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with your inner vitality and express yourself freely in a supportive, nurturing space.
Do you struggle with emotional balance or self-expression?
Explore the energies of anger and joy—transforming them into something beautiful and empowering. With Qigong, nature, and art, you’ll find balance and release.
Are you looking for an inspiring, light-hearted day to reconnect with yourself and nature?
Let this retreat be a playful, nourishing escape, where creativity, movement, and the elements guide you to greater vitality and joy.
Book Your Place
Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today!
How to Book Your Place
Fill in the Form: Please provide your details in the form below, including your contact information, emergency contact, and any relevant health conditions or needs.
Press Submit: Once you've completed the form, click Submit to send your details to us.
Make Payment: After submitting the form, you’ll be directed to a blue payment button. Please click on it to complete your payment.
Sliding Scale Pricing
The workshop is priced on a sliding scale (£60 - £80). We believe in making this retreat as inclusive and accessible as possible, which is why we offer a sliding scale. If you can pay a little more, you’re helping to create opportunities for others who may not otherwise be able to attend. Your generosity supports a more inclusive and sustainable retreat for all and you’re helping those who may really need this day of nature, movement, and creativity but might not otherwise be able to attend. Think of it as a way to share the energy of abundance, generosity, and connection. Choose the amount that feels right for you, every single contribution large or small helps keep this work sustainable and open to more people.