RENEW & RESET Retreats
Kickstart a healthy lifestyle away from distractions, in the beautiful Loire Valley, France.
2023 YOGA RETREATS
Thursday 18th - Monday 22nd May 2023
Book your spot
Is a health retreat for you?
Whether it’s a lack of energy, hot flushes, lack of sleep, brain fog or mood swings, let alone aching muscles, dwindling confidence and increased anxieties....symptoms like these can be debilitating both physically and mentally, making day-to-day life much harder to navigate.
Throughout the retreat, you will be guided with expert coaching, cooking workshops, nourishing food, physical challenges and a therapeutic massage, allowing you to experience a healthy and positive lifestyle that truly nurtures you.
This retreat will provide the knowledge and tools so you have a deeper understanding of what’s going on in your body and you’ll leave with a clear idea of what to eat and the best way to support your overall health and lifestyle so you're bolstered to make great choices during the next phase of your life..
Manage your Health, The May Way
Whatever life stage you're at, understanding your needs and managing your health is the key to a happier life. This retreat will equip you with the tools to embrace the changes that lie ahead.
When it comes to menopause, whether you're in the throws of peri- menopause or enjoying life post-menopause, this retreat is not about hormone testing or HRT; we know hormones are low and well aware of replacement medication.
Instead, we want to encourage women to embrace the changes and take control of their bodies, to make adjustments that will positively affect the debilitating symptoms you may be experiencing, whether it’s alongside medication or not.
You’ll leave revived, rejuvenated and re-energised so you can feel liberated to truly thrive in this exciting phase of your life.
“I loved every minute of May’s retreat. It was so relaxing, I felt really looked after and we ate the most amazing, nutritious food. I enjoyed the daily yoga sessions and my massage session was just what I needed. I can’t wait to go back!”
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If you have imagined going on a yoga health retreat but never managed to commit to one in your busy schedule.....
....Now is the time to go for it and book that health retreat you’ve always dreamed of! Join us for this 4-night retreat in the Loire Valley, France.
Exquisite location
This retreat is based at Chateau de la Vigne, a holiday property I have owned and run for the past 20 years.
Built in 1877, set in private lush grounds, our elegant chateau and its two gites are conveniently located between the historic cities of Saumur and Angers in the heart of the Loire Valley; a Unesco world heritage site that is simply stunning!
"Running my first health retreat 8 years ago was an incredible experience both professionally and on a personal level. I urge anyone who is interested in improving their lifestyle and making changes to their health and wellness to prioritise a health retreat in their busy schedules."
A WORD FROM ME!
"Live the life you imagine – you deserve it!”
Whether it’s a family gathering or an adventurous trip of a lifetime, a holiday to me signifies a time when I’m allowed to withdraw from the usual day-to-day activities, break from routine and attempt a period of rest and relaxation, with the aim of resuming my normal lifestyle with vigour and energy 2 weeks later.
Well, that’s the theory but as many of you will agree, long-distance travel, being away from home conveniences and the challenge of another language and culture can mean that your holiday routine and activities are far from restful nor relaxing and you return at the end of a long-awaited holiday without fulfilling the fundamental aim of relaxing and recharging.
A health retreat, however, quite simply offers you the perfect opportunity to do just that; retreat from the day-to-day routines with the sole purpose of focusing on your own health and wellbeing, both mentally and physically.
I do hope you can join me; you won't regret it!
May x
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the health retreat?
- Pre-Retreat Guidance
- Daily Morning & Evening Yoga/Pilates Sessions
- Daily Exercise Activity Sessions
- Therapeutic Massage
- Cookery/Nutrition/Personal Development Workshops
- Delicious Healthy Meals/Snacks/Juices/Smoothies
- 4 Nights Luxury Accommodation with Ensuite
- Local Wine Appreciation Vineyard Visit/Tasting
- Post Retreat Follow Up
- Transfers from & to Nantes Airport
What benefits to expect from this retreat?
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You’ll learn what to eat and why?
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You’ll learn how to cook healthy nourishing food.
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You’ll learn what to wear as your body changes and why?
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You’ll learn how to make the best of your body shape and regain your confidence.
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You’ll learn how to embrace colour to account for natural changes in hair colour, skin tone and eye brightness that come with age.
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You’ll kickstart an exercise regime and leave feeling energised and motivated to continue.
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You’ll initiate a healthier way of eating and leave with the knowledge and tools to achieve your health goals.
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You’ll meet like-minded women in a safe and nurturing environment.
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You’ll regain your mojo!
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You’ll reduce your stress levels, work through your anxieties and leave bolstered with a new understanding of this phase.
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You’ll feel re-balanced and calmer.
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You’ll sleep better.
When is the next yoga health retreat?
Due to a busy schedule at the Chateau and both May and Jamie's availability, there are no plans to run another yoga retreat in 2023. Next one will be in 2024!
Where do we stay?
This is an intimate retreat in a historic home! The Chateau is large and luxurious with a rustic chic feel. It has 5 bedrooms- 3 double, 1 twin and 1 four-bedded room – all ensuite. The top floor has a very large king bedroom with ensuite bathroom/separate shower, plus a four-bedded sharing room, with ensuite shower room. On the middle floor, there is a double room with ensuite bathroom, another double room and a twin room, both with ensuite shower rooms. The reception rooms downstairs are spacious and well furnished; perfect for large groups! All the rooms are beautiful and well furnished and accommodation will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
What if I am not sure it is the right retreat for me?
You’re welcome to email me at may@simpkin.com with any questions or concerns whether this is the right retreat for you.
If you’re struggling to motivate yourself or your health regime is a little haphazard, a health retreat is a perfect opportunity to kick start a healthy lifestyle!
What is not included?
Flights & Travel insurance
How much does it cost?
The 4-night retreat costs £1450pp – all-inclusive OR £1250pp for 2 sharing
These retreats offer exceptional value and spots are limited – don’t miss out!
A £250 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot and payment plans are available.
Full payment will be required 8 weeks prior to arrival.
Do you have to be good at yoga?
This retreat is open to all levels of yogis from beginners to long-time enthusiasts. Our expert instructor, Jamie Blowers runs renowned teacher training courses and has years of experience behind him; you’ll know you’re in good hands within seconds!
How do I get there?
The easiest way? Fly into Nantes airport from London Gatwick* and we’ll pick you up.
We will arrange transfers for the flights listed below, so feel free to go ahead and book these once you’ve confirmed your spot.
Thursday 18th May 2023
EasyJet Depart London Gatwick (GTW) 11:05 Arrives Nantes (NTE) 13:30
Monday 22nd May 2023
EasyJet Depart Nantes (NTE) 13:35 Arrive London Gatwick (GTW) 13:55
The Paris option?
Take the Eurostar to Paris Gare to Nord and then the Metro to Paris Montparnasse. From there, take the TGV directly to Angers (St Laud), around 1½ hrs. We will collect you from Angers.
Alternatively, fly to Paris Charles de Gaule and take the train directly from the airport terminal (Roissy) to Angers (St Laud), around 2 hrs. If timings don't suit, you can consider making your way to the Paris Montparnasse for more TGV options to Angers (St Laud)
*Please do get in touch with other flight/travel options and we will do our best to arrange transfers to suit
The car option? Of course, you can always drive; it takes 5 hours from Calais and it’s an easy run all the way through.
What does each day look like?
Keep scrolling down and you will see a sample daily schedule!
What sort of food will we eat?
Keep scrolling down and you will see a sample retreat menu!
Now is the time!
If you’re struggling to motivate yourself or your health regime is a little haphazard, a health retreat is a perfect opportunity to kick start a healthy lifestyle!
- All Categories
- Design
- Marketing
Beautiful Chateau Sett
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Fresh and Vibrant Meals
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Likeminded Company
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Nutrition Coaching
Click, right click or highlight to edit meEXAMPLE DAILY PROGRAMME
We encourage you to participate in this comprehensive programme to ensure maximum benefit is gained during your stay. However, we appreciate you may prefer to opt out of some activities, in which case you are very welcome to do so.
We also include local outings during the afternoon schedule.
|
Time |
Activity |
Where |
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08:00 - 08:30 |
Morning Smoothie |
Chateau |
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08:30 – 09:45 |
Yoga |
Studio |
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10:00 – 10:45 |
Revitalising Breakfast |
Chateau |
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11:00 – 12:15 |
Cooking Workshop |
Walnut Kitchen |
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12:30 – 13:15 |
Power Walk |
Courtyard |
|
13:30 - 14:15 |
Energising Lunch |
Chateau |
|
14:15 - 17:30 |
Personal Time |
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17:00 - 17:30 |
Afternoon tea |
|
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17:30 - 18:30 |
Yoga |
Studio |
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18:30 – 19:30 |
Personal Time |
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19:30 – 21:30 |
Dinner |
Chateau |
|
After Dinner |
Evening Personal Development/Reflection |
Salon |
HEALTH RETREAT SAMPLE MENU
Post-Yoga ENERGISER
Energy Booster Smoothie
Revitalising BREAKFAST
Cleansing Fresh Juice
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Bircher Muesli served with a selection of toppings
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Selection of Teas & Coffee
Nurturing LUNCH
Artichoke & Avocado Hummus with Grilled Halloumi
Afternoon Tea Boost
Apricot & Coconut Bites
Gourmet DINNER
Prawns with Mango, Avocado & Red Onion Salsa
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Cauliflower Steak with Butterbean Mash and Red Pepper Ketchup
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Cashew Cheesecake with Raspberry Chia Jam
Before Bed
Selection of Sleep Enhancing Teas
Yoga Health Retreat | Loire Valley
“I have just come back from a 4-day retreat lead by May which was both relaxing, informative and fun. May knows everything you might want to learn about nutrition and manages to convey it in a relaxed and fun manner along with lots of ideas for simple, time-efficient recipes. She is brilliant at inspiring others to try and eat and cook in a more healthy way. Thank you.” September 2019
SECURE MY SPOT PLEASE
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- Design
- Marketing
Alfresco Meals
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Exciting Programme
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Power Walks
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Outdoor Exercising
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"Give yourself the break you deserve”
I’ve put together a fantastic schedule, based very closely on my previous years’ highly successful retreats with an expert team and I’m absolutely thrilled to be sharing this dream break with you all.
We’ll practice yoga twice daily, walk or cycle in the peaceful and tranquil French countryside, cook some fabulous recipes together and enjoy delicious healthy meals as well as learn exactly how to make the best of your coming years, naturally.
BOOK MY SPOTRE-JUVENTATE
With a relaxed programme of discussions, activities, massage treatments and lots of friendly advice, we will explore, over the 4 days, what it really means to “eat and I've well” and how to go about doing so in our busy lives.
Learn MoreRE-ENERGISE
This retreat is open to all levels of yogis, from beginners to long-time enthusiasts. Our expert instructor, Jamie Blowers runs renowned teacher training courses and has years of experience behind him; you’ll know you’re in good hands within seconds!
Learn MoreRE-PLENISH
You’ll leave at the end of the retreat with plenty of empowering knowledge, tasty recipe ideas, let alone new friends, as well as a goodie bag and a clear idea of how to embark on and sustain a healthy lifestyle. Moreover, you'll feel accomplished and inspired!
Learn More Hot