Through my work as an acupuncturist, I have become deeply aware of the many ways tension and pressure can manifest as constriction and discomfort within the body. Sometimes this presents as chronic muscular holding, stiffness, or pain that settles into the back and shoulders. At other times, it appears more subtly: a persistent sense of bracing for what comes next, an undercurrent of anxiety or vigilance, or an embodied habit of folding inward beneath the weight of life's demands simply to keep moving forward.
These patterns often become so familiar that we scarcely notice them, yet they shape how we feel, move, breathe, and experience ourselves in the world.
Over time, we can become like a river narrowed by its banks…still flowing, still carrying on, but with less space, ease, and capacity than feels comfortable. We become so skilful at holding ourselves together that we may scarcely notice the body’s experience of tension or constriction. Beneath the surface there often lies a longing for greater spaciousness and connection.
Acupuncture is a wonderfully elegant way of softening the tightness and tension that contribute to pain, creating breathing space within and around areas of constriction. It is one of the many reasons I continue to cherish this practice after so many years of working with it.
Yet sometimes more is needed. Sometimes we need the opportunity to step away from the demands of daily life and set down a little of what we have been carrying for a while, whether that is from work, our personal lives, or the wider context in which these tensions unfold.
It is from this understanding that I felt drawn to bring together my experience as an Acupuncturist, Yoga and Qi Gong teacher, in collaboration with a friend and professional artist, Ione Harrison, to co-create Omara Retreats, which combine Watercolour painting, Yoga, and Qi Gong as practices to foster wellbeing. Together, we create a supportive environment where participants can slow down, reconnect with themselves, and discover renewed space, balance, and inspiration through movement, creativity and connection with nature.
We have already hosted two successful retreats in Kerala and Andalucía, each offering a nourishing and enriching experience for those who attended. Building on the warmth and positive response to these gatherings, we are now excited to be planning our first UK-based and Alpine retreat in the near future.
In a world that rarely pauses, both mindful movement and creative practices, such as Qi Gong and watercolour painting, offer a space in which the boundaries that have formed around us can begin to soften and widen. They invite us to step away from the pressures and routines, slow down and reconnect with aspects of ourselves that are often overlooked amid the demands of daily life. Through movement, breath, colour, and creative expression, it becomes possible to nurture a greater sense of ease, allowing us to breathe more deeply, move more freely, and reconnect with the fuller flow of who we are.
Time spent in natural surroundings, engaged in creative and contemplative practices, can offer a valuable counterbalance to the pace of modern living. Whether through art, yoga, Qi Gong, or simply moments of quiet reflection, such experiences provide an opportunity to restore a sense of connection to ourselves, to others, and to the natural world around us.
The landscapes of Andalucia, Spain, with their open skies, mountains, and particular quality of light, provide a particularly supportive setting for this process, inviting a slower rhythm and a deeper engagement with both inner and outer experience.
Surrounded by natural beauty, this retreat invites you to slow your pace, breathe deeply, and rediscover a sense of balance. Daily tailored accessible yoga and Qi Gong practices cultivate presence, vitality, and inner calm, while guided art sessions provide space for self-expression, reflection, and exploration. No previous experience is required, only a willingness to be present and open to the experience.
Whether creating from inspiration found in nature, or resting in meditation, each moment is designed to nurture your wellbeing and awaken a different kind of connection to yourself; an opportunity to release stress, restore energy, and return home feeling refreshed, grounded, and inspired.
If you’re interested in finding out more, or joining us for our next retreat, in September 2026 or April 2027, please visit: https://www.ioneharrison.co.uk.
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Testimonials
Ione and Nicky’s Kerala retreat was truly exceptional and exceeded our expectations in so many ways. Teams from both the UK and India had clearly worked hard together to ensure everything was thoughtfully and professionally organised, allowing participants to relax completely and immerse themselves in the experience.
What stood out most was how genuinely inclusive the retreat was. Whether completely new to watercolour painting, yoga, qi gong, or with years of experience, we all felt supported and encouraged. Teaching was sensitive and adaptable, so no one ever felt out of their depth but instead saw their confidence and creativity grow throughout.
The way Ione and Nicky brought the group together was remarkable. There was a real sense of connection and shared joy, fostered effortlessly through the structure of the days and the generous, open spirit of them both. By the end of the week, we felt like a small community, jokes were shared and friendships forged.
What a wonderful retreat, with really friendly people and lovely leaders. The setting of the retreat (in Kerala) made it exceptional. Yoga and Qi Gong (new to many) provided the opportunity for movement and quietness, and the water colour painting sessions were so helpful to learn how water colour works and various techniques, which resulted in paintings to take away. Great for beginners like me. Thank you so much Ione and Nicky for a thoroughly enjoyable retreat! Loved it so much, I’m rebooking for next year with my sisters!
