"When we speak of Nature it is wrong to forget that we are ourselves a part of Nature. We ought to view ourselves with the same curiosity and openness with which we study a tree, the sky or a thought, because we too are linked to the entire universe." - Henri Matisse

Embodying Nature @ Shantigar, Rowe, MA
October 3-8, 2025

We are members of the natural world, microcosms of the outer landscape who can easily forget our wild nature and our place in Creation. In this retreat, we take time to immerse ourselves in the living dreamscape of our bodies and the natural world to remember, to explore and discover more of who we are and what we can be. Tree, sky, rock, and water – all the elements reflect parts of our being that can be embodied and expressed.

Embodying Nature is an experiential, hands-on process developed by Jamie McHugh for expanding and deepening our kinship with the natural world through the preverbal medium of our body’s perception and expression. This somatic-expressive practice is simple, inclusive and easy to understand and has been taught to various groups worldwide over the past 30 years. 

Each day begins by settling into our inner landscape with the five somatic technologies of breath, vocalization, contact, movement and stillness. Overview of the five technologies here: https://player.vimeo.com/video/170979436

Then, we move into relationship with the outer landscape by contacting, witnessing, mirroring, responding and resting. The combination of the somatic practices with these relational activities generates a flow state conducive to a creative stream of spontaneous dances, intuitive songs, and silent contemplations that connect us to place. And embodying relaxed attention and lively presence to meet, become, and cherish the land provides a regenerative oasis for stepping back into one’s life – refreshed, renewed, and restored.

Tuition and Housing: $800 if registered by June 1;  $900 after (if space is still available – max group size 12 participants)

Course begins at 7pm on October 3 and ends at noon on October 8

Housing: Shantigar is a large old farmhouse with a movement studio and additional cabins. Each room is single occupancy with shared bathrooms.

Food: Each person will bring their own food and/or shop at the local market, and collaborate with others as they wish on meals. The main house has a well equipped kitchen.

Registration: Send an email to Jamie with info about yourself and any prior experience with somatic / contemplative / expressive arts. Upon acceptance, a $100 non-refundable deposit will hold your place. The balance of payment is due August 1, 2025.

Click here for more Embodying Nature workshops

Cabins

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Cabins

House from Hill