"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: An Ecosomatic Retreat
@ 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 the hustle and bustle of modern life. In this retreat, we take time to unplug and connect with the living ecosystems of our bodies and the natural world, to explore and discover more of who we are and what we can be. Tree, sky, rock, and water – all the elements embodied and expressed reflect parts of our being.

Embodying Nature is an experiential, hands-on process developed by Jamie McHugh for expanding and deepening our kinship with the natural world through the medium of our body’s perception and preverbal expression. This user-friendly somatic-expressive practice 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 - the underpinnings of our uniquely human nature. Video overview of the five technologies HERE

Then, we move into relationship with the outer landscape by using a five-part map: contacting, witnessing, mirroring, responding and resting. The combination of the inner somatic practices with the outward facing relational activities redirects the mind into a flow state conducive to expression. Spontaneous movement, intuitive songs, poetic writing and silent contemplations arise out of relaxed attention and lively presence as we connect to place. Article about the process HERE

This autumn retreat with the spectacular colors of the changing trees provides a regenerative oasis for restoring our nature so we can step back into life refreshed, renewed, and restored.

Tuition and Housing: $850 if registered by July 1; $950 if registered by August 1; $1050 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 a shared bathroom.

Food: The main house has a well equipped kitchen. Each person will bring their own food and/or shop at the local market, and collaborate with others as they wish on meals. Jamie will also provide fresh produce from his nearby garden.

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 15, 2025.

Click here for more Embodying Nature workshops

Cabins

Kitchen

Cabins

House from Hill