Retreat Overview
Are you navigating loss or a major life transition?
Finding space and time to process grief in a way that feels both supportive and healing can be a real challenge.
Set against Devon’s beautiful coastline, our ‘Working with Grief Retreat’ combines a unique blend of trauma-sensitive practices, including surfing, restorative practices, and psycho-educational workshops, designed to help you process grief in both mind and body.
Between sessions, take a moment to reflect, connect, or simply enjoy the calming surroundings. Explore nature, unwind in peaceful spaces, and savor nourishing meals, all included to support your healing journey. This retreat provides a holistic approach to grief work – offering tools and insights not often found in traditional support settings.
Why Attend
This retreat is designed for those navigating the
complex journey of grief, offering a compassionate space
to heal and find peace:
- Discover tools to process and release the pain of loss with compassion and understanding.
- Cultivate resilience to cope with the emotional waves of grief and find moments of calm.
- Gain clarity, learning how to integrate grief into your life moving forward.
- Explore healing practices that encourage self-compassion.
- Experience a supportive environment where your grief is honoured, and your healing journey is nurtured.
What's included?
- Comfortable accommodation and nourishing meals to support your journey
- Daily surf lessons with expert instructors to help you connect with the waves
- Movement and mindfulness sessions to calm your mind and restore your body
- Specialised psycho-education workshops to build understanding and confidence
- Pre- and post-retreat support to guide you every step of the way
- Transportation during the retreat so you can relax and focus on healing
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Travel costs
- Additional treatments
- Additional activities not included in the itinerary
Everyday Practice
Movement Practice
Grief can disconnect us from our bodies, leaving us feeling out of touch with ourselves. Start your day with gentle movement to rebuild that connection, releasing tension and fostering openness, confidence, and resilience. These guided sessions create a foundation for healing and growth, setting a restorative tone for the day ahead.
Psycho Education
Understand your grief on a deeper level. In our psycho-education workshops, led by psychologist Josh, you will explore the emotional and psychological sides of grief, helping you to process and heal. These workshops provide valuable insights and practical tools for navigating your grief, and gaining a sense of direction.
Surfing
Embrace the healing power of the ocean as you surf, a practice that taps into the flow state – a focused, present moment where healing can unfold. Surfing allows you to connect with the rhythm of the waves, providing a powerful metaphor for navigating the ebb and flow of grief. It helps bring clarity and offers a unique way to process emotions and experience personal transformation.
Group Connection
Healing happens in a community. Group work offers the chance to connect with others who understand. In a safe and caring space, you’ll share experiences, build meaningful connections, and support one another’s healing journeys.
Restorative Practices
Through Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) or guided meditation, you will relax, reflect, and integrate the insights gained throughout the day. This practice aids in emotional processing and helping you leave feeling centered and prepared for continued healing and growth.
Our retreats follow a daily itinerary:
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Friday
3pm onwards – Check In
4pm – Psycho-education Workshop – What is Resilience?
5.30 – 6.30pm – Yoga & Mindfulness
7:30pm – Dinner
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Saturday
7.15 am – Optional Movement
8am – Breakfast
9am – Psycho-education Workshop – Positive Emotions
10.30am – 12.30 pm Surf lessons
1.30pm – Lunch
3.30pm-5.30pm – Experiential Group Therapy
6-7pm – Yoga & Mindfulness
7:30pm – Dinner
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Sunday
7.15 am – Optional Movement
8am – Breakfast
9am – Psycho-education Workshop – Flow
10.30am – 12.30 pm Surf lessons
1.30pm – Lunch
3.30pm – 5.30pm – Experiential Group Therapy
6-7pm – Yoga/Mindfulness
7:30pm – Dinner
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Monday
7.15 am – Optional Movement
8am – Breakfast
9am – Experiential Leaving Exercise
10.30am – 12.30 pm Surf lessons
1.30pm – Lunch
3pm – Check Out
Where you'll stay
Location: Holwell, Devon
Devon’s rolling hills and rugged coastline provide a supportive setting to navigate the complexities of grief. With Woolacombe Beach’s renowned surf just a short drive away and endless natural beauty to explore, this retreat offers space to reflect, connect, and begin the journey toward healing.
Spend your days surfing as a form of mindfulness, walking quiet trails, or simply breathing in the calm of the natural surroundings. Devon’s tranquil landscapes provide a nurturing environment to process grief, find clarity, and take meaningful steps forward.
Accommodation: Holwell
Located in the peaceful Devon countryside, Holwell offers, a tranquil setting that offers a calm space for rest and reflection. The historic farmhouse provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere, inviting you to unwind and reconnect. The eco-renovated wellness barn features a heated studio designed for yoga, meditation, and deep relaxation. With its rustic charm and modern comforts, Holwell offers an ideal environment for reflection and rejuvenation.
All rooms are full board, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and refreshments.
Josh Dickson
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Read bio
Josh Dickson, the founder of Resurface, leads our retreats and guides clients on their journey of self-discovery and growth. With his unique talent for delivering psycho-education and group therapy, Josh creates a profound impact, fostering a deep sense of trust and safety. His authentic approach and expertise ensure that every individual feels supported and understood.
As a leading psychologist specialising in trauma and recovery, Josh draws on over 15 years of experience in positive psychology—the science of human flourishing. His dedication and skill in guiding clients from surviving to thriving make him a seasoned expert who delivers incredible results. At Resurface, Josh’s compassionate and effective methods help individuals overcome challenges and achieve lasting transformation.
MSc., EMDR (acc.), EMDR Consultant, Clinical Director.
FAQ
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When does the retreat start and finish?
Guests arrive the afternoon/evening of the Friday (dinner is provided). The first day of therapeutic activity is the Saturday.
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Do I have to know how to surf?
Not at all. We welcome people of all abilities from complete beginners to seasoned professionals. Most people come without knowing how to surf.
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Do I need to rent surf equipment?
No, all equipment is provided. Before the retreat starts we will contact you to measure up wetsuits and any other surf needs you might have. We have an array of soft and hardboards for you to use.
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Do I Need Insurance?
Yes. All participants need travel insurance to attend the retreats. Surfing is usually included in all travel insurance policies.
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Do I have to share a room?
Although sharing a room isn’t compulsory, it is highly recommended. There is limited availability for single room occupancy and the price is higher. Sharing rooms is encouraged as this allows for greater bonding, a sense of connection and community, and allows you to off load in a more intimate way at the end of the day. We take great care in selecting appropriate room-mates and do our best to suit your needs.
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Is there an age limit for attending the programme?
Yes, participants must be 18 or over unless accompanied by an adult.
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What is your drink and drug policy?
We ask that people refrain from drinking or any form of using on the retreats to create a safe place for people to recover. If you are doing anything illegal we have the right to ask you to leave.
Working with Grief Retreat - 09 – 12 May, 2025 (3 days)
From: £1,090 Book now