'Tension is who we think we are, relaxation is who we are' Lao Tzu
Stress is within us and all around us. It is hard to ignore. It seems that stress is in the very fabric of this modern life and it is no wonder so many of us do not feel well.
Our modern lifestyle has escalated so much and has brought us indoors, far from nature and into a structured system of benchmarks and unrealistic expectations. No wonder we are suffering. Diseases of the body and mind have become a normal part of our society and with the growth of digital connectively it seems this global anxiety is only growing stronger.
Our nervous system, which controls our body, is divided into two separate functions: Fight or Flight (The sympathetic system) and Rest and Digest (the para-sympathetic system). Both are necessary, intelligent and essential parts of being alive. The problems start when we spend too much time in ‘fight or flight ‘and the longer we spend there the harder it is to reverse.
Stress, or accurately, excess stress is at the root cause of inflammation. An increasing body of evidence shows that chronic inflammation causes and advances many common diseases (reference).
It is important to know that there are simple, effective and enjoyable practices to access the ‘rest and digest state’. This creates the ideal environment for both body and mind to heal.
Be the change you wish to see in the world – Gandhi
What esoteric practices have shown us is that the body and mind are inherently connected. What happens to one happens to the other too.
Just as we feel stressed, worn out, hopeless and anxious, there is a correlating reaction in the body.
What’s exciting about our modern day technology is that we can study the body in a controlled setting and learn from that how to effect change in the mind. And vice versa. What might seem conceptual, is actually scientifically proven.
Our body and mind wants to heal and is fully capable of it. Chronic stress keeps us in survival mode and nothing functions as optimally as it should. Over longer periods the negative effects on the body and mind become a problem.
Rest. Relaxation. Restorative movement. Sleep. Silence. Nature. Connection to others.
The bedrock of a healthy body and mind. This isn’t the fancy pair of shoes, the special occasion footwear. Rest, deep healing rest is the everyday footwear. The bare bones of a happy and healthy life and the true solution to our busy and stressful lives.
We cannot always change our circumstances, but can change how we respond and react, both mentally and physically. It is time to create new habits, to be who we really are. The best that we can be. A body and mind that functions optimally and in harmony with it’s environment.
At the Cliffs of Moher Retreat we bring you decades of experience among our team of health and wellness professionals. Over the years of running retreats we see that no matter the personal circumstances, whether newly retired or recently graduated – we are all struggling with the same things. It feels like we are all pushing upstream and fighting against the constant current of life.
It is our life’s work to recognize what we all need is to slow down. Rest. Open. Then the healing starts to happen.
We are here to create and to hold that space for you. To guide you into these practices and create the safe, supported environment that is needed for you to let go.
- Prices
Due to the limited number of places on our retreats, deposits are non-refundable for any cancellations within 21 days of the retreat start date. Click here to read our full Terms and Conditions.
All prices are per person, all-inclusive and include all classes, meals, beverages, accommodation, walks, hot-tub and sauna.
Quad Room (female only) €760
Twin – Shared Bathroom €830
Single – Shared Bathroom €960
Twin/Double Ensuite €920
Single Ensuite €1060
- For a detailed description of the rooms please visit our Bedrooms page
- If you are travelling on your own and want one of our shared room options, we can pair you with someone of the same gender.
- Schedule
Monday
Check in anytime after 16:00
Relax, take a walk and partake in a welcome drink and sweet treat with your fellow retreat participants
17:00 Welcome drink and delicious snack
18:00 Healing Restorative Yoga Practice
19:30 Dinner – delicious, healthy fare!
20:30 Guided relaxation
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
07:30 Optional yoga class
08:45 Delicious healthy breakfast buffet
09:30 Silent Ocean or Cliff Walk
11:30 Breath Work and Meditation
12:30 Lunch – lots of yummy healthy food!
Freetime – treatments/sauna or optional sea swim
17:00 Restorative Healing Practice
18:30 Dinner – more lovely homemade healthy food, followed by a delicious healthy dessert
19:30 Guided relaxation
Friday
07:30 Optional yoga class
08:30 Delicious healthy breakfast buffet
09:15 Silent Ocean or Cliff Walk
11:00 Breath work, Meditation and somatic movement practice
12:15 – 12:30 Room Check-out
12:30 Farewell Lunch
During the day tea, coffee and herbal teas will be available at all times
- Check Out Our New Video
- Getting here
Address:
Cliffs of Moher Retreat
Liscannor
Co.Clare
V95 A499
Ph: +353 (0) 86 851 7710
Shannon Airport:
Shannon is our closest airport. You can catch a taxi from the airport directly to the Retreat. To ensure your transfer will be there to meet you, instead of waiting for a taxi at the airport, we recommend contacting Philip O’Dwyer and Tom Dowling who offers competitive rates from Shannon to the Retreat compared to picking up a taxi at the airport. Phillip and Tom can accommodate individuals and groups. To pre-arrange transfers please contact directly at (phone is the preferred method):
Philip:
– Email: thetaxicompany@gmail.com
– Phone: +353 (0) 65 707 5000
– Mobile: +353 (0) 86 606 6761
Tom:
– Phone +353 (0) 86 8346450
Depending on the time of day and number of passengers, a taxi from Shannon costs €80 to €120 each way.
Public Transport:
Bus
Dublin Coach has a great service from Dublin (airport or city centre) to Ennis. Please visit their website for up to date time tables and costs: www.dublincoach.ie
Dublin Coach arrives into the Friars Walk bus park in Ennis. If you’re connecting to the Bus Eireann service it is about a 10 minute walk to the bus depot located at Ennis Train Station.
Bus Eireann run a service (Route 350) from the Ennis train station to Lahinch and Liscannor (close to us). Please visit their website for up to date time tables and costs: www.buseireann.ie
Train
Ennis is our local train station: www.irishrail.ie
Taxi
From Shannon, Ennis, Lahinch or Liscannor to the retreat. To pre-arrange transfers please contact the taxis companies directly:
Philip:
– Email: thetaxicompany@gmail.com
– Phone: +353 (0) 65 707 5000
– Mobile: +353 (0) 86 606 6761
Tom:
– Phone +353 (0) 86 8346450
Car Rental:
Renting a car is the easiest way to get around Ireland – we are a small island! It will mean you can make the most of this amazing area and take in all the fantastic sights while you are here without relying on taxis or public transport.
Cars can easily be rented from both Shannon and Dublin airports.
Dublin airport to the Retreat: 3 – 3.5 hours
Shannon airport to the Retreat: 1 hour
Directions from Lahinch:
Eircode for SatNav: V95 A499
We are 7kms from Lahinch driving straight out on the road to the Cliffs of Moher. As you enter Lahinch follow the signs for the Cliffs of Moher and Liscannor (it’s a right turn before you come into the main street of the village).
Drive along that road, with the golf course on your left. After 4 kms you will reach Liscannor Village. Continue driving through Liscannor Village. After another 3kms turn left, just before The Rock Shop (which is on the right side of the road). After 200 metres you will reach a crossroads, turn right. Continue up the road for approximately 750metres, we are the third property on the left, you will drive up a long driveway and we will be waiting for you there!
Map
- Common Questions
