"Moving into the Light" A surf and movement therapy retreat in honor of the summer solstice
"Moving into the Light" A surf and movement therapy retreat in honor of the summer solstice
Sligo Sea Barn, Ballymuldorry, Ballinfull, County Sligo, Ireland
Up to 9 in group
June 20 - 24, 2025
Retreat Highlights
- "Light Moves" Led by J'aime Morrision PhD, these sessions invites us to explore embodied movement through guided meditation, improvisation, and celebratory dance, allowing our bodies to lead us into new ways of knowing. Accompanied by traditional Irish Sean Nós singing in the Irish language, we will cultivate deep listening, exploring the dynamics of presence, connection, and attunement through movement and sound. As we bask in the summer solstice light, we will sync with the rhythms of the earth to ignite and illuminate our own radiance.
- Holistic surfing- We will join up with the first female-led surf school in Ireland Rebelle Surf, where they create an inclusive, joyful space that honors and welcomes everyone. With gentle waves perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers, our sessions will bring connection to ourselves.
- Ritual- Ireland, a land rich in ancient tradition and magic, provides the perfect backdrop for our Summer Solstice gathering, a time of abundance, light, and divine connection. We will honor ancient Irish rituals, including Bonfire Night, celebrating the turning of the seasons with a seaside bonfire in reverence to the Celtic goddess Áine, who guides us toward deeper connection with the land and the divine. Through these sacred rituals, we will embrace the solstice’s magic, fostering a sense of ceremony, gratitude, and belonging.
- Relaxation- We will immerse ourselves in a luxurious, steaming bath of wild, organic seaweed harvested on the Irish Atlantic coast at Voya Spa. Together we will enjoy the soothing and rejuvenating benefits of this natural, sea-inspired ritual.
- Connection- We aim to cultivate a container for expression and meaningful connections through waves of grief.
About this Retreat
Kelsey Ellis is a surf therapy provider, grief counselor, and ocean-loving Pisces. She is the founder of the Waves of Grief Collective and the Audrey Marie Ellis Foundation. Kelsey draws from her own personal grief journey and professional expertise in trauma recovery to lead nature-based programs that help individuals and communities navigate grief through creative expression and a deep connection to nature.
This retreat marks Kelsey’s third visit to Ireland, a place that holds a special place in her heart. Having grown up as a competitive Irish dancer, some of her fondest childhood memories come from her time spent surfing the Irish coast after workshops. For Kelsey, Ireland has always been a magical place, full of beauty and healing, and she is excited to share this experience with others.
Kelsey has been featured in National Geographic & Gal Gadot's IMPACT series and is a proud recipient of the Jefferson Award for community change. She has also led grief healing programs for U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and his team. Her Waves of Grief™ programs are grounded in somatic and eco-therapy-based modalities and constructivist loss theories, offering a unique, non-traditional space where participants can honor their loss and find comfort in nature.
Kelsey is deeply committed to the power of authentic expression, community connection, and mama ocean to bring about healing.
J’aime Morrison, Ph.D. is a Professor of Movement at California State University, Northridge where she teaches somatic theory, choreographic practice and all levels of movement for performance. She was a Fulbright Scholar in Movement to Lisbon, Portugal, and recently served as the Keynote speaker at the annual HEAL (Health, Environment, Arts and Literature) symposium at the University of Oviedo, Spain. She brings a wealth of knowledge of various dance forms and traditions to her classes and her approach to teaching movement is informed by her love of all forms of physical expression.
J’aime earned her Master’s Degree in Theatre from University College Dublin in Ireland and was awarded an International Fellowship from Americans for the Arts to Belfast, Northern Ireland. She recently led a workshop at University College Cork that involved a movement-based exploration of The Furies, which she is adapting for the stage. Following her Irish roots J’aime lived in Ireland for several years while attending UCD and fell in love with Irish culture; from lively music sessions, to heartbreaking Irish dramas, to native poetry and songs from the west of Ireland. She has contributed essays to several books on Irish culture and was a member of the Irish modern dance company, New Balance, directed by Adrienne Kennedy. She travels to Ireland often and is very excited to be co-hosting this retreat in one of her favorite places in Ireland.
As an active participant and contributor to organizations that are bringing conversations on grief to wider audiences, Professor Morrison as led grief movement workshops for Camp Widow, Hope for Widows, Reimagine, UCLA Arts and Healing Initiative, Our House Bereavement Center and this year’s upcoming Endwell conference on end-of-life care, grief, and caregiving. She has been featured on the popular podcast Grief is a Sneaky Bitch, and was interviewed on the subject of movement and mourning for the book of the same title.
Details of this retreat
Join us for a transformative retreat as we celebrate the earth’s return to longer, light-filled days at the Summer Solstice. This magical time of year invites us to illuminate our own glimmers of light, and what better place to do so than amidst Ireland's sacred mountains and wild, rhythm-filled waves? Led by Waves of Grief Founder Kelsey Ellis MA and Mourning Surf founder Dr. Jamie Morrison, PhD, this retreat is a soulful blend of adventure, healing, and celebration.
Throughout our time together, we’ll honor the waves of grief we carry while embracing the beauty of renewal. As we gather and dance among Ireland's ancient lands, we’ll invite both our light and our grief to surface, holding space for healing and transformation. We’ll honor ancient Irish traditions, including a seaside bonfire ritual to honor the Celtic goddess Áine, the goddess of sun, love, and fertility. Our days will flow between surfing in the vibrant waters of Strandhill, hiking mystical fairy trails, and restoring body and soul with seaweed baths at Voya Spa. You’ll experience deep connection through restorative movement, accompanied by live traditional Irish singing, while indulging in delicious farm-to-table meals that nourish the body as much as the spirit.
This retreat is an invitation to dance with the elements, honor what we’ve lost, and return to our center. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or spiritual renewal, this is a rare opportunity to embrace the magic of Ireland while illuminating your own inner light.
Throughout our time together, we’ll honor the waves of grief we carry while embracing the beauty of renewal. As we gather and dance among Ireland's ancient lands, we’ll invite both our light and our grief to surface, holding space for healing and transformation. We’ll honor ancient Irish traditions, including a seaside bonfire ritual to honor the Celtic goddess Áine, the goddess of sun, love, and fertility. Our days will flow between surfing in the vibrant waters of Strandhill, hiking mystical fairy trails, and restoring body and soul with seaweed baths at Voya Spa. You’ll experience deep connection through restorative movement, accompanied by live traditional Irish singing, while indulging in delicious farm-to-table meals that nourish the body as much as the spirit.
This retreat is an invitation to dance with the elements, honor what we’ve lost, and return to our center. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or spiritual renewal, this is a rare opportunity to embrace the magic of Ireland while illuminating your own inner light.
Schedule
Friday, June 20th
Arrival & Immersion in Irish Spirit
Welcome Gathering: Meet your fellow retreat participants and dive into an inspiring presentation on the rich history and culture of Ireland, setting the stage for the transformative days ahead.
Welcome Dinner: A delicious, vegetarian feast to nourish and connect, celebrating the start of our shared journey.
Oceanside Opening Ritual: Gather by the sea for a grounding ritual, where we’ll build altars and engage in intention-setting journaling, guided by Kelsey. This sacred moment will open the space for what’s to come.
Saturday, June 21st
Summer Solstice: Celebration of Light and Connection
Breakfast: Start your day with a self-service breakfast at the charming Sea Barn, overlooking the stunning Irish landscape.
Surf Session at Rebelle Surf: Embrace the power of the ocean with a surf session at Strandhill, guided by the expert team at Rebelle Surf.
Lunch: Enjoy a light, nourishing meal at a cozy local café in Strandhill.
Rest & Reflect: Take time to rest, reflect, and soak in the serene surroundings.
Fairy Walk & Land Tour: Embark on a guided walk through enchanted woodlands with Des, discovering the ancient spirit of the land and its mystical fairy folklore.
Dinner: A hearty vegetarian meal at Sea Barn, lovingly prepared to nurture body and soul.
Tractor Ride to the Pub: End the evening with a charming tractor ride to a local pub, where you can enjoy the warmth of Irish hospitality.
Sunday, June 22nd
Honoring Goddess Áine: Bonfire Celebration
Breakfast: Begin your day with a self-service breakfast at Sea Barn, setting the tone for another inspiring day.
Excursion to Sacred Sites: Visit the home of the iconic W.B. Yeats, Queen Meabh’s Cairn, and the majestic Ben Bulben—ancient sites rich in Irish mythology and breathtaking beauty.
Restorative Movement with Live Music: Reconnect with your body and spirit in a restorative movement session at Sea Barn, led by J’aime and accompanied by live music to deepen the experience.
Ocean Dip: Invigorate your senses with a refreshing ocean dip, honoring the elements of water and air.
Elegant Dinner: Enjoy an organic, full-course meal catered by a talented local chef in a candlelit, intimate setting.
Monday, June 23rd
Embodying the Elements: Surf, Sea, and Sacred Fire
Breakfast: A nourishing self-service breakfast at Sea Barn to fuel your day of adventure.
Surf Session at Rebelle Surf: Ride the waves again, this time deepening your connection to the ocean and the flow of life.
Lunch: A wholesome vegan meal in town to energize you after your morning surf.
Seaweed Baths at Voya Spa: Rejuvenate with the ancient Irish tradition of seaweed baths at Voya Spa, a luxurious, restorative experience that connects you to the healing properties of the ocean.
Rest & Reflect: Take time to relax and integrate the experiences of the day.
Dinner: A cozy dinner at Sea Barn, followed by a soul-warming bonfire on the beach.
Closing Ceremony: Come together for a powerful closing ceremony and ritual, honoring the sacred space we've created and the journey we’ve shared.
Tuesday, June 24th
Final Breakfast & Departure
Closing Breakfast: Enjoy your final breakfast at Sea Barn, savoring the moments of connection and reflection.
Checkout: Depart by 10am, carrying with you the light, magic, and transformations from this unforgettable retreat experience.
Arrival & Immersion in Irish Spirit
Welcome Gathering: Meet your fellow retreat participants and dive into an inspiring presentation on the rich history and culture of Ireland, setting the stage for the transformative days ahead.
Welcome Dinner: A delicious, vegetarian feast to nourish and connect, celebrating the start of our shared journey.
Oceanside Opening Ritual: Gather by the sea for a grounding ritual, where we’ll build altars and engage in intention-setting journaling, guided by Kelsey. This sacred moment will open the space for what’s to come.
Saturday, June 21st
Summer Solstice: Celebration of Light and Connection
Breakfast: Start your day with a self-service breakfast at the charming Sea Barn, overlooking the stunning Irish landscape.
Surf Session at Rebelle Surf: Embrace the power of the ocean with a surf session at Strandhill, guided by the expert team at Rebelle Surf.
Lunch: Enjoy a light, nourishing meal at a cozy local café in Strandhill.
Rest & Reflect: Take time to rest, reflect, and soak in the serene surroundings.
Fairy Walk & Land Tour: Embark on a guided walk through enchanted woodlands with Des, discovering the ancient spirit of the land and its mystical fairy folklore.
Dinner: A hearty vegetarian meal at Sea Barn, lovingly prepared to nurture body and soul.
Tractor Ride to the Pub: End the evening with a charming tractor ride to a local pub, where you can enjoy the warmth of Irish hospitality.
Sunday, June 22nd
Honoring Goddess Áine: Bonfire Celebration
Breakfast: Begin your day with a self-service breakfast at Sea Barn, setting the tone for another inspiring day.
Excursion to Sacred Sites: Visit the home of the iconic W.B. Yeats, Queen Meabh’s Cairn, and the majestic Ben Bulben—ancient sites rich in Irish mythology and breathtaking beauty.
Restorative Movement with Live Music: Reconnect with your body and spirit in a restorative movement session at Sea Barn, led by J’aime and accompanied by live music to deepen the experience.
Ocean Dip: Invigorate your senses with a refreshing ocean dip, honoring the elements of water and air.
Elegant Dinner: Enjoy an organic, full-course meal catered by a talented local chef in a candlelit, intimate setting.
Monday, June 23rd
Embodying the Elements: Surf, Sea, and Sacred Fire
Breakfast: A nourishing self-service breakfast at Sea Barn to fuel your day of adventure.
Surf Session at Rebelle Surf: Ride the waves again, this time deepening your connection to the ocean and the flow of life.
Lunch: A wholesome vegan meal in town to energize you after your morning surf.
Seaweed Baths at Voya Spa: Rejuvenate with the ancient Irish tradition of seaweed baths at Voya Spa, a luxurious, restorative experience that connects you to the healing properties of the ocean.
Rest & Reflect: Take time to relax and integrate the experiences of the day.
Dinner: A cozy dinner at Sea Barn, followed by a soul-warming bonfire on the beach.
Closing Ceremony: Come together for a powerful closing ceremony and ritual, honoring the sacred space we've created and the journey we’ve shared.
Tuesday, June 24th
Final Breakfast & Departure
Closing Breakfast: Enjoy your final breakfast at Sea Barn, savoring the moments of connection and reflection.
Checkout: Depart by 10am, carrying with you the light, magic, and transformations from this unforgettable retreat experience.
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
Waves of Grief Collective, Sligo Sea Barn, Ballymuldorry, Ballinfull, County Sligo, Ireland
Directions
Our retreat center is nestled in the serene beauty of County Sligo, offering the perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Here’s how to find us:
From Dublin:
By Car:
The drive from Dublin to the retreat center takes about 3 hours.
Travel northwest on the M4 motorway and continue on the N4 toward Sligo.
Follow the signs to Ballinful and Ballymulderry. The journey is scenic, but we highly recommend taking the train for an even more enjoyable trip.
By Train (Highly Recommended):
Duration: Approximately 3 hours from Heuston Station in Dublin to Sligo.
Why take the train? The train ride from Dublin to Sligo is a delightful experience, offering some of the most stunning views of the Irish countryside. As you journey through rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of majestic mountains and tranquil lakes, you'll feel the stress of daily life melt away. The train is comfortable, easy to navigate, and provides the perfect introduction to the peace and beauty that await you at the retreat.
Once you arrive at Sligo Train Station, we will be there to pick you up and bring you directly to the retreat center. It’s a quick 20-minute ride, and we’ll ensure you have a smooth, stress-free transfer.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, located about 1 hour from the retreat center.
Alternatively, Dublin Airport is about a 3-hour drive away. If you fly into Dublin, we recommend the scenic train journey to Sligo—it's the perfect way to start your retreat experience.
We highly encourage the train ride—it’s not just a way to get here, but an essential part of your journey to peace and relaxation. And with our convenient pick-up service from Sligo Train Station, you’ll arrive at the retreat center feeling relaxed and ready to unwind.
From Dublin:
By Car:
The drive from Dublin to the retreat center takes about 3 hours.
Travel northwest on the M4 motorway and continue on the N4 toward Sligo.
Follow the signs to Ballinful and Ballymulderry. The journey is scenic, but we highly recommend taking the train for an even more enjoyable trip.
By Train (Highly Recommended):
Duration: Approximately 3 hours from Heuston Station in Dublin to Sligo.
Why take the train? The train ride from Dublin to Sligo is a delightful experience, offering some of the most stunning views of the Irish countryside. As you journey through rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of majestic mountains and tranquil lakes, you'll feel the stress of daily life melt away. The train is comfortable, easy to navigate, and provides the perfect introduction to the peace and beauty that await you at the retreat.
Once you arrive at Sligo Train Station, we will be there to pick you up and bring you directly to the retreat center. It’s a quick 20-minute ride, and we’ll ensure you have a smooth, stress-free transfer.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, located about 1 hour from the retreat center.
Alternatively, Dublin Airport is about a 3-hour drive away. If you fly into Dublin, we recommend the scenic train journey to Sligo—it's the perfect way to start your retreat experience.
We highly encourage the train ride—it’s not just a way to get here, but an essential part of your journey to peace and relaxation. And with our convenient pick-up service from Sligo Train Station, you’ll arrive at the retreat center feeling relaxed and ready to unwind.
Accommodation
We offer either shared or private rooms
Program Price - Double Occupancy
Program Price - Single Occupancy
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
Home away from home- Experience the luxury of Sligo Sea Barn, owned by local couple who will make us feel like part of the family. Located right on the coast, this retreat offers both shared and private room options, each spacious and designed for ultimate comfort. It's the perfect place to connect with others or enjoy some quiet downtime for yourself. A private path leads to the sea, inviting you to soak in the beauty of the Irish coast and unwind. With local organic amenities and a welcoming
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Savor local, seasonal and nourishing vegetarian meals crafted by our personal chef. We are happy to cater to your needs.
What's Included
- 4 nights of accommodation at Sligo Sea Barn directly at the coast
- Nourishing (except 1 lunch in town): dinner and lunch are vegetarian and homemade and for breakfast there will be a self-serving option
- All Surfing lessons & experiences with Rebelle Surf including board & wetsuit
- Transportation to and from surfing & excursions
- All group activities
- Somatic movement Workshops
- Group Ritual
- Spa Seaweed wrap experience
- Cultural immersion-Fairy Walk on the land
- holis Surfing & excursions
What's Not Included
- Not included- Travel costs to and from Sligo, Ireland, additional insurance, alcoholic beverages & if desired