Nurture with Nature: An Immersive Ecotherapy Weekend

In a time of constant pressure, distraction, and stress, it’s easy to become disconnected—from our bodies, the natural world, and what really matters.

Join us at Yogaville for Nurture with Nature– an nature therapy weekend retreat designed to help you slow down, unplug, and come home to nature and yourself.

The retreat will be led by Dr. Dorothy Ibes– a nationally recognized scholar, William & Mary professor, author, and certified ecotherapy guide whose work centers on healing our relationship with nature, and through this, deepen our connection to ourselves, each other, and our planet.

The weekend will engage participants in both intellectual exploration and embodied experiences of ecotherapy, drawing on Ibes’ nearly 20 years of experience and expertise. Transformative, evidence-based, nature-centered practices will guide you to:

Ground into your body and the present moment
Deeply open to the sacred land of Yogaville
Strengthen your relationship with nature
Cultivate a reciprocal connection with the natural world
Share space and insight with a supportive community

Through guided practices like Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), mindfulness walks, eco-art, journaling, group sharing, solo time in nature, and more, this retreat offers space to slow down, reflect, and re-attune to the primal, healing wisdom of the Earth.

Whether you are new to nature therapy or already feel a deep bond with the Earth, this experience welcomes you just as you are—to yourself, to the natural beauty of Yogaville, and to a supportive circle of fellow travelers.

You’ll leave with a personal ecotherapy “toolbox,” renewed clarity, and a grounded sense of peace that extends well beyond the weekend.
What to Expect:

Reconnection with Nature: Expect to slow down, unplug, and reawaken your innate connection to the Earth and your inner self.
Sensory Awakening: You’ll engage in somatic practices that attune your senses to the subtle rhythms of wind, light, sound, and scent.
Creative Nature Expression: Be guided in intuitive eco-art sessions, using natural materials to give voice to the feelings and insights stirred by the land.
Mindful Presence: Experience grounding practices like Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), mindfulness walks, and solo time in nature to cultivate deep presence.
Emotional Clarity and Release: Be prepared for moments of insight and emotional release as nature mirrors and supports your inner journey.
Community and Connection: Expect to share space, stories, and reflection in a safe and supportive circle of like-hearted individuals.
Tools for Daily Life: You’ll leave with an ecotherapy toolbox of journaling, mindfulness, creative practices, and nature-connection rituals to carry the retreat home with you.
Earth-Centered Healing: Engage with practices inspired by Joanna Macy’s “The Work That Reconnects” to process grief, awaken gratitude, and embody ecological empowerment.
Time for Reflection: Expect moments of silence, journaling, and rest throughout the weekend to help you integrate and absorb your experience.




View Daily Ashram Schedule →