Summer Solstice - Yoga and well-being day

Outline schedule

9.30am       Arrivals and refreshments at the Arch Barn

10am           Balancing Hatha yoga

11.15am       Morning refreshments and free time

12pm           Lunch

2.30pm       Playful Vinyasa Flow

3.45pm       Afternoon refreshments and free time

4pm            Flower crown making workshop

5pm             Cooling Restorative yoga

6.15pm        Departures

The yoga

Our day will begin with Hatha yoga at the Arch Barn. Hatha is a balanced style of yoga which usually begins with rest and a gentle warm up, followed by asana (postural) practice leading into a cool down that may incorporate pranayama (breath work), meditation or chanting and the final relaxation. Our special Summer Solstice Hatha session will begin with Surya Namaskara or Sun Salutations to greet the sacred sun and will end with Sitali or Sitkari pranayama to cool and calm mind and body.

As we reach mid-afternoon we invite you to join us for Vinyasa Flow at the Arch Barn. Vinyasa Flow is a playful, creative form of yoga where poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence usually to music.

In the early evening join us for a soothing, cooling Restorative yoga session. Restorative is gentle, floor-based class which allows the body to completely rest and shifts the nervous system into relaxation and balance. During the class the body is held and supported with blankets, bolsters and other props to enable longer holdings of each pose. This allows the body to soften and release tension, shifts the nervous system into relaxation (or rest and digest mode) and enables a deep connection with the breath.)

The retreat will be suitable for all levels of yoga students including beginners.

Wellbeing activities

There will be a range of massage treatments available throughout the day which can be booked separately prior to the event. On offer to help you relax:

• 30 minutes Swedish Massage back leg and feet. £30

This relaxing back, leg and foot Swedish massage uses Neal’s Yards products to help you ease into a deep state of relaxation. Your massage therapist uses a combination of gliding and kneading strokes which help to release muscular stress and physical tension, leaving your body and mind feeling revived and renewed. Swedish massage promotes the body’s circulation, releases muscle tension and reduces emotional stress. You will leave feeling calm, rejuvenated and balanced.

• 30 minutes Swedish Massage back, neck and shoulders. £30

This relaxing back, neck and shoulder Swedish massage uses Neal’s Yards products to help you ease into a deep state of relaxation. Your massage therapist uses a combination of gliding and kneading strokes which help to release muscular stress and physical tension, leaving your body and mind feeling revived and renewed. Swedish massage promotes the body’s circulation, releases muscle tension and reduces emotional stress. You will leave feeling calm, rejuvenated and balanced.

• 30 minutes Indian Head and neck massage. £30

Indian Head massage is an ancient therapeutic treatment. We use a combination of techniques to stimulate blood flow and oxygen circulation, promoting healthy hair quality and appearance. The use of acupressure can help reduce tension headaches, eye strain and clear blocked sinuses, relieving stress and mental fatigue. This treatment also includes use of neck and face massage acupressure points so you leave feeling thoroughly relaxed, balanced and rejuvenated.

Please email harewoodholistics@harewoodestate.co.uk to book in advance.

Flower Crown workshop

Another optional activity (included in the day) is the chance to create a beautiful flower crown, made using seasonal flowers that are foraged from the Estate. A traditional activity to do on the Summer Solstice and which represents abundance and fertility. This playful workshop will be relaxed and fun, with a chance to learn about the meaning and symbolisms of the flowers we will use. 

Alternatively, take time to explore the beautiful Harewood Estate. Comprising approximately 15 miles of footpaths and bridleways through parkland and woodland with endless views, the Estate offers the opportunity to lose yourself in a green paradise of fresh air and tranquillity.

The yoga space

The Arch Barn is a beautiful, light, serene space. Originally a barn, it has been lovingly and sympathetically restored and converted into Harewood Holistics flagship space.

Comprising a yoga studio with high ceilings, solid wood floor with underfloor heating and original wooden beams, plus treatment rooms and relaxation room, The Arch Barn offers a calm, nurturing space for you to indulge in your self-care.

Food and drink

A delicious, nutritious lunch will be provided and will be entirely vegetarian and vegan. Perfect for a day of yoga and self-care!

Herbal tea and water will be available throughout the day.

Please notify Sophie in writing of any dietary requirements by emailing: harewoodholistics@harewoodestate.co.uk