https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/about daily 0.75 2022-05-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630119624289-S6B901I80DSOYG4EXORU/IMG_4762+%281%29.jpg About me Rachael grew up in the bush of Daisy Hill (Queensland, Australia), between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, playing and learning amongst tree ferns and grass trees at the start of a gully, sharing the land with koalas, wallabies, kookaburras, you name it. Connection with nature is a deep and lasting part of her way of being in the world. This continues to influence many of her life choices, such as composting, finding second-hand items for use wherever possible, not owning a car and instead cycling for transport. Rachael's parents still live on that property in Daisy Hill, although much has changed around it, and she loves going home to visit and feel the stability of that long connection with family and the land. Tree climbing and cartwheeling were favourite childhood pastimes, leading to a stint of non-competitive gymnastics from ages 8-10. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630129928042-DU68XR6UQL34ZOP501MM/Vulcana+Birthday+Bash_0971.jpg About me Yoga first entered the mix when Rachael was a fresh and curious 19 year old, studying a Bachelor of Science (Cognitive Science) at the University of Queensland (UQ). The combination of breath awareness with movement, followed by a period of relaxed but attentive stillness, had a deep impact, helping Rachael to sleep better, to feel less social anxiety, and to relax into herself as a budding adult. These are gifts that she continues to enjoy, and that she loves to share now as a teacher herself. At 23 Rachael found Circus. She was offered a spare ticket to a Vulcana Circus show, and life was changed forever! She knew this was her thing!! Layering in the creativity and playfulness of circus with the presence and compassion of yoga has brought Rachael much depth and joy on her journey through life. After a few years of circus training, Rachael began performing, and this was her main career for 7 years, living in a series of caravans, travelling Australia and South East Asia for work, and generally living the Carnie life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630156239963-JP0VW903THL3YG5HQFRM/IMG_4115.jpg About me - Pushing through a natural shyness to enter the world of performing was a great challenge, and one that lasted far longer than Rachael initially envisioned, with much learnt and many friendships built along the way. In her mid-20s, Rachael was blessed to be introduced to Zen Buddhist Meditation, and her practice of regular sitting meditation began. Now with more than 20 years of exploring this discipline, mostly under the guidance of Gregg Howard from the Ordinary Mind Zen Brisbane group, she is so grateful for the way that it has helped her to see herself more clearly, and to soften her relationship with herself and others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630151582962-ISB8BUJ0N6C531FP7FK7/20170525_093600-01+%281%29.JPEG About me After finishing her Science degree Rachael spent a year working as the Environment Officer in the UQ Student Union, running the organic food co-op and getting involved in various campaigns to raise environmental awareness and improve practices on campus and in the wider community. This led to a desire for more practical life skills, such as food growing, and Rachael spent 2001 WWOOFing up and down the east coast of Australia, exchanging labour for food and shelter, learning lots of Permaculture tricks from organic farmers, and even doing some DIY bush plumbing! Several years went by filled with the delights of yoga, meditation, gardening, cycling, circus, circus and more circus! Heaven!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630120161410-ATVYCD5BGHDL1WKERJAF/DSC_0164%2B%25281%2529.jpg About me But to feel really alive you must be actively growing, and eventually Rachael decided to go back to Uni and study a Post-Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education. The school system felt a bit too constraining, but she finished the degree, and then moved into Outdoor Education, spending 6 years part-time as an outdoor guide for teenagers on wilderness camps, exploring a back-to-basics approach to learning and growth through challenge. Outdoor education was a rewarding but demanding job, both physically and energetically. And the on-again, off-again nature of part-time Outdoor Ed mixed with part-time circus training led to some sore joints, nerve pain and lots of physiotherapy. While challenging at the time, these experiences have deepened Rachael's understanding of the body, increased her awareness of the need for balance in all things, and really brought home the integrally connected nature of the body, mind and spirit. It is often the case that the things that challenge us the most are also where we have the most potential for growth. We just have to stay present and lean into the discomfort as best we can. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630156988845-TAMB5E3OUEEXEZ7JI78B/290095_492124984134366_422949540_o+%281%29.jpg About me During this time her physio suggested some hanging inversions as therapy for her neck, and that's when Rachael found Aerial Yoga! The combination of circus aerials and yoga, two of her greatest loves, into this new discipline, just made so much sense. Rachael trained as a teacher in the Anti-Gravity aerial yoga method over several years with Renae Stevens, and began sharing the benefits of this adaptable, supportive system with the wider community. In 2015 Rachael set her intention to becoming a floor-based yoga teacher, studying a year-long, 350 hour Teacher Training course with her main yoga teacher, Kate Pell, and has been teaching ever since to a growing fan base of students who appreciate her down-to-earth and joyful style. She teaches regular group classes in several yoga studios and corporate workplaces, and private classes too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630119885549-AJY05KVZ4GSDQMFTGSNX/Rachie%27s+Unicorn+portrait+%281%29.jpg About me Those initial trainings in yoga and aerial yoga have since been supplemented with several other fabulous trainings to broaden and deepen Rachael's scope of offerings, including Yoga for Spinal Care with Donna Farhi, Yin Yoga and MFR with Jo Phee, Restorative Yoga with Kirsty Innes, Emotional Literacy for Yogis with Livia Cohen-Shapiro, Aerial Yoga Therapeutics with Renae Stevens and Mindfulness training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach. In recent years Rachael is gradually transitioning from teaching lots of regular group classes, towards offering more: Private sessions – where she can really target the needs and growth of the individual; Workshops – where there is time for a deeper exploration of a particular aspect of yoga; and Retreats – which allow a fabulous, multi-day deep dive into a state of presence that can then be brought back to flavour our everyday lives. Rachael loves wearing ridiculously bright and colourful clothes, and takes special delight in monochrome outfits, especially all jade or all fuscia. She makes her own passionfruit kombucha, dabbles in fibre arts when there is time, and is locally famous for her exuberant laugh! She hopes that we are on the cusp of a global awakening, where all humans realise that all living beings are one. May we treat ourselves, each other, the Earth and the entire Universe with love and respect. https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/workshops daily 0.75 2025-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/97fa51dc-5514-4195-ab60-fa733070ee8d/IMG_1873.jpg Workshops - Upcoming Workshops Tobias Keene, D.D.S. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Tobias Keene brings a bit of unabashed Southern hospitality to all his patients. He moved to Washington, D.C. over thirty years ago as a freshman at Ivy College. Right after graduation, he attended World University’s School of Dentistry. Before opening Keene Dental in 1994, he worked for free clinics and some of the finest practices in the District. He is part of the 123 Dental Association and stays up-to-date on the latest dental discoveries. When not striving to keep his patients happy and healthy, he’s enjoys hiking with his family in Rock Creek Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/946041af-669d-494e-9a78-1449ce91d9b1/IMG_0247.jpg Workshops - Courses Rachael runs AcroYoga Brisbane, the best place to start and nurture your Acro journey! We offer regular 8 week courses in AcroYoga. Tuesday nights in Highgate Hill. Drop in classes and privates are also available. AcroYoga (also called Acro balance or Partner acro) is a super fun way to get strong and make friends! Check out all the details here! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630146290562-L0ZOQF8A1DRLF83EWUVV/IMG_2455.jpg Workshops - Weekly classes Tobias Keene, D.D.S. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Tobias Keene brings a bit of unabashed Southern hospitality to all his patients. He moved to Washington, D.C. over thirty years ago as a freshman at Ivy College. Right after graduation, he attended World University’s School of Dentistry. Before opening Keene Dental in 1994, he worked for free clinics and some of the finest practices in the District. He is part of the 123 Dental Association and stays up-to-date on the latest dental discoveries. When not striving to keep his patients happy and healthy, he’s enjoys hiking with his family in Rock Creek Park. https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/contact daily 0.75 2021-10-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631931731795-3R2683CJRRMT8TPWG9VQ/Rachael+Gibson+Curtain++Headshot.jpg Contact - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/home daily 1.0 2023-04-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630148449601-NVR1PVDNSJG709XVNIB2/_D4S8712.jpg Home - Workshops https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1a661180-ad98-4ae5-9bf2-b3870d83612a/Rabbits+high+star.jpg Home - AcroYoga https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628395798630-7UJJ1H2824ZQQNUAXXDM/IMG_7145.jpg Home - Retreats https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628396057627-Q7IFXTI1GI9RK13SUP7G/IMG_2350.jpg Home - Just for you https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/just-for-you daily 0.75 2025-01-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630118288186-QDNWEYCJ56HKB0EJJL4C/DAR_7619.jpg Just for you - Private Classes Get the most out of your sessions by doing tailored One-on-One classes! This way you can ask questions, set goals, and get specific feedback on how best to improve. Private classes are available in Aerial Yoga, Yin Yoga, Acro Yoga, Hula hooping and Yoga for balance and graceful ageing. “ Amazing private session with Rachael! Thank you for your guidance and amazing tips!” - Ashlee Adams-Smith https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630151232588-XJXH5S34T8Q3ZO2TQD6B/_D4S8651.JPG Just for you - Corporate Classes Improve staff well-being and productivity with onsite lunchtime yoga classes! Create a tailor-made package to energise your team. “Rachael did an amazing job of providing us with time-out in the middle of the day. She always took into account the different levels of ability, and took time to demonstrate a variety of options in our yoga poses that we might like to use depending on what “felt comfortable”, or what our body was feeding back to us. Rachael was committed to enabling us to be kind to our body and minds!” Sarah Jordan - GameLoft https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/energising-play-retreats daily 0.75 2024-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/ebb47ae0-93c7-4062-ba3a-3ce2819cf11c/beach+jump+shot.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Playtime for Adults! Next Dates TBA - email me your date requests I am so pleased to be offering a 3 night Energising Play Retreat on January 12 - 15, 2023. A retreat is such a fabulous thing to gift ourselves! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/5aad3651-93c4-4d1a-b2dd-abe7bea10381/IMG_3617.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Dates & Times Thursday - Sunday January 12 - 15 3pm Thursday - Retreat activities begin. 3pm Sunday - Retreat activities finish. During the retreat breakfast will be at 8am, lunch at 1pm, and dinner at 6.30pm. There will also be morning and afternoon tea breaks. Guided activities will be offered in the mornings and afternoons, interspersed with a nice amount of free time to rest or explore the Island. After dinner there will be optional sound healing, singing circles, massage, games and art time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1e116326-1c07-49f8-8375-acad08b27ffe/IMG_7996.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Facilitators Your retreat leader is Rachael Gibson (she/her). Rachael brings to the retreat her many years of experience in teaching and group facilitation, as a yoga teacher, as a circus trainer, and as an outdoor education facilitator. She is organised, experienced, adaptable, and most important of all, she is FUN! If you don't know her already, get more of the vibe on the About Me page. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/dd9a1d65-f29c-4b49-9a44-b30b5fee46cb/ladies+hooping.jpg Energising Play Retreats - The Practices Acro yoga Art and craft Boundary setting Breath work Creative movement Eating Games Handstands Hula hooping Intention setting Joint mobility Massage Mindfulness Singing circle Sound healing Swimming Vinyasa yoga Yin yoga and MFR ** All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to discuss with the leaders anything that you need as it arises. These offerings are for you. You can do all these things and have a fabulous time doing so, or pick and choose when to play and take a little more rest. ** https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/3f44288a-8be5-413f-b47c-e1ce9b8ab7d0/IMG_6771.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Location The retreat will be held at Point Lookout on Minjerribah (also known as North Stradbroke Island), just across the bay from Cleveland, half an hour east of Brisbane. Point Lookout is an idyllic headland on the ocean side of the island, with gorgeous beaches backed by natural bushland, and a stunning ocean-front gorge. Wildlife is plentiful, with regular sightings of wallabies, koalas, sea eagles, turtles and dolphins. There are shops and cafes, but it is a small and chilled out place, perfect for playing, relaxing, and generally soaking up the good vibes. https://www.queensland.com/.../north-stradbroke-island Our indoor activities will be held in the Point Lookout Community Hall, which is set in some lovely bushland that opens onto Home Beach. https://stradbrokeisland.com/.../point-lookout-community.../ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/13e965cb-76ff-4107-acfc-cdac17f6a062/V48+Inside+Living.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Accommodation We will have exclusive use of several private villas at Allure Resort, which is directly across the road from Home Beach, and a short walk from the hall. All linen is provided. Although I always sleep better when I bring my own pillow! Totally up to you, of course https://www.allurestradbroke.com.au/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/133ecbcf-e595-435e-8600-03a1689755f4/V48+Upstairs+Bath+Ensuite.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Pricing Includes all food, accommodation and activities. Early Bird pricing (EB) is available until November 11, and after that the Full Price (FP) applies. Bunk Bed in triple share room $910 (EB)/$1060 (FP) Single Bed in twin share room $985 (EB)/$1135 (FP) Queen Bed in own room $1210 (EB)/$1410 (FP) Queen Bed with Ensuite $1360 (EB)/$1560 (FP) Want to share a Queen room? Add $760 (EB)/$860 (FP) for an extra person to cover their food and activities. When booking, you have the option to pay in full, or to select the Pay in 4 option through Paypal and pay in 4 fortnightly installments. ** Bookings close on Sunday January 8 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/22ad295d-058c-40cc-a0e6-e69292e5b51e/IMG_8711.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Work Exchange Would you like to contribute to the running of the retreat and offset your retreat fee? Get in touch if you would like to make a lunch or dinner for the group, including providing the ingredients, and I will give you a code to get $120 off your retreat price. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/04791d18-00f0-406d-b8c4-ee084e1b6fc0/shutterstock_1964316661.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Food All meals, snacks and teas are catered for you, from Thursday dinner until Sunday lunchtime. This means you can spend maximum energy playing, knowing that you will be filled up with delicious, healthy food at regular intervals! If you have any dietary requirements please let us know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/2a984bf6-6a3e-4341-9678-a61e5d5f526e/shutterstock_1102133672.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Optional Extras For a small extra fee you can stay until Monday, and luxuriate in having extra free time in this idyllic location. Check out is noon on Monday, but you can enjoy the surrounding nature all day long. Bunk bed $50pp per extra night Twin single $80pp per extra night Queen bed $160 per extra night Queen bed with Ensuite $200 per extra night Option to bring your own food and use the kitchen in the accommodation. Add $50 per night if you would like dinner and breakfast catered for you. Massages are also available for $110/hr. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/d169d2c9-c647-43a6-a447-e6921ac2a5cf/IMG_6770.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Getting There You will need to catch a ferry from Cleveland to the island, arriving in Dunwich, and then travel via vehicle to Point Lookout. If you want to bring your own vehicle you should book the car ferry, which takes 45 minutes, then drive the 18kms to Point Lookout... https://www.sealinkseq.com.au/transport/search Otherwise, you can catch the passenger ferry for 25 minutes, and then the bus, which will be waiting when you get off the ferry. No need to book, but here is the ferry timetable... https://www.sealinkseq.com.au/transport-options/water-taxi https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/862046c3-e0ed-4355-8911-5f4dae286262/V48+Bedroom.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Questions? Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have, via hello@rachaelgibson.com.au We'll have a fabulous good time, frollicking together in the gorgeous nature of Point Lookout, moving, laughing, challenging ourselves! Playing and learning new skills, making new friendships, strengthening old ones and celebrating this magical life!! Looking forward to sharing with you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/3f4cbb03-eec2-40e3-98e0-de920a87ad68/second+dragon+balance.jpg Energising Play Retreats - Terms & Conditions Please read this policy carefully. By coming on this retreat you are confirming that you are free from Covid symptoms, assuming any travel risks and are releasing Rachael Gibson and any other organisers/facilitators from any liability that might arise from your participation in this retreat. All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to make choices that suit you in each moment. Cancellations made up until October 30, 2022, will be eligible for a full refund, minus a $100 admin fee. Cancellations made after October 30, 2022, will only be eligible for a refund (minus a $100 admin fee) if you have a medical certificate for not being able to attend, or you can fill your spot with someone else. If Covid prevents the retreat from proceeding on the given dates, then all participants will have their fees transferred to new dates. If the new dates don't work for you, then you will receive a refund minus a $100 admin fee. https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/meditation-movement-retreats daily 0.75 2025-02-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486174139-36VKP5PJ2HR6EL6NLAT2/IMG_2725.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats - Come home to yourself… I am so pleased to be offering another Meditation and Movement Retreat. April 24 - 27, 2025 A retreat is such a fabulous thing to gift ourselves! THIS RETREAT IS SOLD OUT! Get in touch to register your interest in future dates and be the first to know. Don’t miss out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630153001253-29H2Z6AHYP26AY8QH3R3/IMG_5736.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats - Dates & Times Thursday - Sunday April 24 - 27 3-6pm Thursday - Arrive at the lodge, check in and relax 6pm Thursday - Dinner and Retreat activities begin 11am Sunday - Retreat activities finish During the retreat guided activities will run from 7.30am until 8.30pm, with an hour or two for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a short break for morning and afternoon tea. One afternoon will be left clear of activities for free time and resting. All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to rest whenever that feels like the best option for you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486516693-I1Y7AX1NGPIT2LAE8XY1/_D4S8661-Edit.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats - The Practices Each day we will do walking and sitting meditation in the beautiful natural surrounds, right on the border of Mt Barney National Park, deepening our awareness of ourselves as part of nature, not separate from it. There is a gorgeous fresh creek on the property, and stunning views of Mt Barney and Mt Maroon. When we ground ourselves in the energy of the water, earth and air where nature is so pure and clean, it brings a wonderful vitality to our whole system. We will practice pranayama (breathing exercises) to build our energy reserves, to calm our nervous systems, and to bring focus and clarity to our minds. We will do a range of movement practices, to encourage strength, stability and fluidity in our physical selves, to support our energy flow, and to increase our body mind connections. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1635292570525-N0Q5QTA5JZFG37S0QK4X/IMG_2677.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats There will be guided sessions in both intention setting and boundary setting. From this place of clarity and centredness, we build our inner wisdom, and our trust in our ability to sense what is right for us and the world. We will have a night time outdoor fire ceremony, where anything you are ready to let go of can be released into the fire, creating space for fresh new energy to flow in. And we will practise Metta (Loving Kindness meditation) to strengthen and build our capacity to give and receive love, with ourselves, with each other, and with all beings. ** All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to discuss with the leaders anything that you need as it arises. These offerings are for you. ** https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630153118543-KO8SN7FRNHS5926UB1NZ/IMG_2017+%282%29.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats - Noble Silence To further assist us to each settle into our own centres, we will ask participants to enter into Noble Silence from Friday afternoon until Sunday morning. This means you can speak if you need to ask a question, or to stop someone hurting themselves accidentally, but that you are encouraged to not talk unless completely necessary. This is a wonderful practice, and if it sounds new and challenging, then please know that this is quite normal, and see if you can stay open-minded until you have experienced it first-hand. Many people who have tried it experience great benefit, and look forward to this rare opportunity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630154196852-3G5DP9MGNTWF0GAN8F4V/BM+bedroom+with+breakfast+tray..jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats - Pricing Camping with own gear $850 (EB)/ $950 (FP) Single bed in twin share room $1050 (EB)/ $1200 (FP) Double bed in own room $1300 (EB)/ $1500 (FP) Includes all food, accommodation and activities. Early Bird pricing (EB) available until February 20, after that Full Price (FP) applies. Payment Plans Available. When booking, if you choose to pay via Paypal, then you will have the option to click “Pay in 4”, where you pay in 4 fortnightly installments. Note, there is a small 0.5% surcharge for Paypal. Bookings close on Sunday April 20 unless sold out earlier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486026775-BW287RRUNB8XWQCS5J4B/moringararah-homestead-kitchen.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats - About the Venue & Accommodation The retreat will be held at Mt Barney Lodge, 1.5hrs south west of Brisbane. This is the last private property before Mt Barney National Park, surrounded by glorious mountains and with a creek along one side of the property. We will have exclusive use of the beautiful Boolamoola Queenslander Homestead at Mt Barney Lodge. The homestead has lovely wrap around verandas for relaxing and soaking up the nature, plus an indoor fireplace. There is a hall attached to the homestead where we will do our indoor practices, and lots of beautiful spots around the property where we will do some outdoor practices. All linen is provided if staying indoors. Although I always sleep better when I bring my own pillow! Totally up to you, of course. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628485553187-Q58OR0583BZELIRZ72ZW/IMG_5801.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats - Food & Nourishment All meals, snacks and teas are catered for, from Thursday dinner until Sunday breakfast. We will each do a little bit of helping out in the kitchen during the retreat, and thus enjoy the gift of giving to the group in this small way. If you have any dietary requirements please let us know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631512574336-CUTBGKWZPJIA9C0SHR74/IMG_3457.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats - Digital Detox The lodge is wonderfully eco-centred, has very little phone reception and no wifi. We will take advantage of this time to disconnect from the internet, and all the usual pulls on our attention and energy, and instead connect with ourselves, each other and the Earth. To aid this, we will ask you to hand in your phones at the start of the retreat activities on Thursday. And then give them back at the end of the retreat. If anyone needs to contact you during the retreat, they can call the office at Mt Barney Lodge, and a message will be passed along promptly. The number is (07) 5544 3233. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630150402115-21W4F1H3YSR6D77TBZXG/PXL_20210603_013009911.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats - Questions? Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have. Looking forward to sharing with you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631512898974-E3369ILCYMAGNH59C203/DisruptiveCamouflage+%282%29.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats - Terms & Conditions Please read this policy carefully. By coming on this retreat you are confirming that you are free from Covid symptoms, assuming responsibility for any travel risks, and are releasing Rachael Gibson from any liability that might arise from your participation in this retreat. All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to make choices that suit you in each moment. No one books a retreat expecting to cancel, but sometimes life throws us unexpected circumstances. Hence, you might like to consider purchasing travel insurance. There are no refunds once a booking is made, but you are welcome to find a suitable person to take your place, up to 5 days prior to the retreat. Get in touch if you need to arrange this with me. May life smile on you so you never need to think about this policy again! https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/multi-day-retreats daily 0.75 2025-01-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/47e6bdeb-12c3-4739-ba97-e7eb9790b44b/3259a285-91a3-4de0-877f-04cce6b657c9.jpg Retreats - Invest in Yourself There are many ways to practice strengthening our presence in each moment, and multi-day retreats are one of the best! There is a special magic that happens when we give ourselves the time and space for a deep dive into the blossoming of our own potential, especially within a group gathered to intentionally support that very unfolding. Each year I run several different retreat styles... Does one in particular call to you? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/806466f0-47a6-4fe2-b82b-d4c301e746f8/Pink+meditation+at+cedar+creek+2Mb.jpg Retreats - Meditation and Movement Retreat April 24 - 27, 2025 Mt Barney Eco Lodge This retreat is a time to settle deeper into yourself, to let go of any sense of striving or expectations or needing to please others. A time to allow yourself to unwind into peace and acceptance and the joy of just being. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/75bae8f9-03aa-44b9-a529-935726c09b74/293879027-huge.jpg Retreats - Energising Play Retreat Next Dates TBA - email me your date requests Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) This retreat will focus on building our energy through playfulness. When we come together and practice being light-hearted and playful, we support each other to stay youthful and vibrant, and we increase our joy and pleasure in being alive! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630150402115-21W4F1H3YSR6D77TBZXG/PXL_20210603_013009911.JPG Retreats - Questions? Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have. Looking forward to sharing with you! https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/acroyoga daily 0.75 2026-03-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/2fa0728c-76da-4f4f-9b16-2bdb15f85e27/IMG_3879+%281%29.jpg AcroYoga - Acro Courses Rachael runs regular 10 week courses in AcroYoga, with her co-teachers Linda and Chelsea. Term 2 2026 runs April 21 - June 23 This course is suitable for total beginners! And also for experienced AcroYogis who are keen to refine their techniques, extend their repertoire, or practice a different role to their usual! We will work on skills and develop our core engagement, body awareness, strength, flexibility, handstands, good communication, trust, and playfulness! We will also learn how to spot each other so we can all be safe while we learn and challenge ourselves. Get strong while having fun and making friends! No partner required. Tuesdays, 6.30 - 8.30pm 49 Gladstone Rd Highgate Hill 4101 10 week course $325 ( Early bird $275 till April 12 ) Casual Drop-in class $38 To ask a question or go on the mailing list for future courses get in touch https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/e2c2834c-204d-43dc-b38b-5289db35ace3/IMG_9105.jpeg AcroYoga - Acro Gift Vouchers! Available until Boxing Day, December 26, 2025 Give the gift of Play this festive season with our 3 Class Pass gift voucher for just $99. Valid for attendance at any 3 classes in Term 1, 2026. Simply book via the link below and you will receive an email with a printable electronic gift voucher, and a booking code so your loved one (or yourself!) can select which 3 weeks they wish to attend. And if they LOVE it like we do, they can pay a bit more to attend the whole term. Perfect! Check the full deets and book here: https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/meditation-movement-retreats-1 daily 0.75 2023-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486174139-36VKP5PJ2HR6EL6NLAT2/IMG_2725.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Come home to yourself… April 25 - 28, 2024 I am so pleased to be offering my next Meditation and Movement Retreat on April 25-28, 2024. A retreat is such a fabulous thing to gift ourselves! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630153001253-29H2Z6AHYP26AY8QH3R3/IMG_5736.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Dates & Times Thursday - Sunday April 25 - 28 2pm Thursday - Arrive at the lodge to check in and get settled in your accommodation 3pm Thursday - Retreat activities begin 11am Sunday - Retreat activities finish During the retreat guided activities will run from 7.30am until 5.30pm, with 1.5 hours for breakfast, 2 hours for lunch, 1 hour for dinner, and a short break for morning and afternoon tea. One afternoon will be left clear of activities for free time and resting. All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to rest whenever that feels like the best option for you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486516693-I1Y7AX1NGPIT2LAE8XY1/_D4S8661-Edit.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - The Practices Each day we will do walking and sitting meditation in the beautiful natural surrounds, right on the border of Mt Barney National Park, deepening our awareness of ourselves as part of nature, not separate from it. There is a gorgeous fresh creek on the property, and stunning views of Mt Barney and Mt Maroon. When we ground ourselves in the energy of the water, earth and air where nature is so pure and clean, it brings a wonderful vitality to our whole system. We will practice pranayama (breathing exercises) to build our energy reserves, to calm our nervous systems, and to bring focus and clarity to our minds. We will do a range of movement practices, to encourage strength, stability and fluidity in our physical selves, to support our energy flow, and to increase our body mind connections. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1635292570525-N0Q5QTA5JZFG37S0QK4X/IMG_2677.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) There will be guided sessions in both intention setting and boundary setting. From this place of clarity and centredness, we build our inner wisdom, and our trust in our ability to sense what is right for us and the world. We will have a night time outdoor fire ceremony, where anything you are ready to let go of can be released into the fire, creating space for fresh new energy to flow in. And we will practise Metta (Loving Kindness meditation) to strengthen and build our capacity to give and receive love, with ourselves, with each other, and with all beings. ** All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to discuss with the leaders anything that you need as it arises. These offerings are for you. ** https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630153118543-KO8SN7FRNHS5926UB1NZ/IMG_2017+%282%29.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Noble Silence To further assist us to each settle into our own centres, we will ask participants to enter into Noble Silence from Friday evening until Sunday morning. This means you can speak if you need to ask a question, or to stop someone hurting themselves accidentally, but that you are encouraged to not talk unless completely necessary. This is a wonderful practice, and if it sounds new and challenging, then please know that this is quite normal, and see if you can stay open-minded until you have experienced it first-hand. Many people who have tried it experience great benefit, and look forward to this rare opportunity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630154196852-3G5DP9MGNTWF0GAN8F4V/BM+bedroom+with+breakfast+tray..jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Pricing Camping with own gear $850 (EB)/ $950 (FP) Single bed in twin share room $1050 (EB)/ $1200 (FP) Double bed in own room $1300 (EB)/ $1500 (FP) Includes all food, accommodation and activities. Early Bird pricing (EB) available until March 1st, after that Full Price (FP) applies. Payment Plans Available. When booking, if you choose to pay via Paypal, then you will have the option to click “Pay in 4”, where you pay in 4 fortnightly installments. Note, there is a small 0.5% surcharge for Paypal. Bookings close on Sunday April 21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628486026775-BW287RRUNB8XWQCS5J4B/moringararah-homestead-kitchen.jpg Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - About the Venue & Accommodation The retreat will be held at Mt Barney Lodge, 1.5hrs south west of Brisbane. This is the last private property before Mt Barney National Park, surrounded by glorious mountains and with a creek along one side of the property. We will have exclusive use of the beautiful Boolamoola Queenslander Homestead at Mt Barney Lodge. The homestead has lovely wrap around verandas for relaxing and soaking up the nature, plus an indoor fireplace. There is a hall attached to the homestead where we will do our indoor practices, and lots of beautiful spots around the property where we will do some outdoor practices. All linen is provided. Although I always sleep better when I bring my own pillow! Totally up to you, of course. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1628485553187-Q58OR0583BZELIRZ72ZW/IMG_5801.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Food & Nourishment All meals, snacks and teas are catered for, from Thursday dinner until Sunday Breakfast. We will each do a little bit of helping out in the kitchen during the retreat, and thus enjoy the gift of giving to the group in this small way. If you have any dietary requirements please let us know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631512574336-CUTBGKWZPJIA9C0SHR74/IMG_3457.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Digital Detox The lodge is wonderfully eco-centred, has very little phone reception and no wifi. We will take advantage of this time to disconnect from the internet, and all the usual pulls on our attention and energy, and instead connect with ourselves, each other and the Earth. To aid this, we will ask you to hand in your phones at the start of the retreat activities on Thursday. And then give them back at the end of the retreat on Sunday. If anyone needs to contact you during the retreat, they can call the office at Mt Barney Lodge, and a message will be passed along promptly. The number is (07) 5544 3233. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631512444259-WKXL2XBMCDMMXIXPO8N5/IMG_6214.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Optional Extras For a small extra fee you can stay over till the Monday! More time to soak in the calm of this beautiful area. Take yourself for a walk in the National Park, have a swim in the creek, or just relax at the Lodge. $80pn for just the accommodation (bring your own food and use the kitchen in the accommodation). $50pn extra if you would also like dinner and breakfast catered for you. Massages are available for $110/hr. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1630150402115-21W4F1H3YSR6D77TBZXG/PXL_20210603_013009911.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Questions? Please don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you might have. Looking forward to sharing with you! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/610f3c7d96344d4b720b9a58/1631512898974-E3369ILCYMAGNH59C203/DisruptiveCamouflage+%282%29.JPG Meditation & Movement Retreats (Copy) - Terms & Conditions Please read this policy carefully. By coming on this retreat you are confirming that you are free from Covid symptoms, assuming responsibility for any travel risks, and are releasing Rachael Gibson from any liability that might arise from your participation in this retreat. All activities are optional, and you are encouraged to make choices that suit you in each moment. No one books a retreat expecting to cancel, but sometimes life throws us unexpected circumstances. Hence, you might like to consider purchasing travel insurance. There are no refunds once a booking is made, but you are welcome to find a suitable person to take your place, up to 5 days prior to the retreat. Get in touch if you need to arrange this with me. May life smile on you so you never need to think about this policy again! https://www.rachaelgibson.com.au/store daily 0.75 2022-12-09