Somatic Movement
An invitation to move with awareness, reconnecting to the innate wisdom of your body. A guided journey through gentle, intuitive explorations that release tension, unlock stored emotions, and create space for deeper self-connection.
Through practices like guided improvisation, dynamic flow, and breath-led movement, you’ll learn to listen to your body’s signals, honor its needs, and move with authenticity. This is not about choreography or perfection—it's about feeling, expressing, and rediscovering the freedom of your natural rhythm.
Whether you’re seeking release, vitality, or a deeper connection to yourself, somatic movement offers a safe, empowering space to explore and embody your essence. Allow yourself to move and be moved.
Soma Groove
A fusion based embodiment modality, drawing from Breathwork, Somatic Movement, Trauma Healing, Dance Movement Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Music Therapy, Ecstatic Dance, Meditation, and Trauma and Emotional Release techniques. Offers a holistic approach to personal growth and healing, by connecting you to the present moment and true emotions. Find out more.
Yoga (Heart of Devotion)
Love and All is Coming (LAAIC) Heart of devotion is an open level class by Talia Sutra.
This class is a sattvic (balanced) hybrid of the Ghosh lineage and the aṣṭāṅga vinyasa system with a definite emphasis on inner stillness and intelligence using bandha, gaze and breath awareness as keys. The activation of the spine in all five directions: forward, back, lateral, twist and flexion is also emphasized.
Ceremonies & Rituals
Profound experiences that create a sacred space for transformation. Acting as powerful catalysts, they help ignite deep shifts within the subconscious mind, offering clarity, renewal, and connection.
Carefully designed to honor transitions, set intentions, and celebrate the journey inward. Through symbolic actions, guided reflection, and shared moments of presence, we awaken the energy needed for change and healing.
Whether it’s through movement, breath, or meaningful symbolism, ceremonies provide an opportunity to step into a new chapter with clarity, intention, and purpose.
Let yourself be fully present and embrace the magic of transformation.
Ready to uncover if Spring Awakening aligns with your personal aspirations?
Delve into the questions below and discover if this journey is the missing piece to your renewal, empowerment, and deeper self-connection.
Do you often feel disconnected from yourself and others?
Spring Awakening with all the embodiment techniques will root you into your body, into the present moment, and will alow you to connect with your self and the group form a state of balance, compassion and presence.
Are balancing multiple roles leaving you stressed and overwhelmed?
Spring Awakening might hold the relief you seek from life's demands. The sanctuary of practices provides moments of calmness and clarity amidst the complexities of juggling various roles.
Do you struggle with self-love as a common challenge?
Ponder if Spring Awakening is your journey to self-love and acceptance. Through heart-centered healing practices, you can nurture a more loving relationship with yourself, fostering confidence and self-assurance.
Does feeling stuck in the past hinder your joy in the present?
Consider Spring Awakening as your path to breaking free from the chains of the past. The transformative practices guide you towards a future filled with joy, vitality, and purpose.
Are you at a crossroads in your life, seeking clarity and direction?
Contemplate Spring Awakening as your guide through life's cycles, symbolizing renewal and expansion. It empowers you to gracefully step into a new and fulfilling phase of life.
Is authenticity a challenge for you?
Think about engaging with Spring Awakening because you yearn to explore and express your authentic self. Through various practices, you can foster a deep sense of alignment and empowerment.
Have you lost touch with your sensitivity?
Embark on Spring Awakening to rediscover and embrace the beauty of feeling alive and in touch with your sensitivity. Dance movement therapy, guided meditations, and nurturing circles await to reconnect you with your innate warm energy.
Do you often feel detached from your body, emotions, and sensations?
Explore Spring Awakening as your transformative journey back to the essence of your being. Soma Groove, yoga, dance movement therapy, and emotional release sessions provide a sacred space to reconnect with your body, explore emotions, and embrace the richness of sensations.
Uncover all you need to know about our retreat. (click here)
From breaking down barriers to meditation novices, we cater to all. Your comfort, our priority. Have more questions? Dive into our comprehensive Q&A section below:
I never attended a retreat. Is it suitable for me?
Yes, enjoy it! The Spring Awakening Retreat it's an unique and special holistic event tailored with love and expertise that is suitable for brand new people in retreats as well as for those who love this type of experience. We recommend all potential participants to read all Q&A and Terms & Conditions before signing up. Our retreat organizers - Raquel Dobato & Vanda Sousa - are happy to talk to you directly, if you have any questions.
I never tried meditation or a breathwork session before. Is this retreat for me?
This retreat is appropriate to all levels of experience. All activities on the schedule are guided and the techniques are explained in detail.
In this retreat we aim to provide you simple yet powerful tools of mindfulness, breathing techniques and meditation that you can apply in your day-to-day life.
Note that some breathwork techniques have some medical contra-indications, however we can always adapt it to your needs.
Are beginners at yoga welcome?
All levels are welcome, whether you practice yoga frequently or have never practiced before,the practice will be adjusted to the group and queues will be given for different levels.
Pregnants are also welcome! We recommend pregnants some alternatives and adjustments to certain practices.
I have some medical conditions. Can I still attend the retreat?
Please talk to us directly, so we can best address this retreat for you.
How do I contact the organization directly?
Please choose your preferred way of contact:
Email: somagroovesessions@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +351 912942971
Do I need travel or medical insurance?
Yes, it's important to acquire that, in order for you to be comfortable and fully covered for the retreat and in case of any flight cancellations.
Are there yoga mats available at the location (and other props)?
We provide all the material needed for the retreat, such as mats and props: blocks, bolsters, straps, etc.
Are the flights and transfers included in the retreat package?
The rates only include the retreat itself. However, by request, we are happy to book a transfer for you for an extra charge.
How to arrive at Monte Velho Retreat Center?
You can fly directly from most cities in Europe to either Faro (closest airport) or Lisbon.
Faro is the nearest airport and it’s only a 75 minute transfer or drive to the retreat location.From there you have 3 options:
a) Rent a car and drive yourself. Takes around 1h 20min drive
b) Take a Transfer, around 120€ each way (not included on the retreat fee), if you share with other participants it is much cheaper, we can happily organize the transfers for you from Faro airport. If a bigger van is needed, for 8 people, the current price is 160€.
c) Public transport (the cheapest option but takes a little longer!): Take the bus to Faro railway station and then the train to Lagos. From there, walk to the bus station and take a bus to Vila do Bispo. From Vila do Bispo the only way to arrive is by Taxi (20€). We can book it for you, as long you request it in advance.
From Lisbon, it takes less than 3 hours. Shuttles from Lisbon Airport to Monte Velho: Van 8 Pax: 350€ Táxi 4 Pax : 295€.
Is there any place around to rent a Bike or Car?
Car rental is advised to be arranged in Faro Airport where there are several international car rental companies. Closest car rental service around is Lagos: http://www.luzcar.com/ http://www.lagorent.com/pt/ Bike rental in Carrapateira with Bikes - Carrapateira Extreme Tours & Activities - Algarve
Which meals are included?
All meals are included (3 formal meals) and unlimited mineral water and herbal teas, fruits and healthy nutritious snacks throughout the day.
What do we eat?
We serve fresh and healthy vegetarian food that is preferably local and seasonal, all prepared on-site by the retreat chefs. The kitchen team can adapt to allergies and intolerances among the group. The food restrictions should be mentioned previously in the form provided when signing up.
Do we have free time?
Yes, we will provide you free time to integrate the experiences, to relax, to choose to have a massage. In your free time or simply to go for a walk in the stunning wild nature.
Is there a town at walking distance?
Carrapateira is the closest village; it has some restaurants and small shops and two breathtaking beaches. The distance is 4 kms from Monte Velho. Usually people go either by a shared taxi, car, bike or walking for the trained ones.
Is there a beach within walking distance?
Carrapateira has 2 beaches: Amado and Bordeira, both located around 3,5 kms from the venue. Is it possible to go to Amado walking (may take 1:15h), by car (6 min), by taxi or by bike (can be rented in Carrapateira).
Do you accept children in this retreat?
This retreat is specifically for adults over 18 years old, since we aim to provide the maximum tranquility and also some silence for you to restore and reconnect with yourself.
Are massages available at the retreat?
All messages and other available treatments can be booked before arrival at an extra cost of 60€ 1 hour of massage (to be paid in cash to the therapist).
Our team of therapists includes different massages, such as deep tissue massage, ayurvedic massage,thai, etc. We have other therapists for special needs (acupuncture, physiotherapy, crano-sacral, etc).
Please get in touch with our team for bookings preferably before your arrival.
What are the check-in / check-out times at Monte Velho Retreat Center?
Check in is at 4pm.
Check out time in the rooms is 10am. Check out from the venue at 12pm.
In case you arrive earlier, we can’t ensure early check-in at the moment of the booking.
Do we have Wifi/Internet access during the retreat?
You have access to the Wifi only in the main hall or reception.
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