You're Invited
Remembering Our Sacred Nature
Under the warm Aegean sun, where sky meets sea, we dreamed of creating something more than a retreat—we envisioned a remembering. A sacred container where women could shed the weight of disconnection and rediscover their innate wisdom. Drawing from our diverse experiences and indigenous practices, we weave together ancient wisdom with contemporary somatic exploration into a journey of coming home—to body, to nature, to sisterhood.
Where You Might Be Now
Do you feel it too? That subtle ache of disconnection from your body's wisdom? Perhaps you've noticed:
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The challenge of staying present in a world that pulls you in countless directions
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A yearning for deeper connection with yourself and others
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The weight of societal expectations dimming your natural radiance
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A calling to remember your place within nature's great dance
The Great Remembrance
A new story is emerging: One where:
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Your body becomes your trusted ally and greatest teacher
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Pleasure and rest are recognized as pathways to power
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Connection with nature flows as naturally as breath
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Sisterhood becomes a source of boundless strength and support
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Your unique expression is celebrated as a gift to the world
This is more than a retreat. It's a remembering of who we've always been, and an invitation to step fully into the magic of being alive in your body.
Our Sacred Journey Together
This transformation unfolds through carefully crafted experiences:
Earth Body—Eco-Somatics
This practice dissolves the illusion of separation between self and nature, inviting us into a dance of reciprocity with the living world. Here, beneath the Greek sun, we explore movements inspired by nature's sacred geometries—from spiraling seashells to unfurling leaves, from mountain peaks to flowing streams.
Through gentle, intuitive movement, we explore:
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Revitalize & Release: Create space for renewal through gentle release
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ReImagine & Restore: Awaken your wild nature through Earth's wisdom
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Reconnect & Respect: Bridge your inner landscape with the living world
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ReGenerate & Reciprocate: Dance in harmony with nature's sacred cycles
Moana in Motion—Water Somatics
This practice explores our fluid nature, remembering our relationship to the sacred waters that surround us and are within us. Here, by the Mediterranean's edge, we merge into the rhythm of waves, discovering how our bodies—made mostly of water—naturally respond to the ocean's ancient call. Through gentle waves of movement, we remember that we too are bodies of water in constant flow and change.
Through fluid, intuitive exploration, we dive into:
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Flow & Fluidity: Embody the water's wisdom of effortless movement
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Rhythm & Response: Attune to the natural ebb and flow of life's tides
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Depth & Devotion: Connect to the sacred waters within and without
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Wave & Witness: Move with the endless dance of ocean and shore
Sensual Soulmatics
Through guided movement exploration, rediscover the wisdom held in your senses. Learn to trust your body's signals, celebrate your natural rhythms, and embrace the power of pleasure as a compass for authentic living. This practice explores the connection between physical sensations, emotional expression, and play, guiding you to move with intention, pleasure, and presence.
Through sensual, embodied exploration, we:
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Awaken & Attune: Move with the wisdom of your senses
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Flow & Feel: Explore the poetry of your body's natural rhythms
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Play & Pulse: Discover joy and playfulness in movement
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Present & Participate: Transform everyday moments into opportunities for presence
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Listen & Learn: Attune to the subtle messages of your emotional landscape
Sacred Sisterhood Circles
Here, we witness each other's journeys, celebrate victories both small and profound, and offer support through challenges. This is where lifetime bonds are forged, where we remember the ancient power of women gathering in sacred space. These gatherings remind us of the transformative power of being truly seen and heard. In witnessing each other's authentic expression, we catalyze each other's growth and remember the profound wisdom we carry collectively. Here, we rediscover that the journey of embodiment is enriched immeasurably when shared in sisterhood.
Our circles become spaces where:
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Each woman's journey is witnessed and celebrated
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Laughter mingles with tears of recognition
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Deep listening creates mirrors for our own growth
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Authentic expression is met with understanding and support
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The power of collective wisdom emerges naturally
Spaces for Integration
Between our active explorations, find sanctuary in rest—these moments of stillness are where transformation takes root and new awareness becomes embodied wisdom.
The Experience
Each day flows with its own organic rhythm, guided by the natural cycles of this sacred island.
Morning practices greet the rising sun, afternoon explorations delve into embodied wisdom, and evenings dissolve into intimate sharing circles beneath star-studded skies.
Through sensual somatics and eco-somatic dance, you'll rediscover your body's innate wisdom while moving in harmony with the stunning natural surroundings.
What's Included
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7 nights at the soul-nourishing Oikia Karapanou Estate
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Daily movement workshops blending somatic practices and indigenous wisdom
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Nourishing, locally-sourced meals that celebrate Mediterranean abundance
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Sacred sisterhood circles for deep connection and sharing
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Island excursions including temple visits and a boat cruise
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Ground transportation on the island
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Transformative workshops in Sensual Somatics and Eco Somatics
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Additional surprise offerings to be revealed
Please note that flights and ferry transportation to Aegina are not included in the retreat package. However, we do provide a complimentary shuttle from the Aegina port to the retreat property, as well as transportation for all activities during the retreat. A d passport is required for participation, and we strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance for your trip.
This is for you
if you're ready to:
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Reconnect with your body's inherent wisdom
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Feel more confident and empowered
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Experience movement as meditation and ritual
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Find sanctuary in sisterhood
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Deepen your relationship with the natural world
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Explore somatic practices in a supported environment
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Rest, restore, and reimagine
All movement levels are warmly welcomed. Your unique expression is a gift to our circle.
Meet your guides
Rulan Tangen Founding Artistic Director of Dancing Earth, Rulan brings her lifelong dedication to dance as ecological ritual and healing practice. She is recipient of 2018-19 Kennedy Center Citizen Artist award for Service, Justice, Freedom, Courage, and Gratitude - and is grateful for all that supports her, for the dreaming and doing of Dancing Earth: moving the world into renewal. She has passionately cultivated successive generations of local and global contemporary performing artists as intercultural creative ambassadors and conduits for social change.
Jade Whaanga Founder of Nū Collective and Indigenous Movement Artist of Ngati Rongomaiwahine ancestry. She completed her Masters in Dance Studies at The University of Auckland, Jade's research focuses on re-claiming the indigenous feminine body and healing historical trauma through dance as ritual. Her expertise in facilitating women's circles creates spaces of healing and connection. Since 2017 she has been facilitating Hui Wāhine (women circles) and Hui Ringatoi (Artist gatherings) at various venues for Nū Collective. Nū Collective creates Indigenous Contemporary Performance Art, 'Embracing Wellness Through Creativity, Culture, and Connection'.
"The divine plan unfolds through following your intuition".
Florence Scovel Shinn
Your Sanctuary
Oikia isn't just accommodation—it's your home for this sacred journey. This soulful estate offers simple yet refined spaces that seem to have grown naturally from the landscape. Surrounded by an enchanted garden and embraced by Mediterranean vistas, every corner invites rest, reflection, and renewal. Here, you'll find yourself truly arriving home—to the land, to sisterhood, and to yourself.
Room Options & Prices
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL
Secure your space by March 31st to save up to $600
Flexible payment plans available: Split your investment into 4 monthly instalments
Shared Rooms
Triple Room | $2,525 USD. 3 single beds with shared bathroom 3 spots available
Twin Room | $2,625 USD. 2 single beds with shared bathroom 4 spots available
Twin Room Ensuite | $2,725 USD. 2 single beds with private bathroom 2 spots available
Private Rooms
Single Room | $2,950 USD. 1 single bed with shared bathroom SOLD OUT
Queen Room | $3,025 USD. 1 queen bed with shared bathroom 1 spot available
All prices in USD. Early bird discount ends March 31st, 2025.
Testimonials
“(Jade) held such a safe and nourishing space for us wahine to be completely vulnerable. It was my first introduction to intentionally welcome sisterhood into my healing journey, which had such an impact on the ways I’m able to surrender. From sensual and elemental dancing, to sharing circles and meditation, and a nourishing Kai; i couldn’t have had more of a full compass day. Truly blessed and cannot wait to see the future events and spaces held by these powerful wahine. Blessed x”-Sharnay Leef
“In a world of overwhelm and division, being in a safe space where I can bring all of my self to be held, celebrated and integrated is sacred. A sacred space like this can only be thoughtfully curated and facilitated by Rulan Tangen, who from her lived experience and creative genious knows how to usher an usher integration and wellness. ”- Valeria
“Each time I come away feeling grounded, refreshed and positive. Jade has facilitated a number of wāhine gatherings that have provided a safe space for like-minded women to connect, and find friendship and support. It has been a fantastic way to gain perspective on personal situations, and to reinforce our connection with culture and language, the environment, and with each other.“-Emily Baker
FAQs
Does the cost include flights?
No, flights, travel arrangements, and insurance are not included. The retreat cost covers your accommodation, transport for group activities, meals, and planned activities.
Can I choose who I share a room with?
While room options are limited, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request if you have someone specific you'd like to share with.
Can I book with a friend and request to share a room?
Yes! If you and a friend make your deposit at the same time, we’ll do our best to reserve a twin room for you both, subject to availability.
How long is the retreat?
The retreat spans 7 nights, from August 16th (arrival between 3-5 PM) to August 23rd (departure by midday).
Do I have to participate in all activities?
Participation is encouraged to get the most from your experience, but your wellbeing comes first. Activities can be adjusted, and your autonomy will always be respected.
I have food allergies/sensitivities. Will this be okay?
Absolutely! Our catering team will work to accommodate your needs. You’ll have the opportunity to provide dietary details on a participant form closer to the retreat.
When should I arrive in Aegina?
Plan to arrive on August 16th between 3-5 PM. We’ll provide a shuttle from the ferry terminal to the retreat location.
How do I get to Aegina?
Fly into Athens, then take a ferry from Piraeus Port to Aegina. The ferry ride is just over an hour. We’ll share detailed travel tips and ferry resources closer to the retreat.
Are refunds available?
Refunds are not offered for change of mind. However, you may reschedule to the next retreat or transfer your spot to someone else. In cases of extenuating circumstances (e.g., illness or family emergencies), we’ll work with you to find a resolution, which may include transferring your spot or deducting an administrative fee to process a refund.
What happens if I miss a payment?
You’ll receive an automatic notification, followed by direct contact from our team. If payment isn’t made within a reasonable timeframe, you risk losing your spot.
Who will be at the retreat?
You’ll be part of an intimate group of women, including facilitators, ranging in age from their late 20s to early 60s—all like-hearted individuals coming together for a transformative experience.
If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at jadeewhaanga@gmail.com.
See you in greece!
Sol Sistars
Further Information:
Website
www.dancingearth.org - www.nucollectivenz.com
jadeewhaanga@gmail.com - rulandancingearth@gmail.com
Social Media
@jade_whaanga - @rulantangen - @dancing.earth - @nu_collective