A Day of Mindful Self-Compassion at Oka Beach and National Park
 Spend a day by the water tending to your well-being—mind, body, and heart. This one-day retreat at stunning Oka Beach and National Park combines the restorative power of Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) with the calming influence of blue therapy—a nature-based approach that emphasizes the soothing effects of water on the nervous system, mood, and emotional clarity.  Through a gentle blend of guided practices, quiet reflection, and immersive time in nature, you’ll have space to: ∿ Reconnect with yourself in a supportive and peaceful environment ∿ Slow down and regulate your nervous system through breath and movement ∿ Feel restored by water’s natural ability to reduce stress and promote emotional balance ∿ Cultivate greater self-kindness, especially in moments of difficulty or overwhelm ∿ Enjoy a mindful day outdoors, free from distraction, pressure, or expectation  What to expect: We’ll spend part of the day soaking our feet and hands in the warm, shallow waters of Oka Beach—engaging in mindful, water-based practices designed to cool the body and calm the mind. You’ll also enjoy a gentle forest walk, guided through the practice of Shinrin-yoku (Japanese forest bathing), where you’ll be invited to slow down, awaken your senses, and experience the forest not just as a place to walk through, but as a living, healing presence.  Your day includes: ∿ Opening circle and intention setting ∿ Guided self-compassion and mindfulness sessions by the water ∿ Shinrin-yoku walk through forest trails ∿ Soothing water meditations in the lake ∿ Time for rest, journaling, and quiet reflection ∿ Mindful lunch – a light sandwich lunch is provided (vegetarian options available) ∿ Closing circle and take-home practices  Ideal for anyone looking to get away for the day and reconnect with nature—whether you’re feeling emotionally drained, navigating stress or burnout, exploring mindfulness, or simply craving space to reset and restore. No prior meditation experience is needed.  What You’ll Walk Away With By the end of the retreat, you’ll have experienced meaningful emotional grounding and a sense of calm in your nervous system. You’ll leave with a clear, personal intention to support whatever comes next in your life, along with simple, nature-based tools you can use to stay connected and resilient. The day offers space for reflection, learning, and insight—ideal for anyone feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply in need of time to reconnect with themselves and the natural world. This retreat is designed to be an intentional pause from the busyness of daily life, allowing you to cultivate presence and connection in a peaceful natural environment.  Event Details: What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, sunscreen, bug repellent, rain gear, a packed lunch, and water. Snacks will be provided. Accessibility: If you have reduced mobility or other accessibility concerns, please contact us immediately. Fee: This is a paid event. The fee covers the day pass for the reserve, the guided meditation, breathwork and other therapeutic activities as well as refreshments. A complete itinerary and preparation checklist will be emailed upon registration. <iframe src=”https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2798.260889761544!2d-74.04501782367471!3d45.464548233415385!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x4cc937003f7cb527%3A0xad3de284fe69b439!2sService%20Center%20Le%20Littoral!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sca!4v1750967153245!5m2!1sen!2sca” width=”600″ height=”450″ style=”border:0;” allowfullscreen=”” loading=”lazy” referrerpolicy=”no-referrer-when-downgrade”></iframe>  Join the Mailing List Subscribe to get updates on events and retreats.    Subscribe We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Mindful Kayaking Retreat in Montreal
Mindful Kayaking Adventure on the Saint-Lawrence River A Restorative Day of Movement, Stillness, and Connection in Nature Step away from the demands of daily life and give yourself the gift of presence. This Mindful Kayaking Adventure offers a rare opportunity to spend extended, uninterrupted time in nature, combining gentle physical activity with mindfulness practices that invite deep calm, clarity, and renewal. You’ll be guided along the stunning Saint-Lawrence River, just minutes from Montreal, by Dr. Moire Stevenson, a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience in mindfulness, family therapy, and nature-based interventions. Whether you’re completely new to kayaking or have paddled before, this experience is designed to be accessible, welcoming, and transformative. Why This Experience Is Different Extended Time in Nature: Most of us get only brief moments outside—this full-day retreat allows you to truly sink into the healing pace of the natural world. Step Away from Distractions: No phones, no notifications—just you, the water, and the present moment. This is a chance to reset your nervous system and reconnect with what matters. Mind-Body Restoration: Blending gentle movement with stillness, you’ll be guided through proven mindfulness techniques that reduce stress, support emotional well-being, and improve focus. Led by an Experienced Psychologist: Dr. Stevenson brings a warm, trauma-informed approach grounded in both clinical expertise and a deep love of nature. Community and Solitude: Enjoy the peaceful support of a like-minded group while also carving out quiet, reflective space for yourself. No Experience Needed: We begin with a clear and supportive kayaking orientation before setting out on the water. If you have your own kayak, email info@moirestevenson.com for a reduced registration rate. Event Details Location: NAVI ÃŽle des SÅ“urs, Montreal, QC Schedule: Arrive at 10:30 AM | On the water from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, including a mindful lunch break Included: Kayak and safety equipment, mindfulness facilitation with Dr. Stevenson, and a nourishing box lunch What to Bring: Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, comfortable outdoor clothing, and a willingness to slow down Important Notes This is a non-instructional guided experience—you kayak at your own risk. Dr. Stevenson is not a certified lifeguard or kayak instructor. Trained staff from the rental company will be on site with a motorized boat to support participants, and all attendees must sign a waiver upon arrival. Join us for a day of paddling, breathing, and rediscovering your calm, clear self—away from the rush, immersed in nature, and fully present.  Get notified of upcoming retreats, events and programs. ​    Subscribe We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.
Mindful Paddleboarding Retreat in Montreal
Enjoy a day of paddleboarding in a beautiful oacis in the heart of Montreal.
A Deep Nature Reconnect at Gault Nature Reserve
A Opportunity to Reconnect — Guided by an Expert in Nature-Based Healing
