Spend a day by the water learning to quiet the noise—the endless chatter, distractions, and mental clutter that pull your attention in a hundred directions. This one-day retreat at stunning Oka Beach and National Park combines focused mindfulness training with the calming influence of blue therapy—a nature-based approach that emphasizes the soothing effects of water on the nervous system, attention, and mental clarity.
Through a gentle blend of guided practices, quiet reflection, and immersive time in nature, you’ll have space to:
∿ Notice and gently settle the “monkey mind”—that restless, jumping quality of thought
∿ Slow down and regulate your nervous system through breath and movement
∿ Feel restored by water’s natural ability to reduce stress and sharpen focus
∿ Cultivate sustained attention and a calmer relationship with distraction
∿ Enjoy a mindful day outdoors, free from notifications, 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 anchor a wandering mind and calm mental chatter. 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 practice sustained, undistracted attention in a living, healing environment.
Your day includes:
∿ Opening circle and intention setting
∿ Guided mindfulness and attention-training sessions by the water
∿ Shinrin-yoku walk through forest trails
∿ Soothing water meditations in the lake, with a focus on anchoring the wandering mind
∿ Time for rest, journaling, and quiet reflection
∿ Mindful lunch – a light sandwich lunch is provided (vegetarian options available)
∿ Closing circle and take-home practices for taming distraction in daily life
Ideal for anyone looking to get away for the day and reconnect with their own focus—whether you’re feeling scattered, overstimulated, glued to your devices, exploring mindfulness, or simply craving space to reset and restore your attention. No prior meditation experience is needed.
What You’ll Walk Away With:
By the end of the retreat, you’ll have experienced meaningful mental clarity and a calmer, steadier relationship with your own mind. You’ll leave with a clear, personal intention for managing distraction going forward, along with simple, nature-based tools you can use to stay focused and present. The day offers space for reflection, learning, and insight—ideal for anyone feeling scattered, overwhelmed by noise, or simply in need of time to reconnect with their own attention and the natural world.
This retreat is designed to be an intentional pause from the busyness of daily life, allowing you to cultivate focus and presence 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.
Meet Your Guide
Lauren Rudy, MA, is a PhD candidate in Clinical Psychology at the University of New Brunswick. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational and Counselling Psychology from McGill University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mount Allison University. Her research and clinical interests include cancer survivorship, coping with chronic illness, chronic pain, trauma, and neurodivergence. She works with adults and children experiencing a range of emotional, behavioural, and health-related concerns. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in client-centred care and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a Vipassana meditation practitioner with a deep appreciation for nature and contemplative practices, Lauren thoughtfully integrates mindfulness and practices that foster connection with the natural world into her clinical work.
