ISKA KADJO: Sacred Sisterhood Retreat to St Nectan's Glen

"Rise up my sisters, Rise up

We are the waters

The sacred cup"

Enchanted one,

If you have found this page you are feeling the call the ancient and sacred waters of this fair land speaking to us through the mists of time. An old and profound awakening is occurring within you. You are evolving. This is a call to all who hear the voices of the waters whispering to their soul, heart, womb. You are invited into an immersive weekend retreat in the sacred jewel of St Nectan's Glen Waterfall, Kernow (Cornwall) to awaken the sacred waters within and without.

Imagine yourself gliding barefoot through an ancient forest. You hear the footsteps of your sisters behind you, accompanied by the sweet melody of spring birdsong in the tree canopy overhead. You meet wise, ivy-clad trees on your journey, walking alongside an old and sacred river winding onwards through the woods. Eventually you emerge into a clearing - a beautiful glade with March sunshine dripping gold through the leaves above, sparkling upon the river's surface. The ambient mist of Spring plays in the air as you turn a corner and behold the breathtaking natural beauty of St Nectan's Waterfall. This is a place of myth and legend, where the fae folk dance and creatures of old come to gaze beyond. The veil is thin here and as you gaze into the tumbling waters you hear the sweet melodies of Iska Kadro awakening... the sacred waters.

Women and water have been interconnected for thousands of years. Watery webs and threads of mythology woven through eons of feminine herstory back into the deep recesses of time.

Woman as water bearers

Woman as carrier of life

Woman as the sacred chalice

Woman as the voices of the wells

But we have forgotten our connection to the waters of life. We have lost touch with the immense power of the wells and the sacred springs. Our own creative force and the animate flow of all things. The wells which were once brimming with life and lovingly tended are now wasteland. The sacred waters that reflect the health of our relationship to the Earth are choking in plastic and toxic waste. The balance has tipped over, the waters of life are polluted and forgotten.

It’s time for us as women to reclaim the sacred waters, within and without. It’s time for the feminine to rise and fiercely protect her precious rivers, oceans and springs - the life blood of this world. Let us remember the ancient stories, myths, legends and tales that drench and animate these lands. The stories of our ancestors - the women of the waters.

The voices of the sacred waters.

This moment in time offers us the opportunity to be enchanted and delve deeply beneath the surface -rooting into the realms of flowing feminine wisdom. This retreat summons a supportive circle of women to find presence, courage and empowerment whilst nestled in the arms of one of Britain's most beautiful sacred sites. Our practices will go deep but the pace of our weekend will be gentle and supportive, exploring the wilderness within through the mediums of movement, breath, meditation, connection, sharing circle, plant medicine, ritual, sound healing and sacred song.

If you have been yearning for the embrace of sisterhood, kindred spirits, the earthen scent of an enchanted woodland and ancient waterfalls and feeling the hum of your own sacred heartsong - this retreat is for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Throughout the weekend you will be invited to experience a number of practices, rituals and initiations for you to connect and go deeper into to the untapped power of your wild Self. Together we'll weave a tightly connected sisterhood where we each feel supported to unlock and let go; a place to feel seen, heard and accepted in all that we are.

• Movement, Dance, Yoga and Embodiment Practices
• Voice Alchemy & Attunement
• Crystalline Sound Healing
• Sacred Song, Drumming + Singing Circles
• Ceremony, Ritual + Plant Medicines
• Waterfall Blessing + Water Ceremony
• Rite of the Womb blessing
• Myth Making + Story Reclamation
• Nature Connection
• Massage, Facials, Reiki, Holistic Therapies *

WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Waterfall, Water & Womb Blessings

We are so lucky to have private access to the waterfalls and forest at all times. We will be gathering in ritual to bless, bathe and liberate ourselves in the sacred waters.* Please prepare to wear something white for this blessing.

Cacao, Lady's Mantle and Mugwort Ceremonies

Mama Cacao is a sacred plant medicine from South America, and her ally Blue Lotus hails from Egypt. The Cacao medicine represents the way of the heart and reflects humanity's sacred connection and relationship with the land and the (un)seen worlds. She holds the vibrations of kindness and unconditional love, opening a channel for deeper connections to form with ourselves and others. Cacao's energy is healing and very gentle—speaking directly to the heart. When we connect with the heart’s energy, our voice may speak from a place of deeper intelligence carrying vibrations of peace and harmony. We call upon our beautiful plant allies Lady's Mantle and Mugwort to take us deeper beneath the surface of the waves and meet the spirit of the water within and without.

Vocal Activation + Breathwork

Vocal Activation is a deep and healing journey of discovery into the mysteries of our most intimate musical instrument – our voice. In this workshop we will reconnect to the simple medicine of expression. Releasing our authentic voices beyond judgments, limiting beliefs, personal narratives and societal conditionings.

Together we will weave a deeper sense of self-love and acceptance into our hearts, minds and bodies we are guided in the sweet medicine of song to bring us closer to our imperfect, raw, wild and empowered human-ness. We will build a more compassionate relationship with our authentic expression and embody the wisdom of the voice to co-create a supportive space to explore and empower ourselves.

Dance/Embodiment/Yoga

We will start our mornings by moving, breathing and connecting with cycles, rhythms - deeply embodying the vast within. These practices will guide you to explore the outer edges of your being, opening all the parts of you that feel tight or resistant and allowing the sacred waters to flow. Our practices will weave through traditional Yoga, ecstatic dance, sensual embodiment, free movement, restorative Yoga, self-massage and beyond. All abilities, body types, ages will be catered for.

Sound Journeying

Fall through the stars and into vibrational harmony with daily journeys using the deeply therapeutic qualities of sound. Lose yourself, free your energy and feel your troubles melt away as you release into the bliss of intentional vibration. Sound healing can be beneficial for helping with energetic balance, emotional release, physical healing and nervous system regulation. Regular sound healing sessions can have profound and magical effects on the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual self.

Nature Connection

St Nectan's Glen and Waterfalls is one of Britain's most sacred sites. A space of great power, peace and healing this ancient forest and natural waterfall has been a place of spiritual significance for many thousands of years. We will be using our time among the trees to connect with the energy of the Earth as well as the water spirits that dwell within the Glen to assist our awakening, unravelling and blossoming.

Drumming  + Sacred Song Circle

Come journey with us into the world of sound and music. Drumming has long been used by shamans, priestesses and spiritual voyagers to connect with the Earth and ride the column of sound into the centre of the heart. We will take our place amongst the trees and sing to our ancestors - reclaiming the tradition of folk song to build relationship with  our own vibrational essence.

Sharing Circles

Sharing Space Women’s circles are an ancient practice and place for women to be held, heard, seen and supported. We don't have enough spaces where we can speak honestly, authentically and without fear of judgement. When we share in held spaces such as this we often find release in speaking the words aloud, and comfort in hearing our stories reflected back to us in the experiences of others. We will spend time reflecting, sharing authentically and journalling each day to meditate upon our own, and the collective, healing.

Myth Making + Story Reclamation

It is time for us to reclaim the ancient stories and reanimate the land that has gone to waste. The ancient stories are reaching out to us through the mists of time, awakening us to remember the myths of our ancestors. We stand upon this hallowed land at this time to bring back to life the voice of the water that has been stagnant and forgotten for many years. We tend the animate within and without to allow the sacred waters to flow and nourish us once again.

THINGS TO NOTE:

1. While this work may have therapeutic benefits, this is not supposed to be offered instead of, or as a replacement to, therapy. If you are seeking therapy then we encourage you to seek 1-1 support from a qualified psychotherapist. If you are experiencing significant mental health challenges please contact us in advance so that we can have a conversation about whether this retreat is right for you at this time.
2. There is very little phone reception at the venue. We encourage you to take the opportunity to disconnect from the outside world, and to fully immerse yourself in nature but we do have limited wifi access if necessary.

THE GLEN + WATERFALLS

St Nectan’s Glen is revered as a sacred place, where numerous ribbons, crystals, photographs, inscriptions, prayers and other devotions now adorn the foliage and rock walls near the waterfall. Many myths and legends, from King Arthur and his knights to ghostly sightings surround this place; but one undeniable fact is that it is a place of outstanding mystical and spiritual natural beauty.

St Nectan’s Waterfall has been carved by The River Trevillet which weaves through the valley, creating one of the most stunning waterfalls of its kind. With its spectacular outlet from which water spills into a shallow pool of crystal clear water, before continuing its way to the glen below, it’s truly mesmerising. Mosses, fern and grasses adorn the fall, fringing every rock with a native drapery of the most exquisite beauty.

Following on from the shallow pool at the feet of the kieve, water flows down into the stream and offers another beautiful waterfall scene to the valley below. You might even be lucky enough to spot another, more secluded waterfall near which we have opened an eco-friendly walkway through the woods to explore beyond, allowing better access to this little gem which was previously unseen and not accessible by the public. Please be aware that in times of drier weather, this particular fall may be a little lessened, however this should in no way deter you from exploring and appreciating the charm and wonder these grounds have to offer.

Here lies one of the wildest, most unspoilt and beautiful places on Earth, poetic and coloured by legend. These waters are reputed to have healing qualities and are watched over by the spirits of past guardians and friends of the Glen.

In the forest, as you progress along the winding paths and slate beds, worn over hundreds of years into steps, you will be able to hear the distant murmur of the waterfall but don’t rush to your destination – spots of quiet beauty invite you to pause, reflect and absorb the atmosphere. With a sense of being suspended in time, listen to the wind sweep through the ancient trees, the songs of birds and the sweet sound of the nearing waterfall itself.

We are lucky to have private access to the waterfalls, river and beautiful forest at all times. Please be mindful of bringing appropriate clothing and footwear for a cold, wet and uneven surface.

VENUE

The Retreat accommodations are split between two private buildings (The Retreat and St Cleder). Accomodation will either be sharing (twin beds) or private (queen bed). All bathrooms are shared, but don't worry we have plenty! Nestled in the tree line above the river complete with open plan living spaces, hidden dining corners, large and private outdoor spaces, firepit, meditation room, zen garden, woodburners and the soothing background sounds of the forest - this is a serene and peaceful retreat escape.

We are so lucky to have a beautiful, full sized and fully stocked Yoga studio with additional treatment room to use for the duration of the retreat. All mats, bolsters, blankets and props will be provided for your comfort. Serene lighting, the lingering smell of incense and luxurious space dripping in natural light - this place will really nourish you in mind, body and spirit.

The Glen is run by a trust and is open between 10-4 for the public. Our retreat space is private but there may be visitors around the waterfall and woodlands between those times. There is a beautiful café on site if you wish to visit during free time, as well as a beauitful gift shop selling tokens, crystals and talismans and a second meditation room/shrine. You will be entitled to 10% off any purchases made in the cafe and gift shop over the duration of the retreat.

FOOD

All meals are included in the cost of retreat and please know that we take food very seriously – you will be well fed!

We can cater for many dietary requirements, please let us know if you have any of any as soon as you book. We will be bringing you a vegetarian and locally sourced menu packed full of seasonal and delicious veggies, grains, and pulses. Expect abundant and nourishing feasts for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners made from scratch using sustainable and local ingredients.

The food provided will be vegetarian with some local dairy and egg options depending on seasonal availability. Herbal tea will be provided but coffee and wine will not. There is a visitors café on site to which you will be provided a 10% off discount if you wish to purchase extra food, coffee or drinks. Please let us know as soon as you can if you have any food intolerances/allergies.

TRAVEL

The cost of travel is not included in the price of the retreat. Please know in advance that there is no way to reach the venue via car or public transport - the forest and is protected land and is only reachable via foot. We will be arranging to meet in the private guests carpark at 13:30 on arrival day after which our luggage will be picked up by 4x4 and delivered to the retreat venue. If you arrive later than arranged an extra luggage collection is possible for a charge of £15.

Public Transport

The closest station is BODMIN PARKWAY - 15.6 miles away and served by the first Great Western Railway service from London Paddington to Penzance. From Bodmin Parkway you can get the 75 bus to Tintagel Visitors Centre then catch the number 95 bus to Trethevy, where it stops directly opposite St Pirans Church where the walk to The Glen begins. Alternatively, organise a hire car or take a taxi from Bodmin Parkway - but book in advance, as there are no operators based at the station. We create a whatsapp group in advance so that you can arrange a lift share or taxi share with other women on the retreat.

Driving

We will have a (free) private carpark available for our use for the whole weekend. If you are driving please aim for the following address; St Nectans Waterfall Car Park, Trethevy, Tintagel PL34 0BE.

INVESTMENT

Private room with king-sized bed: £695

Shared twin room: £595 per person

Triple sharing room £525 per person

Quadruple sharing room: £495 per person

Payment plans available – please email us to arrange a plan that suits you.

Contact Molly on molly.chinner@gmail.com for more information.

INCLUDING:

3 nights accommodation - 4 days of workshops

Long weekend of workshops, classes, ceremonies and ritual

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and herbal teas

Free and private access to forest + waterfalls

Cacao + Plant Medicines

(Does not include travel to and from site)

ABOUT YOUR FACILITATOR - Molly Anne Chinner

Molly-Anne Chinner is a sound healing artist, vocalist, ceremonialist and musician.

Growing up in the rolling hills and fairytale forests of Gloucestershire, music has always been a big part of Molly’s life. After discovering yoga and spirituality in her youth she was led onto a path of self-discovery and transformation, aligning to her true soul purpose - to share the frequency of the rising feminine with all who listen.  Passionate about the healing powers of sound, music and voice - Molly finds great joy in weaving her beloved crystal alchemy bowls, guitar and hand-crafted shamanic drum into her unique ambient and explorative sound. Interweaving genre, voice, experimentation and devotion - channelling the frequency of the feminine to all who listen.

Mixing a touch of her native folk sound with soulful Eastern mantra, ambient digital soundscapes, classical ornamentation and dream-like vocals - all recorded at 432hz - Molly’s music is intended as a channel of prayer to inspire universal connection and to guide the listener on an inner journey experience to open the heart.

Molly uniquely combines her ethereal voice, plus her soulful connection with spirit and the earth to share deeply emotive and otherworldly sounds to take the listener deeper within, evoking a kinship of the soul.