DEEPEN - Art & Sensory Retreat with your hostess, Artist Natalie Brake
DEC 1-8, 2024
San Pancho, Mexico

Embark on an exquisite journey at DEEPEN - Art , Nature & Sensory Retreat. Nestled in a beautiful and serene beachside property away from the pace of modern life, this retreat is a call to those seeking to reclaim their presence, their connection to the natural world, and to enrich their creative spirits through art.

  • Is your work-life balance tipping, leaving you physically drained, mentally overwhelmed, and disconnected from your playfulness and joy? Has the stress of traffic, noise, notifications from your phone, the endless news cycle, concrete and isolation; left you feeling like you are disconnected from your senses?

    Perhaps you have neglected beauty, creativity, and the richness of life's simple pleasures. This can happen when we don’t create time for ourselves.

    I extend a heartfelt invitation to join me for a profoundly transformative retreat in Litibu, Mexico. Within an intimate, supportive community of like-minded individuals, you'll discover softness, creativity, and a reconnection to nature, guiding you toward restored equilibrium.

    Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner, I will guide you to embrace your child-like spirit through Abstract Art classes that will draw from the purity of nature, silence your inner critic, and allow your innate creativity to shine. Here, art transcends visual beauty, becoming a tactile, full-sensory journey that captivates and inspires.

    This retreat is perfect if:
    - you need a dedicated time and space to reconnect with your creativity

    -you want to take abstract art classes with a seasoned instructor, in a unique and once-in-a-lifetime setting

    -you crave the ocean, nature and the warm sun

    -you have neglected your own needs while caregiving for others

    -you are curious about making art and want to do so in an intimate, supportive setting

    -you deserve a treat for all the hard work you do

    ... and anyone who finds themselves in the words and images written throughout my website, and my artwork. I would be thrilled to have you join me for DEEPEN.

    • Rediscover your connection to nature after too long of feeling disconnected.

    • Learn to create abstract art and explore your imagination.

    • Soften the nervous system after a prolonged period of stress or exertion.

    • Sink into the tenderness of a beautiful, all-inclusive beachside accommodation and the support of a caring team.

    • Step away from your cell phone, as some activities include a "cellphone free" environment.

  • We suggest that guests arrive on the evening before we start, to enjoy a dinner and complimentary night on us. Get acquainted with the space and sink in as we prepare to start the retreat the following morning.

    The schedule that follows is structured but leaves room for flow and ease. None of the activities are mandatory, but all are included in your retreat registration fee, so we would love to have you join in to as many as possible.

    Every day includes 3 beautiful, delicious meals carefully created by our local Chef.

    Mornings include a walk to the nearby beach to rest, swim, read a book or simply unwind. Each day will also include 1 activity only, so that the days feels spacious with time to integrate your experience. The final day - Dec 7, is totally open and designed to support you in solidifying your experience at the Retreat, pack your luggage, and rest as you prepare to return home the following day.

    VIEW FULL DAILY SCHEDULE HERE

  • December 1-8, 2024. Litibu, Mexico

    All-Inclusive including accommodation

    COST:
    Register 2 people - $6359 USD, taxes included.
    Register 1 person - $4599 USD, taxes included.

    MORE INFO:
    limited space - 6 people only

    The closest airport is PVR. Your accommodation is available from 3pm on Dec 1 (check-in) to 11 am Dec 8 (checkout).
    Retreat runs from Dec 2-7. Full retreat schedule HERE.

    Your flight is not included - please book this separately.

  • Natalie Brake's DEEPEN Art and Nature retreat sets itself apart from others by offering a carefully curated and unique blend of activities that are designed to activate world of sensory richness through sight, sound, touch, taste and imagination.

    This experience is meant to evoke the artist within you - to call forth the deeply feeling and sensing part of you that has been pushed aside by the busyness of life. This is unlike any retreat program - this retreat will show you the artwork you hold in your soul.

    video presentation here

SAN PANCHO BEACH, NAYARIT MEXICO

What to expect from the DEEPEN Retreat

NURTURE

Nurture your body and mind in a beautiful home nestled above a beautiful, tropical beach. Accommodation at the DEEPEN retreat is a serene, 3-bedroom condo with expansive views nestled in a secluded, gated area near the beach of San Pancho. The home offers a tranquil retreat that captivates the senses. Each individual room is a haven of comfort that blends seamlessly with the outdoor splendor. The essence of the space is its open design, inviting the soothing ocean breeze and the rhythmic sounds of waves into every corner, making the stunning Pacific Ocean views an integral part of your stay.

Beyond relaxation, the space is a gateway to adventure, with easy access to hiking and the nearby ocean. Whether you seek serenity or adventure, this space promises a bespoke experience, offering both the privacy of a secluded hideaway and the convenience of nearby amenities. Here, every moment is an invitation to immerse in the beauty and tranquility of Riviera Nayarit, Mexico.

  • There are 3 rooms, each with double occupancy. We welcome couples and individuals. All retreat guests will have the entire condo to themselves. The pool is shared but this is a gated building with an exclusive, private setting.

    features:
    - sun decks
    - Equipment : chairs, umbrellas, towels, beach blankets, boogie boards and snorkeling equipment.

    Other things to note:

    The property has a pool and sundecks, which allows guests to enjoy the luscious weather and feel the ocean breeze from the comforts of the property, while feeling like they are on the beach.

    The property is a few blocks away from 1 km of uncrowded natural beach for guests enjoyment. Golf cart provided for beach access.

    CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CREATE

CREATE with Instructor and Abstract Artist, Natalie Brake as your guide, you’ll participate in 2 Abstract Art classes that are more than just lessons; they are immersive experiences that invite you to explore, feel, and create with all your senses. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Pacific Ocean, each session is designed to awaken your innate creativity and guide you to express it in ways you never thought possible. From the soft whisper of the breeze that teases your skin, to the symphony of waves forming the soundtrack of your creative process, every element of the environment is an invitation to deepen your artistic practice. Natalie's sessions are designed to open your eyes not only to the beauty that surrounds you but to the layers of perception and perspective that nature inspires. From the macro beauty of a single leaf to the panoramic splendor of the night sky, participants are taught to see the world as an artist does—finding wonder in the details and the whole, and translating that wonder into art.

No prior experience is necessary, just an open mind and the desire to be creative. To view Natalie’s work and get a sense of what you will be creating, click here.

2, 3-hour Abstract Art Workshops with Artist Natalie Brake

  • You will participate in 2, 3-hour Abstract Art classes led by your host and Instructor, Natalie Brake.

    You do not need experience for these classes - they are designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced artists. Natalie has taught art classes for over a decade, with the goal of softening the inner critic and calling forward the imagination.

    You will be using acrylic paints to learn various abstract techniques similar to the styles that you see in Natalies work. Her teaching style is both structured and fluid, creating a safe and supportive space for learning art techniques that create beautiful abstract art. You will take home at least 3 medium sized abstract art paintings. These will be packaged and easy to store in your luggage.

INDULGE

SAVOUR the Essence of Mexico: At DEEPEN, the culinary journey is an integral part of the sensory exploration, with meals meticulously crafted by a local Mexican chef who infuses every dish with the spirit and flavors of the region. You’ll enjoy the vibrant tastes of fresh ingredients that come alive on your plate. From the rich, nuanced layers of traditional mole to the bright, fresh zing of ceviche caught from nearby waters, each meal is a celebration of Mexican culinary heritage. Here, food is not just nourishment for the body but also for the soul, enhancing your connection to the culture and the natural surroundings. 

  • Our local Chef will prepare 3 meals per day for guests. You will have the option to select from a menu beforehand, with gluten and dairy-free options, as well as vegetarian.

TOUCH

TOUCH the textured tapestry of the jungle as we are guided by a local biologist to wander through its vibrant heart, where the soft flutter of butterfly wings, the fleeting caress of leaves brushed by colourful birds, and the discreet rustle of jungle animals add layers to your sensory exploration. Experience the tactile richness of nature—from the intricate patterns of bark under your fingertips to the delicate balance of a leaf resting in your palm. This intimate connection with a protected jungle will not only fuel your artistic expression but also deepen your bond with the natural world, inviting a profound appreciation for the delicate interplay of life around you.

  • We will be guided by a biologist through a protected jungle, on a 3 hour tour. This will be a fully immersive experience with a calming fusion of local knowledge of biodiversity, as well as moments of quiet to take it all in. This jungle is officially protected and is one of the only eco reserves in the area.

    learn more about our guide Katya and the reserve, here

CONNECT

CONNECT with the expansive beauty of the sky with a night of star-gazing. Join Natalie Brake at her home and sanctuary in Mexico, gracefully situated on a tranquil mountainside. Here, Natalie opens her world to you, sharing intimate stories of how the celestial wonders above inspire her artistic journey. Through her eyes, you'll explore the profound connection between the cosmos and creativity.

Embark on a journey of sensory awakening, led by Natalie, as she guides you through an exercise designed to enhance your attunement to the natural world. This experience invites you to deepen your relationship with the surroundings, encouraging a harmonious blend of observation and introspection.

As night descends, surrender to the spellbinding spectacle of the stars. The evening transcends into a silent communion with the sparkling sky, where the vastness of the universe is mirrored in the depths of your imagination. In this quiet space, let the celestial ballet of lights ignite your creative spirit, offering a poignant reminder of the universe's boundless wonder and the enchantment of life.

  • Natalie is an avid astronomy lover, and has lived in some of the most beautiful places in the world for star gazing. Join her for an evening on a beautiful mountainside acreage, under the stars and a full. moon This beautiful, hilltop location is very close to your accommodation, on the same acreage where Natalie lives.

RESTORE

Discover the restorative power of Sound Healing and Reiki sessions, where the vibrations touch more than just your body—they resonate within, aligning your energy and unlocking new dimensions of creativity. These sessions are not merely about listening; they're about feeling the frequency of sound and energy as they weave through the body, harmonizing the spirit and sparking an inner light of inspiration.

  • Sit back, lay down and get lost in a dreamy soundscape of singing, beautiful instruments and soft sounds of Musician and ocean Goddess, Natacha Radoyevic. These sound healing sessions will leave you feeling deeply at peace. This sound healing session was hand-picked by Natalie as one of her favourite sensory experiences ever.

  • Reiki is a healing modality originating in Japan, and is considered a type of biofield energy therapy. Sessions are led by Cass, a practitioner hand-picked by Natalie. During you session(s), Cass lightly places her hands on you, or sometimes just above you, to direct energy and help the body heal itself.

    Reiki is a complementary approach used alongside conventional medical interventions, not as a treatment of its own. Reiki does not treat or cure any health conditions.

    These sessions are deeply relaxing and restorative. Your practitioner is Cass.

REST

REST and be cared for with this all-inclusive experience as our wonderful, caring team handles all of your needs. From Airport pickup to your accommodation, welcoming faces to assist you with anything you may need, delicious, Chef-prepared meals, our soothing Reiki and Sound healer, attentive instruction and presence from Artist Natalie Brake, and more, the DEEPEN Team will leave you feeling fully renewed.

DEEPEN - Art & Sensory Retreat is an immersive experience that promises not only to expand your artistic abilities but to transform the way you perceive the world and yourself. It's an exploration that goes beyond the canvas, inviting you to touch, hear, see, taste, and smell the essence of creativity in its purest form. Its an opportunity to escape the jarring energy of the modern world, and sink into a deep tenderness.

There are only 8 spots in each retreat - this is by design and will foster a sense of quiet, intimacy and depth. 

Join us on this transformative journey - you deserve it, truly.

DETAILS
Dec 1-8
San Pancho, Mexico

full schedule here

COST: All inclusive (accommodation, 3 meals per day, 2 art classes, reiki & sound bath sessions, jungle bathing, daily beach visits)
Register 2 people - $6859 USD, taxes included.
Register 1 person - $4599 USD, taxes included.

The DEEPEN Retreat is *100% refundable if cancelled 30+ days before the event. There's no refund for cancellation 0-30 days before the Retreat.

*minus credit card processing fees

please note - we require 30 days to process refunds.

  • Natalie has lived and worked in Nayarit, Mexico, for over a decade. This beautiful tropical state on the West Coast of Mexico has a strong tourism infrastructure and many people from the US and Canada live here full time. All amenities are available in the area such as pharmacies, modern hospitals, grocery stores and more. One does not need to speak Spanish to visit the area, as many people and places accommodate English speakers. To learn more about the area, click here.

  • REFUND & CANCELLATION POLICY

    The DEEPEN Retreat is *100% refundable if cancelled 30+ days before the event start date. There is no refund if the retreat is cancelled after Nov 1, 2024

    *minus credit card processing fees

  • CLICK HERE for our frequently asked question