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Are you running on empty... even when you're not doing anything?

This retreat was created for you, if...

  • You give so much to others. You’re ambitious, dedicated, and dependable — but lately, it feels like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders.

  • Your mind races even when your body begs for rest. You crave clarity, stillness, and the feeling of being held — not just by others, but by life itself.

  • If you're burnt out, overwhelmed, or simply exhausted by the constant "doing"...
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Imagine this...

Waking up in a peaceful French château surrounded by ancient forests, birdsong, and rolling hills.

Starting your day with breakfast al fresco, yoga or a calming meditation. Nourishing your body with local, seasonal meals prepared with love.

Spending afternoons resting by the pool, journaling under the trees, walking barefoot through the grass, or receiving Reiki,  sound healing, Breathwork and more. 

This is not just a vacation.
It’s a return to your Self. This is your invitation to release, restore, and realign — far from the noise, close to what matters.

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Why This Retreat?

This retreat is a lovingly curated experience for heart-centered humans just like you — people who give so much to others, but rarely pause to refill their own cup.
To continue showing up in life with presence, purpose, and care, you don’t need to do more — you need to rest deeper.

You’ll be supported by your hosts, Bruce and Carmen, who bring over 30 years of combined experience in the healing arts, yoga, and therapeutic work. Together, they hold a grounded, compassionate space where you can let go, slow down, and restore.

You’ll be surrounded by a small, supportive group of people who understand the toll of burnout and the longing for something gentler.

Why You Should Be Here

Over the course of five days, you’ll be guided through healing practices that invite stillness, soothe your nervous system, and reconnect you with your inner peace.

From shared quiet moments to soulful conversations and restorative movement, this is a space where you don’t have to perform, prove, or push.
Your exhaustion is welcome here — and so is your healing.

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Here’s What Awaits You

Deep Nervous System Healing
Experience powerful practices like Gentle Yoga, Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep), Breathwork, Sound Healing, Reiki Circles, Meditations from different traditions — all designed to help your body release tension, your mind find stillness, and your spirit reconnect to peace.

Soulful Connection
You’ll be part of a small group, 12 people max, of like-hearted humans who are walking similar paths — ready to slow down. Expect real conversations, gentle support, and friendships that may last a life time.

Restorative Space-Holding
With dedicated time for personal reflection, shared group practices, and soft guidance from Bruce and Carmen, you’ll be invited into a rhythm that honors your pace, your needs, and your energy.

No Pressure, Just Presence
This isn’t about fixing or pushing. It’s about coming home to yourself. No busy schedules, no performance, no pressure. Just presence, intention, and genuine rest.

Nature’s Embrace
Wander through ancient forests, swim in natural waters, nap in the shade, or daydream beside the château’s pool. The land itself becomes part of your healing.

Digital Detox & Inner Clarity
Unplug from screens and notifications so you can reconnect to your own rhythm. With space to breathe, you may find answers you’ve been seeking without even asking.

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This is exactly what I need -
I'm Ready To Commit!

Welcome to Château Mas de Pradié…

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Aveyron countryside, Château Mas de Pradié is more than just a retreat center — it’s a sanctuary for rest, reflection, and soul-deep nourishment. Built in the 18th century and lovingly restored, this French château blends rustic charm with timeless elegance.

Your Home Away from Home

From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel it: the stillness, the beauty, the sense of exhale. Surrounded by forest and birdsong, the château welcomes you into a world where slowness is sacred and every detail is designed for comfort.

With cozy private rooms in the main house and shared accommodations in the beautifully converted Stables, there’s space for everyone to rest in their own rhythm. Wake up to sunlight streaming through antique windows, wander through wildflower gardens, or curl up with tea in one of the inviting communal nooks.

This is a place to unplug, unwind, and truly come home to yourself.

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Soak Up the Sun and Breathe Deeply

At Château Mas de Pradié, the extensive gardens and spacious grounds invite you to slow down and soak in nature’s healing rhythms. Wander through blooming wildflowers, find a quiet bench under ancient trees, or simply bask in the sun’s gentle warmth.

The large swimming pool is a shimmering oasis where you can float, swim, or simply lounge on a sunbed with a good book and the soft hum of the countryside all around you.

Al fresco breakfasts and lunches are served outdoors, letting you savor delicious, locally sourced meals while breathing in fresh air and admiring the peaceful landscape. Whether it’s morning coffee as the sun rises or a leisurely lunch surrounded by birdsong, these moments become a ritual of nourishment for body and soul.

Need a space to connect with others or enjoy some quiet downtime? The gardens offer both lively corners and secluded spots, perfect for gentle conversations or peaceful reflection beneath a canopy of leaves.

Here at Mas de Pradié, every moment outside is an invitation to restore, refresh, and simply be.

Wow I can't wait! I'm joining Now!

The Cuisine

Nourishment for Body & Soul

 

France is known for its deep appreciation of food — not only for flavor but for the ritual of gathering, sharing, and slowing down. At Château Mas de Pradié, you’ll experience a simple version of that tradition: fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared on-site, served in a relaxed, communal setting.

Our meals are inspired by rustic French cooking — think local produce, regional cheeses, hearty salads, tarts, and fresh herbs — combined with lighter Mediterranean elements to support rest and balance.

What’s Included:

  • Breakfast: A typical French-style start to the day with fresh pastries, bread, muesli, yogurt, fruit, coffee, and tea.

  • Lunch: Light and nourishing meals featuring quiches, salads, legumes, and local cheeses or proteins and light dessert. 

  • Dinner: A three-course meal with a simple starter, a wholesome main dish, and a naughty dessert or fruit-based option.

  • Snacks: Herbal teas, fruit, and light bites available throughout the day.

Meals are served either in the dining room or al fresco in the gardens or terrace, depending on the weather. All meals are vegetarian-friendly, with vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary options available by request.

Final menus will be confirmed closer to the retreat and adapted to the season.

Should You Join Us?

That’s a wholehearted YES if…

  • You're craving real rest, meaningful connection, and the kind of beauty that gently brings you back to yourself.

  • You’ve been giving so much—to your clients, your business, your loved ones—and you know it’s time to nourish your own nervous system.

  • You long to slow down, step away from the noise, and reconnect with your inner wisdom, creativity, and heart.

  • You’re ready to reimagine your life or work—not from burnout, but from clarity, peace, and purpose.

  • You love gathering with conscious entrepreneurs, healers, and changemakers—people who are doing deep work in the world and need a soft space to land.

  • You know in your bones that France is calling, and this sacred land—its forests, food, silence, and wildflowers—has something just for you.

  • And… you're ready to be held by two seasoned facilitators, Bruce and Carmen, who bring over 30 years of combined experience in healing, transformation, and soul-centered business.

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Here’s What You Can Expect at Château Mas de Pradié…

  • Time away from work and routine to rest and reset

  • Quiet natural surroundings to slow down and recharge

  • Deep conversations and reflection with a small group of like-minded people

  • Group support to bring clarity to what’s next in your life or work

  • No need to plan or organize—everything is taken care of

  • Nourishing meals made with local ingredients

  • Free time to walk, read, rest, or explore nearby villages and markets

  • Thoughtful and powerful practices to reconnect with your body, creativity, and presence

  • A chance to step back, listen inward, and return with more direction

  • A calm, supportive space to share, process, and be witnessed without judgment

The Itinerary

 

Arrival & Setting the Rhythm

Please ensure you’re in Toulouse or somewhere near Figeac by September 4, as our shared retreat experience begins at 17:00 on September 5 at the château.

Just in case of travel delays or jet lag, we highly recommend arriving on the 4th or earlier. This also gives you time to settle in and enjoy exploring the peaceful surroundings before we gather. If you need help booking a nearby hotel for the night, we’re happy to assist.


About the Region

Nestled between the departments of Aveyron and the Lot, this region of southwestern France offers a breathtaking blend of nature, history, and slow living. Think: winding rivers, limestone cliffs, deep forests, medieval villages, and quiet beauty around every bend. The land is rich with walking trails, open skies, and stillness — an ideal setting for reconnecting with yourself.

The area is sprinkled with centuries-old stone hamlets, vibrant markets, and Romanesque churches. Whether you're soaking up the timeless charm of hilltop towns, dipping your feet in a cool river, or gazing at star-filled skies, this part of France invites you to exhale and return to what truly matters.


A Glimpse Into Our Daily Rhythm

Each day will be gently held by a steady, nourishing rhythm — with plenty of time for rest, reflection, and connection. While exact offerings may vary slightly depending on the flow of the group, here’s what a typical day might look like:

 9:00     → Breakfast  
10:30    → Morning Session (Yoga, Breathwork, Reiki Circle, etc.)  
13:30    → Lunch & Free Time  
17:00    → Afternoon Session (Sound Healing, Walks, Shamanic Inner Child Meditation, etc.)  
19:30    → Dinner  
21:00    → Optional Meditation Under the Stars  
 
Sessions are optional. This is your time to return to yourself — with both structure and spaciousness to support your journey.

🌿 Day 1 — Arriving & Rooting
  • Check-in & orientation

  • Opening circle with Yin Yoga (gentle floor stretches).

  • Dinner & rest

"I arrive. I root. I begin again."

 

🔍 Day 2 — Listening Within

Theme: Meeting your needs with honesty and compassion

  • Silent morning with breakfast

  • Gentle Yoga + Journaling (on emotional/physical needs)

  • Shamanic Inner Child Meditation 

  • Sharing or creative reflection

"I listen. I feel. I welcome all that I am."

🌌 Day 3 — Resting in the Deep

Theme: Surrendering into stillness and inner space

  • Optional market day (morning)

  • Yoga Nidra (the yogic sleep)

  • Restorative Sound healing with multiple instruments

  • Optional solo nature time

  • Evening: Guided meditation under the stars

"I rest. I receive. I am held."


🔥 Day 4 — Reclaiming My Fire
  • Breathwork & painting or journaling (mid-morning)

  • Walk to Prehistoric Caves – rebirth journey

  • Fire ritual & Ecstatic Movement

  • Dinner + Joyful sharing

"I rise. I choose. I return to myself."

🌱 Day 5 — Integration & Return

Theme: Carrying the wisdom home

  • Reiki Circle

  • Creating personal rituals/boundaries for daily life

  • Closing Ceremony

  • Departure

"I carry the flame. I bring this home."

 

What's Included?

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  • All nourishing meals are included, beginning with dinner on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 5. Expect seasonal, locally sourced ingredients prepared with care.

  • Indulge in 4 nights of exquisite accommodation at the enchanting Château Mas de Pradié. Choose between a private sanctuary or a beautifully appointed shared room, each offering its own unique charm, elegance, and restful ambiance.

  • Enjoy a deeply nourishing private healing session with either Bruce or Carmen, tailored to support your personal journey.

  • Daily yoga, meditation designed to restore your nervous system and reconnect you to your inner rhythm.

  • Breathwork, sound healing, Reiki Circles and guided rest practices to support deep release and nervous system repair.

  • Group sharing circles and gentle reflection activities to support emotional wellbeing.

  • All group materials and tools for the practices and experiences.

  • A pre-retreat Zoom call to meet your hosts, connect with fellow participants, and set intentions.

What's not Included?

  • Transportation to and from Château Mas de Pradié (we're happy to help coordinate travel from nearby towns like Figeac or Toulouse).

  • Travel, health, or cancellation insurance — we highly recommend you purchase this ahead of time.  Further, it is highly recommended that you ensure all your travel can be fully reimbursed via travel insurance/trip protection

  • Any meals or drinks you choose to have off-site before or after the retreat.

  • Souvenirs, personal shopping, phone usage, laundry, etc.

  • Additional nights of accommodation if you choose to arrive early or stay after the retreat (we can suggest options nearby).

  • Extra tips or donations for any local guides, chefs, or staff beyond what is already covered.

If you need support planning your travel or accommodations, we're happy to assist or connect you with someone who can.

 

This is what I have been waiting for!  

A personal note from Carmen & Bruce

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The healing journey isn’t a linear one. Whether we’re moving through burnout, addiction, grief, or simply longing for a deeper connection to life, it takes courage to pause—and even more courage to return to the heart.

We believe that our inner work is the foundation for everything else we create—our relationships, our service, our creativity. Whatever has been pushed aside will find its way back to us until we choose to listen with compassion.

In both of our lives, we’ve discovered that real transformation rarely happens when we’re caught in the noise of everyday life. It happens when we step away. When we give ourselves space—away from our work, our roles, our routines—and allow ourselves to soften, breathe, and simply be.

 

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That’s why we’ve created this retreat. It’s not just a getaway—it’s a sacred pause. A place to remember what truly matters, and to return to the well of your own being.

After decades of walking beside others as healers, yoga teachers, sound therapists, and holistic wellness practitioners,  we’ve come to know this truth: you don’t need to be “fixed.” You need to be seen. Held. Nourished. And gently invited back home to yourself.

This retreat is for those who are ready to refill their cup, reconnect to the sacred, and walk with others who also long to live with intention, beauty, and soul.

If that speaks to you, then we invite you to join us.

With love and deep care,

Carmen & Bruce

I want to Join you! Sign me up! 

Choose Your Accommodation

We’ve done our best to make this retreat as accessible and comfortable as possible. Below are the room options:
The Stables

Shared Room - The Stables

The Stables are situated adjacent from the main Château and offer a luxury open-plan two bedroom gite.

Many of the original features have been maintained and renovated, including the wooden beams as you go upstairs to the bedrooms. In this space, there are two large double beds, plus an additional two single beds. There is a beautiful, private bathroom with a free-standing bathtub and separate shower. There is also a balcony with lovely views of the gardens.

The Stables can accommodate 4 guests. Ideal for solo travelers seeking a budget-friendly option!

Price: €1,365 per person

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Artist Studio

The Artist's Studio is situated opposite the main Château and epitomises escapism.

A stylish space with soft pastel colour palette in the spacious bedroom which includes one Queen size bed, one double and two fold-out singles. Natural light fills the room and the large windows look onto the gardens below.

Downstairs, enjoy your own fully-equipped kitchen and beautiful bathroom which have both been recently renovated to a high standard. The Studio also features reverse cycle air-conditioning.

The Studio accommodates 3 to 4 guests — perfect for friends or family traveling together! 

Price: €1,550 per person

Ideal for solo travelers seeking budget-friendly option

The Guardian's Cottage

This lovely historic self-contained cottage has a spacious living room and a fully-equipped kitchen. There is one large bedroom as well as a modern bathroom with shower. The living room and kitchen lead out onto the beautiful terrace which overlooks the gardens. There is also a large and comfortable sofa bed in the living room, allowing up to four people to stay in the gite.

The cottage has been carefully renovated while maintaining all of its rustic old charm and period features including the antique floorboards and white-washed walls.

The Guardian's Cottage can accommodate 2 — a charming and romantic retreat, perfect for couples

Price: €2,950 for the Cottage 

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Elegant Sanctuary Rooms Inside the Château

Nestled within the historic walls of the Château, these refined rooms offer a serene retreat for couples or solo travelers seeking comfort, beauty, and privacy.

Each space is thoughtfully designed to blend timeless charm with modern convenience, featuring high ceilings, graceful windows, and a private ensuite bathroom with contemporary touches. A peaceful haven where you can rest, recharge, and reconnect with yourself or a loved one.

Château Queen Rooms welcome 1 to 2 guests and offer a peaceful retreat for couples or solo travelers seeking privacy.

Price: €2,950 per room (single or double occupancy).

How to Join Us

  1. Choose your room type from the options above.

  2. Reserve your spot with a €500 deposit  for a shared room  in the stables or €1,000 for a private accommodation. 

  3. Pay the remaining balance by August 1st, 2025.Great offers for of 3 or 4 people. 

🌟 Need a custom payment plan? Not sure if this journey is right for you?
We’re here to help! Just contact us, and we’ll be happy to chat.

Great offers for groups of 3 or 4 people. 


Cancellation Policy

  • A €500 or €1000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot.

  • Full payment is due by August 1st, 2025.

If you cancel:

  • Cancel before August 1st: Any payment beyond the deposit will be refunded.

  • Cancel after August 1st: No refunds will be issued.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover trip cancellations for peace of mind.

If we cancel:

  • If the retreat is canceled due to insufficient participants or unforeseen circumstances, you’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit, minus the non-refundable payment processing fee (~3%).  

  • Please note we are not responsible for any additional costs like flights or travel arrangements, so we recommend booking flexible or refundable options.

 


Force Majeure

In events beyond our control—such as natural disasters, extreme weather, government regulations, pandemics, or other acts of God—we reserve the right to cancel or reschedule the retreat. In these cases, you will receive a full refund minus the payment processing fee (~3%).  

Please note: we are not liable for any additional expenses incurred due to such cancellations.

 

Testimonials

FAQ's

⁠Who are your guides?

Your retreat will be guided by Carmen Sanz and Bruce Taylor.

🌐 www.carmensanz.com | 📷 @carmensounds

🌐 www.rootsoflife.org | 🎥 YouTube: Roots of Life | 📷 @rootsoflife_org

Carmen and Bruce first began working together over 10 years ago in Hong Kong, and have since continued to teach and practice together across the globe. They bring over 30 years of combined experience in Sound, Meditation, Reiki, Psychedelic Therapy, Yoga, and Breathwork. Their approach is compassionate, inclusive, and rooted in deep healing and embodied presence.

⁠What can I expect in this retreat?

You can expect a deeply restorative experience rooted in rest, reflection, and reconnection:

Two guided sessions daily: morning and late afternoon/evening practices

One late-night meditation session (offered once during the retreat)

All meals lovingly prepared by local chefs

Spacious time for nature walks, journaling, swimming, or doing absolutely nothing

An opportunity to step away from technology and reconnect with your inner world

A safe, nurturing environment held by experienced facilitators.

How do I get to Château Mas de Pradié, Foissac, France?

The nearest train stations are Villefranche and Figeac, both approx. 20 minutes by car.

We can arrange shuttle pickup/drop-off (€30 per trip).

On-site parking is available for those arriving by car.

Once booked, you’ll receive guidance for arriving easily and safely — GPS can be unreliable in this area, so we’ll make sure you're well supported.

What is included in the retreat?

Everything you need for a deeply healing and supportive experience:

5 days / 4 nights at Château Mas de Pradié, a serene and private estate in southern France

2 guided sessions per day (yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound, Reiki, etc.)

One extra evening meditation session

All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) + daily snacks and tea

Continuous support and presence from both Carmen and Bruce

Optional group check-ins and closing circles

Access to all Château facilities including gardens, forest trails, and pool

Plenty of time for rest, stillness, and self-reflection


⁠What is not included?

Transport to/from France.

Travel insurance.

Personal purchases or additional excursions not part of the retreat program.

What level of experience do I need to join?

Absolutely no experience is required. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll be guided gently and safely through every practice. All bodies, backgrounds, and levels are welcome.

Will there be free time during the retreat?

Yes — in fact, it’s a key part of the experience.
Each day includes spacious time to rest, journal, nap, walk in nature, or simply be. This isn’t a busy retreat — it’s a slow, intentional space designed for real restoration.
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⁠Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. Meals are prepared fresh with locally sourced ingredients, and we’re happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with prior notice. Just let us know when you register.

What should I bring?

Once registered, you’ll receive a detailed packing list, but here are the basics:

Comfortable clothes for movement and rest

Water bottle

Personal toiletries and journal

Swimwear (for the pool)

We will provide all yoga props.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that life happens. A clear and fair cancellation policy will be provided at booking. Our aim is to be flexible while also respecting the time and resources committed to this retreat.

⁠Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal at the Château?

Yes — but we encourage you to unplug as much as possible. This is your invitation to a Digital Detox, creating space to reconnect with yourself, nature, and others in real-time.

⁠Can I extend my stay before or after the retreat?

Possibly! If you’d like to arrive early or stay longer in the area, let us know. We can check availability at the Château or recommend great local stays nearby.

What weather can I expect?

September in southern France typically brings warm, sunny days and cooler evenings, with the possibility of occasional rain. Most sessions will be held indoors or under cover, ensuring your comfort regardless of the weather. Outdoor meditations will be weather-dependent, with the option to move them indoors if needed.

⁠I’m undecided — is there a way to connect with the teachers first?

Absolutely.
Please explore our work through the links shared above. If you’d like to speak with us personally, we’re happy to arrange a private Zoom call or invite you to join one of our group check-ins before the retreat. Just reach out and we’ll find a time to connect!

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