Sacred Pause
A FIVE DAY WOMEN'S CELTIC REST AND RESTORE RETREAT
MOUNT ST ANNES, COUNTY LAOIS IRELAND
FRIDAY SEPT 18th TO TUES SEP 22nd 2026
Rooted in Celtic Spirituality, created for your deep rest
A gentle turning toward rest, rootedness, and renewal
When life has been busy, demanding, or quietly overwhelming, the body often asks for a pause.
Sacred Pause is a five-day eco-spiritual retreat for women who feel tired, stretched, ungrounded, or out of rhythm with themselves — and who sense that something softer, slower, and more nourishing is needed.
You may not call what you’re experiencing burnout.
You may simply know that you’re weary, that your nervous system feels frayed, or that you’ve been living in your head rather than in your body.
This retreat offers a place to stop, rest, and reconnect — before exhaustion becomes something louder.
In the rush of modern life, we so easily forget the sacred rhythm of rest. Sacred Pause is an invitation to step away from busyness and return to your natural state of quiet wisdom, deep peace, and gentle strength. This five-day, four-night retreat weaves ancient Celtic spirituality with restorative practices to nurture your body, mind, and spirit.
Held within a circle of women, you will experience:
Each day unfolds around a theme drawn from Celtic tradition:
🕊️ Crossing the Threshold – Entering sacred time and space
🌸 Resting in Anam Cara Presence – Remembering belonging and soul friendship
🔥 Listening to Inner Wisdom – Rekindling Brigid’s flame within
🌿 Rekindling the Inner Fire – Awakening creativity and life force
✨ Returning with Blessing – Gathering insights to carry forward
This is not a retreat of striving, self-improvement, or endless learning. It is a sanctuary of rest, where you are invited to lay down your burdens, listen deeply, and remember that you are held by something ancient, wise, and kind.
Come. Be still. Let the land hold you. Return home to yourself – rooted, restored, and blessed
Ready to Rest and Restore?
If your heart is calling for stillness, deep rest, and a return to what is sacred within you, we invite you to join us.
Before booking your place on this retreat please book a zoom call with Dee to review any questions you may have to help you to decide if this is the retreat for you. Then complete your booking for the retreat, make your travel arrangements and accommodation needed for before and/ or after the retreat. Please also take out appropriate insurance at the time of booking to provide peace of mind should your travel plans be disrupted
As someone dedicated to supporting others, you've mastered the art of being there for everyone else. But the cost of constant giving is catching up.
You're not alone in this. After supporting over 2,000 women leaders and professionals, I've seen how the most capable, compassionate individuals often reach this crossroads.
The good news? There's a way to reclaim your vitality without stepping away from your valuable work and way of being in the world.
Might this be you?
You feel over-stretched, over-responsible, or quietly depleted
You live with the ongoing impact of stress
You are a caregiver, helper, leader, or space-holder for others
You struggle to rest without guilt
You find boundaries difficult and energy hard to protect
You long for rest that is meaningful, not just an escape
You are drawn to nature-based spirituality and gentle inner work
You want to move from over busy, or stressed toward blossoming as yourself — slowly, safely, and sustainably
What is this retreat about?
Sacred Pause is an invitation to come back into rhythm.
Rather than pushing for change or insight, this retreat creates the conditions for restoration — through time, nature, gentle guidance, and the wisdom of the land.
Over five spacious days, you’ll be supported by Celtic eco-spiritual practices and the living presence of the natural world. The retreat is shaped around the four elements — Earth, Air, Fire, and Water — each offering a different quality of support:
The land — especially the old trees at the retreat venue — plays a central role. Through quiet presence, listening, and simple embodied practices, you’ll be invited into relationship with nature as a steady, non-demanding companion.
This is not a retreat about self-improvement.
It is about remembering how it feels to be held.
This retreat may be right for you if:
✔ You feel drawn to rest and slowness
✔ You want time in nature that feels intentional and held
✔ You’re open to gentle reflection and embodied practices
✔ You want to feel more rooted and less rushed
✔ You value depth over intensity
This retreat may not be right for you if:
✖ You’re looking for a fast-paced or highly structured
programme
✖ You want constant activity or external stimulation
✖ You’re currently in acute crisis and need immediate,
intensive support
If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to reach out.
Choosing slowly what is right for you is part of the ethos
of this retreat.
BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW
Please book a call with Dee first to ask your questions and explore if this is the right retreat for you
Please remember to take out insurance to protect you from travel or other disruption which may affect your participation.
WHAT PREVIOUS RETREAT PARTICIPANTS HAVE SHARED.
What a wonderful, heartwarming and cosy time – wonderful women, companionship, support, stories at teatime, wisdom and imagination, down to earthiness and rest. Thank you Dee for nurturing us throughout and for luring us to this beautiful oasis of peace and tranquility in the midlands.
Participant
Brigid's Winter Blessing Retreat December 7th/8th 2025
Thank you Dee for a liberating, deep, meaningful retreat, the honesty, vulnerability, and the decadence of care.
Participant
Brigid's Winter Blessing Retreat Dec 7th/8th 2025
Rebecca Collins
Brigid's Winter Blessing Retreat Dec 7th /8th 2025
The retreat was beautiful. The structure of the retreat was perfect, ran very well by Dee. I met a group of beautiful, amazing women. I feel so whole and refreshed. I highly recommend this retreat. It worked wonders for me. Thanks so much Dee.
Participant
Brigid's Winter Blessing Retreat Dec 7th/8th 2025
Difficult to put into words the journey taken in these past two days. One of enlightenment, peace, rest, resolution, and learning to ‘be’, in the company of a strong and wonderful community of women. Dee thank you, you have a very special gift.
"We had a wonderful three days at the 2025 Bealtaine retreat. The location was peaceful and beautiful, the food was delicious, and the pace was slow, yet covered a lot. Dee was warm, kind, and shared her vast knowledge in a simple, down-to-earth way. It was a truly special time for me and my daughter, and we often talk about the experience. We’re looking forward to the opportunity to participate again. Thank you so much, Dee! " Mary and Riona Lawless
There are no early mornings, no packed schedules, and no pressure to perform or participate fully. Rest is built into the structure of each day. This retreat is intentionally slow and spacious. There is no silence requirement. You are free to engage, withdraw, rest, or wander as your body and heart need.
You can expect:
🌿Gentle movement and intuitive dance, accessible to all
bodies
🌿Exploration of boundaries and inner resilience, in
compassionate ways
There is no pressure to participate in everything.
Listening to your own needs is part of the practice.
With a renewed sense of purpose and energy
Bringing with you ancient celtic wisdom to meet 21st century challenges
Armed with practical tools to prevent burn out and to support your blossoming
Deeply connected to your own inner wisdom
Supported by a community of like minded women leaders
FIVE DAYS OF DEEP RENEWAL IN NATURE'S EMBRACE
MINDFULNESS AND CELTIC WISDOM
Ancient practices made accessible for modern leaders, helping you find calm amidst chaos
ANAM CARA - ( SOUL FRIENDSHIP)
Experience the profound power of deep listening and authentic connection
SHAMANIC SOUND BATH EXPERIENCE
Release accumulated stress through time-tested healing modalities
Our Daily Flow
Morning - Gentle awakening with
optional Celtic Chanting
Mid day - Deep Restoration and
Wisdom Practices
Afternoon - Creative Expression and Personal Reflection
Evening - Integration and Community Connection
Sample Daily Schedule
Friday Sept 18th
Saturday Sept 19th 2: FOUNDATIONS
Crossing The Threshold
Arrival • Orientation • Entering Sacred Time
3:00–5:00pm
Settle into your single ensuite room
Gentle time on the land
Tea, rest, quiet walking
(No facilitation — arrival is intentionally spacious.)
5:00–6:00pm
Opening Session: Crossing the Threshold
Welcome & orientation
Arriving meditation
Gentle threshold ritual
7.30pm Yoga Nidra
Saturday Sept 19th
Resting in Anam Cara Presence
Belonging • Self-Compassion • Being Accompanied
10:00am–12:45pm
Morning Session
Guided meditation: Being held by the earth
Teaching: Anam Cara & belonging
Time with the trees / sit-spot practice
Reflection or journaling
1:45–3:00pm
Rest & Free Time
Naps
Quiet time
Gentle wandering outdoors
3:00–5:30pm
Afternoon Session
Forest listening walk
Gentle movement practice
Short grounding meditation
Sunday Sept 20th
Listening To Inner Wisdom
Discernment • Elemental Insight • Quiet Knowing
10:00am–12:45pm
Morning Session
Settling meditation
Teaching: Inner wisdom & the elements
Shamanic Sound Bath Experience
Quiet reflection
1:45–3:00pm
Rest & Free Time
3:00–5:30pm
Afternoon Session
Water meditation: The inner well
Creative integration (journaling / drawing)
Embodied listening through gentle movement
Monday Sept 21st
Rekindling the Inner Fire
Creativity • Vitality • Gentle Aliveness
10:00am–12:45pm
Morning Session
Meditation: Awakening inner warmth
Teaching: Fire without burnout
Creative exploration inspired by nature
Reflection
1:45–3:00pm
Rest & Free Time
3:00–5:30pm
Afternoon Session
Gentle movement / dance practice
Fire meditation: Nourishing aliveness
Integration & closing grounding
Tuesday Sept 22nd
Returning with Blessing
Integration • Gratitude • Carrying the Pause Forward
10:00am–12:45pm
Morning Session
Meditation: Weaving the elements
Reflection: Carrying rest into daily life
Gratitude walk on the land
1:45–4:00pm
Closing Session
Teaching: Returning without rushing
Integration practice
Closing circle & farewell
4:00pm
Departure
SOME MORE KIND WORDS
A beautiful heart- led person centred retreat by Dee. The Brigid’s Winter Blessings came and my heart is full of love and gratitude. The group of beautiful souls called to come were like a celtic gathering which was nectar for my soul. Coming from Cornwall to County Laois in Southern Ireland was a pilgrimage indeed, and the journey unfolds even more as the pathway opens, guided by Brigid’s flame, cloak and well. Thank you Dee. Much love and blessings.
"One of the best retreats I have ever attended. Dee is a wonderful facilitator. I released ‘stuff’ after many years of trying. Thank you sincerely Dee.”
" So glad I came. A deeply nourishing and healing experience. Thank you Dee”
“ This is the best selfcare, restful, warm, welcoming time spent in years. A very settling experience.”
From frontline human services to leadership roles, I've walked the path you're on. My own journey through burnout led me to create this unique approach, blending ancient wisdom and nature with modern neuroscience,.
Guided 450+ women as an Anam Cara (Soul Friend)
Facilitated retreats for 700+ women leaders
Provided wisdom supervision to 600+ women in leadership
Taught mindfulness to over 2,000 professionals
The Special Touches
Single ensuite accommodation for peaceful rest
Plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces for you to enjoy personal relaxation time
Nourishing meals prepared with care
Gracious sitting room for evening gatherings when you want social connection
Optional 30 minute One to One Anam Cara session with Dee
Refreshments always available in the hospitable coffee room
Sacred Space Workbook and Journal
BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW
Please book a call with Dee first to ask your questions and explore if this is the right retreat for you
Please remember to take out insurance to protect you from travel or other disruption which may affect your participation.
Our
Mount St. Anne’s dating from 1820 is set in delightful pastoral landscape, four miles from Monasterevin and ten miles from Portlaoise. Distant views of the Wicklow mountains to the east and the gentle slope of the Slieve Blooms to the south combine with rolling parkland and stately trees to create an atmosphere of serenity in which the spirit is revitalized and energies are restored.
Extensive Grounds
Glass Atrium
Walled Garden
Dining Room
Woodland
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Sitting Room
Oak Room - Our Meeting Space
MAYBE YOU ARE WONDERING...
I know that investing in yourself takes a little courage and is no small thing. You want to be sure, to know as much as you can about what to expect, how it will work, if it is really for you before joining me on this unique retreat. I totally understand. I too always take my time, ask my questions and reflect if it is right for me before jumping into any new venture. So I have answered the most frequently asked questions about the retreat below. If our question is not answered here, or you have another you can book a zoom chat with me Here
Do I need insurance?
You are strongly advised to take out insurance at the same time you book your place on this Bealtaine retreat to protect you to protect you in the event of any unplanned travel or participation disruption.
Getting to Mount St Annes from Dublin
Mount St Annes is about one and a half hours by road or train from Dublin.
Travelling from Dublin to Mount St Annes
Train from Heuston Station your stop will be Portarlington Railway Station. You can then book a Taxi to take you to Mount St. Anne’s which is about a ten minute drive ( 6.2 kilometres) If you wish to book a taxi in advance, please contact Mount St Annes on 00-353-(0)57-8626153 for local taxi service number.
Guests attending te retreat retreat and travelling by bus from Dublin must depart at Ballybrittas.
Guests can then book a Taxi to transport them to Mount St. Anne’s. If you wish to book a taxi in advance, please contact Mount St Annes on 00-353-(0)57-8626153 for local taxi service number.
Easy Access
Ample free parking on-site
- Public transport available from Dublin
- Local taxi service available from Portarlington Railway Station
Mount St. Anne's Retreat and Conference Centre
Killenard, Portarlington, Co. Laois, Ireland
Post Code: R32 WN59
Telephone: +353 (0)57 8626153
Email: secretary@mountstannes.com
Post Code: R32 WN59
Accommodation before and after the Sacred Pause Retreat
In Dublin
The Aisling Hotel https://www.ashlinghotel.ie/
is located just a couple of minutes walk from Heuston Train Station where you will get a train to Portarlington
In Mount St Annes
Depending on availability you might be able to book B&B in the retreat house for the days before and after the retreat. Enquiries and booking directly through the retreat house. Please contact the secretary:
Telephone: +353 (0)57 8626153
Email: secretary@mountstannes.com
In a local hotel just a few minutes drive from Mount St Annes called The Heritage, www.theheritage.com
What is the refund policy?
Full payment is due 40 days before the retreat start date, which is Sunday Aug 9th 2026. After this date refunds cannot be made, but if you have paid in full before this 40 day deadline, you may request a refund. Refunds are not available after the 40 day deadline, but from this time if you no longer wish to or are able to participate in the retreat you may transfer your place to another. Please contact Dee re the process for this transfer of a place.
What to bring
Comfortable, layered clothing
- Rain gear and walking shoes
- Indoor shoes/slippers
- Yoga mat ( if you have one) blanket , eye mask & cushion (if you like)
- Journal for reflection
- Any personal comfort items
Is the retreat right for me if I've never done any mindfulness?
Absolutely. This retreat is specifically designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of previous experience. If traditional mindfulness hasn't worked for you before, you'll discover a gentler, more natural approach here.
What if I'm not sure about celtic spirituality ?
No prior knowledge needed. We weave these ancient wisdom traditions in a way that's practical and relevant for modern life, regardless of your background or beliefs.
How much time is structured vs free time?
The retreat balances guided sessions with ample space for rest, enjoyment of nature and personal reflection. All activities are invitational - you're free to participate or take time for yourself as needed.
Book With Confidence
Small, intimate group (maximum 21 participants)
Experienced Facilitator supporting over busy women in professional and family caring roles for over 20 years
You Relax - we look after you with great accommodation, beautiful surroundings and freshly prepared, wholesome food.
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Ensuite Single Bedroom
Fresh Wholesome Food
Fresh Wholesome Food
Ready to prioritise your blossoming in 2026?
Two clear steps
Schedule a call to meet with Dee and explore any questions you may have
Then book your place with confidence, and look forward to a special time of deep rest and restoration.
“Dee’s Brigid’s Winter Blessings exceeded my expectations. Along with a wonderful education on Brigid’s spiritual legacy, Dee demonstrated how in practical terms , we can use the symbol of the cloak, well and fire to encourage a sense of letting go anything that does not serve our spirit, while at the same time understanding there is a perpetual ember in our heart that we can nurture and encourage to burn brightly, and the cloak symbol we wrap around ourselves for protection. The comfort and care of the retreat house is so nourishing, and balm for the soul”.
Lisa Power
Participant in Brigid's Winter Blessing Retreat Dec 7th/8th 2025
What Clients Have Shared About Working With Dee
Karen Power
Children's Mindfulness and Yoga Teacher
When you are busy with ideas and life's stresses, Dee brings this sense of calm and has a natural ability to ground you so you can move forward from a better place. I highly recommend Dee, her professional and friendly approach inspires people to be their best.
Katie Hourigan
Regional Coordinator
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland
I would highly recommend Dee Hennessy as a passionate and experienced mindfulness teacher. She has years of practice supporting people working in in human care organisations and community groups in how we respond to stress and improve our well-being. Availing of Dee’s service as in investment in yourself. My work has benefited for it as has as my personal life.
Dorothy Surrett-Thomas
Programme Coordinator
The Irish Cancer Society
I found Dee to be considerate and gentle as she moved some fairly significant mountains! I was so impressed by her commitment and style that I joined a her mindful transformation programme. I was even further impressed by Dee's attention to detail and thoroughness. I will definitely join Dee again in the future and would recommend that you do as well!
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