The Medicine of Fall
Day Retreat
Shawnigan Lake
The Medicine of Fall: A Day Retreat
Date: Sunday, October 25th, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Grow Wild Retreats
Embrace the Season of Letting Go
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to turn, nature invites us to slow down, turn inward, and release what no longer serves us. Fall is not just a season of transition; it is a profound medicine.
Join us for The Medicine of Fall, a full-day sanctuary designed to bring together your mind, body, and spirit with the grounding energy of Fall. Through movement, herbal wisdom, and deep relaxation, we will honor the shift from the active days of summer to the restorative quiet of winter.
Your Journey Through the Day
9:30 AM | Opening Circle & Intention Setting
We begin in sacred community. Gather with us to ground into the space, meet your fellow retreaters, and set a personal intention for the day. We will sip warm tea and acknowledge the transition we are making together.
10:00 AM | Fall-Themed Vinyasa Flow (All Levels)
Awaken the body with a mindful yoga practice designed to harness the stabilizing energy of autumn. This class focuses on grounding postures, balancing sequences, and breathwork to build internal heat and calm the nervous system. Modifications provided for all levels.
12:00 PM | Nourishing Lunch
Enjoy a wholesome lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients. This is a time for community, reflection, and fueling your body with the earth’s harvest.
1:30 PM | Herbal Wisdom & The Art of Letting Go
Step into the world of plant medicine. We will explore herbs that support the immune system and emotional body during the fall transition. In this workshop and sharing circle, we will discuss the symbolism of the season—what it means to "let go" and how to make space for new growth by releasing old patterns.
3:00 PM | Restorative Yoga & Deep Rest
As the afternoon wanes, we transition into deep relaxation. Supported by props, this restorative practice will guide you into a state of conscious rest. We will use guided meditation to help you integrate the day’s insights and cultivate a sense of inner stillness.
4:30 PM | Sauna & Cold Dip (Optional)
Awaken the senses and boost your circulation. Warm your body in the traditional wood sauna, then—if you dare—take a refreshing plunge into the pond. This practice of contrast therapy is renowned for reducing inflammation, boosting mood, and building resilience. This is an optional activity; feel free to simply relax by the fire with tea if you prefer.
5:45 PM | Closing Circle
We gather one last time to seal our intentions and share gratitude before returning to our daily lives, carrying the medicine of fall with us.
What’s Included
8.5 hours of guided facilitation and community
2 Yoga Classes (Active Morning Flow + Restorative Afternoon)
Nourishing Lunch & Tea
Herbal Workshop & Take-Home Herbal Craft
Sauna Access & Pond Plunge
Tea, Water, and Warm Beverages throughout the day
Investment
$200
Spaces are limited to 12 participants to ensure an intimate experience. Reserve your spot today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be good at yoga?
Not at all. The morning class is designed for all levels, offering modifications for beginners and challenges for seasoned practitioners. The afternoon class is restorative, meaning it is mostly floor-based and deeply relaxing.
What should I bring?
Comfortable yoga clothing
A yoga mat if you like. But the venue has mats and all the props for us.
A towel and swimsuit for the sauna/pond
A water bottle
A journal and pen
Warm layers (sweaters/socks) for the restorative session and outdoor time
I don’t want to jump in the cold pond. Is that okay?
Absolutely. The cold dip is entirely optional. You can enjoy the sauna, sit by the pond, or curl up with a book while others participate.
What about food allergies?
Our lunch is prepared with care. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions upon registration, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
I don’t know anyone. Does everyone know each other?
You are so welcome to come alone. Some people return every year and know people,
others are arriving for the first time. By the end of the day, you will have made new friends
and be glad that you came.
What is your refund policy?
A full refund, minus processing fees of $15 is available before October 1st.
After October 1st, no refund is available.
I have a question you have not answered.
No problem. Please contact me at jonnilynfriel@gmail.com
Space is limited. Join us for a day of deep nourishment and seasonal connection.
Meet Jonni-Lyn Friel
A lifelong student of yoga, Jonni-Lyn Friel's journey has taken her from owning a studio in Athens, Greece to her current home on Canada's West Coast. Her exploration of styles Ashtanga, Anusara and Sivananda culminated in a deep connection with Jivamukti Yoga, where the physical, philosophical, and devotional aspects of the practice came together in a way that felt like home.
As a certified Jivamukti teacher (500 E-RYT) and founder of Namaha Yoga School, Jonni-Lyn is passionate about sharing this path and it’s teachings. Her classes are a combination of challenging asana, yogic philosophy, humour and hands-on guidance, all offered with the intention of uplifting each student. She extends this container of practice by leading retreats and trainings on the beautiful Vancouver Island and in inspiring locations around the world.
About the Venue
Grow Wild is nestled on 106 acres of cherished land on the west side of Shawnigan Lake. As a 4th generation family farm, we are proud to share the fruits of our labour with our loving community.
Join us as we work towards regenerative agriculture practices and one of a kind experiences. Find yourself where the world grows quiet enough to hear your soul speak, where food is medicine and presence is a priority.
