RETREAT
(Signature)
THE DEEPENING PATHWAY
This women’s retreat is our signature retreat — a space we open a few times a year for women who feel the call to go deeper. There are moments where you can feel it so clearly… That something in you is ready to soften. To stop holding everything on your own. To step out of the constant doing, pushing, figuring it out.. And return. Return to a place within you that feels like truth. That feels like home. A place where your body can finally exhale. Where you don’t have to be strong, clear, or “healed” yet.
Just held.
Just woman
Just .. human.
There comes a moment when the whispers of your soul grow louder, calling you back home — to yourself, to the truth & remembrance that has always been within you. The SĀCRED REMEMBRANCE Retreat is more than just a retreat — it is a sacred passage into the deeper layers of your being.
This is part of THE DEEPENING PATHWAY — a journey for those already carrying the foundation and are seeking more depth in healing, embodiment, devotion, and remembrance. Held in the embrace of nature and sacred space, you will be guided through soul-awakening practices, deep sisterhood, workshops, ceremonies, ritual, and reflection.
THE INVITATION
This is for the woman who..
This space is for you if you feel something stirring within you while reading this… A quiet longing. A sense that there is more. Not more to do or become — but more of you waiting to be felt, remembered, and lived.
Have been holding a lot on your own, and are ready to soften and be supported.
You feel a quiet (or loud) longing for more depth, softness, and truth in your life.
Feels a longing to reconnect with the wisdom of her body, heart, and soul.
You are moving through a transition (inner or outer) and desire clarity and grounding.
Desires deeply to be in and connect to nature and embrace of all elements.
Is navigating a transition, yearning for clarity, renewal, and remembrance.
Craves soulful sisterhood — spaces where you can be seen, felt, and met in truth
Wants to release old patterns, emotions, or stories that no longer serve her.
Is ready to reclaim her radiance, sensuality, and authentic expression.
Desires to deepen her connection to her feminine essence and inner truth.
Longs to be seen, held, and met… without needing to be anything other than you are.
Feels a pull to engage in Ceremony, Prayer, and Ritual as a path to self-discovery.
This space may not be for you if you’re looking for something fast, surface-level, or purely external. This is a space for depth. For honesty. For meeting yourself.
You will walk away with..
A deeper connection to your body and its signals.
Tools to regulate your nervous system and soften out of stress patterns.
Deeper clarity around what is true for you (and what is not).
A sense of groundedness, presence, and inner calm
A felt sense of trust in yourself and your path.
Deeper connection to nature and all the elements.
A remembrance of your feminine essence — beyond conditioning.
Real heart connections with like minded, unique women who meet you in truth.
A grounded feeling of coming home to yourself.
A lasting sisterhood community of support.
THE EXPERIENCE
| INCLUDED OFFERINGS |
-
Reawaken and reclaim the wisdom of your body through feminine embodiment practices, softening into your innate power. Through sensual awareness, energetic awakening, and deep presence, you will cultivate a profound relationship with your feminine nature.
-
Aligning your body, mind, and soul with the vibrant energy of spring. These different practices will prepare you to embrace the day’s offerings to create balance, presence, and inner stillness. These practices will support your nervous system, enhance emotional regulation, and open space for deeper self-connection.
-
Honouring the wisdom of the natural world, these rituals will connect you to the elements — Earth, Water, Fire, and Air — each representing different aspects of life, transformation, and inner balance. Through ceremony, guided journeying, and elemental practices, you will deepen your connection to nature and the sacred cycles within you.
-
Exploration of the nervous system, body awareness, and emotional resilience. You will be guided through advanced somatic techniques to regulate, release stored tension, and cultivate deep inner safety. Through touch, breath, and subtle movements, you will learn to access a more grounded and integrated state of being.
-
Open your heart and connect deeply to yourself and women during our sacred Cacao Ceremony. This ancient ‘fruit of the Gods’ invites you to honour your inner wisdom, creativity, heart and takes you on a beautiful journey.
-
A practice to activate self-expression by opening the voice from the womb space, connecting the throat chakra to our sacral through sound and toning. Moving stagnant energy & invite release — allowing for an unapologetic expression of deep-held emotions.
-
Through dance, free-form movement, and somatic exploration, this session invites you to move beyond limitations and express yourself freely. Movement is a gateway to release, self-discovery, and empowerment, allowing you to tap into your joy, sensuality, and inner strength.
-
Sisterhood is a sanctuary — a space where you are met exactly as you are, with no need to hide or shrink. You are invited to surrender into connection, allowing yourself to be seen, held, and supported in your fullness. Together, we weave trust, vulnerability, and deep belonging, remembering that true strength lies in rising together.
A glimpse in your day at the Retreat..
Imagine rising into the day with the sounds of nature around you — birds gently waking the morning, the warmth of the sun, and the soft flow of the river nearby. Our days are guided by the rhythm of the elements and themes — each inviting you into a different layer of yourself. We move with intention, allowing space for both softness and activation.
Mornings begin slowly, with tea, silence, and a gentle start. From here, we move into guided practices such as movement, yoga, breathwork, and meditation, supporting you to ground, open, and awaken.
Throughout the day, we come together as a group — in circle, in movement, in shared experience. You will be guided through somatic practices, workshops, and embodiment work, not only to reflect, but to feel, express, and move what lives within you. Some days invite stillness, others invite emotion and activation in the body.
There is space woven in for integration — to rest, journal, or explore the beautiful land around Cara Creek. Surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and forest paths, you can wander, swim, or simply be. Integration is just as important as the work itself.
We walk this journey together. Held within the group, supported in real connection, sharing nourishing meals, moments of laughter, depth, and sometimes silence.
As the evening arrives, we gather again for ritual, ceremony, and deeper layers of the work, opening into expression, truth, and remembrance.
Everything is held with care and intention, guiding you to honor your own pace while staying connected to yourself and the group. Throughout the day you’ll be nurtured and held, with nutritious healing foods to fall into dream state under the stars again..
THE PACKAGE
| INCLUDED |
Six days, five nights at Cara Creek Eco Lodge
Three daily fresh, organic, lovingly made meals
Materials for the Workshops & Ceremonies
A fully curated schedule of ceremonies, rituals, workshops, movement and teachings facilitated with space for rest, deep felt connection and enjoying self initiated activities in and around Grounded Roots.
Use of Cara Creek facilities — sauna, natural swimming pool and more.
Transport from Coimbra B to and from Cara Creek.
| NOT INCLUDED |
Flights to and from Portugal
Train tickets to and from Coimbra B
Travel and Health Insurance
MEET YOUR FACILITATOR
Meet Manouk
Hi dear woman, welcome.
My name is Manouk and I will be holding this space with you. Not from a place of having it all figured out — but from having walked deeply through my own healing, my body, my shadows, my remembering. With years of experience in somatic work, women’s circles, and retreats, I hold spaces that are both soft and deeply transformative. Spaces where you are gently invited and safely supported — to meet yourself in truth.
-
Manouk works as a Trauma-Informed Somatic Mentor, Space Holder, Ceremonialist, Women’s Facilitator, Community weaver, founder of SĀCRED REMEMBRANCE and Retreat Leader. She is a visionary in Women’s Empowerment and dedicated to guide and gather women in sacred spaces to invite deep heartfelt feminine remembrance, healing and transformation.
After being diagnosed with a chronic autoimmune dis-ease, she embarked on a transformative holistic healing journey, uncovering the intricate links between emotions, trauma, and physical health. Through somatic practices, natural therapies, and deep inner work, Manouk brought herself home to healing. This 12 year long holistic journey is the womb of all creation and the inspiration behind her deep-felt offerings.
Her approach creates a nurturing safe environment to help women release limiting beliefs, patterns and step into their raw authentic essence. It is her path to inspire, be of service and work as a portal to blossom beings to wholeness. She guides from head to heart — listening, remembering and feeling. Inviting you to explore your body’s innate intelligence, deepening self-love and empowerment that ripple into every aspect of life.
| Read more about Manouk |
THE VENUE —
CARA CREEK ECO LODGE
Welcome to the majestic Portuguese valley where two rivers meet—Cara Creek Eco Lodge. To retreat here is to surrender into the soothing embrace of Pachamama herself. Created in symbiosis with the land’s beauty, every structure is handmade using solely natural materials, maintaining a low carbon footprint and deep respect for the earth. This off-grid sanctuary is a place to breathe, rest, move, feel, nurture, heal, gather, explore, and be held — by the earth, the river, the warmth of the sun, and the lush forest surrounding us.
The retreat center has been intentionally chosen to support a process of rewilding — a return to our primal roots and essence. Here, we embrace simplicity, stripping away excess to reconnect with what is true. You will sleep in handcrafted sacred geometry eco-pods, each sustainably built to harmonise with the natural world. This is not a place of luxury, but rather a sanctuary of deep presence, where comfort is found in the raw beauty of the land. It’s a place to disconnect from the distractions of modern life and reconnect with the earth, the elements, and the untamed parts of ourselves This environment invites deep reflection, grounding, and a reconnection to nature’s rhythms.
-
Natural Swimming Pool
Overlooking the valley and surrounding woodland. The swimming pool is kept clear and chemical-free using a sand filter, UV filter, and diverse aquatic plants.Temezcal (Sweatlodge), Hot Tub & Sauna
A Hobbit-style wood-fired sauna and solar powered hot tub with the pool close by to cool off in between sessions.Private River with Waterfall & Forest
With our own private river beach and nearby waterfall and lush green forest hikes. With river clay mud baths and paddle boarding along the river.Indoor & Outdoor Shala
With stunning views of the pool and soothing sounds of the river we gather here to practice Yoga, Meditate or hold a Ceremony.Communal Spaces
For a break from nature's elements, we have cozy communal dining spaces and chill-out areas. Grab a cup of tea, a good book, and cuddle up with one of the animals.Garden to Table Meals
Organic garden to table meals prepared with so much love and intention throughout the retreat. Grown mostly in their own garden.
FAQ
-
Rembrance Retreat is part of our DEEPENING PATHWAY, meaning this retreat is for those who feel the call to move into the raw, untamed depths of their being. For women that already have done the foundational work and are now ready to dive deeper. This is a descent into the unseen — into the elemental, the shadow, and the unspoken parts of self. Through primal embodiment, deep somatic processing, and ritual, you will meet what is ready to be transformed. Held in true sisterhood, guiding you back to your essence — revealing, reclaiming, and embodying the truth of who you are.
If you're unsure whether you're ready for this journey, trust what your body tells you. This retreat is not about seeking more but about remembering what has always been within you. If you feel the pull—an ache in your bones, a whisper in your heart — this is your invitation. Apply for the retreat, and we can schedule a call to explore if this sacred journey is meant for you.
-
The retreat includes daily guided movement, rituals, and ceremonies, accommodation and workshop materials in a beautiful natural setting, nourishing meals, and facilitation by Manouk de Bijl and Isa Nijman. It also offers time to rest, integrate, and connect with the surrounding landscape.
-
We aim to create an inclusive, supportive environment. If you have any concerns, please reach out before booking so we can discuss how to best support you.
-
Yes, Rembrance Retreat is part of the DEEPENING PATHWAY, which is designed for women who have already laid a foundation in their personal growth and healing. While prior experience with embodiment practices, somatic work, ceremony or rituals isn’t required, this retreat is intended for those who are ready to move beyond the foundation and dive into deeper layers of self. It’s a space for women who have already begun their journey and are now called to explore the raw, untamed depths of their being.
If you're unsure if this applies to you, trust what your body tells you — if you feel the pull, we invite you to apply, and we can schedule a call to ensure this journey is the right fit.
-
We will send a full packing list upon registration, but essentials include comfortable clothing for movement, a journal, water bottle, and anything that supports your personal ritual practice.
-
Hannah, as a part of the Cara Creek team will be our amazing chef for this weekend. She will create daily fresh, organic and farm to table, nourishing, plant based wholesome meals that support your well-being. Dietary needs and preferences will be accommodated as best as possible — you can mention these upon applying.
-
TO PORTUGAL
Fly to Porto or Lisbon in the morning (August 31st) or the night before (August 30th). If you choose to arrive the day of, August 31st, make sure you get in Lisbon or Porto really early in the morning.TO CARA CREEK
Once arrived in Lisbon or Porto you can take a train or bus to Coimbra B. (Advice to take the train). Here we will pick you up with a scheduled shuttle (included).Train schedule and tickets found here: www.cp.pt
TRAVEL TIME
Porto - Cara Creek (2 hours)
Lisbon - Cara Creek (3 hours)CAR
Another loved option is to rent a car and split the cost with other women from the retreat. -
Check in at Cara Creek — August 31st, 14:00.
A scheduled shuttle will bring you from Coimbra B train station to Cara Creek. (This takes one hour). Meeting at Coimbra B around 13:00 on June 18th. Exact time to be confirmed.Check out from Cara Creek — September 5th, 10:00
After our last breakfast the shuttle will drive you back to the train station at Coimbra B. Book your departure flight not earlier then 17:30 on June .Advised to add a few days in nature to integrate the retreat before you leave Portugal.
-
Yes it is possible to pay in instalments. You’ll find different payment plans available to choose from after you filled in the application form. Please reach out if you need other payment plan options. We can find a suitable plan for your needs and desires.
-
The investment for our 6 day retreat in Portugal. Prices are including 21% tax.
PAY IN FULL
now: €1790
soon: €1890MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN - 4x
now: €455
soon: €480If you’re seeking an alternative payment provider or plan, please reach out— we’re happy to explore options with you.
You might feel excitement, expansion, or hesitation arising as you read this — all of it is welcome. Take a moment to breathe and feel what is true for you. If your body feels a quiet yes, you are so warmly welcome here.
If you’d like to connect before committing you can schedule a Connection Call below after filling in an intake form. We will get back to you within 2-3 days .Book a connection call.
We have space for an intimate group of women. If you feel called to join, we invite you to apply soon to ensure your place — your space is waiting. Reserve your space here.
Choose your way to join
You will sleep in handcrafted sacred geometry eco-pods, each sustainably built to harmonise with the natural world. This is not a place of luxury, but rather a sanctuary of deep presence, where comfort is found in the raw beauty of the land. There are 3 different designs of eco pods.
ECO PODS
You might feel excitement, expansion, or hesitation arising as you read this — all of it is welcome. Take a moment to breathe and feel what is true for you. If your body feels a quiet yes, you are so warmly welcome here. If you want to connect before committing you can schedule a Connection Call below after filling in an intake form. We will get back to you within 2-3 working days.
We would love to receive you,
31 — 5 SEPT 2026 | PORTUGAL
We have space for an intimate group of women, and our retreats tend to fill quickly. If you feel called to join, we invite you to apply soon to ensure your place — your space is waiting. If you’re seeking an alternative payment provider or plan, please reach out— we’re happy to explore options with you.
STORIES OF REMEMBRANCE
Words from Sisters before you..