We held a one day Mindful Art Retreat for 10 people in the picturesque village of Plympton St Maurice on Sunday 21st August 2022. The day included guided mindfulness, art activities, a buffet lunch and a nature walk.
Our aim is to tackle social isolation and common mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. We do this by offering weekly peer support, guided mindfulness, mindful drawing (which is drawing with your eyes closed!) and a simple art project that anyone can do. At its simplest, our aim is to get people together to talk and be creative.
The National Lottery funding has made a great impact on our regular clients at the Plympton group who were invited to a Mindful Art Retreat. This event was also supported by The London Inn, who provided a space free of charge, and a lovely buffet (not free!)
Participant Feedback
Super day with a lovely group of genuine, fun and open minded people. Good mixture of both art and mindfulness activities. Loved being outside in nature; sunny afternoon doing natural mandala, and wonderful sat under a tree in the rain sharing and creating. Feeling much more relaxed and enjoyed the company very much. Fab lunch! Structured programme, but entirely relaxed pace. Thanks MAC. – Participant
I have been feeling quite overwhelmed, but am leaving the retreat feeling much better and feeling like a person in my own right again. The activities were very useful in promoting a sense of calm. I feel a sense of belonging now after chats with others, and don’t feel so embarrassed about what is happening in my life, as others have difficult problems too. It has given me a sense of being able to share my thoughts and feelings, and helping to maintain my mental health. – Participant
We had a lovely mindful art retreat day, with lovely people. We had a wonderful buffet lunch followed by cake later in the afternoon. Did lots of projects indoors and out, with nature. I felt very relaxed at the end of the day. It was very well organised by the ladies that run mindful art. I thank the National Lottery for their help. – Participant.
I have really enjoyed the mindful retreat day. Great company, that really has helped me to feel connected and accepted. I particularly enjoyed drawing the vase and feeding through foliage. I left feeling uplifted, hopeful and happy. – Participant.
A brilliant relaxing and chilled out day. Well organised, plenty of great company. Enjoyed all the different projects, activities and fun. The buffet was really tasty and well presented. Thank you for a great day, it will be in my memory for a long time. Mindful Art Group is my life saver, thank you. – Participant
Had a lovely day today with a wonderful group of people. I felt a bit wobbly yesterday and this morning, strangely nervous about today. However, I am so glad that I am a part of this. We had mindful meditation throughout the day with art activities both inside (due to the weather) and outside in nature. It was lovely to spend time eating food together and sharing how we are feeling. This group has meant a great deal to me and long may it continue. It has really helped me with my mental health in a kind, gentle way. – Counselling degree student and Mindful Art Club volunteer.
A great opportunity to have the space and support to go inwards and be reflective, surrounded by people that listen and hold the space. A day filled with nourishment for the body and mind with food and cake, along with the creative art activities out in nature – a gift. Thank you! – Retreat participant
Read more about our mindful art retreats.