Gently Tending Grief: A Weekend to Strengthen And Support You

In the tranquil and beautiful surroundings of Dove House, come together with others who are bereaved to rest and refresh, be encouraged and supported.

Nurture your mind, body and spirit through music, film, poetry, sharing stories, aromatherapy, art and craft, quiet times, blessings, smiles and deliciously good food. Gift yourself precious time to join us, tend your grief and enhance your sense of wellbeing.

Facilitated by Dr. Hilary Oxford Smith and harpist and singer, Julie Saraswati.

Read what some participants have said about Gently Tending Grief retreats:

“It was this weekend where, for the first time in 10 months, I truly felt joy and a feeling of positivity that I could move forward…I felt that I could eventually build a new life.”

“My sincere thanks and gratitude for the wonderful weekend I have just experienced at the bereavement retreat. Hilary and Julie were excellent in the way they presented the whole weekend with such gentleness and love and I know we all left with renewed joy, hope and strength because of this. I feel very honoured that I could experience this weekend and the commitment and love from the Dove House volunteers towards us is very appreciated. Please pass on my sincere thanks to each one of them.”

“Awesome retreat. I wanted to give space for my grief. Thank you both for your gentleness, compassion and creativity.”

“The poetry made me feel someone else had walked a similar path.”

“Nurturing, gentle, overall a positive experience. The energy was held well and a sense of being very respectful and caring.”

“Helped me understand what I’m going through is okay…”

“Loved the spaciousness, gentleness, holding. Appreciated permission to do what we needed for ourselves.”

“Love the music of the harp and Julie’s singing.”