A day to pause before summer asks more of you
Spring is a time of growth — but by the time we reach late April, that growth can start to feel like pressure.
More to do. More to hold. More energy going out.
This day is designed to meet you right there — helping you reset your nervous system, support your body through the seasonal shift, and step into summer feeling clear, steady, and restored.
Is this day for you?
You’ve been doing a lot, and something in you feels a little stretched or off.
Your nervous system has been “on” for a while — and is ready for space to soften.
You’re craving nature, simplicity, and the kind of quiet that lets your whole system settle again.
You’d love a day where nothing is required of you — just gentle movement, good food, and time to breathe.
You don’t need to arrive experienced in anything, and there’s nothing to achieve while you’re here.
Just a willingness to slow down, reset, and let the space, the practices, and the rhythm of the day do their work.
If you’re nodding as you read this, you’re in the right place.
Expand into Summer is intentionally simple
Set in the Sussex countryside at Westerlands, this day invites you to step away from the pace of everyday life and return to a steadier, more natural rhythm.
Guided by the principles of Chinese medicine and Yang Sheng — the art of nourishing life — the day unfolds gently through movement, rest, seasonal acupuncture, and time in nature.
There’s no pressure to open up and no expectation to transform.
Just thoughtful guidance, simple practices, and the space to slow down — so your nervous system can settle and your energy can reset in its own time.
It was a blissful, grounding and healing experience, I didn’t even realise how much I needed it.
Yasmine
Limited Spaces
Secure booking and flexible payment options via paypal and Klarna.
What’s included
Everything is taken care of so you can fully switch off.
The Setting
- A full day at Westerlands Farm, Petworth a private retreat space in the Sussex countryside
- Wide open views across the Downs
- Quiet, nature-filled surroundings
- Beautiful indoor space for rest and practice
- Sauna and cold plunge overlooking the landscape
Nourishment
- A seasonal 2-course lunch
- Tea and refreshments available throughout the day
Guidance & Practices
- Gentle Qi Gong (simple, meditative movement — no experience needed)
- Meridian stretching to release tension and support energy flow
- Seasonal acupuncture in a small group setting
- Practical Chinese medicine self-care to take home
- Guided meditation and time to rest
Ease & Support
- An intentionally small group
- A fully guided day — nothing to plan or prepare
- Space to step away from the pace of everyday life
What women say after retreating with Jo
I cannot speak highly enough of Jo and her retreats. I got on the plane to Morocco feeling sluggish, low, and fed up. I came home feeling like a new person. I've been doing my QiGong joint opening every morning, I've not drunk any caffeine, and have massively improved my diet thanks to how amazing my tummy felt when it was eating so many antiinflammatory foods and no sugar or starchy carbs the whole time I was at Tigmi. It was quite life changing for me, and I am already on the list to go back next year, whilst also saving for one of Jo's Spain retreats! ❤️
Helen
Google Review
The retreat at Tigmi with Jo was out of this world. If you want some time to refocus on yourself and nourish your soul then Jo’s expertise will surpass your expectations. I’ve come away having fuelled my mind and body in the most
positive way, with wonderful people in a stunning location
Gina
Having been lucky enough to attend two of Jo’s incredible Chinese New Year Retreats I am now signed up for one of her one day retreats in the Autumn. I find it so beautiful and beneficial to start each season with one of her tailored retreats. I come home feeling so restored and ready to tackle any challenges. Next year I would love to try and do one per season 🫶🤞🏻🙏
Jennie
Google Review
Absolutely love Jo’s retreats! From the moment you arrive, all is taken care of and you learn so much too! Having been on a couple now - both in the UK and abroad, I can highly recommend.
Jo
Google Review
About your guide
I’m Jo Darling, acupuncturist, retreat guide, and practitioner of Chinese Medicine.
I create retreats for women who are tired of pushing through and ready to work with their bodies instead. My work is grounded, seasonal, and focused on nervous-system support, nourishment, and living in rhythm with nature.
I’ll be guiding you throughout the retreat, gently, practically, and with plenty of space for rest.
Questions that often come up
Participation & pace
Do I need experience with Qi Gong, meditation, or yoga?
No. Everything is guided, gentle, and suitable for all levels. You don’t need to be flexible or experienced — you’re encouraged to listen to your body and move at your own pace.
Do I have to take part in everything?
No. All practices are optional. You’re welcome to rest, sit something out, or take time alone whenever you need.
I’ve never had acupuncture, is that OK?
Yes. Acupuncture is optional and always discussed beforehand.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. Many women attend on their own. The group is small and welcoming, with space for connection without pressure to share or socialise more than feels comfortable.
Wellbeing & nervous system support
Is this retreat suitable if I’m feeling emotionally fragile, exhausted or burnt out?
Yes — this retreat has been created especially for women who feel tired, overwhelmed or in need of gentle support.
Jo is an experienced Chinese medicine practitioner who has spent many years working with women who are stressed, depleted or going through periods of change. She is very used to supporting people who are not feeling their best, and the retreat is held with care, sensitivity and flexibility.
How physically demanding is the retreat?
Practices are gentle and accessible.
What age group usually attends?
Most guests tend to be women in midlife, often balancing work, family and the many demands of everyday life.
You don’t need to fit a particular age bracket — the retreat simply attracts people who are ready for a slower pace, time in nature and space to reset.
Will there be downtime?
Yes. Spaciousness is a key part of this retreat.
Practical details & booking
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, you can pay via Klarna via this website, at checkout, spreading the cost.
What if I need to cancel?
Booking terms and cancellation policies are shared clearly with the full retreat details so you can make an informed decision before booking. You can transfer to another person.
How do I book?
You can request the full pricing, room options, and booking details via the form on this page or book directly here. Booking is completed securely online when you’re ready
If this feels right
If this feels like what you’ve been needing, pay attention to that.
You don’t have to arrive with energy, clarity, or a plan.
Just come as you are.
This day gives you space to step out of the constant doing — to be in nature, to be guided, and to let your body unwind at its own pace.
Most people leave feeling more settled, clearer in themselves, and better than they have in a while.
Have a question?
If there’s something you’re unsure about, you’re very welcome to get in touch. I’m happy to help. I’ll always reply personally.
