What the Day Feels Like
A day to slow down, reset your energy, and step out of the noise.
Set in the extraordinary rewilded landscape of Knepp Estate, you'll be surrounded by 3,500 acres of nature, quiet, and space — the kind that lets your whole system exhale.
A day to move, rest, and be looked after.
By the end of the day, things often feel clearer. Lighter. More like you again.
Your Day at Knepp
A day designed to support the shift into late summer
As the season begins to settle and slow, this day gives you space to reset and replenish before autumn arrives.
Set at Knepp Estate in West Sussex, surrounded by 3,500 acres of rewilded nature and wide open skies, you'll step into a calm, supportive environment where everything is taken care of for you.
Throughout the day, you'll be guided through:
- Gentle Qi Gong in nature
- Seasonal acupuncture to support your energy
- Simple, practical Chinese medicine self-care
- A long unhurried lunch — homemade, no washing up
- Time to rest, reflect, and switch off
Everything is designed to be supportive, not overwhelming — so your body can settle and your energy can rebalance naturally.
Is this day for you?
This day is for you if:
- You've been doing a lot and feel slightly stretched
- Your energy feels off — wired, tired, or flat
- You want to feel more like yourself again
- You're navigating midlife changes and want natural support
- You want a day in extraordinary nature without organising a thing
You don't need to be "good at" anything to come.
You just need to arrive.
Space, quiet, and an instant exhale
Knepp Estate is 3,500 acres of rewilded West Sussex countryside — one of the most extraordinary landscapes in England.
- Wildflower meadows and ancient wetlands
- Free-roaming wildlife and birdsong
- A beautiful yurt set in the meadow to rest and practice
- Natural pond for a wild swim
- Wood-fired sauna available at additional cost
This isn't somewhere you pass through — it's somewhere you land.
What's Included In The Day?
Everything is taken care of so you can fully switch off.
- Qi Gong (gentle, meditative movement — no experience needed)
- Seasonal acupuncture in a small group setting
- Simple, practical Chinese medicine self-care
- A nourishing seasonal lunch — homemade, no washing up
- Tea and sweet treats throughout the day
- Optional wild swim in the natural pond
- Wood-fired sauna available at additional cost
Knepp Day Retreat, August 2025
Absolutely magical day. Jo has an extraordinary gift for creating an atmosphere that's both nourishing and inspiring — she brings such warmth, ease and a spark of joy that you feel instantly welcomed. Every detail felt thoughtful, spacious and grounding. Jo doesn't just host a retreat — she creates an experience that settles in your body and stays with you long after you leave."
Alex
5* Google Review
Your Host Jo Darling
Jo has been helping people live happier, healthier
lives for almost 20 years. She has a degree in Acupuncture and years of extensive study and practice utilising the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine.
Through her retreats and Acupuncture practice she
has witnessed the profound impact that self-knowledge coupled with bespoke, natural self-care practices can have on people’s lives. She has curated her retreats to give you the rare opportunity to do just that.
Limited Space - Book Your Spot
This is a small group day retreat due to limited space. The total cost for the day is £149, non refundable but you are able to transfer to another person.
Testimonials
Jo is a great teacher, extremely talented and so much fun. She held the space for us all to be safe and open and flawlessly had the balance to be on the same level as everyone else.
Her healing talents are in her listening, understanding and communication as much as in her teaching and treatment sessions
Jayne
Molino Del Rey 2023
"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 stunning location"
Gina
Tigmi, Morocco 2025
I had never been on a retreat before so I didn’t really know what to expect - it was the most incredible experience! It was a week to step away from daily life into a bubble of self care and laughter with a wonderfully supportive group of ladies.
Jo’s knowledge, empathy and skill in leading the retreat gave us the
perfect balance of learning, guided practice and also time for ourselves.
Vanessa
Molino Del Rey, October 2024
Molino del Rey is a beautiful centre lovingly and sympathetically created in the stunning Andalusian mountains, the food was perfect, freshly homemade and nourishing and the massages were a real treat! Thank you Jo
Vanessa
Molino Del Rey October 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What is group acupuncture
Group acupuncture is acupuncture treatment in a group setting. Usually up to 6 people receive treatment simultaneously.
Before treatment Jo takes your full health history via an online form. On the day she'll ask about any current issues such as if you have your period.
Jo then treats you for relaxation and points to help your energy flow from one season to the next.
Treatment is of the same high standard as 1-2-1 sessions following heatlh and safety guidelines as set out by the British Acupuncture council.
I'm new to Qi Gong what does it entail?
Jo teaches very simple Dao Yin Qi gong. Slow meditative movements suitable for complete beginners to seasonal Qi Gongers.
Everyone will get something from the session no matter how experienced they are.
Dao Yin is self healing and non prescriptive with the breath. You can go at your pace and enjoy the gentle movement surrounded in nature.
Do I have to sauna or use the plunge pool?
Not at all. Everything is optional. You’re welcome to take part in the parts of the day that feel right for you.
What food is included?
The day includes a seasonal two-course lunch, along with tea and snacks.
Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes, please let me know any dietary requirements before you book and to ensure I can accommodate your needs.
Food is vegetarian, gluten and dairy free.
Is this a women only retreat?
Yes, this is a small group, women-only retreat.
Payment
Do you offer payment in installments
Yes you can either pay in instalments via Klarna or facebook. If you would prefer to pay direct via installments message Jo directly hello@jodarling.co.uk
Can I pay by Klarna
Yes you can choose to pay in instalments via Klarna - simply choose that option at payment.
What payment methods do you take?
Shop pay, Google pay, Apple Pay. Visa, Mastercard and Amex
Terms and Conditions
Location
Where is Knepp
Knepp Estate is an extraordinary rewilded landscape in West Sussex, just 25 miles north of Brighton. Full address details and arrival information will be sent after booking.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available on site.