Our first BC Educator Wellness Retreat took place in Gibsons, BC October 24th-26th, 2025! You can read a recap below.
Please feel free to email us at info@takemeoutside.ca if you have any questions!
Our first ever Educator Wellness Retreat in BC, in partnership with the Environmental Educators Provincial Specialist Association (EEPSA), took place at lovely YMCA Camp Elphinstone in Gibsons, British Columbia October 24-26th. Jack Billy, a Knowledge Keeper from the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), opened and closed the Retreat. Aura Lewis from the Cheakamus Centre led beautiful ethnobotany and land as gift sessions, weaving Indigenous Knowledge throughout the whole Retreat. Irene Lo from Irene Yoga Flow led relaxing yin yoga and meditation sessions. Christine and Marianne from Reset Yoga and Massage provided massage therapy for participants throughout the weekend. Camp Elphinstone staff offered canoeing, high ropes, fire-building and archery sessions. Julie (TMO) led mindful birding and a session on educator wellness strategies and intention-setting. Michaela (TMO) led a brave group of folks into the ocean for a polar dip each morning. Nick from EEPSA generously shared his knowledge and offered support. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this Retreat so magical and restorative!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The best Professional Development! It was a magical blend of Indigenous learning, time spent in nature, connecting with other educators, and recharging my batteries with personal care (yoga and journaling). Sign me up for the next educator wellness retreat!!
The retreat was one of the highlights of my year. I loved being able to slow down, live in the moment, and truly connect - with others, with nature, and with myself. It was such a beautiful and grounding experience!