Events
We offer a range of transformative retreat experiences in the South Canterbury/Canterbury region, NZ. Designed to nourish your body, mind, and soul, our retreats combine yoga, qigong, breathwork, meditation, plant-based cuisine, and time in nature to help you connect with your inner landscape, recharge, and find balance. We offer affordable silent retreat options for those looking to unplug and deeply rest.
Would you like to join an event or retreat? Please email: hello@leighmarsdenyoga.com
Upcoming Events
Peel Forest Silent Retreat
Retreat Dates:
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15th to 19th October 2025
Location:
Cost:
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$745 all inclusive. Payment plan available
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15% non-refundable deposit required at time of booking ($112)
Experience Includes:
A rare and beautiful opportunity to unplug from the noise of daily life and turn inward.
Join experienced silent retreat facilitator, Leigh Marsden, for five nourishing days (Wed PM - Sun AM) in Deep Silence. No phones, no small talk, just the gentle rhythm of breath, movement, and presence. With daily yoga, qigong, walking meditation among ancient trees, and evening meditation, this retreat is an invitation to reconnect with your inner wisdom. Best suited to those who have some experience in extended periods of silence.
What's included:
• Daily morning yoga and afternoon qigong
• Daily walking meditation in the forest
• Evening meditations for deep inner connection
• All meals. Delicious, plant-based, and lovingly prepared
• Shared bunk-style accommodation (men and women housed separately)
• Support and guidance in Deep Silence
Please note: Guests will spend the entire 5 days in Deep Silence on this retreat. Deep Silence includes refraining from speaking, eye contact, reading, writing notes, or any other form of external communication. While the benefits of Deep Silence can be profound, this practice is not suitable for everyone. Please make contact to discuss if extended periods in Deep Silence are right for you.
Breathe Better: 3-Week Series with Leigh
Women's Wellbeing Retreat at The Staveley Boutique Lodge
Retreat Dates:
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29th to 30th November 2025
Location:
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Staveley Boutique Lodge, Staveley
Cost:
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Private King Room with Ensuite: $695 per person
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Twin Share with Ensuite: $499 per person
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Private Single Room (bathroom shared between 3 people max): $568 per person
Experience Includes:
Escape the hustle and embrace serenity at our exclusive Women's Wellbeing Retreat, held at the stunning Staveley Boutique Lodge. Nestled in the heart of breathtaking natural surroundings, this retreat is designed to offer the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation, combining luxury accommodation with transformative wellbeing experiences.
The retreat takes place within 3 acres of established gardens, where you can unwind and connect with nature while enjoying the expansive, sweeping lawns. Beautifully appointed guest rooms provide the perfect sanctuary, allowing you to relax in style and comfort.
Led by highly experienced retreat facilitator Leigh Marsden, this weekend is an opportunity to rest, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. Your journey will include yoga and qigong sessions (beginner-friendly), a heart-opening cacao ceremony, peaceful walks through the lush gardens, time in silence to reflect and rejuvenate, and soulful conversation. Includes guest presentation (presenter TBC).
Indulge in nourishing, beautifully prepared plant-based meals that will nourish your body and soul, while you immerse yourself in a serene environment that supports your inner peace and growth.
Prices include accommodation, meals, and activities.
Retreat Dates:
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Dates/Time: Saturdays 1 Nov, 15 Nov, 22 Nov. 1.30 - 2.30pm
Location:
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Leigh Marsden Holistic Health, 144 Stafford St, Timaru
Cost:
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$80
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Includes 3 x 1-hour sessions in the studio, detailed home practice guidelines, text check-ins from Leigh (if desired).
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Min/max class sizes apply (Max 10)
Experience Includes:
This focused 3-week training with Breathwork coach, Leigh, will take you beyond the basics of relaxation and into practices that build strength, capacity, and resilience in your breathing.
What you’ll train & explore:
Week 1: Awareness & Belly Breathing. Reprogramme old habits and master the foundation of powerful breathing.
Week 2: Recovering Breath Volume. Expand lung capacity and reclaim full breath after the flu season.
Week 3: Integration & Balance. Energising and regulating practices that challenge you to step outside your comfort zone in a safe, supportive environment.
Participants should expect to dedicate 20 - 30 minutes daily at home for the duration of the course to retrain breathing patterns for long-term benefit.
Suitable for anyone wanting to upgrade how they breathe.