GOTTA HAVE SOUL | CALMCAMP RETREAT | 26-30 September 2024

Guests escaped to the vibrant city of Marrakesh for a fun and transformative retreat designed to refresh their mind, body, and spirit. Hosted by the Big Bottomed Begums, the retreat was a sanctuary for souls, bringing both calm and laughter to brighten everyone’s lives. It was not your typical city getaway…

Located on the outskirts of this magical Moroccan city, the retreat offered a perfect mix of relaxation, self-discovery, and cultural experiences. Each day started with energizing yoga sessions and guided meditation led by Meriem Bendahmane in peaceful and beautiful surroundings. Guests joined in group activities and discussions that helped them connect deeply and feel a sense of belonging.

With the help of Suniya Qureshi and Yasmin Whittaker-Khan, guests dived into the rich heritage of Morocco with nightly music sessions, where they could dance and express themselves. The retreat also gave plenty of time for relaxation and reflection, surrounded by the exotic beauty of Marrakesh. Whether through singing, dancing, or storytelling, the retreat was a unique chance to bond, heal, and recharge in a setting that blended traditional Moroccan culture with modern wellness practices.

In addition to the retreat’s activities, guests explored Marrakesh’s vibrant culture through specially planned city excursions. They wandered through the busy souks, shopping for handcrafted items, spices, and textiles, and found the perfect spots for Hammam treatments. These trips offered a mix of adventure and relaxation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in local culture while making unforgettable memories with their fellow Luminees.

Their experience was filled with inspiration, peace, and laughter in the stunning landscapes of Morocco. The Big Bottomed Begums were thrilled to welcome everyone this past September!

What's included in the Gotta Have Soul CalmCamp Retreat?

This 4-night retreat – included the following:

Accommodation
Guided yoga and meditation
Wellbeing bonding sessions
Villa Meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner*
Airport transfers** in Morocco
See further details below.

NOT Included

Flights – see below
Local transfers (UK, etc.)
1 dinner at a Marrakesh restaurant*
Excursions
Optional Activities

Villa Details

Farmhouse near Marrakesh

· 5 suites, for up to 4 people each with a bathroom and shower
· Air conditioners
· WiFi
· Library
. Two huge rooftop terraces with mountain views
· Outdoor furnished private terraces and entrance lounges
· Fireplace
· Swimming pool
· Petanque
· Vast garden harbouring a farm, animals, orchards, and vegetable gardens

About the Luminaries

Yasmin is left cheek and Suniya the right, of the Big Bottom Begums duo. They’re bold, unabashed and unapologetic about the colours of life. Their passion for bringing artists, thinkers and alchemists together is unparalleled. Both Yasmin and Suniya work towards celebrating diversity and promoting wellness.

Meriem Bendahmane is a passionate instructor with professional experience in designing and leading yoga classes and yoga retreats of different styles. She is a certified 500-hour yoga instructor and massage therapist, who believes yoga is the best practice to embrace your true self and cultivate contentment in our incredibly competitive society.

Meriem is very organised, and doubles up as our Retreat Manager, taking care of all logistical coordination with our remote team, vendors and venue hosts, and looking after our Luminees.

Schedule: Activities, Wellness, Yoga and Meals

Thursday, Sept 26, 2024

Morning:
– Arrival and Welcome: Welcoming and greeting guests.
– Orientation: Briefing about the retreat schedule and introductions.

Afternoon:
– Lunch: Light Moroccan Mezze meal served in the garden.
– Group Yoga Session: Gentle flow yoga to relax and stretch after travel.

Evening:
– Dinner In Moroccan feast with local musicians performing traditional music.
– Campfire Laughter Session: Guided laughter exercises to break the ice and promote bonding.

Friday, Sept 27, 2024

Morning:
– Sunrise Yoga: An invigorating session will be held by the poolside.
– Breakfast: Healthy Moroccan breakfast with fresh fruits and local delicacies.

Mid-Morning:
– Guided Meditation: Focusing on inner peace and mindfulness.
– Leisure Time: Poolside relaxation or alone time to unwind.

Afternoon:
– Team Building Activity: Excursion in the local market (Souk) along with lunch at the market.

Late Afternoon:
– Massage: Traditional Moroccan spa for relaxation and cleansing.

Evening:
– Dinner In A Moroccan tagine meal.
– Music and Dance: Evening of traditional Moroccan music and dance. Optional for guests to join in and learn some dance moves.

Saturday, Sept 28, 2024:

Morning:
– Yoga in the Garden: Energising morning yoga session.
– Breakfast: Nutritious and wholesome Moroccan breakfast.

Afternoon:
– Lunch: A light and healthy meal.
– Leisure Time: Optional visit to local attractions or Hammam treatments.

Late Afternoon:
– Laughter Yoga: Combines yoga breathing techniques with playful laughter exercises.

Evening:
– Dinner Out: Themed dinner night with Moroccan folklore storytelling.
– Bonfire, Music and Singing: Relax around the bonfire with live acoustic music and star gazing.

Sunday, Sept 29, 2024:

Morning:
– Sunrise Yoga and Meditation: A session focusing on gratitude and mindfulness.
– Breakfast: Moroccan breakfast with fresh juice and local pastries.

Mid-Morning:
– Reflection and Intention Setting Circle: Group sharing session about experiences and learnings from the retreat.
– Leisure Time: Free time to explore the retreat centre, visit the spa, or enjoy the pool.

Afternoon:
– Lunch: Light and refreshing meal.
– Group Activity: handcrafts/pottery/drumming activities in the garden.

Evening:
– Dinner In: Special farewell dinner with a variety of Moroccan dishes.
– Burning off negative past messages to self and rewriting future positive goals
– Dance, singing and Music: Final celebration with dancing and live music.

Monday, Sept 30, 2024

Morning: Check out at 2 pm
– Farewell Yoga and Meditation: A closing session to reflect and set intentions.
– Breakfast: Farewell breakfast with a variety of Moroccan dishes.

Mid-Morning:
– Leisure Time: Time for packing, last-minute shopping, or enjoying the retreat centre.
– Departure: Luminees say their goodbyes and depart.