Embrace…
A Retreat for Self-Kindness & Connection
Rest, movement, and laughter for every shape, every story, every body.
Rest Deeply, Reconnect Kindly, Return to Yourself
Just What You Need.
Are you tired of always taking care of everyone else and feeling like you’ve slipped to the bottom of your own list?
Maybe your body, age, or confidence has made you hesitate to do something just for you. You might even think a retreat isn’t your kind of thing — too old, too unfit, too sore, or not “yoga-body” enough.
But this isn’t that kind of retreat.
You don’t have to change a thing to be part of Embrace — just bring yourself, exactly as you are. We’ll move gently (no pretzel poses here), rest deeply, laugh plenty, and reconnect with what makes you feel alive.
Think cosy lodge vibes, nourishing food, real conversations, and the kind of yoga & movement that welcomes every body, ability, and mood. Because you don’t need to do anything to fit in — you already belong.
Led by Jennie Rose, an experienced, down-to-earth, and inclusive yoga/movement facilitator who specializes in making yoga accessible for all bodies. Whether you’ve been practicing for years or are new to yoga, you’ll feel fully supported and comfortable here.
I’ve spent hundreds of hours training & years of experience working to help people of all abilities find freedom in their bodies. And this retreat is designed to meet you exactly where you are.
This retreat was created for women just like you — those navigating the real stuff of life: burnout, menopause, change, loss, or simply the feeling that you’ve been running on empty for too long.
It’s time to stop holding everything together for everyone else and give yourself permission to rest, breathe, and be cared for.
Imagine waking to crisp alpine air and the soft sounds of birds over Lake Wanaka, sharing gentle morning movement with kind-hearted women who truly get you.
The glow of firelight, nourishing meals, easy laughter, and the joy of moving your body without judgment — followed by long exhales, deep rest, and moments that remind you how good it feels to simply be.
This isn’t just another yoga retreat.
It’s a reset. A soft place to land.
A chance to reconnect with yourself in a warm, inclusive space — no matter your shape, ability, story, or past.
You’ll leave with a sense of calm confidence, practical tools to keep you grounded, and a renewed connection to your body and your heart.
Ready to step back into life with more ease — and maybe even a little sparkle.
Welcome to Embrace — your Wanaka Retreat for Self-Kindness & Connection
Where every body is celebrated and cherished.
This retreat is all about embracing you — just as you are.
Whether you bring your curves, bumps, wobbles, aches, or tender spots, you’re welcome here.
Join me in beautiful Wanaka for five nights of accessible yoga, laughter, and relaxation. Think crisp mountain air, golden light, cosy lodge comfort, nourishing meals, and gentle practices designed to meet you exactly where you are.
Whether you’re brand new to yoga or a lifelong mover, this retreat is created for your body, at your pace — to help you find ease, peace, and a deeper connection with yourself.
This is not your typical yoga retreat. You won’t be left feeling like you don’t belong or struggling to keep up. You’ll experience inclusive, adaptive yoga and mindful relaxation designed for real life and real bodies.
You belong here — exactly as you are.
Set in peaceful Wanaka, you’ll stay at the stunning Lookout Lodge — surrounded by wide skies, mountain views, and the kind of stillness that fills your lungs and settles your mind.
You’ll be cared for with warm hospitality, nourishing meals, and thoughtful touches that make you feel right at home. This intimate setting offers the perfect environment to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.
What Makes This Retreat Different
Gentle, real-life yoga — Come as you are. No pressure, no painful poses. Just movement that feels good.
All bodies welcome — This retreat is for real humans, not Instagram yogis.
Led by someone who gets it — I know what it’s like to feel like the odd one out. You won’t here.
A balance of rest and adventure — Enjoy yoga, massages, quiet time, lakeside walks, or simply an afternoon nap.
A kind, supportive vibe — Arrive solo, leave with lifelong sisters.
Luxury without pretence — Boutique rustic charm, wholesome food, breathtaking views, and space to feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
Imagine escaping to a peaceful alpine oasis, finding space just for you, and connecting with kind-hearted people of all shapes, sizes, and stories.
In a world where wellness often shows only one “ideal” body, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong — but that’s simply not true.
I may not look like your ‘typical’ yoga teacher — wobbly belly, big boobs, disability, and a generously sized derriere — but I’m your rebel yogi, inviting you and your unique body and mind to a retreat where you’re not just accepted, but celebrated.
““If you do one thing for yourself in your life, do a retreat with Jen - The Adaptive Yogi””
WANAKA Yoga Retreat where you will be welcomed & included, wobbles & all!
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WANAKA Yoga Retreat where you will be welcomed & included, wobbles & all! .....
Some yoga poses I can’t do, and… meh, that’s OK — there’s plenty I can do!
My big belly gets in the way sometimes, but… meh, I just do it my way.
Some days I don’t love how my body looks, but… meh, that feeling passes.
I’ve learned to embrace the meh and enjoy life instead — and that’s exactly what this retreat is about.
I’ll guide you through authentic, inclusive, accessible yoga — a practice that welcomes you exactly as you are, no matter your size, shape, age, or ability.
Yoga should be adaptable to your body, not the other way around. That’s why I offer variations, props, and permission to rest whenever you need.
Together, we’ll celebrate your unique body and honour the stage it’s at — finding strength, flexibility, peace, and self-kindness along the way.
Let’s leave behind the gymnastic, image-obsessed yoga retreats and celebrate what makes you you.
If we haven’t met yet, hi, I’m Jen
I’m a qualified yoga teacher and retreat facilitator, and I’m passionate about helping people come home to themselves—through breath, movement, rest, and connection. My classes range from deeply restorative to strong and sweaty, but always with options, encouragement, and a “go at your own pace” vibe.
I live in a curvy body and wear an ExoSym device to support an ankle disability I was born with—so I really understand the need to adapt yoga for all kinds of bodies. Whether you’re brand new or have been practicing for years, there’s space for you here.
I specialise in accessible and inclusive yoga, and I advocate fiercely for body diversity—regardless of your size, age, ability, or energy level on any given day. You're welcome exactly as you are.
When I’m not guiding breath or movement, you’ll find me chasing sunrises, walking in nature, sharing laughs with friends, or savouring strong coffee and caramel slice.
And when a group of women gather for a sacred retreat? Magic happens. Connection. Peace. Power. That’s why I do this work.
Watch My Story
If you'd like to see more of what yoga means to me—and why I do things differently—here’s a short documentary from Attitude TV that shares my journey, body, and beliefs.
Yes, I’ve been on TV. No, I’m not giving up yoga to go full celeb (unless Netflix calls hehe). Come on retreat and you might even score an autograph. 🤣🤣🤣
I do these kinds of promos to spread the word that all bodies are able, valuable, and worthy—no matter what.
It’s friggin’ scary putting myself out there (I’m an introvert at heart), but I believe in this practice so deeply that I feel the fear… and do it anyway.
Imagine 5 nights here, rest & connect to kindness
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Imagine 5 nights here, rest & connect to kindness .....
Need to know a bit more?! (I hear ya, I’m a details gal, too!)
What to expect:
NOT contortionist yoga—just real, accessible practices
Plenty of fun, laughter, and new friends (because retreat friends are the best kind of friends!)
Lots of relaxing yoga and free time (seriously, you’ll love it!)
Real-body, doable yoga to guide you on your journey to body peace
Delicious food lovingly prepared and served (OK, maybe you are coming just for this…)
A thoughtfully designed schedule balancing yoga, group time and downtime
Our daily rhythm:
Slow mornings — sleep in, enjoy breakfast at your own pace, and ease into the day.
Morning sessions: accessible yoga and mindful movement to ground and awaken.
Daily workshops: heart-centred sessions for reflection, laughter, and gentle personal growth.
Lunch and free afternoons: rest, read, walk, nap, or simply soak up the Wanaka views.
Restorative yoga in the late afternoon (it’s as relaxing as it sounds)
Sunset “Tiddly Time”: your favourite drink in hand as the sun drops behind the mountains.
Scrumptious dinner overlooking the ocean (can’t beat the view!)
Evenings: delicious dinners, cosy conversations, and time by the open fire — or quiet space just for you.
Relaxed, nourishing, and perfectly unhurried — this retreat is all about slowing down and reconnecting with what truly matters.
““The Yoga was pitched perfectly to meet the needs of everyone, the food was nourishing for the soul. I felt safe and supported by sisters who were strangers up until I arrived and sisters by the time we departed.””
You are worthy of happiness because of who you are, NOT how you look
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You are worthy of happiness because of who you are, NOT how you look .....
““With Jen, you can be who you are and the body you have, many teachers seem incapable of teaching in an inclusive style, but with Jen, I can do what my body can do, I can challenge myself as well as be more laid back””
What’s Included, What’s Not:
INCLUDED:
5 nights accommodation
ALL meals planned, cooked, AND cleaned up for you!
ALL Yoga classes and workshops
Community, connection, & some new retreat Yoga friends!
NOT INCLUDED:
Airfares
Airport transfers to retreat venue
Extra hotel nights on either side of the retreat
Insurance
NOTE: This retreat is for WOMEN, non-binary &/or gender-neutral ONLY
““I was unsure what to expect, but I needn’t have worried, her ability to make everyone feel like the centre of the universe””
This was an optional afternoon out and a hike in Wanaka
The Venue
Set on 25-acres of private farm land, The Lookout Lodge enjoys sweeping mountain views, manicured lawns and native gardens — the perfect backdrop for your five-night retreat in Wanaka.
The lodge features seven spacious bedrooms (six upstairs, one downstairs) with large common areas that open to the outdoors — giving you room to breathe, move, rest and connect. Plus two little private cabins tucked up behind the lodge (a bit spesh)
You’ll enjoy:
Stunning views from nearly every window.
A warm, rustic-chic lodge feel with comfort and space for the whole group.
Sweeping lawns and gardens for quiet walks, mindfulness sessions or just fresh-air downtime.
In this intimate, inclusive setting, you’re free to slow down, reconnect, and simply be — no rush, no pressure, just you and the journey.
You’ll be nourished with beautiful, locally prepared meals made with love by our Wanaka caterer. Think wholesome, seasonal ingredients, plenty of colour on the plate, and food that feels as good as it tastes. Each meal is crafted to leave you feeling satisfied, grounded, and energised — not heavy or deprived. We’ll share breakfast, lunch, and dinner together at the lodge, with plenty of tea, treats, and laughter in between. All dietary needs can be catered for — because everyone deserves to feel cared for.
Accommodation at The Lookout Lodge is warm, welcoming, and beautifully simple — designed for comfort, rest, and connection.
We have a mix of private and shared spaces to suit your needs:
Two rustic cabins with their own outdoor spa pools — yes, a bit special. Each has its own ensuite and plenty of privacy. Be quick if you’d like one of these.
Two twin-share rooms with a spacious shared bathroom — perfect for friends or solo travellers happy to share.
Four single rooms upstairs (shared bathroom) — cosy, quiet, and filled with natural light.
One single room downstairs (ensuite) — ideal for those who prefer easy access and extra privacy.
Every room offers a comfortable bed, peaceful views, and that sense of “ahh” when you arrive.
““Jen caters for every body, there is no pressure, no judgment - acceptance, and love are what this gorgeous woman brings” ”
Book Here
When you hit ‘BOOK ME IN’ - you will fill in a registration form and pay only $599 deposit to secure your room!
This retreat is for WOMEN, non-binary &/or gender-neutral ONLY
Retreat FAQ's
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Hell YES! In fact it’s YOU that I REALLY want to come on this retreat! I cater for you, I show you how to take part no matter where you at and make it enjoyable for you. There is ALWAYS an option to go at the pace that suits you - no competition and no pressure
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A Whatsapp group for the retreat is created and we have a meet and greet on Zoom before we go., so you will have the opportunity to make travel plans with others.
I will meet you at the retreat venue.
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Yes if you have them - that would be GREAT. Otherwise I am hiring whatever you cannot bring!
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Abso-bloody-lutely! We will have chairs and props and ways to help with this - and alternatives instead of going all the way down - I got you covered!
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Nope! We can work around your injury and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable practice
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Yes! Although sadly, this resort is not wheelchair accessible, I found it impossible to find one that is.
Otherwise, we can work around your disability and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable practice, please contact me to talk this through.
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Me too! Believe it or not, I push through the fear and teach Yoga being an introvert - sometimes I do wonder what the heck I”m doing lol. But I’m telling you this as I GET IT!
I used to absolutely HATE women’s circles but now I see the power of them and get so much out of it.
You can spend so much downtime alone on this retreat - it’s lush! People will be nearby if you want them, or not.
All sessions are optional and I prefer to break you into smaller sharing groups, that’s if you want to share at all, there is no pressure to.
There will be options for self-reflection via journalling and simple thought as another way of expressing.
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Please get in touch via email and I am happy to try and work something out that works for us both.
I have payment plans on offer and other creative ways of making it happen!
Simply email me:
jen@theadaptiveyogi.co.nz
and put in the subject line
Wanaka creative finances!
And I’ll reply with some info :)
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NZD - You pay via my New Zealand website so it will be in New Zealand Dollars NZD.
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Yes!
Just let me know on your booking form and you will be cared for.
