The DRI invites a small group of participants to take part in a five-day dream incubation

retreat in Greece, working within the mythic and historical landscape of the ancient healing

traditions of Asklepios.

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The retreat is centred near the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus, one of the most

important dream-healing sites of the ancient world. Here, people once travelled to seek

guidance and healing through ritual sleep and visionary dreams. Drawing on this tradition,

the retreat offers a contemporary approach to dream incubation that integrates myth,

creative practice, and collective dream exploration.

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Participants will engage in a structured process designed to deepen their relationship with

dreams and the imagination. The programme combines guided incubation practices, group

dream sharing, embodied contemplative exercises, and creative exploration through voice,

movement, writing, and image.

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Alongside our work at Epidaurus, the retreat includes visits to other significant mythic and

historical sites, including:

- Parthenon in Athens

- Eleusis, associated with the mysteries of Demeter and Persephone

- Mycenae, the legendary setting of the Oresteia cycle

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These places provide a powerful cultural and symbolic context for the retreat’s exploration

of myth, ritual, and dreaming.

The retreat will be led by Laura Payne, psychotherapist, author, experienced retreat

facilitator and host of The Dream Boat Podcast. [include photo?]

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What the Retreat Includes

Participants can expect:

- Guided dream incubation practices

- Creation of a shared ritual sleep space inspired by the ancient abaton

- Daily facilitated dream sharing in a respectful, non-interpretive group process

- Meditation, breathwork, and contemplative sea swims

- Creative sessions using poetry, music, art, and movement

- Time for reflection, rest, and exploration of the surrounding landscape

Dreams are approached as living images rather than puzzles to be solved. The emphasis is

on attentive listening, symbolic dialogue, and the emergence of meaning through the group

process.

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Who This Retreat Is For

This retreat is particularly suited to people with an interest in dreamwork, mythology, depth

psychology, or contemplative practice. Prior experience of dream sharing or personal

reflective practice is helpful but not required.

To maintain depth of work and personal attention, the group will be limited to 6–8

participants.

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Preparation

Participants will receive optional preparatory practices before the retreat, helping to focus

intention and begin the incubation process.

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Location and Setting

Accommodation is based near the coast at Epidaurus, providing opportunities for

swimming, quiet reflection, and informal conversation between sessions. The setting

supports both focused group work and personal integration.

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Dates

9–13 October 2026

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Enquiries and Booking

Places are limited and early enquiry is recommended.

Cost: £1380 including half board hotel accommodation, transport to and from Athens to the

hotel, and museum and site entries. A £500 deposit is required to secure your place, with

full payment due 8 weeks before the retreat.

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To express interest or request further details about the retreat, email us at the link below:

[Email link to DRIinfo@ccpe.org.uk, subject line “Dream Retreat in Greece”]

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