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Craniosacral Somatics: Embodied Foundations in Craniosacral Touch and Practice — Istria Retreat
July, 2026
Craniosacral Somatics — Istria Retreat
July, 2026
This four-day retreat-style course offers a practical and immersive introduction to craniosacral therapy, with a strong emphasis on embodiment, presence, and nervous system awareness.
Set in the quiet beauty of Istria, Croatia, the course blends foundational craniosacral principles with somatic movement, hands-on practice, and time in nature. Each day includes both morning and afternoon sessions, with space to explore core themes such as grounding, cranial contact, membrane dynamics, the nervous system and the fluid body.
You'll learn how to begin sensing subtle rhythms in the body, work with stillness, and develop a therapeutic presence that supports safety and regulation—essential skills for working with others and yourself.
The retreat setting offers an ideal container for this deep learning. The venue includes a swimming pool, sauna, and nourishing meals prepared on-site. Gentle local excursions and time in nature are woven into the rhythm of the course, supporting integration and rest.
What to Expect
You will learn how to:
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Establish a grounded and embodied therapeutic presence
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Sense subtle movements and rhythms in the body, including the craniosacral tide
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Make safe, light-touch contact with the cranium, spine, and sacrum
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Work with membranes, fluid dynamics, and midline orientation
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Support nervous system regulation through stillness and listening
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Begin to integrate somatic awareness and biodynamic principles in practice
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Develop a deeper connection to your own body and internal landscape
Benefits of attending:
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Learn practical skills that can be used with friends, family, or clients
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Deepen your understanding of body-mind connection
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Experience the restorative effects of nature, quiet, and gentle rhythm
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Connect with a like-minded community in a supportive learning space
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Step away from daily demands and return more resourced and attuned
Who Should Attend
This course is open to complete beginners as well as those with some experience in bodywork, yoga, or other healing modalities. It’s also suitable for practitioners wishing to reconnect with the foundations of craniosacral and somatic practice in a supportive, embodied environment.
Retreat Setting — Istria, Croatia
Held in the peaceful countryside of Istria, this residential retreat provides an environment designed to nurture restoration and integration.
All meals onsite are included, as well as airport transfers the day before and after the workshop. The venue features a swimming pool and sauna, and there will be optional excursions in the local area — offering time for rest, reflection, and connection with the landscape as part of your process.
Logistics and Cost
Dates: July, 2026
Cost: Starting at £1125 per person, including accommodation, all meals, airport transfers (the day before and after the workshop) and excursions.
Room Options:
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Single Occupancy Double Room (ensuite): £1425 — 3 available
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Shared Twin Room (ensuite): £1125 — 1 available
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Single Occupancy Double Room (bathroom on separate floor): £1125 — 1 available
Non refundable deposit: £175 to secure your space.
Please note: all bookings are subject to our standard terms and conditions.
Participants will arrange their own flights. For more information and to book your place, email craniosacralcollaborative@gmail.com.
Facilitators: Lizette Villaverde and Carolyn Stevens
Lizette and Carolyn are senior tutors and course leaders at the College of Craniosacral Therapy in London, where they have been guiding students in foundational CST training for many years. Together, they have taught foundation-level and professionally accredited craniosacral courses both in London and internationally.
They are the founders of the Craniosacral Collaborative, a community-led initiative designed to support therapists through shared learning, mutual enrichment, and peer connection. Their work includes Cranio in the Community, a project offering craniosacral therapy as an act of service to the wider collective—bringing the work to underserved groups and community spaces.
With a shared passion for embodiment and healing, Lizette and Carolyn are dedicated to supporting others in reconnecting with their innate wisdom and in developing a grounded, sensitive therapeutic presence.

Lizette Villaverde RCST

Carolyn Stevens RCST















