Adam Spreadbury-Maher shares his thoughts on Breathwork and our Marrakech Retreat 2018.

Posted on April 13, 2018 by urbanlifeclass

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Olivier Award Winner Adam Spreadbury-Maher is an Australian/Irish Theatre Artistic Director, Producer and Writer. He is the founding Artistic Director of the Cock Tavern Theatre, OperaUpClose and The Hope Theatre, and is the current artistic director of the Kings Head Theatre, Islington. London.

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“Initially attending a one day Evolutionary Breathwork workshop in Central London, I decided to take the plunge and travel to Marrakech on the week long Breathwork retreat in March that David and his team hold annually. I didn’t know what to expect, though I went along with an open mind and heart.”

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“The week long retreat was co-led with established breath worker Luisa Bradshaw, a partnership that accounts for over 45 years combined experience, buckets of empathy and good humour, and I felt ‘emotionally safe’ from the start.

Based at a beautiful and comfortable 4-star riad-style hotel, just off the beaten track and hustle and bustle of the main square, in the Kasbah medina, our group was gently eased into the course with care and compassion over the first 2 days in the hotel with hammam, steamed, washed, scrubbed and relaxed in the Spa plus daily group breathwork for emotional and body release.”

http://www.lesborjsdelakasbah.com

“The schedule had plenty of time for us to spend together socialising at meals or relaxing by the pool, alone in solitude and reflection, plus visits to some of Marrakesh’s most exquisite gardens. The day trip to the Ourika Valley at the foot of the Atlas Mountains was a particular highlight for me, along with silent walks in the stunning Anima Garden en route in the morning.”

“Throughout the week, not only was I able to spend sometime focussing on a cleaner and better relationship with myself, I was also able to make new friends and deepen existing relationships.

This is breathwork for today’s pragmatic realistic, who is happy to dodge the crystals and dolphin music; it’s effective, self-led ( yet supported and guided ) self growth therapeutic practice.

Quite unexpectantly, Conscious Connected Breathwork with David Parker has had a hugely positive impact on my life and well being. I recommend David, Luisa and their team unreservedly, in fact . . . I’ve already signed up for next year!”

Adam Spreadbury-Maher

Winter Update : Tales of the Unexpected.

Posted on February 15, 2018 by urbanlifeclass

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Tales of the Unexpected. #BREATHE
I took a planned 7 Day no-work break in Tenerife mid January with no schedule, and had no idea I would be driven up to “Pura Vida” in Bajamar, North East Tenerife for a gathering of some of Tenerife’s most experienced Rebirthing Breathworkers “Colectivo de Renacedores de Canarias”. A workshop and a full breathe from 10-2, then a hearty lunch with Agustín Hernández plus Silke Modersohn who created the centre “Pura Vida” for yoga, rebirthing and relationship work. Thanks all for such a warm welcoming experience

10 days before my trip I collapsed at home with a very high heartbeat and had to call an ambulance, then an overnight stay so my long used angina meds could be adjusted. According to the Doc, the structure of the heart changes and so meds needs review and at 71 this year I took it seriously and still under the care of University College Hospital for monitoring. I asked whether the stent I had fitted 13 years ago was working, and the reply was “Yes, if it wasn’t, you would have had a heart attack.” Both my parents died instantly with heart attacks – so I am prepared to break the pattern!. ❤ #BREATHE

Luckily they let me get to Tenerife as planned but while away I decided to have a break on return to London, and curtail Evening Breathwork Groups till after we return from Marrakech. ❤

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Our Annual Breathwork Retreat in Marrakech is FULL ❤ #BREATHE

but you can read more here :

https://urbanlifeclass.me/2017/09/04/not-january-as-usual-our-next-marrakech-breathwork-retreat-is-in-march-2018-a-change-is-as-good-as-a-rest-spring-break/

MARCH Evening Breathwork Dates are here – Please BOOK EARLY to avoid disappointment

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Marrakech Breathwork Retreat January 2017 – Early Feedback.

Posted on February 4, 2017 by urbanlifeclass

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“I came on this retreat last year and THAT changed my life, without doubt. Doing breathwork today with the most amazing group of people has surpassed every expectation that I could have had.

It has been very deep work, but overwhelming in its content and in the range of emotions which it generates. I have seen major changes happen in others, honesty, trust, sharing and the most breathtaking energies holding the space throughout. Thanks to Robert, Sara, Suzanne and Jake for assisting so well.

Finally special thanks to David Parker and Meleeshka for doing the most amazing work and holding the space so beautifully. Tonight I am in a state of blissful gratitude, feeling the love and looking forward to the final few days.” Mike Delaney RNMH, RMA, Cert Couns, (BACP, EAGALA) / London – Birmingham
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Mike Delaney is one of the directors of LEAP Equine Therapy., and is a key member of the senior therapeutic team. Mike is a Mental Health/Addictions Specialist with over 35 years experience working with individuals, rehabilitation centres and professional bodies in the UK and internationally. He had a successful career for twenty years as a Registered Nurse Manager and CPN within Mental Health/Learning Disability services and, since undergoing treatment for his own addictions in 1996 he has specialised in a range of issues including addictive behaviours, young people who have suffered sexual trauma, co-dependency and relationships. There was no Equine Assisted Therapy on our Retreat, Mike came for his own well-being, but all details are on his website http://www.mikedelaney.co.uk

16114622_1236270446409883_7326524676249858179_n Keith from Bristol was new to Urban Life Class – but took the risk, heart in hand and travelled to Marrakech with us. On leaving he posted this to participants on FB.

“Just about managing to keep a lid on tears (not so lucky with that in the taxi on the way to here, Marrakech Airport ) after the most incredible week with a truly amazing group of people. It’s been non stop laughter, a few tears, and a new perspective on my life that I never expected.

I came away with 15 strangers and am going home with 15 friends. I’m so grateful to all of you, I just can’t quite find the words to do it justice.” Keith Conway / Bristol

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Mike Delaney reviews our 2016 Maroc Retreat

Posted on February 6, 2016 by urbanlifeclass

17th January 2016 :

“This week has been one of the most profound, mind-blowing, painful at times but spiritually healing experiences of my recovery.

I would highly recommend URBAN Lifeclass Coaching and Breathwork Retreats to anyone who wants to go that little bit deeper in self development work. You have to be brave enough to trust the process but, My God it’s worth it!!

My utmost gratitude to David Parker and Meleeshka for their knowledge and skills and to all of my new friends for their love, support and laughter every day. Thank you so much x “

Mike Delaney RNMH MBACP
Addictive Behaviour Specialist

Mike Delaney is a leading authority in the treatment of addictions with over 30 years’ consultancy experience with individuals, rehabilitation centres, and professional bodies in the UK and internationally.

There was no Equine Assisted Therapy on our Retreat, Mike came for his own well-being, but all details are on his website http://www.mikedelaney.co.uk

http://www.mikedelaney.co.uk/equine-assisted-psychotherapy/

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So what happens on a 5 Day Breathwork Course ( within a 7 night stay ) in Marrakech January 12th 2015 : Start Relaxing, detoxing, pampering and Breathing.

Posted on September 2, 2015 by urbanlifeclass

The Course led by Trainers David Parker and Meleeshka, with over 25 years experience each, is held at a charming 4* Hotel, Les Borjs del la Kasbah, in the Kasbah Medina, up alleyways, full of bustle and moroccan life, so immediately you will feel miles away from home. RELAX.

Arrival Day Tuesday : As most participants will be arriving on early flights from the UK, today is for settling in, napping and feeling the pace in and outside the Hotel. Its a free day, to do as you will, perhaps a massage in the spa ( 45 mins various massages with organic oils from £20 – £32 ). All SPA Treatments can be booked and paid for during your stay, and is up to each participant to decide, as they are extra to the course and with no obligation to partake.

We all meet in the Lounge @ 7pm for an arrival introduction from the Hotel & Trainers before we have a GROUP DINNER @ 7.30pm. This is the only time we we will eat together, throughout your stay you can decide when you eat and who with ( 7.30-9.30pm ) Then it’s the bar, chatting or bed, ready for the first day of the course. Breakfast is from 7.30-9.30am. Accommodation includes a sumptuous breakfast buffet and dinner, paid separately to the Hotel from the Course, and on leaving your stay.

This years theme is : LET’S GET CLEAR ON THE YEAR with a Breathing Group Session of some kind every day for 5 days.

Wednesday & Thursday Day 1 & 2 is spent in the Hotel from 10am – 7pm, with breaks for writing, verbal sharing, in our group room and patio areas so you can experience weather outside too, including lunch breaks around the pool, ( Not expensive : Omelette with french fries and salad £4, Pizza or freshly made Salads £5, Club Sandwiches £5.50 all made to order ).

During these 2 days of letting go you will experience a HAMMAM as part of your course fee and a 90 min Group Breathwork Session on both days.

What is HAMMAM? check out this link. http://www.lifeandsoulmagazine.com/diy-moroccan-hammam-treatment/ A small group HAMMAM 3/4 same sex people is INCLUDED in your 5 day Course fee.

Day 3 Friday : Weather permitting we will take a Day Trip to the base of the Atlas Mountains, included in your course fee, this year we will be going to ASNI-Ouirgane, ( different location than last year ) to be with nature, and have a Breathing Session close to water, in the valley countryside. Written Exercises will be offered to work on during the day as well as plenty of mint tea. Do bring scarves and hats, it can be chilly in the Atlas.

Day 4 Saturday : After morning group we visit the stunning Yves St Laurent Jardin Majorelle ( this year for a longer stay if you came last year – time for shopping and coffee lazing in or outside the Jardin ) In the afternoon we return to the hotel for a group sharing and a full breathwork session. **Friday, Saturday or Sunday activities may swop days depending on local weather at that time.

Day 5 Sunday : A full day in the Hotel with group sessions and a final Conscious Connected Breathwork Session. In the evening a 4 course Moroccan Evening with local musicians is planned for you, with the extra payment ( on top of your HB ) is part of your £350 Course Fee for 5 Days.

Day 6 Monday : With a final Group meet up after breakfast, the day is yours to sightsee Marrakech.

Day 7 Tuesday : Fly home, refreshed ready to GET CLEAR ON THE YEAR.

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FEEDBACK from last year:

“Well I can report back that it was one of the most joyous weeks of my life and perfectly placed for the beginning of the year. In fact I would say that a lot of creative planning for the months to come happened without even trying during those days…Onwards with abundance xx ( CH London England )

“What can I say about my time away except that it was deeply needed and I feel profoundly honoured to have been in the company of so many loving souls. It’s been hard to get back to normality especially as I have to say goodbye to one of my oldest friends next week, who passed over, but I now have both the courage and power to do him justice as I say my farewell whilst being strong enough for my God daughter too, and I thank David and Meleeska for love, guidance and respect that they showed me over the last week, for without these things mixed in with the healing power of laughter, I wouldn’t be able to do it!! All my love to you both, always!! XO ( M. Somerset England )

“The retreat in Marrakech was stunning, beautiful beautiful people, amazing location, huge amounts of love and even more compassion, but throw in huge gales of laughter, it was beyond superlatives. All I can say it was the first break I had taken for ten years, and boy it was worth waiting for, the people were and are amazing, the breath work powerful and simply life changing, and the laughs we had still rings in my ears , roll on 2015, best decision I ever made … Thanks David and Mell big love xx ( JD Somerset England )

Some more Testimonials from last year are here :

https://urbanlifeclass.me/morocco-retreats/something-happened-in-morocco-and-the-echoes-are-still-being-felt-a-month-later/

https://urbanlifeclass.me/morocco-retreats/book-now-for-our-maroc-rebirthing-retreat-january-2016-sara-turner-tells-us-her-tale-of-january-2015/

https://urbanlifeclass.me/2015/02/09/january-maroc-spiritual-retreat-a-huge-success-for-all-so-we-are-doing-it-all-again-next-year/

All prices and info is here https://urbanlifeclass.me/2015/08/09/give-yourself-a-break-maroc-spiritual-retreat-january-12th-2016-can-you-imagine-yourself-spending-7-days-in-marrakech-in-this-glorious-hotel-complete-with-spa/

SPEAK TO US ( not the Hotel ) all we ask for CONFIRMATION is to BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS FIRST! – really CHEAP right now. We will tell you what easy jet flights we are on from Bristol & London. For information and payment options if you want to pay in 2016.

London : David Parker 020 7388 3109 /Robert Beck (+44) 7913862492 / urbanlifeclass@gmail.com Glastonbury : Meleeshka 01458 833381

Maroc 5 Day Breathwork Course January 12th 2016 / 7 Night stay : It starts HERE. Marrakech Airport.

Posted on August 19, 2015 by urbanlifeclass

Following last years Retreat, everyone arrives on Tuesday 12th January from different locations, during the day. At the airport the 4*Hotel will be there to greet you and take you the 15 minute drive to the Kasbah Souk, included in the course fee. The Kasbah is the real Marrakech, nowhere near the corporate 4* Hotels outside the Medina that most tourists reside.

We are in the heart of Marrakech.

On arrival complimentary Mint Tea and Moroccan pastries are served in the lounge while the porters take luggage to your rooms. Welcome to Les Borjs De La Kasbah

Now choose your Bedrooms

SPEAK TO US ( not the Hotel ) all we ask for CONFIRMATION is to BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS FIRST! – really CHEAP right now. We will tell you what easy jet flights we are on from Bristol & London. For information and payment options.

London : David Parker 020 7388 3109 /Robert Beck (+44) 7913862492 / urbanlifeclass@gmail.com Glastonbury : Meleeshka 01458 833381

Book Now for our Maroc Rebirthing Retreat January 2016 . . . Sara Turner tells us her tale of January 2015.

Posted on April 7, 2015 by urbanlifeclass

Well….I got there which was a start! That’s me, Sara, in the black poncho feeling the Maroc vibe.

I had been so stressed with work prior to the trip I truly didn’t think I was going to make it, so when the alarm went off on Tuesday 13th January at 2.30am that was it, I was off and the relief once I finally sat on that plane was indescribable. David came over on the flight saying we’d have to fill in an immigration form and produced a bunch of green pens in case we hadn’t brought any with us. What I didn’t realise was, this was to set the tone for the rest of the week. Being cared for, nurtured, considered, prioritised…..

Once we’d arrived at the airport, transport had been arranged and off we went to Les Borjs de la Kasbah right in the Medina, where we had beautiful pastries and mint tea whilst the hotel staff took our luggage to our rooms. On the arrival day some participants had treatments booked whilst others, including me had the Hammam arranged for the following day. I was quite happy to rest and get ready to meet everyone for dinner later on.

My room was absolutely beautiful, rose petals greeting me on the bed and in the bathroom! We were booked in for half board, a three course meal every evening with 2 choices and a breakfast fit for a queen, everything from fresh fruit, pancakes, pastries to home-made yoghurt.

The course was perfectly paced for me, the balance of group work, discussion, individual work and breath work allowed for processing. I had been along to a couple of sessions prior to the retreat, so had met a few members of the group and felt very comfortable with these sessions so the decision to go to Morocco was an easy one for me. I felt happy to surrender myself to the process, trusting and knowing I would be supported and accepted by the trainers and assistants. Although I believe myself to be an open person I thought I would not feel secure opening up in a group, especially with people I don’t know very well. However, the trainers, assistants and group participants were all very supportive and there was no pressure to share or to be anyone other than ourselves. I embraced it all quickly.

I have to say, the nurturing in the course extended to the staff at the hotel and spa. I have never had a Hammam and found the care and attention given to me by the staff to be very moving. It reminded me of being washed by my mother when I was younger.

After HAMMAM the Rebirthing breathwork experience was both powerful and gentle. I experienced a significant emotional shift and physical sensations new to me. The assistants supported me, and seemed to know exactly when to encourage me to breathe deeper and gave reassurance.

The excursions, personal and group leisure time and the course was balanced perfectly, I never felt once that I didn’t have enough time for me, the course or getting out to see Marrakesh. We visited a Berber village, Yves St Laurent’s garden and enjoyed a Moroccan evening with belly dancer, traditional music and food. I don’t know how we fitted it all in but as I mentioned, it felt perfectly balanced. I met some beautiful genuinely caring people during my week, people I feel I’ve shared a significant experience with which has stayed with me.

Since returning I have already made some essential changes for my well-being, leaving my job being one, but more importantly, putting myself first which is a new phenomenon for me, and one I’m embracing and not feeling guilty about.

Postcard by Sara Turner : A participant of the January Marrakech Spiritual Retreat 2015.

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COSTINGS : Average cost of a Single Room or Twin Room ( 2 peeps, similar price each but more space ) is this , Rob our Group PA says : My entire bill came to 5440 MAD which was £366 and included my half board SINGLE room ( breakfast & dinner ) and all the extras that I had including snacks, drinks etc.
-For the room alone I paid 574 MAD which was £38 per night – I only paid for the first 5 days and got the last 2 for free ( hotel Deal for Urban LIFECLASS )
– Plus 200 MAD for half board £13 per day – Plus 26 MAD for tax £1.75 TOTAL 7 Days = £366

The 5 day Course Fee 2016 ( within the 7 day Retreat ) is £350 payable by arrangement. My easy jet flight in 2014 was £110 return from London with 20 K luggage, booked earlier in October I could have got it cheaper. START SAVING and get on our LIST NOW! First Booked get SINGLE ROOMS. http://www.lesborjsdelakasbah.com

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More Details about our Maroc Retreat January 12 th 2016 is here : https://urbanlifeclass.me/morocco-retreats/ What is HAMMAM? check out this link. A small group HAMMAM 3/4 same sex people is INCLUDED in your 5 day Course fee. http://www.lifeandsoulmagazine.com/diy-moroccan-hammam-treatment/

Something happened in Morocco . . . and the echoes are still being felt a month later !

Posted on March 7, 2015 by urbanlifeclass

by psychotherapist Suzanna Brown.

When I saw David post about the Moroccan retreat in Autumn last year, I knew I had to go. I have always wanted to go to Marrakech and I was aware that it held a special place in David’s heart, so I thought he would be the ultimate host.

That, together with the idea of a breathwork retreat at the beginning of the year, felt like the perfect way to start 2015. I felt it would clear out the old energy of 2014 and help me start the new year on the right note. And I wasn’t wrong . . .

Unfortunately prior to the trip I had awful mega flu, so when I arrived I was feeling pretty out of sorts. From the off, I felt incredibly held and nurtured by the lovely Meleeshka, who co-facilitated the retreat with David. Here they are with the gifts we bought them to end the Course.

Under my recent illness was a general fatigue and tiredness after quite a tough couple of years…and after the first couple of breathes I really connected with that. I felt the grief of losing my parents move through me again and my body’s strong call to be nurtured and listened to.

Thankfully there was an excellent spa at the hotel for private out of course bodywork, but a detoxing healing hammam for all in the first 2 days was included in the course fee. Naturally I felt it necessary to attend the spa for massages and general pampering as much as possible for the remainder of the week. Well, I had to heed the body’s call!

The highlight of the week for me in terms of breathing was an eye gaze breathe that we did with a partner. I still find it hard to put this into words . . . but it was something of a peak experience.

I have undertaken breathwork before in the US and also in a small group with David, but I have never experienced something so powerful. As well as being an extremely enjoyable experience for myself and my partner, it went far beyond that to have a much deeper meaning for me personally. This has been worth it’s weight in gold.

I also have to mention the people I met. All of whom were wonderful in their own way…and some of whom have become friends. There was a lot of deep work that went on during the week, but also a lot of love and laughter in the group. So I salute my fellow travellers and the wonderful assistants, who all contributed to making the experience really unforgettable. Thank you.

Last but not least, as a psychotherapist, a word of warning about the power of breathwork and it’s effects.

The retreat is powerful stuff and working with the body can bring to light unresolved issues that need to be worked through. Whilst I cannot fault the amazing way the retreat was facilitated by David and Meleeshka, who I felt were the perfect team, it can be difficult to leave that environment and return home if lots of ‘stuff’ has come up for you. So please don’t underestimate the power of the breath…and do think about having some aftercare lined up for your return . . whether that be a full course of rebirthing sessions or a therapist that you can work through any issues with.

For me, the retreat has seen me commit to and implement changes in my nutrition, as well as getting back into exercise and yoga. I realised that my health is my true wealth and that nourishing my soul means a deep respect of my body and spirit. All that for a mere £300 5 day course fee and a fantastic experience in Morocco with a wonderful group of people.

It’s a no brainer really . . . just go!

Suzanna Brown

The URBAN LIFECLASS January 7 day Marrakech Maroc Spiritual Retreat in January is now FULL . . .

Posted on December 11, 2014 by urbanlifeclass

Away from the hustle of the Souks, Marrakech has plenty of spaces for contemplation. One such place is the venue for our 5 day Retreat over a 7 day period @ Les Borjs de la Kasbah, a 4* Hotel with a heated relaxing pool within the Kasbah Medina, where we will have HAMMAN to body detox, time spaces for silence, written work and enlivening EVOLUTIONARY CONSCIOUS CONNECTED BREATHWORK every day.

Participants will have use of the Swimming Pool and a fully operating Health Spa on the premises for energising massages with organic Moroccan oils. Some days we leave the Hotel for outside work in the countryside and the Jardin Majorelle.

Food is an important part of our retreat, freshly cooked by the chefs each day with locally sourced produce, and served by staff who have a reputation on Trip Advisor as being 5*.

We decided to have a retreat here instead of a monastic feel, as nurturing yourself is best spiritual practice to the higher self, and maintenance for healthier living. Coupled with experienced support it gives a chance for participants to gain focus, intention and direction for the coming year. On top of this we sleep in amazing rooms. In fact its rather ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! We will update you in the New Year on our experiences meanwhile . . . NIGHTY NIGHT!

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Category Archives: Marrakech Retreat