a journey of rest,
renewal and reconnection
3-DAY RETREAT
HEAT, LEAVES & DEEP RELEASE
A private, immersive retreat inspired by the ancient traditions of the Banya, the warmth of fire, and the restorative power of nature. An invitation to slow down, soften, release, and reconnect with yourself.
Welcome
A Sanctuary for Rest & Renewal
Nestled in the beautiful Gatineau Hills, Agape Gardens is a place we’ve created with the intention of bringing people closer to nature, to themselves, and to a slower, more intentional way of living.
Surrounded by forest, gardens, and the peaceful rhythms of the land, it’s a space where you can step away from the demands of everyday life and simply be.
Through the warmth of the sauna, the gentle touch of birch leaves, hot and cold immersion, nourishing meals, and moments of quiet reflection. Jennie invites you on a deeply personal journey where you can rest, release tension, and reconnect with yourself.
The 3-Day Journey
Rest · Immersion · Renewal
01
Day One
Arrival & Grounding
Arrive at Agape Gardens, settle into your cozy accommodations, and begin leaving the demands of everyday life behind. Enjoy a warm welcome, nourishing food, and time to explore the natural surroundings. The day unfolds gently, allowing you to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and prepare for the experience ahead.
02
Day Two
THE VENIK EXPERIENCE
Deep Immersion
A day dedicated to the art of traditional sauna bathing and deep relaxation. Guided by Jennie, experience the warmth of the wood-fired sauna, personalized Venik rituals, herbal infusions, thermal bathing, and intentional periods of rest. A deeply sensory journey designed to encourage relaxation, release tension, and restore balance.
03
Day Three
Renewal & Reconnection
Awaken slowly, enjoy a nourishing breakfast, and take time to appreciate the stillness of nature. Through gentle reflection, mindful movement, and unhurried moments of rest, you'll have space to carry the experience of warmth, calm, and reconnection into everyday life.
The Agape Gardens Experience
A Sanctuary for Rest & Reconnection
Nestled in the Gatineau Hills, Agape Gardens offers 28 acres of forests, gardens, orchards, and natural beauty. Cozy private accommodations, organic meals, and our wood-fired Wild Spa provide an intimate setting to slow down, embrace the elements, and experience the restorative traditions of sauna and Venik.
Accommodations
Gardens
Wild Spa
Natural Surroundings
Private Accommodation · Organic Meals · Venik Sauna Ritual · Wood-Fired Wild Spa · 28 Acres of Nature
Rituals of Renewal
The Wild Spa & Venik Ritual
Heat, steam, aromatic birch branches, and intentional touch invite the body to relax and the mind to become still.
Guided by Jennie, this traditional sauna ritual combines the warmth of the wood fire, botanical aromas, rhythmic movements, and the gentle touch of Venik branches. More than a sauna session, it is an immersive sensory experience that encourages deep relaxation, physical release, and reconnection with oneself.
- Wood-Fired Wild Spa — Sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, and outdoor relaxation.
- Private Venik Ritual — A traditional sauna experience personally guided by Jennie.
- Rest & Reconnection — Time to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with Nature.
IS THIS FOR YOU?
This Retreat May Be Right for You If...
- You feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life and long for genuine rest.
- You carry physical tension, mental fatigue, or stress that you are ready to release.
- You appreciate traditional wellness practices, nature, and a holistic approach to well-being.
- You're open to exploring the restorative experience of heat, cold, breath, and intentional touch.
- You desire a peaceful, personalized retreat where you can slow down, reconnect with yourself, and simply be.
Not sure? Our free 20-minute conversation is an opportunity to connect with Jennie, ask questions, and discover whether this retreat is right for you.
Experience the traditional art of Venik through personalized sauna rituals, intentional touch, and the restorative elements of nature.
Meet Your Guide
Jennie | Spirit of Birch
My journey has been one of reconnecting with my body and discovering the deeper wisdom that comes from slowing down and listening within. Through my personal experiences, I've come to appreciate the importance of self-care, intentional rest, and living in harmony with Nature's rhythms. My passion for traditional sauna bathing and the art of Venik comes from a deep appreciation for the elements — heat, water, plants, and touch — and their ability to bring us back into the present moment. Through Spirit of Birch, I invite you to experience these traditions in a warm, nurturing, and intentional environment where you can slow down, let go, and reconnect with yourself.
“Letting go is not about giving up. It is about releasing what no longer serves you and making space for what truly matters.”
Jennie Roy
Investment
Your Investment in Yourself
Individual
CA$1,393
A personal 3-day journey of deep release and reconnection.
- Personal Retreat — Three days dedicated to your well-being, inner exploration, and renewal.
- Guided Experiences — Venik sauna ritual, somatic movement, dance medicine, and fire ceremony.
- Private Accommodation & Meals — Two nights immersed in nature, with nourishing meals included.
- Wild Spa & Nature Immersion — Wood-fired sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, and restorative time in nature.
Couples
CA$2,093
A shared 3-day journey of deep release and reconnection.
For Two
- Shared Retreat — Three days to reconnect with yourselves and each other.
- Guided Experiences for Two — Venik sauna ritual, somatic movement, dance medicine, and fire ceremony.
- Shared Accommodation & Meals — Two nights together in nature, with nourishing meals included.
- Wild Spa & Nature Immersion — Wood-fired sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, and restorative time in nature.
Our Philosophy
The Art of Slowing Down
Modern life constantly demands our attention, energy, and productivity. Surrounded by noise, responsibilities, and endless stimulation, we rarely give ourselves permission to truly slow down, rest, and reconnect with our bodies.
Our approach is rooted in the wisdom of traditional sauna bathing, the restorative qualities of nature, and the understanding that genuine well-being requires a balance between activity and rest.
Through intentional heat, cold, breath, stillness, and the ancient practice of Venik, we create space for the body to relax, the mind to quiet, and accumulated tension to gradually release.
Sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can do for ourselves is slow down and allow ourselves to be.
One
Heat & Steam
Experience the enveloping warmth of the wood-fired sauna, where gentle steam, intentional breathing, and gradual warming encourage the body to relax and the mind to settle.
Warmth. Presence. Relaxation.
Two
Leaves & Touch
Discover the traditional art of Venik, using bundles of birch or oak branches to gently move heat, stimulate the skin, and create a deeply sensory experience through rhythmic movements and touch.
Nature. Sensation. Connection.
Three
Cold & Rest
Complete the thermal cycle with refreshing cold-water immersion, followed by intentional rest, hydration, and stillness, allowing the body to return comfortably to equilibrium.
Contrast. Stillness. Renewal.
FAQ
Your questions, answered
Is this retreat safe?
Your well-being is our priority. All activities are guided with care and respect for your individual comfort and limitations. Sauna and thermal experiences involve physical demands and may not be suitable for everyone. We discuss your health, experience, and any relevant considerations during our initial conversation.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Whether you’re new to sauna rituals, somatic movement, or guided self-exploration, all activities are accessible to beginners. Jennie will guide you through each experience, encouraging you to move at your own pace and honour your personal boundaries.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing for movement and relaxation, a swimsuit, sandals, and suitable footwear for exploring the land. We also recommend a reusable water bottle, a journal, and any personal essentials. Towels, bedding, and meals are provided. Most importantly, arrive with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the experience.
What happens during the free conversation?
This complimentary 20-minute call is an opportunity for us to connect, discuss your intentions, and explore what you’re hoping to experience during the retreat. Jennie will explain the retreat’s activities, answer your questions, and help determine whether the experience is a good fit for you.
Is the retreat available in French?
Yes! Jennie is fully bilingual and can guide the retreat in either English or French. Simply let us know your preferred language during your initial conversation.
Can I attend this retreat with my partner?
Absolutely! This retreat is available for both individuals and couples. Couples participate in the same guided activities while sharing accommodation and experiencing the journey together. The Couples package is CA$2,093 for two people, compared to CA$1,393 for an individual.
Take the First Step
Your Journey Beings with a Conversation
Join Jennie, your retreat guide and Venik practitioner, for a complimentary 20-minute conversation. This is an opportunity to connect, explore your intentions, ask questions, and discover whether Heat, Leaves & Deep Release is the right experience for you.
By phone or Google Meet.
You will receive an automatic confirmation and reminder by email.