Facilitators
Jill
Collage Artist and Meditation Teacher, Jill is the Founder of Embody Yourself.
Based in Sydney and NSW’s Central Coast, Embody Yourself offers creative services and holistic self-care practices aimed at cultivating the spirit of expressive living for embracing a more imaginative and fulfilling lifestyle.
“Telling your own story through collage isn't merely creative; it's a path to self-discovery, introspection, and empowerment.”
At PlayFest, Jill guides us by harnessing the energy of the mandala and principles of sacred geometry, to bring forth collaborative art and creative expression in a very unique way.
During her workshops we find ourselves journeying through themes and concepts that marry light & dark, structure & chaos, freedom & boundaries. It is fun but not always easy!
You may expect the unexpected with Jill. With her artistic eye, quirky humour, and musical talents, she is an impressive facilitator and we absolutely love participating in her meditative works of art.
It has been a tradition at PlayFest Retreat for participants to co-create a mandala collage, and each year we bring back the unique murals from previous events to display for others to witness. It is often a hilarious and enjoyable journey as we continue to create this playful art gallery and we are most grateful for the laughs.
Anna
Creatrix of PlayFest Retreat and Master Breathwork Instructor.
Born on Dharug land, NSW, Australia, Anna’s blood roots are from Egypt.
A world traveller - she started as a Conservation Biologist, following a path towards underwater research in Malawi, Africa. Little did she know her travels would extend for 6 years, and take her from Africa to the Americas, Indonesia, and circle back to Australia to create A Gypsy’s Edge.
“From SCUBA diving for research, I went on to free diving, then guiding wildlife tours in Canada, working with horses in California, and sharks in Mexico. I experienced something - people protect what they care about. So how do we get people to care? By experiencing their connection to transcend perceived separation.”
This philosophy forms the heart of Anna's life work and the foundation of her Movement Art & Nature Retreats at PlayFest. During her workshops, we may find ourselves dancing with fire or submerged in ice baths. Here, Anna, a certified Master Breathwork Instructor and advocate of Nature’s Medicine, shares her knowledge and skills with gentle guidance.
Through Breathwork and Elemental Embodiment, we explore the powers of movement, sound, and release. These experiences are gateways to rediscovering forgotten connections and deepening awareness of the interplay between body, mind, emotions, and energy, fostering a holistic connection with our surroundings—humans, animals, plants, planet, and beyond…
Tashi
Re-Evolution World: Quest for Regenerative, Universal, Abundance.
A man of science, art, advanced technology, and ancient spirituality, Tashi wears many hats which you will soon learn about.
At PlayFest, we are privileged to have him share with us the rare martial art of Yong Chun Pai, a form or Wing Chun Kung Fu, descendent from the ancient Shaolin Temples of China.
With over 20 years experience, Tashi’s workshop teaches Kung Fu not only as a form of defence, but a way of life. He combines practical skills and incredible intellect to bring forth Re-Evolution World, an interactive experience to explore some of our greatest achievements as a species and demonstrate our capability to solve challenges right now.
“The aim is to equip fellow sentients with ideas and practical tools to co-create a reality based on Regenerative, Universal, Abundance. Using science, biodesign, exponential technologies, the wisdom of our ancestors, and systems thinking, we can create empowered individuals and resilient decentralised communities.”
With his decades of knowledge, research, and keeping up to date with cutting edge advancements, Tashi explores topics like transitioning to 100% renewable energy systems, distributed circular sustainable economy, digital direct democracy, decentralised blockchain based solutions like cryptocurrency, and increasing longevity, peak performance and maximising our potential to the hilt.
Re-Evolution: You Are The Solution…
Efrat
Holistic Sexual Wellness Coach and Founder of Life of Passion.
Efrat’s online academy, Life of Passion, has supported 4500+ turned-on students since 2015.
Initially doing the work for herself then expanding out to others, Efrat became committed to helping women, men and couples elevate their sex lives and follow their heart’s deep desires.
“Facts that are really important for you to know about me:
2 = The number of beautiful kids I have
9 = The number of years I faked orgasms
85 = The average number of minutes each day I devote to pleasure and passion - not necessarily in a row!
60500 = The number of women I have helped live a more turned on life”
At PlayFest, you can expect Efrat to offer tools and practices that are simple, down to earth, fun and effective in transforming sexual challenges, clearing pleasure blocks and unlocking epic sexual experiences!
There’s no nudity or sexual touch involved in the workshops and everything is only an invitation. You may expect connection exercises and movement, an awakening of your pelvis and deeper dialogue with your pleasure centres of sexuality and creativity.
Naomi
Maker, Teacher, Dancer, Rigger.
A visionary mixed media artist with a profound background in sculpture, Naomi’s talent extends across the globe, from Australia to North America.
Whether it’s captivating audiences at boutique arts festivals or crafting unique sculpture installations, her performances span solo, group, and multi-apparatus acts, leaving spectators in awe.
At PlayFest Retreat, guests will have the chance to experience Naomi’s awe-inspiring aerial mobility workshop. And trust us, you don’t want to miss her breathtaking performance!
A truly talented artist, we admire Naomi in her beauty, strength, commitment, and discipline— she’s a true inspiration! We’re so excited to welcome her at PlayFest Retreat.
Sabine
Creatrix of SCI-MAA: Science to Master the Arts of Self-Expression.
SCI-MAA is a ceremonial dance and sacred portal to transcendental experience. It can be described as a form of active meditation, using mind-body-energy practice that integrates sacred geometry, linguistics, sound, and guided meditative movement to enhance a transcendental experience.
Sabine Leila Laliya is an experienced energy healer from French and Malian heritage. She has travelled the world for over two decades visiting destinations that allowed her to deepen her spiritual and energetic healing knowledge and practice. She has multiple degrees and diplomas and is passionately on a path to empower others through their own self healing.
“The primary purpose of SCI-MAA is to expand the sense of the Self beyond the limitations of the mind and body to allow for a feeling of liberation.”
In workshop, this dynamic mindfulness meditation technique guides you to abandon control of the rational mind and enter a deep space of body-mind-soul connection.
Photographer: Mariana @maczbe. Art Director and Body Painting Artist: Maria @sawabona.yoga.arts
Fernando
Brazilian Jiu-jitsu & The Art of Non-Verbal Communication.
Welcoming back the respectfully gentle yet deadly Fernando, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach & Personal Trainer.
With over 20 years of martial arts experience, Fernando found his true passion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2012 and has since undergone what he calls;
“A profound inner transformation, uncovering an ancient way of communication and self-expression, bypassing the layers of ego.”
Originally from Argentina, Fernando’s journey in Jiu-Jitsu has taken him around the world, connecting to places & people - such as us at PlayFest Retreat - for which we are so grateful!
Since 2021, Fernando’s been teaching at Alpha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Sydney, while also competing. He’s devoted his life to sharing this powerful tool for personal growth with people of all ages & backgrounds.
Fernando loves witnessing his students get healthier, learn to fight, develop confidence, manage mental health, handle pressure, find community, and connect on a level beyond verbal communication.
At PlayFest Retreat, his workshop will get you to tap into a forgotten language, one that’s innate and deeply rooted in your body, through touch and interaction. Expect strong surges of energy, fun, curiosity, challenges to your boundaries, increased self-awareness (physically & mentally), a sense of full presence, and a direct path to your true self.
Lillian
Contact Improvisation Dance and Animal Flow.
Lillian is a Sydney based movement practitioner, coaching and holding spaces for aerial silks, functional mobility, Animal Flow and Contact Improvisation.
Animal Flow is a dynamic, ground based movement practice - imagine a cross between yoga, primal movement, breakdancing and gymnastics.
Contact Improvisation is a mindfulness-based dance practice. It involves two or more people engaging in a physical dialogue through deep listening, touch, momentum, and shared weight.
“Unlike choreographed dances, it is not pre-planned or structured; it unfolds in the present moment, allowing dancers to respond to each other and the environment intuitively. It can look fluid and acrobatic, with basing and flying, or quite subtle and meditative.”
During these classes Lillian will be creating a space for us to explore these two movement practices, and learn skills to help us find movement flow.
With 10+ years of coaching experience, she brings a calm and supportive energy to her classes. Her passion is in empowering others to learn new skills, develop a greater sense of embodiment, and find that sweet spot between challenge and play.
Ali
Originally from France, Ali is a certified Somatic Sex and Embodiment Coach based in Sydney.
She has studied yoga, conscious dance, embodiment, holistic sexuality and somatic sexological bodywork.
“Somatic Sexology is the meeting of Somatics - focusing awareness through the body - with Sexology - the scientific study of human sexuality.”
It is the merging of practices from time-tested traditions such as yoga, meditation and tantra, with cutting edge research in neuroscience, psychology and somatic learning theory. Somatic sexology develops ‘embodiment’, which is deeper presence, awareness and understanding of what is going on in your body. It can be used as a tool to release body-mind restrictions that inhibit pleasure, and allow space for greater growth, choice, and play.
Ali is also a dancer that explores different forms of holistic and creative movements. She mainly practices intuitive dance, contact improvisation, fire dance, erotic dances, contemporary, and weaves all styles together for a deep journey into embodied movement.
Workshops with Ali create a conversational space talking about intimacy and the relationship with our sexuality. Activities are held in an open and engaging manner, mixing talk, group shares, self-inquiry, and movement. It is an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with each other for a more fun and conscious sex life. The workshops do not include nudity or sexual touch. Your time with Ali is an invitation to encompass the confidence to be you.
Ayham
Storyteller, Entertainer, Poet, Business Entrepreneur from Jordan.
Ayham is an all-encompassing figure of the brother, father, lover, carer, friend, healer, leader, child. A student of Life fuelled by energy from the cosmos.
By no means perfect, by every means resilient, Ayham rises to support loved ones and strangers alike.
Compassionate, funny, and reliable, this is a person who plays an integral part behind the scenes and leaves lasting impressions on those he meets.
His workshops are a testament to his character. Although, initially intended as a men’s circle, there’s always been demand to expand the space which finds us welcoming an all inclusive, all expressive, time for stories, conversation, and laughter.
“Say goodbye to small talk, together let us breakthrough some of our restrictive behaviours. I share some of my own life’s journey with you. My experience of healing, embracing my masculinity and femininity, my methods of nourishing the body, mind, and soul. Simplicity is good. But peace to be yourself and live true to your magic is grand.”
Emma
Bodyworker and Founder of Sanctum of Shen.
Emma is a dedicated kinesiologist and bodyworker whose work is deeply influenced by the rich, multi-dimensional aspects of the human experience. With a background in Somatic Kinesiology and KaHuna, she masterfully integrates her skills to help clients connect to their inner compass and find their centre.
Founder of Sanctum of Shen, her practice focuses on creating a space for individuals to embody their highest potential and experience deep healing through a range of modalities, including Zenthai Shiatsu, a potent blend of Zen Shiatsu, Traditional Thai Massage, and Osteopathic techniques.
Emma’s personal healing journey, which began with natural therapies, has guided her to a deep understanding of the body’s innate ability to heal and transform pain. She offers a nurturing space for individuals to release stuck energy, emotions, and stress, supporting the musculoskeletal, digestive, reproductive, and nervous systems. Her approach is adaptable, especially for those on the pregnancy journey, and invites clients to reconnect with their heart’s wisdom.
“I value freedom, connection (to Self, body, other, Earth & Spirit), vitality and inner peace.”
At PlayFest Retreat she will be offering 1:1 Zenthai Shiatsu Bodywork to help you align with your true essence, find inner peace, and play from a place of vitality and connection.
Natalie
Massage Therapist and Founder of Pure Flow Bodywork and Massage.
Natalie is a massage therapist with a passion for Hawaiian Temple Style Bodywork, honouring traditional Lomi Lomi & KaHuna techniques.
She incorporates a holistic approach to clearing energy / meridian lines to promote rejuvenation and healing for body, mind, and soul.
Immersing in a journey of the breath combined with the full body rhythmic flow of KaHuna, Nat creates a beautiful soul to soul dance between both the giver and the receiver.
With the spirit of Aloha, she invites you in to share space and connect more deeply to your own heart opening journey - an experience that continues to extend well beyond the massage table.
“With loving hands and pure heart, flows pure intention for pure soul therapy.”
Bringing her business of Pure Flow Bodywork, applying her care and nurturing skills, Nat is available at PlayFest Retreat for 1:1 Bodywork and Massage to help you connect, rest, heal, and replenish on a deeper level.
It is a blessing to have Nat on site and we hope you will enjoy her potent gifts to recharge at the retreat.
We know we will!
Christina
Lomi Lomi Massage, Trigger Point Therapist, and Energy Healing Bodyworker.
Introducing Christina of Mana Waves; a skilled practitioner of Lomi Lomi Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, and Energetic Healing, bringing a tender, warm, and loving approach to her bodywork practice.
Lomi Lomi massage, a traditional Hawaiian technique known as the "loving hands" massage, focuses on holistic healing by integrating body, mind, and spirit. This method promotes relaxation and releases blockages from the lymphatic system, facilitating a natural detox.
Christina enhances this beautiful technique with Trigger Point Therapy and other bodywork movements to open up the body's energetic highways, allowing a free flow of energy.
“Allow your body this gift to be transported to a relaxing oasis, an opportunity for you to be nourished, grounded, and free to fully express yourself.”
Whether you seek stress relief, relaxation, or a natural detox, a session with Christina promises nourishment and rejuvenation. She will be available for 1:1 bookings at PlayFest Retreat, helping you tap into the free flow of energy and authentic expression of your most playful self.
Christina’s flying to Hawaii for advanced training in Pregnancy Massage, and we are thrilled to have her join us for our annual PlayFest Retreat upon her return. How lucky are we?!
Ash
Founder of SaltAsh Collective, a Holistic Approach to Health and Fitness.
Ash is a wonderful Yoga Teacher and Women’s Wellness & Empowerment Coach, based in Newcastle. She founded SaltAsh Collective driven by her passion for Yoga, Meditation, Breathwork, Dance, Fitness, and supporting her community to live healthily and actively.
Ash is certified in Holistic Life Coaching, Traditional Tantric Hatha Yoga, and Yoga Teacher Training, with specialised courses in Pre & Post-Natal Exercise, Outdoor Group Training, Vedic Meditation, NLP, Reiki, ZenThai Shiatsu Massage, Breathwork, and Ayurveda. She draws on her extensive experience to bring radiance to her practice.
“I want to help guide people back to a gentle and connective relationship with their bodies and to a positive, peaceful, expansive state of mind.”
At PlayFest Retreat, Ash will welcome guests for 1:1 Intuitive Massage & Reiki sessions. She creates a beautiful space for participants to deeply connect with nature and themselves.
With her devoted presence, energy, and fluid massage technique, you can drift into deep relaxation. Using Reiki energy healing and her intuitive nature, Ash provides a fluid, dance-like massage that delights the whole body and helps it reset.
PlayFest Retreat offers workshops from sunrise to sundown, so make sure to balance, rest, and restore with these beautiful offerings for mind and body health.
Ira Belle
Founder of Ira Light: Life Intuitive Guidance for Healing and Transformation.
Ira Belle is a gifted practitioner offering Intuitive Tarot Readings, Meditation, Reiki, and Light Language Healings. She created Ira Light to bring a warm, loving, and safe space for holistic mental and energetic healing.
Her diverse modalities are designed to assist you based on your current needs, whether it’s your personal journey, relationships, career, personal development, or spiritual growth.
“My work can help those seeking clarity or feeling lost in life, feeling depleted or stuck, or facing big decisions and choices.”
At PlayFest Retreat, Ira Belle offers a sanctuary for 1:1 guidance in nature, helping participants tap into their inner wisdom, align with their authentic selves, and explore their highest potential.
PlayFest Retreat isn't just about group activities and play; it's also about finding quiet, connection, and deeper intimacy with oneself, nature, and each other.
If you seek quietude, guidance, revitalisation, nourishment, transformation, or openness to new possibilities, Ira Belle’s offerings are truly unique and not to be missed!
Paul
Zenthai Shiatsu Bodyworker and Facilitator of Mens Work for Attunement and Connection.
Paul is a Sunshine Coast-based bodyworker and facilitator, passionate about fostering human connection and healthy masculinity. His journey into men's work began following the breakdown of his 10-year marriage, a life-changing experience that led him to deeply question his relationships and sense of belonging. Through years of introspection, Paul now shares his learnings with the community to help others cultivate emotional awareness and supportive, authentic connections.
Paul specializes in Zenthai Shiatsu, a fluid blend of Zen Shiatsu, Traditional Thai Massage, and Osteopathic techniques. His bodywork addresses physical and energetic imbalances, supporting musculoskeletal, digestive, and nervous system health while helping clients connect with their inner selves. Paul also facilitates workshops, including "The Conscious Masculine" series in Sydney, an embodied deep dive exploration of archetypes of the sacred masculine and the sacred feminine. His philosophy aligns with Gandhi’s famous words: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
“I want to help guide people back to a gentle and connective relationship with their bodies and to a positive, peaceful, expansive state of mind.”
At PlayFest Retreat, Paul will be offering 1:1 Zenthai Shiatsu for participants to enjoy a blissful and potent bodywork therapy.
PlayFest Retreat Ticket | $555
RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW (click here)
Accommodation, Dinner, and Workshops are included.
Additional Highlights
Professional Bodywork and Energetics, including Zenthai Shiatsu, Reiki, Relaxing Massage sessions on offer.
Guest Facilitators and more workshops to be announced
Fire Dancing and Live Interactive Art
Cacao and breakfast delights to boost your energy
Aerialists and Acrobats
Live Music & Original Artists
Shibari Artistry