Barcelona 3 –7 June 2026
“The body keeps the score, and it speaks a language older than words.”
— Bessel van der Kolk
In a world saturated with noise and constant chatter, what happens when we remove the excess of words yet keep the power of voice?
The Singing & Silence Residency is a 5-day immersion in shared silence, vocal exploration, and contemplative presence.
For most of the residency, we are in silence. When sound arises, it is through song and intentional speech.
This residency is for those who want to explore the voice as a doorway into self-discovery and relational authenticity:
• Discover how to reveal and free your voice.
• Experience how song and silence can bring clarity.
• Skip the small talk yet feel deeply connected and seen.
A Contemplative Container
Most of the residency is held in shared silence. Outside dedicated sessions, there is no speaking. This creates a field where perception sharpens, the nervous system settles, and subtle nuances of sound and gesture become visible.
Voice as Relational Practice
When we do use our voices, it is intentional:
• Vocal improvisation to let melodies emerge directly from silence
• Folk songs to honour simple, human traditions of shared singing
• Embodied voice work to explore a fuller range of expression
• Relational practices to cultivate conscious presence with others.
• A renewed, more intimate relationship with your own voice
• Practical tools for improvisation and embodied voice work
• Profound self-discovery and deep personal transformation
• A greater sense of clarity, tranquility, and inner orientation.
Limited spots available — Apply now!
Dr Jessica Bockler and Dr Swan Dao are accomplished expressive therapists, theatre makers, and scholars, each bringing over 25 and 15 years of international teaching experience, respectively. They both share a deep commitment to the transformative power of embodied art, creativity, and imagination.
Jessica, CEO of the Alef Trust, is a leading voice in integrative education and transpersonal psychology, while Swan, Director of the Institute of Devotional Arts, is a globally recognised expert in experiential learning that cultivates self-awareness, relational depth, and creative expression.
Together, their combined expertise equips you with invaluable skills to deepen your own healing journey and guide others on their path to transformation.
Dr Jessica Bockler is a distinguished psychologist and theatre practitioner with over 25 years of experience in expressive arts facilitation, specialising in embodied approaches...
Dr Jessica Bockler
Psychologist & Educator
Expressive Therapy - Applied Theatre - Transpersonal, Jungian, and Process-Oriented Psychology
Dr Swan Dao is the founder of the Institute of Devotional Arts, an organisation that creates transformative learning experiences through the expressive arts...
Dr Swan Dao
Psychotherapist & Experience Designer
Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy - Psycho-Theatre & Dramatherapy - Hypnotherapy - Breath & Voice Therapy
Each day offers a chance to deepen your practice and explore the fertile terrain where body and imagination meet. Here's what a typical day looks like.
7:30–8:30 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM–12:00 PM: Morning Class
12:00–1:00 PM: Lunch
1:00–2:30 PM: Rest & Introspection
2:30–3:00 PM: Group Reflection
3:00–3:30 PM: Break
3:30–6:00 PM: Afternoon Class
6:00–7:00 PM: Dinner
7:00–8:00 PM: Personal Time
8:00–9:00 PM: Evening Talk & Q&A
7:30–8:30 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM–12:00 PM: Morning Class
12:00–1:00 PM: Lunch
1:00–2:30 PM: Rest & Introspection
2:30–3:00 PM: Group Reflection
3:00–3:30 PM: Break
3:30–6:00 PM: Afternoon Class
6:00–7:00 PM: Dinner
7:00–8:00 PM: Personal Time
8:00–9:00 PM: Evening Talk & Q&A
“Healing comes when we meet ourselves fully, including the wisdom of the body and the expression of creativity.”
— Peter Levine
A NATURE SANCTUARY NEAR BARCELONA
Nestled in the heart of the Prades Mountain Natural Park, our retreat centre provides a peaceful, secluded environment perfect for personal growth, relaxation, and deep immersion in nature. Set on 140 hectares of lush forest, the property is rich in Pyrenean oak and Scots pine trees and is home to Arabian horses and wild roe deer, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Unique architectural features, including a Gaudí-inspired castle adds to the centre’s charm, offering spaces that inspire creativity and reflection.
Our hosts cultivate a warm, family-like atmosphere where guests feel immediately at home. Meals are nutritious and lovingly prepared—plant-based, primarily organic, and made with local, seasonal ingredients. Tea and wholesome snacks are available throughout the day, ensuring you feel nourished and cared for at every moment of your stay.
Submit Your Application Today
Spaces are limited, and we’re carefully selecting individuals who will benefit most from this training. The first step is to complete our application form. If pre-selected, you’ll be invited for an interview to ensure alignment with your personal and professional growth. Apply now to secure your spot!
Single Room
FREE
€ 3,250
€ 3,250
Accommodation for 5 days/4 nights
in a private ensuite room
Private access to the retreat centre
All meals, snacks, and drinks
All materials and classes (33+ hrs)
Shared Room
FREE
€ 2,500
€ 2,500
Accommodation for 5 days/4 nights
in a double ensuite room (2 people)
Private access to the retreat centre
All meals, snacks, and drinks
All materials and classes (33+ hrs)
I discovered creative ways to express sensitive, deeply personal topics, and returned feeling empowered with valuable tools and inspiration gained from both participants and teachers.
Amy Tessler | Trauma Psychotherapist | Canada
My experience was deeply insightful. It offered a refreshing perspective that complemented my background in healthcare, allowing me to reconnect with the true essence of therapy.
Dr Soukeyna Debiens | Medical Doctor | Canada
I felt inspired and supported by incredible artists who make art in a different way. I was reminded of the reason why I create and share my creativity.
SANDRA LEPIK | VISUAL ARTIST | ESTONIA
The techniques were accessible yet powerful, simple yet transformative. The experience was unexpectedly moving, personally enriching, and collectively empowering — I feel really grateful for it.
Dr MIKE SANDEL | Psychiatrist | SPAIN
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Are you ready to gain practical tools in expressive therapy with leading experts?
