Friends,

I don't need to tell you how messy, unjust, and heartbreaking the world is right now. On many days, I find myself struggling to know what to do and where to focus, but one thing I do know is that creativity isn't frivolous, especially now.

Creativity is how we keep our hearts open when fear surrounds us.

Creativity is how we practice staying flexible, resilient, and open to change.

Creativity is how we connect to ourselves, to each other, and to the beautiful world we want to build.

Creativity is how we stay in our power.

If your heart is calling for more creativity, connection, and adventure to look forward to, I want to let you know about two 2026 retreats I'm offering in two of my favorite places — Portugal and Italy.

If you're seeking to reignite your creative spark and nurture the parts of yourself that make you feel the most alive, my retreats offer a safe and encouraging space to connect to a deep well of creative practices, a loving community, and the remembrance that you were born to create a life that you love.

These soulful retreats are particularly potent if you are ready to:

Move through significant transitions and get clear on "what's next"
Discover new ways to feel free, alive, and truly yourself
Experience creative courage while letting go of perfectionism
Re-ignite your creative practices and discover new techniques
Clear stagnant energy and move stuck emotions
Experience true presence and awe
Nurture self-acceptance with kindness
Remember that YOU are the artist of your life

Creating heart-centered and inspiring retreats that foster meaningful connection is something I hold very dear. It's both an honor and a joy to do this work, and I would love for you to join me. (There are currently about ten spots open in each of the European retreats.)

No experience is necessary. Come as you are and reconnect to what makes you feel most alive. Creativity belongs to all people...

We got this.

xo flora

Scroll down for more info about the Portugal and Italy retreats, or head over to the retreat page on my website for all the details...

Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal

May 2 – 9, 2026

An all-inclusive retreat taking place in the soulful Portuguese countryside. Spend eight days immersed in a dynamic blend of freedom-centered hands-on intuitive art practices, gentle movement, free-form writing, breathwork, and community connection.

In addition to the creative practices, you’ll also spend time exploring the Ribatejo region, soaking in the magic of Óbidos with its fairytale castle, and wandering through the lush surroundings of Almourol Castle above the Tagus River. Limited to 17 participants. Find details and registration here — email contact@uptrek.com for logistical questions and support.

I feel beautifully stretched — I arrived overwhelmed and a little nervous. I ended up feeling bright, happy, and inspired. I transformed without even having that as an intention, and I love that even more. Flora’s style is open, and there is an ease that oozes out of her. She made it feel so easy. I could gush for hours. Thank you for such a beautiful experience. I can’t wait for my next retreat!

– Brenda Carolan

Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy

May 18 – 25, 2026

An all-inclusive retreat taking place in the sun-kissed Tuscan valley in Italy. Spend eight days immersed in a dynamic blend of freedom-centered hands-on intuitive art practices, gentle movement, free-form writing, breathwork, and community connection.

In addition to the creative practices, you’ll also spend time exploring the medieval town of Siena and visiting a family-run olive oil mill. Limited to 16 participants. Find details and registration here— email contact@uptrek.com for logistical questions and support.

“The retreat went far beyond my expectations. I’ve returned feeling full, renewed, and deeply inspired. Flora is a teacher who holds space with grace and wisdom, creating an environment where women can reconnect with their essence and come alive again.”

-Cindy Manchester

www.florabowley.com

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Italy + Portugal Art of Aliveness Retreats 🦋 💫 🎨

Casével, Ribatejo, Portugal

May 2 – 9, 2026

Vaggio, Tuscany, Italy

May 18 – 25, 2026