Retreats in Flow



In Flow, a captivating women's photography retreat crafted by Avery Swail and Michelle Van Dijk. Aimed at empowering women to reconnect with their true essence while fostering a profound sisterhood.

Throughout In Flow, we embark on a transformative week together, delving deep into both our inner land- scapes and the beauty of the world around us, enrich- ing our communities and expanding our portfolios. We collaborate with like-minded brands, offering photographers the opportunity to not only enhance their portfolios but also provide brands with compel- ling imagery curated by Michelle, Avery, and our diverse guest community. Each retreat features carefully selected agency models, harmonious medi- cine women, talented musicians, and skilled yoga and pilates instructors, creating a holistic experience that honors the interconnectedness of our inner and outer realms.


As seen in

Next retreat schedule

Peru 2027


Dates to be announced soon

South Africa

Lamu, Kenya

-

February 2026/

SOLD OUT


18-25 March 2026

Spots available

Investment €5900,-



Healing through breathwork


Healing through breathwork


In every breath, there is a choice—to stay in the stories that keep us small, or to step into a life of freedom and emotional truth.

Breathwork is a powerful tool for change. It offers a simple yet profound way to access a different state of consciousness, helping us process and release stuck emotions such as grief, stress, anger, or anxiety. With each conscious breath, we move closer to balance, to peace, to presence.


In the safe container of kindred souls—each committed to their inner work and to sharing the healing power of this practice—we begin to unravel the unimaginable layers of pain we’ve held for too long. The body softens. The heart opens. And the breath becomes a bridge back to our most authentic self.


Our breath is a prayer—an offering to life itself. It holds the power to ground us in the now, to connect us to something greater, and to remind us that healing is always available.

Breathwork doesn’t just calm the mind—it resets the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and detoxifies the body. But beyond the physical, it invites us into deep emotional liberation.

From the shadow of victimization, we awaken into freedom. We remember our own light. And in doing so, we inspire others to liberate themselves—emotionally, spiritually, and creatively.


This is the power each and every breath carries.



Yoga


Each retreat includes at least three mornings of yoga, designed to ground and open the body, calm the mind, and create space for creativity to flow naturally.

Breathwork


Through the transformative power of breathwork ceremonies, you’ll access deeper layers of clarity, experience healing and access self awareness.

These sessions are not just tools for relaxation, they are portals to explore and release subconscious patterns that may hold you back.

Whether you’re looking to heal past wounds, gain clarity on your path, or shift beliefs that no longer serve you, this sacred practice allows you to shed the layers and align with your authenthic self. .

Photoshoots


During the retreats, Avery and Michelle organize professional photoshoots in collaboration with inspiring brands and agency-based stylists. These shoots are designed to give you strong, high-quality content for your portfolio, including editorial-style imagery suitable for magazines and campaigns.

Activities


We love exploring the local culture through meaningful experiences, spending time on the water, dancing around fires, and enjoying musical offerings from local artists. Our retreats are designed to open your heart and immerse you in the country like a local, offering an authentic connection to the land and its people.

My Trainings

2023 - Womb healer training with Melissa Sanger
2024 - Certified Breathwork Facilitator (300hr) - CCB with Evolution of Breath, Mike O'Meara

Kea, Greece

Lamu, Kenya

"These experiences are so much more than photography. It's sisterhood, it's connection, it's community. Bringing together all of these pieces lead the way for such a transformative process, both within myself and my creations. When I have challenging days, I think back to Lamu and the energy that I felt then. I embody that feeling and allow it to propel myself forward. The energy and love is palpable."


Ashley swinton

"If you are reading this, take this as a sign to answer the call. I was hesitant to invest in myself, and I am so grateful I took the leap. Avery and Michelle have created an incredible experience for creative women around the world. I felt so supported, inspired and accepted. I have gained the confidence I have been severely lacking to pursue my passion. I cannot recommend In Flow enough.


Heather Freer

It was a magical week surrounded with creatives, centered in ritual and grounded sisterhood that I will forever take with me.

There was a perfect balance between workshops getting to know the surroundings as we shoot away with the models.

Thank you :)"


Rosa SCIpion

It's difficult to find the words to describe In Flow, it was truly that magical. I did not know I would find - or that I needed - the intense healing and connection that I found. Anyone can show you how to conduct a photoshoot, only Avery and Michelle can foster this kind of community and creativity. I was constantly inspired by everyone around me and felt so taken care of the entire time. If you want to meet a group of incredible, brilliant women, fast-track your career, connect with yourself, honor your creativity, love life and just generally have the most fun time everrr then In Flow is for you :)

kiki

I went into the retreat not knowing what to expect at all,  other than the photography part. My goal was to create beautiful pictures to elevate my portfolio and make new connections with like minded women. I definitely got that and so much more. I got experience things I have never done before, that might have felt uncomfortable and so far out of my world. But being surrounded by  new sisters going through all the ceremonies together has never felt more natural and I'm so grateful to have opened up and just let everything in. We shared a lot in just a weeks time, everything from pure excitement from getting our favourite shots to crying with each other sharing our deepest feelings however small or big they are, and for that I'm forever grateful. The photo's I got in the end are not just great photo's, they are beautiful re-minder of the time we all shared together and they will always hold a special place in my heart. In flow retreats has changed my perspective of many things and I count myself very lucky to be part of such a special experience.


Ellen Borglund

When I found out about the retreat I had this deep calling to attend and went in with no expectations. I appreciate the emphasis on sisterhood and healing alongside photography sessions. Also, how the models were with us the entire time, allowing us to get to know them at a deeper level and impromptu shooting whenever the light hit right. Loved the wholesomeness of the experience, from the food and the locations to the amazing girls from all over the world, and how it brought us all together. The retreat was truly magical, a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it. Big thanks to Avery and Michelle for creating this safe space for us.

Natalie alvarado

The retreat to Lamu absolutely blew my mind. I honestly had no expectations going into it. For me, it was about exploring a new place with new people and just going with it! I had no idea the relationships and emotional connections I would form on a week. Everything feels possible. I am inspired in ways I can’t truly describe. Avery and Michelle opened up their hearts to each of us in different ways both individually and as a whole guaranteeing our experience to feel as special as we are. I felt like a solo newbie going in but now I feel that I have a team that supports me and I am excited to take my photography to the next level.



Erin Tufts cartier

Attending Retreatinflow has been one of the most powerful and transformative experiences of my professional and personal life. I spent this time surrounded by 15 incredible women, each bringing their unique energy, perspective, and vulnerability. We arrived as strangers and left as a deeply connected community hearts open, spirits lifted, and stories shared with remarkable honesty.

The retreat was raw, real, and at times, beautifully challenging. We created art that spoke from the soul, embraced discomfort, pushed our physical limits, and participated in breathwork and movement sessions designed to connect us more deeply to ourselves and one another.

This retreat reminded me how essential it is to be surrounded by likeminded individuals people who inspire, uplift, and collaborate without competition. I feel more inspired than ever, with a full heart and a renewed sense of purpose.

When women come together with pure intention, true magic happens.

Wow.


Beatrice Gilbo