Sing, Breathe, Belong: A Seaside Retreat to Reconnect with Your Voice

Most of us don’t get many chances to really listen to our own voice - to hear it without judgment, to sing without pressure, and to simply enjoy the sound of it.

At HeartSong Normandie, we create space for that.

Our seaside singing retreat is a place where you can sing, breathe, and belong - reconnecting with your voice, your breath, and your sense of joy in a warm, supportive community.

Whether your voice has been silent for decades or you sing all the time, this retreat is about coming home to something simple and deeply human: singing together, by the sea.

Our next retreat runs from 30 August – 6 September 2025, and you’re warmly invited.

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You Can Sing — Even If You Think You Can’t

We hear it all the time:

“I’m not musical.”
“I was told I was tone-deaf.”
“I love singing, but I’ve lost confidence.”

But here’s what we see every time: when people feel safe and supported, their voice comes alive.

You don’t need any experience. You don’t need to read music. We sing by ear, in harmony, together - and the focus is on connection, not perfection.
Any fears or blocks can be gently met and released in a supportive, safe and welcoming space. 

You really can find your voice again. And when you do, it can be life-changing.

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Start the Day with Calm and Clarity

Each day begins with a gentle guided body scan or grounding meditation to help you arrive fully in the moment. This is followed by soulful mantras and chants from around the world - simple, beautiful, and easy to join in with.

These morning sessions help slow the nervous system, deepen the breath, and set a peaceful, grounded tone for the day ahead.

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Then… We Sing!

Our group singing sessions are relaxed, joyful, and surprisingly powerful.

We sing:

• Uplifting rock and pop classics

• Soulful gospel, traditional and world music

Everything is taught by ear — so no musical experience is needed. Many people arrive thinking they “can’t sing” and leave not wanting to stop.

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Why Singing Feels So Good — Backed by Science

Singing doesn’t just feel good - it’s proven to support well-being.

“Singing activates the vagus nerve and supports emotional regulation, relaxation, and connection.”
Dr. Stephen Porges, Polyvagal Theory

 

“Group singing increases feel-good hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, reduces stress, and builds trust and connection.”
Dr. Daisy Fancourt, University College London

 

“People who sing regularly show lower levels of anxiety and higher resilience — especially in group settings.”
British Academy of Sound Therapy

 

At HeartSong, the effects really are tangible. People find their voice again and feel more like themselves, sometimes for the first time in a long time. Many discover new confidence and a real boost in self-esteem that carries on well beyond the retreat.

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What It’s Like on Retreat

We are hosting our late summer retreat in a beautiful beachfront villa on the Normandy coast - open skies, fresh air, and the sound of waves just outside your door.

Your days include:

• Morning grounding meditation and soulful mantras

• Uplifting, joyful group singing sessions

• Home-cooked, fresh, seasonal meals made with love

• Free time to walk, rest, swim, or read

A space to sing, rest, and reconnect.

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What Guests Say

“I cannot praise Ema and Peter, who lovingly created HeartSong Normandie, enough. The thought and care they provide for every single person lucky enough to join them goes above and beyond all expectations. If anyone is nervous or anxious — don’t be. The whole experience, whatever your levels or needs, turns into one joyful journey from the moment you enter their door to the moment you leave. There is humour and love in abundance.”

— Guest review

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Join Us: 30 August – 6 September 2025

This retreat is one of our most loved - golden sunset evenings, warm sea swims, and a real sense of belonging.

30 August – 6 September 2025

Beachfront villa, Agon Coutainville - Normandy coast, France

• No singing experience needed
• Includes mantra, meditation, relaxation and gentle movement to support the voice
• Homemade fresh, seasonal meals
• Time and space to rest and relax

We keep group numbers small, so early booking is recommended. Only a few places still available. If you are interested in the non-residential/day retreat option just let us know. 

Contact us here to book or ask questions.

We’d love to welcome you.

Ema and Peter 

HeartSong Normandie