The Wild Retreat 2025: Reflections on a Weekend of Brotherhood

The Heart of the Retreat

At the centre of this was David from Mantra Men’s Work. His presence and guidance shaped the retreat in profound ways.

Through men’s circles and workshops, David created a safe and supportive space where participants could speak honestly, be heard fully, and show up with vulnerability and strength.

The work David leads goes far beyond a single weekend. Rooted in supporting men’s mental health, fostering resilience, and building genuine community, his approach reminded us all how vital it is to have spaces where men can connect in openness and trust.

For many, these circles were the most powerful part of the retreat, moments where stories were shared, barriers fell away, and a real sense of brotherhood was built.

Gratitude for Our Partners

A retreat like this is never the work of one person alone. It takes a community to create something lasting, and we are deeply grateful to those who helped bring the Wild Retreat 2025 to life.

The location itself, 7th Rise, gave us a wild and grounding backdrop. The food, especially Simon Stallard’s unforgettable feast, brought us together around the table. And a host of generous partners added thoughtful touches that extended the spirit of the weekend far beyond the woods.

From George at Perthyans with his fiery, wood-smoked hot sauce, to the small-batch seasonings from Field Blends, a year’s membership gifted by Camp Wild, handcrafted leather keepsakes from Warriner Leather, durable stackable cups from Field Trip Supplies, beautiful notebook holders from Nelson and Forge, and inspiring recipes from Off The Beaten Pot, each contribution brought something special, and together they created a sense of care that will be remembered.

Looking Ahead

The Wild Retreat 2025 reminded us that when men gather in nature with openness and intention, something truly lasting is created. We leave not just with memories of firesides, riverbanks, and star-filled skies, but with the bonds formed and the lessons shared, a reminder of how powerful it is to step into the wild together.

If you’d like to be part of one of our future retreats, make sure you’re signed up to our emails and following along on social media. We’ll share details as soon as the next one is announced, and we’d love to see you there.