Join Donatella Tita, expert in all things Traditional Chinese Medicine, and resident artist Mia Tavonatti, for a relaxing and inspiring week under the regenerative light of the Tuscan sun.
Release. Relax. Recreate is a seven day retreat designed to help you realize true health and bring you closer to your life’s mission, using a holistic approach that considers the entire person, and aims to restore energetic balance and promote physical and mental well being using methods of the ”Five Elements” of Traditional Chinese Medicine. By balancing body, mind, and emotions, you’ll rediscover the "heart essence" central to your life.
My name is Donatella Tita, I am a healthy life lover, inspired by nature, living in beautiful Chianti, Tuscany. I have been a Traditional Chinese Medicine therapist for over 10 years. I work with bionatural techniques, with knowledge in chinese philosophy and am an avid practitioner instructor of Zen meditation, Qi Gong and TCM nutrition.
Benvenuto! My name is Mia Tavonatti, and although I am a recent transplant to Italy, I have had a deep love and appreciation for all things Italian, especially its art and cultural history, since I was a child making pasta with my nonna. I have made La Volpaia my home and hope to share my love of the land, La Volpaia's rich 500-year-old history and traditional Tuscan comforts with you. I am a lifelong professional artist, so La Volpaia enjoys a uniquely creative spirit and welcomes all who want to dig deeper into their own creative pursuits, or just relax by the pool and take in the sunsets with a good glass of wine! I am no chef, but I can certainly provide the vino :)
Nestled in the heart of Chianti, La Volpaia is a captivating 20-acre property with a rich history. Built in 1521 by an aristocratic family still residing in the area, this enchanting villa has been meticulously restored by an architect/artist. Surrounded by 240 olive trees producing organic extra virgin olive oil, it offers a taste of Tuscan authenticity.
Featuring six bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, a well-appointed kitchen, two living rooms, and a dedicated office/reading room, La Volpaia seamlessly blends comfort and rustic elegance. The 20 acre property boasts a lavender field, an infinity pool with spectacular sunset views over vineyards and the Apennine mountains, and numerous outdoor spaces for relaxation, exploring, communing with nature or quiet contemplation.
Situated on a tranquil hilltop amidst vineyards and olive trees, La Volpaia provides a private, intimate escape, while its central location between Florence, Siena and San Gimignano ensures convenient access to Tuscany's cultural gems. This haven invites you to unwind, surround yourself with art, savor organic delights, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Chianti and the Tuscan countryside. La Volpaia, hosted by an award-winning painter and mosaic artist, is a living masterpiece. The 500-year-old walls bear witness to original artworks by esteemed artists, while the former barn serves as both an operational art studio and gallery. Internationally acclaimed artists teach painting and mosaics to students who journey here from across the globe. Sculptures punctuate the scenic landscape, making every moment at this ancient farmhouse a source of inspiration, fueled by the vibrant essence of creativity.
7 nights single or double occupancy accommodation in a fully furnished traditional Tuscan villa. Each room has an ensuite bathroom
Full healthy and seasonal meals prepared by our own Chef and other refreshments (dietary restrictions may be accommodated with advance notice)
A full day exploring the heart of some of Tuscany's famous countryside and most popular destinations complete with a delicious lunch at a local vineyard.
Group transfers to and from Florence Airport or train station are provided based on this itinerary, as well as luxury ground transportation for all excursions
We will meet by the pool every morning for qi gong, a practice of meditative movement and breathwork
One hour TCM private evaluation and treatment with Donatella
Learn to create a beautiful stone mantra mosaic with award winning artist Mia Tavonatti
1 hour private massage with Laura
Meditations in nature
Group sound healing session led by Alexandra Voropai
All materials will be provided, including a yoga mat, but please bring a journal
Each guest will go home with a lovely assortment of La Volpaia's Olio di Lavanda, Aqua di Lavanda and Extra Virgin Olive Oil
We will walk and short distance to two VERY local vineyards where we will do a little wine tasting, as well as visiting a small pecorino cheese farm to taste his award winning cheeses 🧀
Airfare to and from Florence or any other means of transportation or hotel stays before or after the retreat are not included
Transport expenses outside of scheduled times can be arranged but will be an additional fee. Transport schedules will be provided well in advance of your flight planning
Staff gratuities (Drivers, guides and staff)
journal
Airport transfers from Florence Airport or train station
Welcome Dinner 7:30 o'clock
Today we will focus on Wood Element ,
seen in all aspects
Mind- Body-Soul-through
Wood Qi Gong
Wood Meditations
TCM Diet based on wood element
Psycological Aspects of the wood element
Celebration of your Wood Element
Today we will focus on Fire Element
Fire Qi Gong
Fire Meditation
TCM Diet based on fire element
Psycological Aspects of the fire element
Celebration of your Fire Element
A full day exploring the heart of some of Tuscany's famous countryside and most popular destinations complete with a delicious lunch at a local vineyard.
Today we will focus on the Connection to the Earth
You will enter your earth element through:
Creating your own Stone Mantra Mosaic with Mia Tavonatti
Earth Qi Gong
Meditations in Nature
TCM Diet based on earth element
Psycological Aspects of the earth element
Celebration of your Earth Element
Today you will focus on your Metal Element
Metal Qi Gong
Metal Meditations in Nature
TCM Diet based on Metal element
Psycological Aspects of the metal element
Celebration of your Metal Element
Today we will focus on Water Element , through
Water Qi Gong
Meditations in Water
TCM Diet based on water element
Psycological Aspects of the water element
Celebration of your Water Element
Celebration dinner!