Praying in Flesh and Bone

This programme aims to widen our understanding and practice of prayer through paying attention to the physical body.

During this week, we’ll explore how breath, movement, posture and attention can deepen our experience of prayer and strengthen our connection with God, ourselves, one another and creation.

Led by theologian, minister and movement practitioner Miriam Perkins, this prayer retreat programme offers a thoughtful and accessible exploration of embodied prayer through reflection, conversation and shared practice. Whether you’re seeking a retreat for spiritual growth, a Christian retreat experience, or simply a fresh approach to prayer, you’ll find space to slow down, listen and engage more fully with your faith.

Costs: 6 Nights: £960 or £480 concession.

Where: The Iona Abbey

When: 08.05.2027 – 14.05.2027

Led by: Miriam Perkins

About the programme

Prayer involves more than words alone. Together, we’ll discover how the body can support different aspects of prayer, including preparation, reflection, focus, expression and openness. Through breath work, guided practices, conversation and shared exploration, we’ll consider how prayer can help us hold what is difficult, seek healing and nurture hope for ourselves, our communities and the wider world.

This programme is for anyone interested in exploring prayer in a fresh way. Whether you have an established prayer practice or are simply curious about the relationship between faith, body and spirituality, you’ll be warmly welcomed. While some mobility is required, activities will be adapted wherever possible to support a range of abilities and levels of experience.

Set within the rhythm of life at Iona Abbey, this prayer retreat offers space to slow down, listen deeply and engage with embodied prayer in a thoughtful and supportive community. It is an opportunity for reflection, renewal and spiritual growth through both personal practice and shared experience.

Meet the Programme Leader(s)

Miriam Y. Perkins, Ph.D., is Professor of Theology at Emmanuel Christian Seminary teaching graduate courses in residence and online. Dr. Perkins is a theologian, ordained minister and movement practitioner whose work explores the relationship between faith, spirituality and the physical body. Drawing on her experience as a theology professor, yoga instructor and retreat leader, she helps people discover how prayer can be enriched through breath, movement, reflection and embodied practice.

What to expect

Each day will combine prayer, reflection, conversation and gentle embodied practices, creating space to explore the relationship between faith and the physical body.

Guided by Miriam, you’ll be introduced to a range of approaches that draw attention to breath, posture, movement and presence in prayer. Through teaching, guided reflection and shared discussion, we’ll explore how the body can support us in preparing for prayer, focusing our attention, expressing ourselves honestly before God and remaining open to transformation.

The programme is designed to be thoughtful, accessible and participatory. No previous experience of movement practices is required, and activities will be adapted where possible to accommodate a range of abilities. While some mobility is needed, the emphasis is on awareness and participation rather than physical performance.

Alongside the programme sessions, you’ll share in the daily rhythm of life at the Abbey, including worship, meals and time in community. There will also be opportunities for personal reflection, quiet walks and enjoying the beauty of Iona.

This prayer retreat offers a balance of structured learning and spaciousness, helping you engage with embodied prayer in ways that are practical, reflective and rooted in Christian faith. Whether you’re looking to deepen an existing prayer practice or explore new ways of connecting with God, the week offers space for renewal, discovery and spiritual growth.

Key Information

Before booking, it’s helpful to know that this programme combines prayer, reflection and embodied practice throughout the week. You’ll share meals, worship and daily life with other guests while exploring how breath, movement and attention can deepen your experience of prayer and connection with God.