Peaks & Valleys: A Men’s Retreat for the Times We’re Living In
Five Days. One Trail. A Real Conversation.
There’s a silent pressure that lives in most men. You can’t always see it, but it’s there—tucked behind the busy schedule, the strong face, the never-let-them-see-you-struggle mask.
We see it all the time in the mountains. A guy shows up to a backcountry trip thinking he’s just here for the hike. But somewhere between the steep climbs and the still mornings, something opens. The noise settles. And the truth gets a little clearer. That’s what this retreat is about.
This summer we are excited to announce that Playwest Mountain Experiences and Dancing Wind Wellness are teaming up to offer something more than an adventure. We’re inviting men into a different kind of conversation—with themselves, each other, and the wild world around them.
Why This? Why Now?
Men are struggling. And many are doing it in silence.
In Canada, 75% of suicides are men, and it remains the second leading cause of death for males under 50.
Only 30% of men who experience mental health challenges will seek professional help.
And despite increased awareness, studies still show that societal expectations to appear “strong,” “in control,” and “self-reliant” are among the biggest barriers to emotional well-being for men.
We’ve created a space to challenge that—honestly, without pressure or pretense.
Introducing: Peaks & Valleys; Navigating the Path as a Man (in Today’s World)
This is a 5-day, 4-night backpacking retreat in the Purcell Mountains, designed for men who want to reconnect—with their physical bodies, emotional intelligence, mental clarity, and spiritual compass.
What It Looks Like; each day focuses on one aspect of the self:
Day 1 – Physical: Where are you feeling tension, burnout, disconnection? We explore what we’re ready to release—habits, pain, patterns—and get real about how we treat our bodies.
Day 2 – Emotional: Anger. Guilt. Resentment. Grief. We all carry something. In nature, emotions surface naturally. We give them space.
Day 3 – Mental: We explore the stories we’ve inherited—around success, self-worth, masculinity—and how to reframe the ones that no longer serve us.
Day 4 – Spiritual: A summit day on Mt. Ethelbert. This isn’t just about views. It’s about finding connection—within and beyond yourself.
Day 5 – Integration: We hike out together, reflecting on what we’ve learned and how to carry it forward.
Each day blends guided hikes, breathwork, meditation, journaling, group discussions, and powerful hypnotherapy and somatic practices led by Michael Ferreira, CHt, founder of Dancing Wind Wellness. Michael has worked in men’s healing and trauma-informed wellness for over 20 years. His grounded, intuitive approach helps participants access deeper layers of awareness and healing—without judgment or performance. For many, it’s the first time they’ve felt truly seen.
“I honestly can't describe the difference I have both physically and mentally...A calmness came over me and my thought patterns changed. I can still vividly hear you saying to me “you're a great guy” over and over again.”
What You’ll Walk Away With
More clarity.
Less noise.
A better relationship with your body.
A new understanding of your emotional world.
Tools for navigating stress, anxiety, and belief systems that no longer serve you.
And maybe most important of all—connection. With yourself. With others. And with something greater.
Before we part ways, we’ll record a short video reflection—a tool to return to when life gets busy again. A reminder of who you were on that mountain, and who you’re becoming.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone!
This is for the man who carries a lot and doesn’t always know where to put it. For the guy who’s been “fine” for too long. For the ones who crave something real and grounded and don’t want to go it alone.
The Details
🗓️ Retreat dates August 12-16, 2025
📍 Purcell Mountains (BC)
🎒 Professionally guided. All gear, meals, and support included.
👥 Limited to 8 men.
