A Meditative Journey Through Nature and Expression
Earth Lines: Drawing Stories from Nature
DATES: July 19 – July 25 2025
Led by celebrated artist Romas Tauras, Earth Lines invites you to explore your creativity in partnership with the land — and each other. Through earth-based drawing, journaling, cyanotype printing, and sound experiences, you’ll reawaken your senses and artistic flow.
Highlights
Nature and creation
Morning art sessions using natural pigments
active and passive
Afternoon journaling, cyanotype, or quiet time
Body and mind
Yoga, Tai Chi, and evening sound immersions
FINAL EXHIBITION
A final exhibition to celebrate your creative journey
What is Earth Lines?
Earth Lines – Drawing Stories from Nature is a 7-day immersive retreat where artistic expression, mindfulness, and nature intertwine.
Set in the heart of Portugal, this meditative journey is led by acclaimed artist Romas Tauras and a team of facilitators offering enriching practices such as yoga, sound therapy, journaling, and cyanotype printing.
Participants are invited to slow down, listen deeply to the landscape, and rediscover their creative essence through drawing, nature-based materials, and inner reflection.
What You’ll Take Home
More than a retreat — a creative transformation that stays with you.
Earth Lines isn’t a typical art holiday. It’s a guided invitation to reawaken your senses, rediscover your creative essence, and experience nature as both muse and collaborator.
Through hands-on sessions with artist Romas Tauras, gentle movement, and deep personal exploration, you’ll return home not only rested — but changed.
Your Experience Will Give You
A Deeper Connection to Nature
You’ll come to see the natural world not just as a backdrop, but as an active partner in your creative process — guiding your attention, providing your materials, and awakening your senses.
A Rekindled Creative Flow
Daily artistic sessions using pigments made from earth, leaves, and stones will reawaken the joy of making — naturally and intuitively.
Tools for Mindful Living
Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, journaling, and sound baths support clarity, emotional balance, and a deeper sense of presence in daily life.
Practical Artistic Skills
You’ll explore expressive drawing, mixed media layering, sketchbook journaling, and cyanotype — expanding your technique with support and freedom.
A Sense of Belonging
Group connection is gently nurtured through shared meals, collaborative art, and open reflection — making it easy to feel at home.
A Personal Collection of Work
You’ll leave with a body of original artwork that reflects your journey — including a piece for the final vernissage, our celebratory group exhibition.
Moments You’ll Remember
From sound baths to concerts under the stars, you’ll carry back not just memories, but moments of stillness, insight, and joy.
A Meaningful Holiday
This is travel that feeds your soul — where beauty, learning, creativity, and transformation meet in one
What’s included?
Shared Room Comfort
Beautiful rooms designed for friends, couples, or thoughtful solo pairing.
Nourishing Daily Meals
Fresh breakfast, lunch and dinner, made with local, seasonal ingredients.
Guided Art Sessions
Daily drawing using natural materials and expressive techniques.
Creative Writing Practice
Journaling sessions to explore emotion, story, and inner reflection.
Cyanotype Workshop
Create stunning blue-toned prints with sunlight, water, and plants.
Gentle Movement Rituals
Yoga, Tai Chi, and meditation to ground your creative energy.
Evening Sound Journeys
Healing sound bath and live music during our final celebration.
Immersive Natural Setting
Forest, trails, and river beaches surrounding Terra Verde’s sanctuary.
Vernissage Art Exhibition
Showcase your work in a group celebration with live music.
Meet Your Creative Guides
Romas Tauras
Painter and creative guide, Romas invites you into the poetic process of transforming natural materials into expressive visual language. His work explores the intersection of identity, place, and perception, drawing directly from the landscapes he inhabits.
Romas’s sessions guide participants through intuitive, earth-based drawing practices that blend observation, feeling, and raw materials.
With a background in fine arts and exhibitions across Portugal’s national museums and biennials, he brings artistic depth and an open, exploratory spirit.
Under his guidance, you’ll create not just artwork — but a dialogue with the land and your inner world.
Inês Moura
Visual artist and nature-based printmaker, Inês leads cyanotype sessions that transform natural light, water, and foraged elements into luminous blue-toned images. Her workshops invite you to work with memory and materiality — capturing delicate impressions of leaves, textures, and organic forms in a slow, contemplative process. With deep sensitivity to the poetic potential of materials, Inês helps participants reconnect with creativity through one of photography’s oldest techniques. Her sessions are both meditative and magical, offering a visual counterpoint to the drawing practice at the heart of the Earth Lines retreat.
Roshnii Rose
Artist, writer, and mentor, Roshnii offers journaling sessions that gently guide participants into reflective storytelling and self-inquiry. Her work helps people access inner clarity through words — whether processing life experiences, exploring creativity, or seeking emotional insight. Originally from the UK and now rooted in Portugal, she draws inspiration from the natural rhythms of land and life. Roshnii creates a safe, non-judgmental space where writing becomes a nourishing practice of discovery, healing, and deep listening. Her approach supports even hesitant writers in finding authentic voice and expression.
Nina Balinger
Nina is a certified sound and meditation practitioner with over 24 years of experience in therapeutic healing. Her immersive sound baths combine Tibetan and crystal bowls, gongs, flute, and voice to induce deep relaxation and energetic alignment. Nina’s sessions offer more than calm — they’re a profound experience of letting go, intention-setting, and reconnecting to the body’s subtle intelligence. Participants often describe her sound journeys as transformative, grounding, and restorative. Guided by Nina’s presence and soundscapes, you’ll find space to simply be — held by vibration, breath, and silence.
Susanne Boekelman
A passionate Kundalini yoga teacher with decades of experience, Susanne brings presence, grounding, and spiritual vitality to every session. Her classes blend breathwork, movement, and mantra to awaken your energy and support emotional clarity. With a warm and uplifting approach, Susanne welcomes both newcomers and seasoned practitioners into a space of inner balance and transformation. Living in Portugal since 2022, she shares yoga with authenticity and heart — helping participants reconnect to their own rhythm and resilience through daily practice.
Erin
A singer-songwriter with deep emotional resonance, Erin brings warmth, presence, and poetic melody to the closing moments of the retreat. Her solo performances blend acoustic textures with ambient storytelling, wrapping up the week in celebration and reflection. Erin is also the lead singer in the local Portuguese band Scintilla, known for their soulful, atmospheric sound. With roots in Alaska and a musical journey shaped across California, England, and Portugal, her voice carries both grounding and flight — a fitting close to a week of creative discovery.
Miguel
Miguel teaches the Yang style of Tai Chi, guiding gentle, flowing movement rooted in balance, breath, and body awareness. His sessions offer a calming entry into each day, supporting harmony between mind and body while cultivating internal energy (Qi). With soft circular motion and a meditative pace, Miguel’s practice encourages deep focus, emotional clarity, and relaxed strength. Participants of all levels can benefit from this daily ritual, beginning the morning centered, present, and ready to explore creatively.
Where You’ll Stay
Tucked between forested hills and river beaches in central Portugal, Terra Verde is more than a venue — it’s a living sanctuary where creativity, stillness, and nature converge.
This beautifully restored 19th-century manor house in the historic village of Côja offers an intimate space for reflection and artistic growth. With elegant rooms, indoor and outdoor studios, and gardens designed for pause and presence, Terra Verde supports the rhythm of the Earth Lines retreat in every detail.
Here, mornings begin with movement among trees, days unfold in shaded corners or sunlit art spaces, and evenings settle into firelight, sound, and story. You’ll find meditation nooks, shared meals in the communal dining room, and trails leading directly into untouched landscapes. Bicycles are available for peaceful rides through village paths or forest tracks.
Everything at Terra Verde is curated with care — from the handcrafted furniture to the fresh meals from the chef’s garden. It’s a space that holds you, gently inviting reconnection with self, others, and the land.
For the Earth Lines retreat, Terra Verde becomes both canvas and cocoon — a place where inspiration flows naturally, and transformation feels like coming home.
Earth Lines – Day-by-Day Flow
Dates: July 19–25, 2025 | Group Size: max 16 participants
Each day balances guided creative sessions, personal space, and shared moments — unfolding in harmony with the land and the group’s rhythm. Intimate setting for 8–10 participants, ensuring personal guidance, quietude, and deep connection. Larger interest may result in two parallel groups, alternating morning/afternoon creative sessions.
Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome (July 19, Saturday)
From 14:00 – Guest arrival, check-in, and orientation walk
17:00 – Visit of Terra Verde grounds
18:00 – Introductory Circle
19:00 – Welcome Dinner at Terra Verde
Evening at leisure
Day 2 – Nature’s Palette (Sunday)
8:00 – Morning Tai Chi
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Drawing session with Romas: gathering earth materials, pigment making
13:30 – Lunch
14:00–17:00 – Free time for rest or solo creative exploration
17:30 – Open studio time
19:00 – Dinner at a local restaurant
Evening free
Day 3 – Sun & Cyanotype (Monday)
8:00 – Morning Yoga
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Cyanotype Workshop with Inês: creating prints with light & nature
13:30 – Lunch
14:00–17:00 – Village strolls, sketching or resting in nature
19:00 – Dinner at a local restaurant
Evening at leisure
Day 4 – Drawing in the Landscape (Tuesday)
8:00 – Morning Meditation
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Outdoor drawing session with Romas: trees, textures, terrain
13:30 – Lunch
15:00–17:00 – Journaling with Roshnii or solo reflection
19:00 – Dinner at Terra Verde
21:00 – Healing Sound Bath with Nina
Day 5 – Observing the Village (Wednesday)
8:00 – Morning Tai Chi
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Observational drawing with Romas around the village of Côja
13:30 – Lunch
15:00–17:00 – Free time for art, nature walks, or rest
19:00 – Dinner at a local restaurant
Evening: informal creative circle or time for quiet.
Day 6 – Completion & Celebration (Thursday)
8:00 – Morning Yoga
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Final session with Romas: layering, refining, and assembling work
13:30 – Lunch
Afternoon – Vernissage setup, curation, and closing preparations
18:00 – Group Exhibition & Live Concert by Scintilla
19:30 – Celebration Dinner
Day 7 – Farewell & Departure (Friday)
8:00 – Morning meditation
9:00 – Breakfast
10:00–12:00 – Silent walk, journaling, and closing reflections
By 16:00 – Check-out and departures
What Past Participants Say
The following are direct comments shared by guests in response to sessions with the Earth Lines facilitators. These reflections offer a glimpse into the care, depth, and transformation each guide brings to the experience.
For Romas Tauras – Artistic Guidance & Creative Mentorship
“Romas is an exceptional artist and mentor. Our studio sessions have been layered, visually engaging, and deeply thought-provoking. He listens attentively and provides space for personal growth. Thanks to his support, my painting has become more confident and coherent. Having him as a creative sounding board has been truly transformational.”
— Paula Vibert
“Romas tailored a program just for me — first online, then in a three-day one-on-one workshop in Porto. His mix of theory, practice, and personal guidance helped me push through challenges with clarity and calm. I gained confidence, technique, and a renewed sense of direction in my art journey.”
— Christele Wielgus
For Roshnii Rose – Journaling & Narrative Practice
“I was honoured to be part of the journaling session with Roshnii, the warm & judgement-free atmosphere she created was very valuable to me and the writing tools she shared were powerful. Thank you for this space to reflect.”
— Deborah, Workshop participant
“I know how rich and healing a journaling experience can be, but it’s often hard to commit to it on my own. I’m super grateful for the loving space Roshnii provides, because I can simply lean back and let myself be guided by her into an exploration of my deep self. Her sessions help me digest what’s going on in my life, so I come out much more settled and peaceful.”
— Lisa, Journaling Circle participant
“I would really recommend Roshnii’s journaling explorations if you want to delve deeper into your subconscious and gain insights into what is happening below the surface. I have learnt so much about myself and will continue to use the prompts within my own practices.”
— Gemma, 1:1 client
For Susanne Boekelman – Kundalini Yoga
“I joined Susanne’s classes earlier this year as a complete newcomer to yoga… Within the first 5 minutes of the set I was hooked! Susanne’s calm and soothing voice guides you through a well thought out set… In all honesty, Susanne’s classes have changed my life and I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone thinking of giving Kundalini yoga a try.”
— Sarah Poacher
“Susanne is clearly talented and passionate in sharing her experience and knowledge. She authentically transmits the spiritual context integral to Kundalini Yoga. I highly recommend her!”
— Lawrence Michaels
“Susanne’s yoga lessons feel like a treat for my body and soul. She always finds the way to guide us through even the most challenging poses with a smile… Every class I am reminded that we are alchemists of our own energy and state of being!”
— Ilze Kalnina
For Nina Balinger – Sound Therapy
“Learning from Nina how to be still and let go of my physical tension has been so rewarding. I love that I can set an intention knowing my mind will provide the solution.”
— Julia
“Soundbaths with Nina are my safe place — somewhere I can go and feel truly connected to my body, free from distractions. Heavenly!”
— Joe
“During Nina’s Soundbath and guided meditations was the first time my mind has rested awake for years and years. There’s something powerful about the sounds and how they hook you to the present moment. I’m addicted!”
— Linda
“Nina’s voice is so calming — even before the sounds begin I’m in a state of deep relaxation.”
— Esta
Pricing & Booking
We offer three pricing options to suit your comfort and travel style — whether you’re joining solo, with a friend, or as a couple. Every option includes the full Earth Lines experience: creative workshops, guided practices, delicious meals, and six nights of restful accommodation.
Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate, high-quality retreat. Early booking is highly recommended.
To make it easier, you can choose to pay in full or reserve your place with a deposit. Just select the option that feels right for you.
Solo participant in a shared room
€2200
Join us on your own and we’ll thoughtfully match you with a like-minded participant. Perfect for solo travellers open to sharing space and connection.
Two Participants in one room (promo)
€3520 (for two)
Book with a friend or partner and share the experience together. Both guests enjoy full participation in all workshops and activities at a 20% discounted rate.
Shared Room FOR One Participant + One Guest
€2900 (for two)
Come with a friend or partner who prefers to relax while you fully participate in the retreat. A great option for shared downtime and solo creative focus.
Private Room – Solo Use
€2900
Enjoy the full Earth Lines experience with the privacy of your own room. Ideal for those seeking quiet space and complete comfort.
How to get to Terra Verde?
Reaching Terra Verde is easier than you might think. While nestled in a peaceful, rural corner of central Portugal, the journey is straightforward — and we’re here to help.
Most guests fly into Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO), both of which are well connected to Coimbra, the nearest major city by train or bus. From Coimbra, we offer a free group transfer to Terra Verde, timed to match common arrival times.
You’ll receive detailed travel suggestions and timing guidance upon registration. For now, we’ve prepared a simple guide to help you plan your route: