Following the sold-out success of the Durban Awakening Retreat in July, Brett Shuttleworth is proud to announce the Olifants River Awakening Smiling Soul Retreat.

Brett, a professional rugby player, international supermodel, Hollywood actor, and published author, is also an inspirational speaker and spiritual teacher.

Co-hosting the weekend with Brett is Joe van Niekerk, who also needs no introduction.

He is a Springbok rugby legend with 50 caps behind his name, a Toulon Hall of Famer, and now a Master Breathwork Facilitator and elite transformation specialist.

Brett said he chose Olifants River Lodge because nature is the ultimate co-teacher in all his retreats.

“Whether it’s the stillness of the bushveld, the flow of a river, or the expanse of open skies, these natural elements carry a frequency that helps us remember who we really are. You can’t argue with a sunrise or the call of a Fish Eagle, they simply invite you into presence,” he said.

He added that they choose their retreat locations with great intention because the setting truly matters.

“It’s not just about choosing somewhere beautiful, it’s about finding a place that reflects your higher self. A space where the environment supports the inner journey you’ve come to take.”

What can be expected from the retreat?

The Awakening Smiling Soul Retreat is a sacred three-day immersion that blends spiritual depth, soulful connection, and powerful experiential practices, all held in the beauty of nature.

Throughout the weekend, Brett guides participants through his transformational framework called The 7 Sacred Miracles, offering practical tools and teachings that help you reconnect to your true essence and awaken the peace, clarity, and joy already within you.

There’s also the powerful fire ceremony, which offers the space to release what no longer serves you, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually.

You will experience ‘Conscious Connective Breathwork’ and heart-centred meditation to quiet the mind and open the heart, followed by unique embodiment practices like the Hojo Japanese sword fighting session, which is all about taking aligned action beyond thought and emotion.

Evenings are about celebration and integration, where participants come together for music, dance, and joyful connection. It’s not just about deep work; it’s also about remembering how to feel fully alive.

Brett has some advice on how to reset the buttons and slow down this hectic lifestyle we lead.

“My first piece of advice: Pause. In a world that rewards hustle and constant output, one of the most powerful things you can do is slow down and listen. Most of us are racing through life trying to fix, achieve, or control, but the truth is, you don’t need to become anything more. You simply need to return to yourself.”

He added, take a few minutes each day to step away from the mental traffic. Whether that’s sitting in silence, breathing deeply, or just watching the sunrise, allow yourself space to just be. That’s often where the clarity comes from. That’s where the reset begins.”

“One of the practices I live by is: Cool the mind, open the heart. When things feel heavy or chaotic, don’t rush to fix them. Instead, pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What’s really going on beneath the surface? Even five minutes of presence a day can shift everything.”

And if you feel like life has become too loud or too fast, this retreat is a sacred container to recalibrate. It’s an invitation to remember who you are underneath the noise and to take that stillness home with you.

The retreat is taking place from September 19 to 21 at Olifants River Lodge.

There is an early bird offer where the first 20 bookings receive a special discount of up to 25%.

For more info or to book, go to https://retreats.smilingsoulcreations.com/olifants-bookings

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One lucky reader stand the chance to win complimentary access to Brett Shuttleworth’s transformational online course, each valued at R13 000.

This self-paced programme takes you through Brett’s powerful 7 Sacred Miracles framework, a life-changing journey into clarity, healing, and conscious living. It’s an inspiring opportunity for anyone seeking purpose, peace, and a deeper connection with themselves.

To enter, write a short reflection that begins with: “I’m ready for transformation because…” and send your entry with your name and contact details daleen@mobserver.co.za

The most heartfelt responses will win.

Terms and conditions: Prize valid for two months from issue date, non-transferable, and not redeemable for cash.

Winners will be contacted directly by Middelburg Observer.