The Art of Yoga
learning loving life
4-Days with Hayley & Shawn
July 19 - 23, 2025
When Hayley & Shawn arrived for Robin’s retreat in 2025 they were immediately enchanted by Pictou Island and by day two were asking about convening their own retreat at the Wooden Tents. As soon as a slot became available, The Art of Yoga was born. Drawing from Hayley’s love of nature, movement, and human-connection, and Shawn’s distinctive visual language defined by vibrant palettes, and dynamic movement, they have planned a retreat that will offer a unique blend of yoga, art, and mindful adventure.
Days will begin and end with Hayley’s inviting, heart-centered practices at various locations and for three days you will be guided into the world of abstract art by Shawn merging creativity, mindfulness, and community. On the final day you’ll be free to explore the island on your cruiser bike or work on the canvas you’ll be taking home to show your friends and family.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to spend four days merging yoga practice with the freedom of abstract art. The price includes all the supplies. you’ll need to create your own interpretation of the openness, joy, and personal discovery that guides Shawn’s work. This is more than a retreat — it’s an invitation to slow down, deepen your creative confidence, and reconnect with the beauty of presence in community and nature. Two delicious and filling hot meals will be provided each day by our on-Island caterer.
Your Art of Yoga retreat includes:
4 Nights in a wooden tent with bedding included
8 Full yoga lessons at various island locations
3 Art lessons - All required materials included
8 Delicious catered meals (two per day)
4 Full day cruiser bike rental
Transportation from the ferry
Double Occupancy $630
Single Occupancy $830
HST must be added to these prices.
Sample Menu:
Hayley & Shawn, your hosts
Hayley Westerman’s yoga journey began 15 years ago in the Canadian Rockies with the beautiful open vistas grounding her sense of breath and body. A native of southwestern England, Hayley arrived in Halifax six years ago with her husband Shawn and when not practicing and teaching yoga is a Registered Massage Therapist at East Coast Wellness Clinic. After 9 years of leading students of all levels, Hayley has come to see yoga and bodywork as not just practice, but as conversations, invitations to reconnect, and opportunities to feel truly supported.
Shawn MacMillan, Cape Breton’s own Shawnyboy began his artistic journey in Banff, where bold landscapes shaped his expressive approach to abstraction. When teaching painting, Shawn encourages trust in one’s instincts, the letting go of rules, and painting from a place of freedom and expression. Each canvas is defined by vibrant palettes, dynamic movement, and an unmistakable sense of curiosity. His style has resonated with collectors across the globe and the key to his instruction is his belief that art is not just something seen, but something felt.
Shawn’s handiwork