25/08/2026
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Physis Wellbeing Festival This October - Physis Oundle - Wellbeing Festival. www.physisoundle.com before end of August for early bird tickets.
If you’ve ever felt the growing need to take a break from dark news cycles or longed for a day dedicated to uplifting, nourishing experiences, the Physis Wellbeing Festival in Oundle is exactly what you’re looking for. On Sunday, October 18th, the historic Talbot Hotel will open its doors for the first-ever Physis festival—a unique event packed with inspiration, discovery, and practical ways to boost your wellbeing, no matter your background or interests.
A Festival With a Purpose
The idea for Physis took root years ago and has grown with intention, driven by a genuine desire to bring together Oundle’s vibrant community for something a little different. As Dr Naomi Murphy, host of the Locked Up Living podcast and one of the festival’s founders, reflects, Oundle is a town full of arts, comedy, and energy—but had, until now, lacked a dedicated space for wellbeing. Having worked in a high secure prison, Dr Murphy knows firsthand the importance of maintaining one’s own wellbeing, especially during challenging times.
With the world feeling heavier than ever, Physis exists to help us recharge, connect, and focus on what truly helps us thrive—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
So, what Is 'Physis'?
The name Physis comes from a Greek word describing the human need for growth—a need that’s especially relevant today. As Dr Naomi Murphy explains, “that human need for growth is what's captured by the word physis” For many, this evokes resilience: picture a tiny plant forging its way up through stone, determined to reach the light, no matter the obstacles. That’s the energy Physis aims to inspire—growth, resilience, and flourishing even in tough times.
Who Is the Festival For?
Put simply: everyone. This isn’t just an event for yoga fans or sound bath regulars (though they’ll find plenty to love!). The Physis programme is explicitly designed to appeal across generations, for men and women, science buffs and the wellness-curious, and even those who normally roll their eyes at “wellness”
Whether you’re a wellbeing devotee who journals and meditates, a busy professional needing a dose of inspiration, or a sceptic with a scientific bent, you’ll find something here. There are sessions designed for the more mature (like Prescription Strength Dr Lynette Ewart’s pragmatic talk about strength and health in later life) young adults, parents, and—importantly—activities that men and boys might find particularly resonant
What to Expect: This Isn’t Your Average Wellness Event
1. Dynamic Guest Speakers
Expect an eclectic mix of experts, creatives, and thinkers sharing their insights including:
• Leon Ancliffe of Flix VR / FILMS explores the cutting edge of virtual reality for mindfulness, giving you the chance to try out technology that can foster relaxation and creativity
• Nahid de Belgeonne of The Human Method will bring the innovative Feldenkrais method—a somatic, gentle way to calm your nervous system and recharge. Her session is welcoming to all levels, requiring no prior experience
• Richard Buckworth’s family constellation work helps us understand and heal generational trauma, offering fresh ways to cope with the wider world’s heaviness
• Laura Alexander Hypnotherapy (award-winning photographer and clinical hypnotherapist) will run an intimate group hypnotherapy session in the hotel’s cozy snug, along with her talk on addressing anxiety
• Lynette Ewart delivers science backed advice on managing aging healthily
• Des McVey tackles difficult topics—like shame and misogyny for young men—with humour and practical tips
• Dr Libby Nugent uses the story of Sleeping Beauty to delve into emotional growth and coping with negative media stories with a Jungian twist
• Leon Towers shares a story of what he learned as a dog behaviourist that helped him cope with his own history of trauma
2. The Discovery Zone
Want to try something new? The Discovery Zone gives you hands-on experiences—from non-invasive technologies that boost creativity and productivity, to ways to improve your golf swing or get into a “flow” state. Here, wellbeing meets science in ways that anyone can explore.
3. Workshops and Sessions for All
Alongside guest speaker slots and tech demos, there’ll be:
• Practical workshops on keeping yourself grounded with expert techniques (with local expert Functional Neurological Disorder's Kerryn Withers-Green)
• Somatic yoga session to kick off (or re-balance) your day
• The chance to find ways to introduce more play into your life with art psychotherapist and 20 Dreams creator, Karen Stallard
• Opportunities for informal connections with like-minded and friendly attendees
The Details - www.physisoundle.com
• When: Sunday, October 18th, 2020 (Registration from 9:00am; events start at 9:30am)
• Where: The Talbot Hotel, Oundle—a beautiful, historic venue
o Note: The venue unfortunately has limited accessibility (stairs, limited accessible toilets—check website for updates)
• Parking: Free and plenty—on the streets, Co-op car park, Drill Hall Car Park
You’re Invited!
Above all, Physis is about creating a welcoming space to grow, connect, and be inspired. Whether you come with friends or solo, you’ll find warmth and opportunities to connect over shared interests. Leave cynicism at the door—or bring it along, and prepare to have it challenged!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Oundle’s inaugural wellbeing adventure. To learn more, check out the guest lineup and grab your ticket—your future self will thank you.
Elaina Smith Coaching Laura Oughton Inkwell Printing
