Lake Como & Lugano Wellness Nature Experiences

Welcome to WholeHearted Living on Lake Como

Escape the crowds. Breathe with the rhythm of nature. Reconnect with yourself.

From June to September 2025, join Debs Thorpe, somatic guide, therapist, and founder of WholeHearted Living, for a series of gentle, soul-nourishing wellness experiences by the tranquil shores of Lake Como (Menaggio) and Lake Lugano (Porlezza), and through the forested beauty of Val Sanagra.

Designed for both visitors and locals, these experiences invite you to slow down, soften, and remember what really matters.

• Location: Quiet beach near Menaggio

• Time: 6:30–8:00am (Tuesdays & Saturdays)

• Includes: Guided somatic practice, lake swim, herbal tea

• Investment: €12 per person

Start your day with stillness, breath, and the beauty of the lake.

Let the morning sun warm your skin and soul as we greet the day together in presence.

Unwind into the evening with movement, reflection and an optional swim under the setting sun.

A gentle, guided walk through one of Lake Como’s hidden gems. Breathe. Listen. Rewild your system.

• Location: Quiet beach in Porlezza

• Time: 8:00–9:30pm (Wednesdays & Sundays)

• Includes: Breath + body practice, lake swim, closing reflection

• Investment: €12 per person

• Location: Val Sanagra Regional Park

• Time: Fridays 9:30–11:30am

• Includes: Mindful walking, guided sensory awareness, journal prompts, tea break

• Investment: €15 per person

A nourishing close to your day, rooted in simplicity, stillness and connection.

No hiking experience needed. This is not about reaching the top, it’s about remembering your roots.

Why Join a WholeHearted Living Experience?

Rooted in nervous system regulation, somatic wisdom, and authentic connection

Held with gentle guidance, emotional safety, and ethical care

Ideal for slow travelers, mindful explorers, creatives, or anyone longing to feel more alive

Easy to join. All experiences are beginner-friendly, open-hearted, and located within 10–20 mins of Menaggio or Porlezza

Whether you’re on holiday or living nearby, come as you are. Leave a little lighter.

How To Book

All of our experiences are for small groups, please book using the calendar below.

Individual and private experiences are available on request, please email us at info@whlinstitute.com or use the contact form below.

FAQ's

Who are these experiences for?

These sessions are for anyone seeking rest, reconnection and presence. Whether you're visiting the area, recently relocated, or live locally, you're welcome. No prior experience in meditation, somatic work, or mindfulness is required.

I’m not very fit / I can’t swim confidently, can I still join?

Yes, absolutely. These are gentle, beginner-friendly experiences. For swim sessions, entering the water is optional, you can simply sit at the shore and enjoy the atmosphere. For the walk, we stay on well-maintained, easy trails with plenty of pauses.

What language are the experiences in?

All experiences are held in English, but simple Italian can be used to support guests if needed. These are designed to be inclusive and heart-led , you don’t need perfect English to participate and feel welcome.

What should I bring with me?

For swim sessions:

Towel + swimwear

Water

For the ecotherapy walk:

Comfortable walking shoes

Sunscreen / hat

Water

A journal (optional – I’ll provide prompts)

How many people will be there?

Group sessions are kept intentionally small, usually 3–8 people, to create an intimate, grounding space. Private 1:1 or 1:2 sessions are available if you prefer something more personal.

What happens if it rains?

In the case of light rain, we will continue with adapted movement and stillness under trees or sheltered spaces. In case of severe weather, you’ll receive an update the evening before, and we’ll either reschedule or refund you.

Are children and dogs able to attend?

Unfortunately we are unable to accomodate under 16's at the moment. As much as we love dogs, these experiences aren't suitable for our four-legged friends. We highly recommend DearDogClub for dog-friendly activities.

How do I pay and book?

You can book online using the calendar above, and pay securely via credit/debit card or PayPal. Walk-in spots are sometimes available, but pre-booking is recommended to secure your place.

Do you offer bespoke or private experiences?

Yes! You can book a VIP private experience for individuals, couples, or small groups, perfect for birthdays, solo retreats, or a nourishing break in your travels. Reach out via the contact form above or WhatsApp (+39 3919139576) to design your custom session.

Where exactly do we meet?

You'll receive the exact meeting point and directions by email after booking. All locations are within 10–20 minutes of Menaggio or Porlezza, and easy to reach by car, bike, or bus. Let me know if you need help finding us!

Can I cancel if my plans change?

We understand life happens. If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you'll receive a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Meet Your Guide

Ciao, I’m Debs

A trained therapist, somatic practitioner and guide for those longing to return to the truth of who they are.

After years of guiding others through burnout recovery, identity healing, and the journey back to self-worth, I followed my own call to live a slower, more heart-led life, and it brought me here, to Lake Como, Italy.

I created these nature-based wellness experiences as invitations to come home to your body, your breath, and the quiet wisdom within.
Whether we’re sitting at the lake’s edge with the sun rising, walking through forest trails, or sharing a gentle silence at sunset, my intention is always the same:
To hold space for you to soften, reconnect, and remember that you are enough.

Qualifications & Experience:

Qualified Counsellor + Somatic Practitioner (BACP-registered, UK)

Over 18 years of experience in emotional wellbeing and trauma-informed work

Trained in nervous system regulation, mindfulness and body-based healing

Creator of WholeHearted Living: a space for personal transformation rooted in wholeness, not hustle

Based in Menaggio, Lake Como, offering in-person and online mentoring, retreats and courses

"There is an indescribable essence held within Lake Como and its surrounding forests and rivers.
It’s not just the views, it’s the energy.
A quiet invitation to rest deeply, relax fully, and just be for a while.

Here, you're allowed to exhale, to reconnect, and to feel your own rhythms again, the ones that life outside of this place often pulls you away from.

It’s beautiful.
It’s healing.
And it’s an experience I am truly passionate about sharing with you."