About us

At Nature of Man, we create meaningful retreats dedicated to nurturing the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of men. Our retreats are a sacred space where you can begin a journey of deep healing and self-discovery.

We recognize the weight of generational trauma and the unique challenges men face. Our retreats are designed to help you release these burdens, fostering acceptance and personal growth. Through a blend of mindfulness practices, heart-opening workshops, and outdoor adventures, we guide you towards a balanced and harmonious life.

At Nature of Man, we believe in the power of community and connection. Our retreats are more than just a getaway—they’re a place to build a brotherhood, share your story, and find support in a circle of understanding and acceptance. Here, you can be your true self, embraced and uplifted by others on a similar path.


Our team

Michael Ryan

Michael brings over two decades of expertise as a dedicated yoga, breathwork, and meditation teacher, earning the honor of being named the personal instructor to Irish President Michael D. Higgins. With a 500-hour Yoga Alliance certification and years of study with some of the worlds most renowned meditation and yoga teachers, Michael combines deep knowledge with a compassionate approach to help men reconnect with their authentic selves.

Through movement-based practices, breathwork, meditation, and tailored mentoring, Michael empowers men to cultivate healthier self-relationships and uncover deeper meaning in their lives. His workshops and retreats provide safe, transformative spaces to explore the layers of trauma carried by men—both intergenerational and collective—offering pathways toward healing and growth.

Collaborating with Diarmuid, Michael co-facilitates retreats that honor the unique challenges and strengths of men. Together, they guide participants in unearthing the shared aliveness that unites us all, encouraging authentic expression and a renewed sense of purpose.

Michael’s passion lies in supporting men on their journeys toward balance, resilience, and fulfillment, fostering a community rooted in connection and self-discovery.

Diarmuid Lyng

Diarmuid first gained national recognition through the RTE broadcast Gizzy: The Geansaí, where he shared his transformative journey in the West Kerry Gaeltacht, showcasing his deep connection to language, culture, and the Irish landscape. Building on this foundation, Diarmuid now dedicates himself to teaching mindfulness and empowering young people to realize their full potential through his work with the SAOR Foundation.

A passionate advocate for preserving the authenticity of culture in an increasingly digitized world, Diarmuid champions the richness of heritage through initiatives such as hurling master classes and as co-founder of Gaelic Voices for Change, a movement driving social action through sport and community and http://www.wildirisrhretreat.ie.

Diarmuid’s holistic approach to wellness weaves mindfulness, cultural pride, and physical mastery into a cohesive philosophy. His work reflects a deep commitment to helping others find clarity, purpose, and connection in their lives, while ensuring that Ireland’s cultural heritage continues to inspire and transform future generations.