Check out this photo – that’s not a picture in the background – it’s the actual view!
You’d think as a fairly hyper adhder that a well being retreat in the Portuguese wilderness an hour from the nearest town might be my worst nightmare. I was the recipient of many a raised eye brow when I said this is how I was choosing to spend the start of November. It’s my second year in a row.
But you’d be very wrong. Whilst I believe the experience is likely different for me it’s exceptionally beneficial.
I’d challenge anyone at this point who denied the significant link between brain and gut. So the focus on simple, non processed foods, largely vegetarian and grown on site provides not only a reset for the gut but also for the mind. My energy levels increased, I needed less sleep and my brain was clearer – a good reminder that I need to keep this diet at home, even if it’s just half the week (Jamie’s a hard core carnivore)
Morning yoga, Pilates and breath work classes relieve tension in the body and set me up for the day. My usual hip and back pain alleviated which is incredible for someone who feels constant pain and can’t just pop some pain relief pills. We discussed how to get this into your routine at home – I’ve found the only way is to put it into my diary like a business meeting and then I won’t cancel or avoid it. There was a general acknowledgement that this is harder in the winter when the tendency is to go home, put the fire on and site with heavy comfort food – probably the opposite of what we need in the shorter darker days.
The freedom to attend sessions or have your own space instead if needed, without question was a breath of fresh air. Everyone moving at their own pace, enjoying the beautiful environment taking time to breathe. No expectations from others – a level of freedom we don’t usually get in normal life.
There’s been a lot of talk about mental health and well-being. Not just with the incredible Fran who brings her infectious, positive energy and warmth to the time. But also among the attendees at an openness level not usually experienced by a lot of us. Sharing experiences, discussing the pros and cons of medication, and holistic techniques that have worked for them – a recognition that everyone is different, but the common theme is to be kinder to yourself and to slow the f*** down.
For many of the ladies here it’s our second year together. Last year we came together as strangers but made connections that are standing the test of time. When we met again it was in some ways like we’d never been apart, in others major life experiences have shaped our year. The overall feeling was love and togetherness. Meal times set like families at Christmas, full of noise and laugher.
Paddle boarding brought belly laughs until our sides ached, especially the unsinkable kayak that sank! Star gazing brought the acknowledgment that we know bugger all without google. The sound bath relaxed some to the point of sleep but stimulated my brain to an incredible level which felt amazing. And don’t get me started on the feel of sunshine on your skin in November
The opening circle brought us together immediately, but the closing circle and cacao ceremony was an emotional release for many. This is a technique for heart opening which dates back to Mayan and Aztecs – “the food of gods”. Some didn’t want to go home and face “real life” but they have, bringing with them that 11 other women have their back if needed.
Back to work for me and into the busiest time of year. So ideal to have a refresh before the rush and to sit in my own thoughts for a while and process changes the year has brought.
The saying that “you only live once” is cliché but true as is “life is short, live everyday like it’s your last”. It’s not possible really – but some of the time is better than none – grab it where you can.
Fran you’ve helped me become a much healthier version of myself. Both physically and mentally and for that I’ll always be grateful and full of love.
And to my amazing retreat massive – I’ve so much love for you too