As I sit down to reflect on why I host Mother's Retreats, I'm reminded of the profound impact these gatherings have had on both myself and the women who attend. It's not just about a day of relaxation and self-care (though that's certainly part of it), but rather about creating a space where mothers can come together, share their experiences, and support each other on the journey of motherhood.
At my core, I believe that change begins with us, the mothers. We hold the power to shape the next generation, not just through our actions, but through the way we show up in the world each day. This starts with how we treat ourselves – the words we speak to ourselves, the care we give ourselves – and extends to how we interact with our children, families, and communities.
By nurturing ourselves, we set the foundation for nurturing others.
During our retreat days, we explore a range of tools and practices aimed at helping mothers show up as their best selves. From stress management techniques to self-awareness exercises, we delve deep into the practices that can support us in our journey of motherhood. But perhaps even more importantly, we create a space for sharing and connection.
As the saying goes, "It takes a village to raise a child" But in today's fast-paced world, the traditional village concept can feel out of reach for many of us. That's where these retreat days come in. They provide an opportunity to form the basis of those much-needed village relationships – ones where we can learn from each other, share our wisdom in circle discussions, and form bonds of sisterhood that sustain us on our journey.
Vulnerability is a key component of these retreat days.
It's through our willingness to open up and share our experiences that we create the space for deeper connections to form.
And it's in those moments of shared vulnerability that the magic truly happens – when we realise that we're not alone in our struggles, and that there's strength in coming together as a community of mothers.
"From the moment I stepped into Ardoch, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The atmosphere was so welcoming, and Jenny's warm presence immediately put me at ease. Throughout the day, I had the opportunity to connect with other mothers, share my own experiences, and gain valuable insights from their journeys. It was truly a transformative experience, and I left feeling renewed, inspired, and deeply grateful."
"Attending the Retreat was a breath of fresh air for me. As a busy mother juggling multiple responsibilities, I rarely take the time to prioritise my own well-being. But this retreat reminded me of the importance of self-care and community. I felt supported and uplifted by the other mothers in attendance, and I came away with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. It was a day I'll cherish forever."
It's a privilege to witness the bonds that form and the growth that occurs on and following these days. As we nurture ourselves, we also nurture the heart of the village, laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient generation.
I'm deeply grateful to be a part of this journey, and I look forward to welcoming you to a retreat day sometime soon.
Available dates and tickets can be found here.