Our First Flockless Retreat

I was very lucky many years ago to meet with Laughter Therapist and Author of 'It could be Verse', Kit Hammond Stapely.  Hers is a story which would make even the most sceptical amongst you gasp.  Diagnosed with stage 4 cancer her belief that laughter can cure was tested to it’s limit and she is testament to its success 25 years on.

A week ago I took our very first retreat to Portugal in the most gorgeous of hotels, the bijou Silver Seahorse Garden Retreat run by delightful owners Grace and Lynn. Their families have been connected for 35 years and they positively ooze kindness to their guests and their staff. You get the impression they are all one big family.

I know it sounds corny but seventeen women of all different ages and backgrounds met as strangers and left, most definitely, as friends.  The common thread that tied them all together?  They were seeking an escape from the trials of life and a chance to relax and make new friends.

The retreat group on day two!

It was my intention to bring a group of people together to embrace adventure, laughter and fun interspersed with kindness and respect and I was thrilled when it not only happened but it also resulted in many new friendships.

There is a bit of an epidemic of isolationism partly fueled by our dependence on technology but also helped along by the age of covid.  We live in our insular bubbles, tapping away on our phones and forget that there is a whole world out there which brings joy and healing from connection.

Fun at the Silver Seahorse Garden Retreat

The entire week was planned meticulously.  From first class excursions to medieval villages and remote islands in glass bottomed boats to yoga, pilates, dance and art classes.  We had buffet nights with Chef Cristina’s incredible food and nights out at local restaurants. We also had conversation card nights and dancing and singing. People could do as much or as little as they wanted.

It was more of a success than I ever could have imagined and we have decided to run two retreats to Portugal next year and if we can, incorporate other countries into the programme.

I want to pay tribute to the skilled teachers who I took with me.  First up, Michelle Pound who is without doubt an extraordinary Pilates, Yoga and Dance Teacher who runs www.dorsetyogapilates.com  and also to Juliet Anson a very talented Gold Leaf Artist.  Their wonderful classes added extra layers to the experience. I would also like to thank the lovely ladies themselves who came to the retreat, because their fun, outgoing and lovely natures helped make it truly special.

In up and coming retreats I will be inviting some other wellness practitioners to include Kinesiologists, Gut health Specialists and Mindfulness coaches but they are only part of the programme. Because as I said at the beginning, I truly believe that laughter is our greatest medicine.

Dates for the new retreats will be released in the next month. I know we have many who are already on the list so if you fancy being on one, don't delay in letting me know.

Walk with me along the beaches of Peniche