Part 2: Retreat Reflections & Mindfulness for YOU
THIS Tuesday October 1st Mini Mindfulness Club 3:30pm PST / 6:30pm EST
We don’t go on retreat or go away to disappear from ourselves and our lives. Instead, we get out of our regular environments to learn more and more about who we are. I knew the July 2024 retreat to Portugal would be absolutely beautiful. And it certainly was. I didn’t know that I would have a lifetime of learnings squeezed into one week. It felt and feels impossible to put the facilitator experience into words.
One of my favorite retreat memories happened before it officially began. As I arrived at the airport, a text appeared from one of my best friends, who not only wished me good luck, but acknowledged the milestone experience ahead of me. The quick message brought tears to my eyes for a multitude of reasons. It was unexpected, it was thoughtful, and I felt so seen. Leading my first retreat was a big deal. It is a big deal! And it’s not everyday or often enough that we acknowledge our efforts coming to fruition.
I still can’t believe how lucky I am to have friends that somehow know exactly when to check in, that cheer me on and celebrate me…
Which leads into Part 2 of Portugal Retreat Reflections:
Connecting with Those Who Matter Most
I have reflected a lot on who attended the retreat.
My incredible Mom was a last minute participant turned collaborator. If you’ve met her, you know that her energy and joy is contagious. Trained in various healing modalities in addition to yoga, she shared wisdom from her decades of experience. She made magic moments happen.
I am also deeply appreciative for two We All Feel Women’s Circle members turned retreaters. The women’s group had met online, week after week, for an entire year. To be together in person, hearts already opened up was impeccable.
AND the people working and volunteering at the retreat center, Cocoon, went above & beyond in a way I never imagined. The kindness, support & attention to detail was exceptional.
Each person who joined was there for a reason — I am absolutely certain of that.
PRACTICE: Reflect on the people who are most important to you. Take time to nurture those relationships, whether through heartfelt conversations, spending time together, or expressing gratitude. When is the last time you verbalized what that person means to you? Send a text, pick up the phone, or express your appreciation face to face.
We All Feel Circles
During the retreat, I guided We All Feel Support Circles almost daily, which in addition to yoga, offered space for introspection, connection, journaling, discussion, and somatic movement—allowing participants to dive deeper into their own emotions and experiences.
PRACTICE: Ask yourself… What does self-discovery look like in my life? Do I set aside time to process my emotions and/or connect with my body? If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or disconnected, this is why I created online We All Feel groups. Reach out if you would like to join us.
A Sacred Moment
On the final night of our retreat, a participant noticed that a goat mama had recently birthed a baby. Just moments after its birth, we were in complete awe of the little goat taking its first steps and the big love that it’s mother had for it. There are more details to this story, but it definitely was a powerful reminder of the beauty of new beginnings and a miracle moment.
PRACTICE: Look for moments of new beginnings in your life—big or small. Just like witnessing the birth of the baby goat, celebrate your own milestones, whether it’s starting a new project, embracing a new mindset, or even beginning the day with a fresh perspective.
I’d love to hear if these practices resonate with you. I hope you continue to enjoy your weekend in whatever ways are most supportive for you.
xoxo,
Amanda
PS In case no one told you today, I love you
PPS THIS TUESDAY October 1st: Join us online for Mini Mindfulness Club 3:30pm PST / 6:30pm EST. All are welcome, no meditation experience is necessary.
These brands I adore made it (I brought) all the way to Portugal for participants to enjoy during and after the retreat! There are a few discount codes / affiliate links below:
YOURSY Essential Oils: WEALLFEEL to save 20%
The Fullest Saffron Products: AMANDA15 to save 15%