If someone had told me a few years ago that I would find the time to take myself off on not just one but two retreats with near strangers (one of them with peacocks too), I would not have believed them. But then again, I did not expect cancer to enter my life twice and turn it upside down.
Last year, in the depths of trying to take control of my life, set some goals, and feel a sense of purpose again post-cancer, I went on a retreat to Italy with nine other women—complete strangers at the time but now a support system, a friendship group, a new community. This Italian retreat was all about finding your Dolce Vita (sweet life) and it was incredible – the benefits have lived on after.
So when the opportunity arose to support Menopause and Cancer on its very first retreat, I jumped at the chance. I straddled two roles—part of the community and part of the organisation. For me, this was even more rewarding—I was able to help create a meaningful experience for others while also benefiting from the magic of the retreat myself.
The itinerary was relaxed but filled with moments of movement, nourishment, and connection. Pilates, led by Lucy (founder of Rebalance Me UK), was a particular highlight—not only for the mindful movement but also for the most amazing goody bag. There were walks in the forest, gentle stretching to ease tension, a deeply restorative sound bath, and an energising dance class (led by Chrissie at the Freemovers) that had everyone grinning from ear to ear. It was pure joy—proof that dancing is good for the soul!
Nutrition was also at the heart of the experience, with every meal carefully planned and prepared by Jo (Jo Menneer Nutrition). She kept us fed with delicious, wholesome food. Some of the group even rolled up their sleeves to help in the kitchen, making it a true community effort. And amongst everything. there was also plenty of time for self-reflection and to chat to each other…
The Power of Shared Experience
Over the course of the retreat, we talked (a lot). About our personal health journeys, cancer discoveries, the changes to our bodies. About vaginas and sexual health. About the fear of recurrence that lingers long after treatment ends. About the impact on confidence. About the other crappy bits of menopause that make you feel hideous and slow you down.
There was laughter. There were tears. And most importantly, there was understanding.
Being surrounded by women who get it is incredible. No one was trying to fix each other. No one was offering unsolicited advice. We were simply listening and allowing each other to be heard.
4 Transformational Benefits of a Retreat
While every retreat is different, they all offer something powerful: the chance to pause, reset, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s what I took away:
01
Community is Therapy – The power of connection is as vital as any treatment plan. Feeling supported and understood can be so beneficial.
02
Self-Care Isn’t Selfish – Many of us are conditioned to put everyone else first – I’m your typical people pleaser. This retreat reminded me that prioritising my well-being and building in rest isn’t indulgent—it’s essential.
03
Vulnerability is Strength – Sharing my fears and struggles was really cathartic. There’s something incredibly empowering about being open with people and learning from them.
04
A Change of Scenery Brings a Change in Perspective – When you step out of your normal routine (and for me this was also embracing discomfort as we were living surrounded by animals – eek), you allow space for new ideas, clarity, and personal growth. A retreat isn’t just an escape—it’s a way to reset.
Some lovely ways to bring the feeling of a retreat to you
The hardest part of any retreat is coming back to reality. But I’m going to aim to keep some of the magic going, here’s some ways I will try:
A “Silent Morning” once per week – I actually love it when I can start the day without immediately diving into whatsapp and social media. Just a slow, quiet morning— with a cup of coffee, some journaling, and no frantic scrolling. Easing into the day with intention. Its only after the retreat that I realise I’ve got out of this habit.
Digital Detox – I’m going to try (operative word!) turning off notifications, setting my phone to “Do Not Disturb,” and giving my brain a break from the relentless information overload for a few hours a week. No doom-scrolling —just me, some quiet, and the occasional urge to check my phone (which I will heroically resist).
- Plan an actual self care day – A whole day just for me where I actually switch off and do some of my favourite things —a long bath (with my favourite essential oil blend), a good book, a run, maybe even some pilates. And most definitely knitting, hot chocolate and a good movie (in my fancy pyjamas).
- Mindfulness Practice – I keep saying I’ll try meditation — and then promptly distract myself with other things. I’m actually going to do it. Just 3 minutes a day to reset my nervous system and bring in some much-needed calm.
- Plan time with friends and family – it’s so easy to let weeks (or months!) fly by without properly catching up with friends and family. So, I’m making a conscious effort to carve out time to catch up. Life feels lighter when shared with good people, and I want to make space for that joy.
Will I actually stick to all of these? TBD. But I’m giving it a go—because life deserves little retreats, even in the everyday.
Would love to know—how do you bring a little retreat into your daily life? 💛