A Delicious Treat: #thepauseeffect

Have you booked a getaway solely for your own enjoyment and journeyed to a stunning location to completely indulge in happiness and relaxation? That's precisely what I did this past weekend. My wonderful friends Christie & Lindsay organized an incredible Retreat in Collingwood, Ontario, centered on peri/menopause, connection, nutrition, and movement. I am still filled with excitement from the whole experience; I'd like to share a bit about it with you here. Hopefully, it will encourage and inspire you to seek out a retreat tailored to your specific interests.

To find out more about The Pause Effect retreat, visit @christies.lovestory.

Women's wellness retreats typically offer a mix of relaxation, self-discovery, and community. Based on my personal experience, there are usually holistic activities such as yoga, meditation, or activities promoting physical and mental well-being. Workshops or informational sessions are frequently provided as an added benefit for acquiring new knowledge or improving personal growth. Some retreats may offer spa treatments such as massages or access to a hot tub for rejuvenating the body and soul. Last weekend, we enjoyed using the cold plunge and steam room, which was awesome.! The meals are usually nutritious, and there's often a natural element like a scenic hike or a swim in a beautiful lake or ocean. Retreats provide a safe environment to connect with like-minded individuals, where sharing stories and experiences can lead to lasting friendships. I particularly enjoy the quiet moments for journaling, unwinding, and reflection. Doesn't this all sound delicious?

It's common for women in their 40s to experience guilt when considering a retreat or self-care, given their various responsibilities. Balancing work, family, and caregiving can make self-care feel like a luxury rather than a priority. Additionally, societal expectations of constant availability and selflessness can contribute to feelings of guilt when prioritizing personal time. The expense of a retreat can also present a barrier. It's important to change this mindset. Prioritizing personal well-being is not selfish; it is essential for overall health, happiness, and the ability to support others. It's crucial to acknowledge that you deserve relaxation, rejuvenation, and happiness just as much as anyone else. To be transparent, I also feel guilty when I take time away from my family. I'm here to share that the time spent away and the feeling of coming back home was an experience I haven't had in a long time. I feel refreshed and more engaged with my boys, I have more to offer. In the end, everyone benefits from your decision to step out of the daily grind, prioritize self-care, and come back better than before.

The Pause Effect Retreat last weekend had an ideal number of women. From the moment we arrived, there was a strong sense of connection and anticipation. I was eager to meet new people, hear about their experiences, and learn from them during this particular phase of life. The group of women couldn't have been more perfect, combining wisdom, vulnerability, energy, and genuine connections. None of us could have predicted the profound experiences that unfolded over the following days - the moments of realization, the sense of belonging, the shared laughter and tears, and our innate ability to support each other. We openly shared and asked questions to gain clarity and empowerment.

We covered all topics related to midlife and peri/menopause, including the positives, the negatives, and the importance of having a quality vibrator. Even though we were all facing challenges in our own ways, we found common ground in one another. Each of our stories had its unique nuances yet resonated deeply with each other. Surveying the room, these unfamiliar faces strangely felt like a place of belonging to me. Instantly, I developed a sense of affection and respect for each one of them. We discussed experiencing profound loneliness and disconnection in recent years, partly due to personal and physical reasons. We also recognized that even after the COVID-19 pandemic, we are still struggling to navigate life and social interactions.

On the final day before our departure, we gathered in a circle and took part in a closing ceremony. Each of us was requested to jot down a wish or a menopause mantra on a piece of paper, which we then placed into a stunning bouquet of dried flowers. This bouquet was intended to be burned and released into the universe. We were aware that the weekend was coming to an end, but it signified the start of a new chapter in our lives. Deep down, we understood that each of us departed from the retreat transformed in some manner. Embracing one another, we exchanged quiet farewells in our unique ways. We agreed it was more of a "see you soon" than a goodbye. Our bond was so strong in such a brief period that bidding farewell felt out of place.

Friends, I am here to scream it from the roof tops - make the reservation for the retreat, join the girls' weekend, go on a hike, participate in the workshop, and attend the breathwork class. Take a break, pause, connect, and explore. Engage in activities that truly push your limits and invigorate you. Take the plunge into the cold tub. All the excuses we make and the obstacles we perceive that hinder us from pursuing activities that bring us happiness and rejuvenate us are invalid. It's just noise. Save a little extra money whenever possible. Gather with other women to share, laugh, and learn. We are not alone; we are isolating ourselves. Next time, I will consider trying the week instead of the weekend.

This empowering eBook is designed for women 40 and beyond who are ready to embark on their vision board journey or take their existing practice to a deeper level. Whether it’s your first time creating a vision board or you’re seeking fresh inspiration, this guide provides everything you need to start.

Discover how to create a vision board that truly reflects your goals and dreams by exploring themes like limiting beliefs, setting intentions, and crafting meaningful mantras. Dive into thoughtful exercises, the powerful Wellness Wheel, and a practical workbook to guide your journey with clarity and purpose.

This eBook combines creativity, mindfulness, and manifestation techniques to help you align with your true desires and stay inspired. From exploring your core values to tapping into your inner wisdom, you’ll find actionable steps, reflective prompts, and tools to transform your vision into reality.

As always, take good care XO