Our 2008 Women's Wellness Retreat
was a Huge Success!

Wiawaka Retreat House on Lake George, September 20-21, 2008

Here's what some of our participants had to say:

Hi, Carol -

I have finally got a minute to sit down to give you my feedback on the weekend. The world wind of family and pets needed immediate attention when I got home!

First, I'd like to say thank you so much for organizing such a fantastic platform for woman to get together to celebrate who they are, to enjoy a moment of peace from the many demands of the world and to experience spontaneous healing.

Wiawaka House is a very special place and the accommodations, in my book, were perfect! Even though you had 30+ people including facilitators, the retreat still felt intimate. Sitting down with everyone, eating meals and chatting about our lives was one of the uplifting parts of the weekend. Everyone's spirits were high. No complaining or whining, just friendly conversation.

I especially liked meeting you and your crew! Immediately, I felt welcomed. Susan, a true woman of the earth, did a wonderful job rallying up the ladies in our circle groups. Her whimsical songs and unifying rituals really was quite moving. By the time the weekend was almost at a close, I had already felt my had energy shifted to a happy place. Then when we did the closing ceremony, with the blessing circle (whatever she calls it), I was blown away by the healing effect. How wonderful to personally connect with each and every woman, not only once but twice! That means we all had about forty hugs! Hugs are scientifically proven to be healing! It was a true soul connection; I left filled with the pure light that was sent my way by all. That experience will stay with me forever! (Could you please send me the words to that song? I don't remember the exact words and I want to share it with others).

Everything was well organized, thanks to the skills of Pat. She is a very courageous and talented woman who, even in her time of transition, totally rocked! I also enjoyed the company of Tanya and Kat, along with many other ladies, including Elenie. Her program was great. It totally resonated with my understanding of how things work: what we think about ourselves/our bodies' matters. I did not get to experience Tanya's yoga class but the feedback I heard was that she is truly gifted.

The main lesson that came up for me was embracing the diversity in life; non-judgment. With the variety of woman that came together, I was able pull back to see the beauty and light in each of them. I really loved the mixed bag of nuts!

The workshops you prepared were also diverse; offering something different for everyone. I choose the Therapeutic Nature Walk and Meditation/Spiritual Imagination because they are two methods I know work for releasing stress and opening to Spirit. Mark was such a treat as the facilitator for the nature therapy. I loved his poetry and gentle manner. The nature collage was very insightful, too. Again, beauty in the diversity.

While I enjoyed Susan and the concept of the meditation soup, it did not allow me the opportunity to go deeper, as I had anticipated. I very much appreciated the teaching of the importance of mindfulness in the everyday mundane and the conversation with the ladies who attended. It was a lesson well presented and received. However, what I was really hoping to experience was the healing qualities of a guided meditation. I'd also like to say that a brief guided meditation would also have been nice with the whole group. The energy raised when people meditate together is powerful. Please know this is certainly not a criticism; it is only a suggestion for future workshops.

Overall, my impression of your retreat weekend was that of a success. I left changed; better than when I arrived. I would do it again, exactly the way it rolled out! Ghost in the hall and all! :

Please keep in touch about future happenings!

With heartfelt appreciation, your new friend from Long Island,

Maggie

P.S. Oh, I almost forgot, the food was fantastic! My compliments to the chef!

P.S.S. Magi was my massage therapist, who did great job! Having this option was a plus.