Set in a beautiful secluded house (Thorney How) in Grasmere, Lake District, our Hiking and Yoga Retreat began with exploring the garden space, dinner made by Rachael our retreat chef, followed by her blissful sound bath.
It was the perfect start to the retreat after the long journey North and our busy lives were quickly replaced by the susurration of wind in the trees. It was a fleeting reminder of the positive impact nature has on ones wellbeing.
Feeling blessed with stunning views from our rooms and having plenty of space for yoga, the venue provided a peaceful container for the next few days. Our delicious meals were freshly prepared by Rachael of Feeding Hearts Catering.
This retreat was created to nourish our souls, connect to the self and immerse in therapeutic activities.
After our bellies were full and the opening circle complete, we 'bathed' in the resonant sounds from Racheals singing bowls, rain stick, chimes and water drum.
The full bodied meditative experience created a state of harmony by using sound waves to clear discordance from our energy fields. Just what we needed for the upcoming challenges we faced over the weekend.
Feelings of complete relaxation, increased sence of awareness and inner visionary was experienced. I liken sound baths to waves of the ocean, each wave bringing in thoughts then gently removing the ones not needed.
It's incredibly blissful drifting through the altered brainwave states, and a good nights sleep usually follows.
The following morning was Yoga then an 8 mile hike across Grasmere, situated to the East of Scafell Pike. The terrain was undulating but the views breathtaking!
With each summit came a valley and another ascent. It was challenging at times but the group kept a steady climb.
Lunch was at a secluded spot amongst the sheep at the half way point. Admittedly, 4 miles felt like 8!!
We still had the waterfall and wild dip to look forward to and although we never made it to Black Moss Pot, we took a dip at the next waterfall we came across.
Feeling liberated and refreshed we headed back for Thorney How along the path we came. It was even more challenging now we were tired, but every step we made was moving us in the right direction.
On our return hike the weather turned and we had thunder, rain and hail accompany us for about 40 minutes. The rucksack on my back felt as heavy as a kettlebell so a cosy evening back at Thorney How was more than inviting! We used this time to dry off, eat and pull an oracle card from the card deck.
The following day started with gentle Yoga to stretch all the muscles that had been worked on the hike. Then a breakfast of smashed avocado on sourdough toast, scrambled egg, feta, grilled tomatoes on the vine and fruit.
The last leg of the retreat was a woodland hike at Rydal Hall which was a flatish terrain compared to the previous day! There are a series of waterfalls in succession along this trail with plenty to choose from if you fancy a dip. The closely located tea room finished our retreat perfectly with a date slice and posh coffee!
