The Gathering
It’s been quite some time since I’ve written anything and my posts on Instagram have been few and far between. My life may have taken somewhat of a detour but my curiosity has only grown, just in a different direction. I’ll share more of my journey another time but for now, thank you for being here. This piece isn’t about food and wine, well, maybe not about wine but there’s certainly food involved, nourishing, soul filling food, along with some other vital things in life, community, connection and love, lots and lots of love.
Let me start by saying that this event and the moment that has led me back here to put pen to proverbial paper is also an event that feels like no words can truly do justice to, to the magic that was created (that we created) and the love that was felt (vibrating through our entire being). Ironic that.
I feel immensely grateful to have attended ‘The Gathering’, a retreat led by the beautifully inspiring Beth, who brought together a group of women to share, laugh, cry, release, heal, learn, love, connect and be nourished.
Beth teaches health and wellness from an all encompassing, heart led perspective. She educates on food as medicine and she genuinely wants you to feel good in your body, heart, mind and soul. Her ‘Pillars of Health’ are not only accurate, research driven and make sense, they acknowledge all of you and if you can embody them in some way, most of the time, it would be absolutely impossible to not be a healthier, happier version of yourself.
Our three nights spent at the stunning Heartbeat Retreat in Quedjinup included; breathwork by the beautiful Eden, magical Reiki healing by Anthea, singing and voice activation workshop by the insanely talented Allyce, infrared saunas, ice bath, health and wellness sessions led by Beth as well as lots of cooking and eating together with intention. We were also joined by the enchanting fairy ninja, Suzie, who stealthily photographed the magical moments we created (can’t wait to see the snaps!) and as a surprise bonus were treated to a sound healing on the last day by the gorgeous Ashe, outside, surrounded by nature, with birds chirping above. The safe space that was created by these incredible women allowed us to feel held and melt into the vulnerability in whatever way each of us needed to transition through to the other side.
We started each day before sunrise with journaling, meditation and exercise followed by a delicious breakfast complete with pretty table settings and love notes. This morning ritual was new for me, getting up early is not something I enjoy (I love a good sleep in) but something about this new routine sparked something in me and felt good in my body. Plus there was something special about coming together, witnessing the sun rise and getting our day started in the best possible way. Change is good and this was a great reminder that if I keep doing the same things, I’ll keep getting the same results. Am I getting up at 6.30am at home? Well no, but I am getting up earlier (going to bed earlier certainly helps with this), meditating, journaling, dancing and eating a nutritious breakfast and it feels SO good. One step, one small change at a time.
That post retreat high may be fading but the love in my heart is still so strong and is only getting stronger. Knocking down those walls around my heart (and with a mighty big sledge hammer) is so liberating. Feeling truly heard, seen and acknowledged at this particular moment in my journey feels like a real turning point and shift. I was exactly where I needed to be. Witnessing each other in pain and joy, living our truth, standing in our power and rising up together.
The women that walked through those doors on day one were not the same women that walked out. Women who were once strangers are now forever etched in my memory and imprinted on my soul. Not only had we learnt a lot but our hearts were full and we all had a new tribe of powerful women standing alongside us with a lasting connection that will be treasured forever.
If you want to be part of Beth’s next retreat (you won’t regret it) make sure you follow her on Instagram or subscribe to her mailing list through her website and while you’re at it, check out the other amazing women I’ve mentioned so you don’t miss out on anything!
Story and photos by Rhianna Ashton
* This journey is my own, use your intuition, listen to your heart and do what feels right for you.