Ten years ago I nearly died... But that's not the story I want to focus on here.
I want to reflect on what happened afterward... and how it was the catalyst for a cascade of change I could never have predicted. Including heading out on a 'yoga retreat' that helped me begin to shape life as I truly wished to live it.
I've used inverted commas because anyone who's been on a Soulshine Retreat with Soulla knows that yoga is just one teeny tiny part of the experience available to you.
At the time I remember thinking 'this woman needs to write a book'. And now (drum roll, please) she has: You have always been enough, is published this week by HarperCollins.
The astonishing circular detail is that I wrote my very first My darling girl poem on a Soulshine Retreat... and now they are being quoted alongside writers like Tara Brach, Ram Dass, Thich Nhat Hanh, Mary Oliver and countless others. That feels like a deep honour to me.
Soulla is going to join me for a special episode of the podcast shortly - I'll let you know when it's live; it's going to be beautiful.
Going on retreat can be many things. A time to reset, release, regroup, restore, reflect, repair and return to ourselves.
I have learnt so much from my own time on retreat - and I continue to go. Most recently to the Being Peace centre, a five-day Buddhist retreat in the Thich Nhat Hanh tradition.
It's why we created our solo retreats here at Bach Brook. There came a time in my own journey where I needed time to myself, knowing I was still being cared for. That's what we offer here, and if it's something that calls to you, I promise you will be so welcome here.
And it's why I occasionally collaborate with other trusted souls to offer group retreats.
The Weekend of No-Requirementsis a gentle pause away from everyday life in a luxurious house, where everything flows and nothing is asked of you. This is also something I know I crave at times, and Adam Lind (my wonderful co-host) and I cannot wait to share this with you if it's something you are also seeking.
Adam is also the author of a deeply moving book - Floating Home, published earlier this year by Bloomsbury. A story of taking the path less travelled and finding yourself along the way. I have a habit of reading the acknowledgements at the ends of books... and couldn't quite believe my eyes when I saw... well, if you buy a copy you'll see it too.
If being on retreat feels out of reach right now, finding ways to create that sense of spaciousness, calm and inner connection in your day-to-day life can also be profoundly nourishing. Take a moment to consider... what restores you, what can get in the way of it and what could help you create the space for what you need?
May you be safe. May you be well. May you be happy. May you rest with ease.