Retreat Venues - secret discrimination.

I have been viewing venues for running our retreats in for over 18 months. It is a very interesting process as so much is available on the internet.There are a vast range of types of buildings advertising as suitable for retreats; cottages, centres, guest houses, country houses.
It is amazingly difficult to find a venue that ticks all the boxes. We are particular in that we do not expect our clients to suffer spartan conditions. Why do so many venues that advertise retreats expect everyone to eat vegetarian. There seems to be discrimination against those who have normal diets, require single room occupancy and prefer yoga during the day and not at sunrise!
Why is there a pre-supposition that those requiring time away from daily life are happy to share a room with a complete stranger? Why are we expected to join in communal activities like cooking food for a group? Is there some unwritten law that requires retreatants to suffer the queue for the loo or shower whilst seeking a little respite?

Step up retreat venues, to the challenge that very often the most stressed out, weary people are those who are used to a standard of comfort. Executives require single ensuite accommodation with comfort and privacy. The image above is what we require for our clients! It is a wonderful space to relax in, make your own drinks and cuddle up to read or write.

2008 Modern Retreat Clients deserve nothing less!

Awesome Autumn

I so love the quietness of autumn as the leaves fall, the squirrels scurry and each day there are more vibrant colours to view. However there are still all the signs of summer if you really listen. The birds are still singing and flowers blooming and children still play out of doors even as the dusk arrives earlier.
It is that special time of year when we are preparing to slow down, collect our energy and cuddle up in the warmth of our winter homes. Mother Nature always leads the way. Have you noticed how she reflects in our moods?

In my world there must always be that chance to rest, slow down and have time to ponder. I love collecting nuts, acorns, pine cones and other reminders that life exists inside all that seems to be still or dead. The nuts are but little seeds, dying leaves but a source of life and compost in the garden a changing energy pile full of life. Autumn's preparations for resting is so comforting. Does it resonate with you?