A weekend of presence, reflection, and unexpected discoveries.
There’s a certain magic that happens when intention, preparation, and community come together. Our recent Jade & Oak retreat was more than just a gathering—it was a living, breathing reminder of why I started this journey in the first place. We laughed, we reflected, and we connected on a level that felt both grounding and inspiring.
I walked away not only proud of what we created, but also filled with new ideas and gentle lessons that will make our next experience even more meaningful.
The Event in Motion
When I envisioned this retreat, my goal was simple: create a space where people could slow down, reconnect with themselves, and find joy in the present moment.
From the moment the guests arrived, the energy felt light and curious—there was a sense of openness, like everyone had shown up ready to explore not just the weekend, but themselves. The opening circle set the tone, inviting each person to share their intentions for the days ahead, and from there, the magic and emotions began to build.
There were quiet moments—journaling at sunrise or sipping coffee while the world was still waking up—and soulful moments, where emotions surfaced raw and unfiltered. We discovered that no matter how we might see ourselves, others often notice the beautiful traits and qualities we’ve been too self-critical to acknowledge. And there were joyful moments too, like the beauty and laughter that echoed through the Venus Celebration.
At its core, this retreat was about space—space to breathe, to think, to dream. For some, it was a brand-new experience to focus solely on themselves without distraction. For others, it was a spark that ignited the realization that when you make yourself a priority, life opens up in ways you never imagined.
What Went Really Well
"Thank you for awaking the power of journaling and reflection, along with self love, and the importance of friendships. Thank you for getting back to the me I knew was there - M.B."
What stood out most was how present everyone chose to be. I had set up a small charging station so phones could stay tucked away, and while people could check in if they needed to, most embraced the chance to disconnect. That choice created a deeper presence—not only within themselves but with one another.
In that stillness, guests reconnected with who they are at their core and opened up in ways that sparked real conversation and connection. By giving themselves permission to slow down, they found space to think, reflect, and even reimagine how they want to live and what goals they want to carry forward. And woven through it all were the experiences that brought those reflections to life: the fire ceremony, the soulful reflection journey, and the light mapping. Each one became a catalyst for insight, clarity, and meaningful breakthroughs that lingered long after the retreat ended.
Lessons Learned
Even amid so much beauty, there were gentle reminders of how future retreats could grow. Leaving a little more open space would give guests the freedom to wander, rest, or immerse themselves in the experience without feeling constrained by structure.
The meals were wonderful, and I especially enjoyed experimenting with new vegan dishes—so much so that I’ll be sharing a page with the recipes I used. Offering a bit more variety in the future will only make everyone feel even more cared for.
And then there were the sessions that sparked such rich, heartfelt discussion that our time together felt too short. Extending those deep-dive moments would only add to the magic, allowing guests to delve further into their journeys of reflection and connection.
✨ P.S. Several guests asked about the dishes, especially the vegan ones! I’ve put together a page with the recipes I used during the retreat. You can find them here: Retreat Recipes Link
Looking Ahead
These lessons aren’t simply notes to tuck away for next time—they’re seeds for what Jade & Oak will continue to grow into. Future retreats will offer even more room for stillness and self-discovery, along with new ways to nourish both body and spirit. The flow will hold space for deeper conversations, longer moments of reflection, and experiences that spark lasting transformation.
To everyone who joined us—thank you. Your openness, your presence, and your energy shaped this weekend into something unforgettable. And to those considering stepping into the circle next time, know this: the next Jade & Oak gathering is already taking shape, and I can’t wait to welcome you into it.
💌 Stay Connected
If you’d like to hear about future in-person and virtual retreats and wellness offerings I’m planning, join the Jade & Oak mailing list You can also explore my upcoming virtual event to reserve your spot today. Until then, may you find little moments of stillness, joy, and connection wherever you are.
