I've been thinking a lot about our recent Fall Yoga & Mindfulness Retreat in the Methow Valley. Something so special about this gathering has stayed with me.
As I reflect on our four days together, what has touched me most is that these women weren't looking outside themselves for something more to do, something to do better, or another way to improve themselves.
Instead, whether they realized it or not, they came open to something different. To settle inward. To embrace themselves as they are. To seek understanding rather than trying to change or coerce. To rest their weary hearts.
I also sensed a shared, sincere longing for more grace in our lives. Not necessarily for life to be easier, but for us to meet it with a little more ease, calm, and acceptance.
There was a thread of remembering woven throughout our days together. Remembering to listen inward, to trust what we need, and to give ourselves permission to respond. Even in the unstructured hours, I loved seeing each woman choose what felt right for her in that moment — a hike, a quiet walk, a nap, a massage, or simply time to be with the land. Just the freedom to listen and choose.
I also sensed a shared, sincere longing for more grace in our lives. Not necessarily for life to be easier, but for us to meet it with a little more ease, calm, and acceptance. The word grace came up more than once, and it seemed to resonate deeply. One of the beautiful aspects of our gathering was the spectrum of ages, the different life experiences, histories, and wisdom each woman brought into the room. There was a wonderful feminine energy, an organic sense of sisterhood that seemed to emerge almost immediately.
Nothing needed to be fixed or pushed away. Each woman could simply be herself, met with kindness and understanding.
From our very first opening circle, as women began introducing themselves and sharing their stories, there was a warmth and inclusiveness, a genuine sense of "I care," that became the river of our retreat.
And there were tears. Tears of joy, of compassion, of loss and sorrow. There was laughter, too. Vulnerability requires safety, and what moved me so deeply was how naturally this group created that safety for one another. There was room for all of it. Nothing needed to be fixed or pushed away. Each woman could simply be herself, met with kindness and understanding.
Spending this past week in the Methow Valley has given me more time to savor all that unfolded and appreciate just how much this work means to me.
Teaching and sharing these practices is an important part of my own practice. It brings me tremendous joy, and I feel incredibly honored to share what has supported and shaped my life over so many years. I arrive hoping to offer something meaningful, something supportive, and inevitably I receive so much in return.
This retreat reminded me, once again, how very lucky I am. To do what I love. To teach, to share, to care, and to continue learning alongside the people who come to practice with me.
One of the many joys of our Fall retreat was the opportunity to lead it with Amelia. I feel so proud of her and grateful that she has allowed me to be part of her teaching journey. To witness her growth, her deepening knowledge, and the thoughtful, authentic way she continues to find her own path is such a gift. She feels like family to me, and I love the ease, trust, and friendship we bring to leading together.
This retreat reminded me, once again, how very lucky I am. To do what I love. To teach, to share, to care, and to continue learning alongside the people who come to practice with me.
To receive such care, curiosity, and kindness in return is almost too much for my tender heart!
If this kind of experience calls to you, Amelia and I would love to have you join us next year. We’ll Retreat to the Methow September 30 - October 3rd, 2027. Join the waitlist by sending us a note to info@yogabliss.org.