Retreat Coach Network - The Leading Retreat Coaches on the Planet Today

Retreating, and Opening, In Relationships

2009-10-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Relationships, I find, provide the richest material for personal growth and evolution. They test us, inspire us, drive us crazy, and ultimately, everything in life boils down to relationships of one kind or another.

This Summer I experienced one of the biggest tests of relationship, as I went through a heartbreaking "divorce" (we weren't married legally and it sure felt like a divorce!!) It was his decision, and while it was very painful, now many months later I can see it's a darn good thing! The best part is I have been provided with a rich plethora of material that is influencing my work in a very positive way.

And it led me to retreat, where for 3 days I immersed myself in yoga, meditation and kirtan chanting. Ahh, it was bliss! Reconnecting to the value and power of retreat was a gift, and it got me thinking.

What are the ways in which we retreat, and open, in relationship? When we retreat is it a good thing, or not? Gay and Kathleen Hendricks talk a lot about the natural separation and coming together that occurs in a healthy relationship-in this context, retreating would be a good thing.

Many habits and ingrained behaviours can cause unhealthy, and sometimes co-dependant dynamics in our relationships. Are you ready to take a break, a retreat, from all that? Are you ready to learn new ways and find joy in your relationships?

I invite you to take part in a 6 week tele-series "Loving Ourselves While Loving Others". Take a break from trying to figure it all out yourself, and step into a new way of doing things.

This series will meet 1x a week, for 1-1/2 hrs, starting Nov 3rd and going till Dec 6th , 2009 at 4PM MST (just in time for the holidays and being with the family!). This interactive, exploratory, revealing and inspiring experience will provide you with tools for better communication, taking self responsibility, and shifting to a healthy, co-creative dynamic with your loved ones, and all those you relate to. Each week you will be invited to take retreat, as you explore Loving Yourself While Loving Others.

For more information visit http://www.bliss101.net/training-options/

If you are on Facebook go to http://www.facebook.com/lornali?v=wall#/event.php?eid=147693360263&index=1

Take a Retreat and Detoxify your Soul by Certified Coach/Retreat Leader Victoria FittsMilgrim

2009-02-07T13:54:00.000-08:00

We live in a world that is speeding up at exponential proportions. Whirling and swirling, racing on the Hamster Wheel, and continually multi-tasking are not the state human beings were meant to be in. On many levels our hormones respond to this lifestyle by continually being in an over-stimulated state, creating many levels of imbalances and toxicity in our lives. Connecting with what truly matters to us is very difficult, if not impossible, when living your life this way. Here’s a solution that can restore you and bring you back to a centered and joyful way of being: Guided Retreats!

Many people live in a state where they are just reacting to life and feel they have no control or sense of being in charge. When we are on this path of being outer-directed, it’s common to lose track of who you are, what you value and where you’re headed. At this time in our history, more than ever, we are being called upon to re-center ourselves in a healthy way for the sake of our individual lives, the lives we touch and the future of our planet. We are being called to discover what will nourish and sustain us in order to redesign our lives to be meaningful and fulfilling.

In order to do this, we must step away from the Hamster Wheel. There needs to be not just a psychological separation but also a physical separation from all the hooks we have in us from our family, friends and work/life commitments. Taking a retreat is about creating the sacred time and space – described by the Greek word Kairos – to hear your own voice, your True voice deep inside. This is the voice of your authentic self who knows what you value and the dreams that will bring real fulfillment to your life. As author Joan Borysenko, author of Your Soul's Compass put it, "To get clarity of vision on your life, you have to get away from it". If clarity is what you seek, Retreats are the answer.

Along with partaking in treatments to detoxify your physical body, one must also reach into the Heart and Soul of your life to gain more clarity and wisdom for the journey forward. This process, of detoxifying your Soul – or closing your Power Leaks – is possible when guided by a skilled Retreat Leader. Understanding how you leak your own power, whether via weight issues driven by low esteem, creating negative relationships via unskilled communication, or endless people-pleasing, is the first step to making empowering change towards more well-being. Look for an experienced Retreat Leader that can help you find personalized strategies for effective action.

Engaging in activities that use your right brain - the center of your imagination, intuition and creativity - helps you find new perspectives and revelations about how to live a life where you are aligned with your True self. Some of these inspiring activities include reflection, creative self-expression through art, movement and song, meditation, and focused time in nature. The natural world is often the path home to ourselves. In our busy, overtaxed culture we forget to connect with the beauty and acceptance we find there. We can avail ourselves of the clarity and insights that are available when we return to nature. It is a Source of rejuvenation for our Soul.

Each one of us has the potential to be a genius (yes, really!) as we bring our unique gifts to the world. Learning how to consciously choose our actions, in line with our deepest values creates a life on purpose with deep meaning. When you live this internally-directed way, unconditional success if possible. You are aligned with the abundance all around us and experience synchronicity and magic on a daily basis. Life is a golden adventure, a joyful dance with everyone and everything. Happiness is accessible at any moment, not something you have to wait for. Isn’t this the life that calls to your deepest self? Take a step in service to your True Life and gift yourself with a Retreat now.

Victoria FittsMilgrim, PCC directs True Life Coaching & Retreats in Durango, CO. With over 25 years in the field of personal transformation she has been a Certified Coach/Retreat Leader since 2002. Her retreats offer a safe, loving and fun environment to come home to your True Self. She is the real deal when it comes to sustainable and positive personal change. Find out more about Victoria and her retreat offerings for 2009 at http://www.truelifecoach.net/.

New Year with New Challenges

2009-02-02T13:07:00.001-08:00

With January gone I now have time to resume blogging. How amazing life can be with unpredictable challenges arriving without any prior notice. 2009 came quietly for me and although there was predicted doom and gloom surrounding me, I had counted my good fortune and reflected on how I should be careful but be positive and trusting that the universe would supply me with all that I required.

How wonderful to see the first snowdrop in January and then the February snow that lay it's carpet over everything. The season is winter after all and why do we presume that global warming has forbidden nature's gift of a nurturing blanket of snow to arrive.Is there a reason to blame the authorities for being unable to keep the roads and motorways clear. We must accept that there is a much larger force able to send us challenges that are in the scheme of things, minor and slightly troublesome.What a wonderful day for having family fun; children and sleighs, snowballs and snowboarding and the birds attracted to my garden to find food supplied with love.The UK may have been forced to stop for a day but how small an inconvenience.

Reflections from a Personal Retreat

2008-11-09T13:59:00.000-08:00

I LOVE taking time away from my day to day life on retreat. In the past few years I have taken many and each time I have been astounded by the results: renewal, clarity, and centeredness.

The farther I get from my last retreat, the more I forget the benefits. If I slow down though, I notice some tell-tails signs that a retreat would be a great thing:

I feel restless and unable to focus.

I find myself out of touch with my creativity.

I am looking for a breakthrough of some kind that does not present itself easily.

I hear the call - there is really no other way to say it.

Where do I go on retreat? It depends. I have taken off for some solo camping at one of my favorite spots on the planet - Cumberland Island, I have booked a few nights at a cabin within an hour or so of my home, and most recently I headed to Savannah for four days. The opportunity to spend some quiet time reflecting and kicking off writing of book two in The Woman's Field Guide series popped up when a gracious family member said, "Come on down! The house is all yours!"

As I arrived in the land of live oaks and inter-coastal waters, I immediately settled in to a retreat rhythm. No agenda, no have-to's, and no work to do. I took long strolls under Spanish moss canopies, I wrote as words flowed and honored the process when they paused. I ate light and simple, drank lots of water, wandered at dusk.

It is truly amazing to me the clarity that sparkled in areas of my life I was not expecting and the exhale I felt from some physical challenges that have been up for me. Every retreat I have ever taken has provided its own splendid gifts.

Clients ask me, why take a retreat? It is honest to say that I find it nearly impossible to give language to all the benefits. My response to their question, "In order to answer that question you must take a retreat and find out!"

- Corrie Woods, www.womansfieldguide.com

Weekend Woman's Retreat

2008-10-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

Please take a few minutes to watch this retreat video! The photos are from a fabulous fall woman's retreat in Skaneateles,NY. ENJOY the moments experienced by wise women caring for themselves! Song "Woman Am I" is by our beloved leader Helene VanManen. The women loved the power this song had for them.

This retreat was co-led by "The New York Retreat Coaches" Judith Geiger and Linda Potter!

2008-09-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

Harvesting Hope
Igniting Hope and Possibilities in Challenging Times

I hope this finds everyone well and in good spirits. There is an event coming up that I want to share with you, and invite you to join. It is a special event for me in that it is born out of my own life experiences and I share it with you in hopes that you may have an easier journey if you find yourself in troubling times.

Life is not always easy, and when those moments arrive that turn our world upside down having resources available and skills already in place to help get us through can be our only saving grace.

"Harvesting Hope", a special tele-class event (meaning anyone, anywhere can attend!), is my offering to you during the Fall Harvest season. If you're finding yourself in need of a little boost, or if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by changes happening, consider joining me on Wed, Oct 15th, for "Harvesting Hope".

What do you do when it seems nothing is going right, and your world is crumbling down around you?

How do you hold on to all that you know is true with out tumbling into despair?

This one hour program will explore the many possibilities in choosing hopefulness and trust, vs fear and depression, and will provide concrete steps to staying strong in the midst of turmoil, chaos or sudden change.

Learn valuable tips for maintaining balance, staying healthy and positive, and how not to let the big stuff bring you all the way down.

Great for those in the midst of transition, suffering a new loss, or challenged by the curve balls life is throwing them.

Go here for more information.
Hope to see you there!

It's that time - time to register for The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat

2008-09-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

Registration for the fall '08 Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat is now open!

This is our most popular retreat and space is limited.
Will one of the spaces be yours?

After years of holding women's circles and conducting women's self-care retreats, I am powerfully reminded that when women embrace holistic self-care as a way of being, their lives are transformed for the better.

Each retreat offers up something new, reflecting the combined wisdom of all women who have been in circle with me and my expertise in self-care coaching.

Here is what I want you to know - this retreat is not for everyone. It requires three days of your time, a weekend away from family, a commitment to come open and hungry for growth and learning and support, a willingness to connect in meaningful ways with women from around the country who will gather in this circle. - Sounds pretty enticing, doesn't it?

Who this retreat is perfect for: Women who are committed to find greater balance, women wanting to take a time our for fun and reflection, women who are aching for ways and support to take better care of themselves, women who are willing to explore the idea that the best way to care of those around you and to take care of our world - is to begin by taking extraordinary care of you!

"It’s hard to imagine how I could have and hold in my heart the love, stillness, peace, and affirmation I received over the weekend. I can only hope to be able to return some of that good love and energy to others." Eve McClennen

I came looking for a retreat experience from a fellow coach. I left with a new sense of clarity about my inner self and how that affects everything in my life – health, relationships, career, home. What a beautiful gift! - Sharon Hayes

This weekend was one of the most loving gifts I’ve ever given to myself. - Liza Tapia Vaughan

Much more than I could have even imagined! Marvelously organized and planned. So very beneficial at many levels. Can’t wait until the next one! Highly recommended! – Elizabeth Bowers

Date: November 7th - 9th, 2008

Where: Western NC at the magical Bend of Ivy Lodge (30 minutes from Asheville).

Size: Space is limited to 16 amazing women

Your Self-Care Investment: $495 - includes two nights at the magical Bend of Ivy Lodge in the western North Carolina mountain, all meals featuring the freshest in gourmet organic cooking, all materials, guest self-care instructors, surprise goodies.

Optional: A massage therapist will be on site

Added Bonus: Two Group Coaching Follow-up Calls

Feeling curious? Want to know more? Watch the slide show.

Download a Flier and/or come on over to the website for all the details.

Corrie Woods, author of The Woman's Field Guide to Exceptional Living, Self-Care Coach and Certified Retreat Coach

www.womansfieldguide.com

Coach Victoria leads Quest for Your Authentic Leader

2008-08-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

TRUE LIFE COACHING OFFERS LEADERSHIP RETREAT WITH MINI VISION QUEST

What a thrill to see a vision that began nearly 20 years ago when I did my first Vision Quest happen! It goes to show that we don't necessarily know how or when our vision will become real -- but if we hold it and nurture it and it aligns with our purpose, there's a really good chance it will happen!

In the mountains of northwest New Mexico near Taos - which is one of the most beautiful areas of the southern Rockies - I led the Quest for Your Authentic Leader Retreat in late July. It was held at Vallecitos Mountain Refuge, a non-profit meditation center dedicated to bringing more mindfulness to the planet. I discovered this awesome place, just 3 hours from my front door, last October and took a mini-adventure there to see if it fit the criteria I needed for my retreat.

Well, I instantly fell in love with the place - it has all the unique and beautiful characteristics I look for in a sanctuary: gorgeous meadows of wildflowers, lots of pine and aspen forests, comfortable lodging in cabins and yurts, a river running through it... the list goes on! So, trusting Spirit would send the right women - I booked it!

And I have to say - Spirit sent not just the right women but the most wonderful women I could imagine. Women ready to look at their own vision of leadership. Women who were generous and caring and held each other with so much compassion. Women who walked to the edge with each other and themselves - for the sake of their dreams of what life on this planet can be for everyone. And here they are!

We ate the most delicious vegetarian food, hiked the meadows, danced our authentic selves and created art that represented who we are as Leaders.

Here are a few comments from the participants:

"I learned much more deeply how my life has shaped the gifts, talents and skills that I can use to realize my vision."

"The purification ceremony before our Quests was very moving for me. To see each woman get in the river and say out loud what she was intentionally leaving behind that no longer served her, had me saying to myself 'Yeah!' I'm leaving that behind too!"

"As a leader, I found the 'What Stops You?' exercise powerful and enlightening. I noticed the payoff I get from stopping doesn't make up for what I'm losing out on by stopping myself."

Each woman set an intention and had a whole day on her Quest to sit in her discovered spot on the land, being with herself and the wonders of nature. Upon returning we had a night of ritual sharing about their Quests and what wisdom they returned with 'for the people'. Sitting in the lamplight watching each woman describe her experience and her learning will be something I will hold in my heart for a long, long time. I am so proud of their willingness to be vulnerable and the strength they gained from doing it.

So What about your Leadership? Do you lead authentically? What themes and patterns from your life inform who you are as a leader today? What gets in the way? What would you like to see grow in yourself this year around being the Leader you were born to be?

Contact me if you want to talk about your answers to these

questions. While the next Leadership Quest won't be until next year, you don't have to wait to find your Authentic Leader. I am available for coaching or custom retreats to support your journey.

To your True Life,

Coach Victoria

P.S. If you haven't gotten your share of learning and fun this summer, there are still a few spaces on my BEING IN THE FLOW River Rafting Retreat, September 4-8 out of Grand Junction, CO. Call now to save your spot on the river!!

(970)259-9040

www.truelifecoach.net

victoria@truelifecoach.net

Retreat with Folks You'd Most Love to Learn with and Play With!

2008-07-14T07:18:00.001-07:00

Coach Helene sets the stage by regularly offering this kind of high-level learning/adventure/fun retreating. Whether it is a training for Retreat Coaches or a journey of discovery while splashing down the wilds of a Colorado river, she is always cooking up retreats that stretch she and her participants into new territory.

This brings up a recent experience on this front that I've had. While I am a huge advocate of taking time on personal retreat (see my free ebook Crafting a Personal Retreat), I do not see that exclusive of retreating with others. I love facilitating Self-Care Retreats and I love being a participant. In my mind - the more retreating the better, as it positively impacts all areas of my life.

On to my recent adventure ...

Imagine a small cluster of old cabins deep in the Colorado Rockies. There are natural hots springs to be visited day or evening. There is a momma bear and her cubs high in the trees just down a mountain trail. As a compliment to the natural beauty there is a small group of people from across the country who have gathered to tap into the wisdom of a favorite mentor, Mark Victor Hansen, to learn from one another, inspire each other, and play together. If you can imagine all this magic rolled up in four days you will find yourself peeking at my recent retreat adventure. And it doesn't stop there. My next retreat will be a day of play and brainstorming with my beloved MasterMind Group in Asheville, NC. I say, let the retreats flow!

Any day, any moment we can craft a retreat that serves us just right. We can design time alone, sign up for a retreat with a Certified Retreat Coach, or gather with people we admire and adore to blow the roof off our creativity play and learning. There are no limits, only perceived limits!

* Don't have time? Begin with a mini-retreat of a few hours.
* No money? A retreat can be a picnic in the mountains, a quiet spell at a park, or a special time with friends in your home.
* Feel too worn out to plan something? I think that would be a sure-fire sign a retreat is a must!

The question isn't, Should you take a retreat? More importantly and way more fun, the question is, When and where will your next retreat be?

Corrie Woods
www.womansfieldguide.com

20 Retreat Coaches Gather in Colorado For Training and Retreating At the Foot of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains

2008-05-24T21:36:00.000-07:00

Retreat Coaches from the United States, Canada and as far as Southern Spain gathered
at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Westcliffe Colorado to dance and grow their skills to lead their own retreats. Coach Helene Van Manen leads this retreat training each spring and it empowers women to develop their leadership skills so they can go back to their communities and combine their coaching with the retreat process

FOR MOMS ONLY RETREAT BY TRUE LIFE COACH VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM

2008-05-07T07:12:00.000-07:00

HEY MOTHERS! HOW ARE YOU NOURISHING YOURSELF? WHAT WILL YOU DO FOR MOTHERS DAY TO CELEBRATE YOU?!

This past weekend I was honored to lead an amazing group of Moms in a self-care retreat in Southwest Colorado. Held in a beautiful home of a friend, we gathered on Saturday morning in a sacred circle to share about our children and about ourselves.

The day was a mixture of time together, listening and being heard, and time on the special land we have here in the southwest corner of the state - ancient land that holds a unique history of native people. It was a warm day and we hiked through fresh new sagebrush up a trail to a slick rock cliff where we took time alone to consider our lives as women and mothers.

One thing that stood out to me was how many Moms can get isolated and believe that their struggles are only their own. Being with others, in a safe circle, opens the door to sharing that may not otherwise take place. One hears another talk about perceived guilt around not doing enough (as if that were true!) and the woman eye's next to her widen as she recognizes herself and her own troubled thoughts. And then the support flows into this opening and the realization that giving is always there and the learning comes around receiving.

I hope that as Mother's Day approaches, you will see yourself and the love you give mirrored in those you give it to. Take time this Sunday to honor and celebrate how good you are at the world's most challenging and necessary job - raising our children.

And what about your own Self-Care? What will you commit to for the nurturing of yourself? Forget selfish!! When you take care of you, then you have the energy needed to care for others. And you are teaching them the value of themselves. Without self-worth, life is struggle. When we can honor everyone - and not leave ourselves out - we are modeling a sustainable way of life.

Here are the Moms with their newly planted flowers of self-care! Are they gorgeous or what?!!

My next retreat is called Quest for Your Authentic Leader and will be July 13-18 in the mountains of New Mexico. Oh Yes - You are All Leaders! So what is your vision of Leadership and how do you express and embody it? If you're being called on retreat, give me a call (970)259-9040 or email me victoria@truelifecoach.net and let's make it happen for you!

More info available at www.truelifecoach.net

2008-04-24T11:43:00.000-07:00

7 Reasons Wise Women Retreat

CHECK IN: When was the last time you checked in and asked yourself "What do I need today?" A retreat is a great place to step out of your ordinary routine and focus inward.

RE-ENERGIZE: your body, mind and spirit. Imagine how you would feel after a full afternoon or a whole weekend of self-care. Return to your world with a new vibrant energy.

SET AN INTENTION: Often when women come on a retreat, they set an intention to gain clarity on one part of their life and valuable insights can occur.

LET GO: What do you no longer want to carry around with you? How would it feel to leave behind part of the heavy load you drag around each day? Explore during the retreat ways to leave stress behind as you build toward an even more positive future.

CONNECTION: Meet wonderful women who support you through change or just make you laugh so hard your sides hurt.

MAKE NEW FRIENDS: Or connect with old ones in new ways. Women coming together for a day of sharing can experience great bonding.

TAKE NEW FOCUSED ACTION: Inspiration goes a long way in moving you toward the next step. What have you been longing to do?

"If it is a woman's nature to nurture, then she must nourish herself."
Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Gift yourself with a coaching retreat today! Flying Change Coaching

ARTrageous Goes to Chile!!

2008-04-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

ARTrageous!
A Chilean Adventure

“New Lands -New Leadership”
Nov 5th-9th, 2008

Villarrica, Chile
South America

ARTrageous is so thrilled to announce its very first international adventure, taking place in the beautiful South Central region of Chile! We hope you will consider joining us for this once in a lifetime opportunity, where you can explore your creative leadership in the midst of splendid beauty, age-old culture and diverse humanity.

This special event is appropriate for men and women in leadership positions who want to hone their creative leadership skills, people in transition, those wanting to bring more play and adventure into their lives, and anyone with a personal vision or professional idea they want to develop.

We will invoke the leader in each of us to come forward in a playful, co-creative spontaneity to prepare you for the next important steps on the path of meaningful action.

Visit
http://artrageouscamp.com/camps_chile.htm
to learn all about it!

The Setting

Our site, the exquisite Hosteria de la Colina, (http://www.hosteriadelacolina.com) is ranked one of Fodor’s top ten hotels in Chile (it’s really a B&B!). It sits in full view of the active, smoking Villarrica Volcano from across a beautiful lake. There are natural hot springs, plenty of hiking, mountain biking, native forests, cascading waterfalls, Villarica National Park and the old time charm of the Villarica city, all within close proximity. http://www.chile-travel.com/vilarica.htm

Coaches, healers, teachers, visionaries, managers, business owners, and artists can benefit from this unique and discovery based experience. No previous artistic experience is needed. In fact those who say “I don’t have a creative bone in my body!” will benefit the most from attending.

Early Bird Special Discounts
Take Advantage Now Before It’s to Late!

Be an early bird and take advantage of big savings!! Over $200! As one of the first 5 to register you will also have the ultimate opportunity to receive personalized coaching that will add incredible value to your ARTrageous Experience.

Go now to www.artrageouscamp.com/camps.htm and be a part of this exotic event that will bring forth your creative muse and help you to manifest next steps on your creative path.

I Hope You Will Join Us!

Join ARTrageous Co-founder and Master Certified Retreat Coach Margie Scott on this exciting adventure to new lands. Supported on the ground by Life Coach, and local resident, Linda Strauss, we promise a memorable and meaningful experience that you won’t soon forget.

“Here’s a chance to play into your life’s fullness and passion. Take it!”
(Jonah, young visionary and social activist)

“ARTrageous Camp is a delightful and comfortable place to explore your natural creativity, sense of play and authentic expression with yourself and others.”
(Lisa, author, workshop leader.)

ARTrageous! A Leadership and Creativity Event
Where the people are the palette and your life the canvas.

www.artrageouscamp.com
(520)-432-5936

2008-03-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

Virtual Retreats for an Inspiring Year 2008

"Mindful In March"

"Having spent time looking at our physical environment and our outer appearance in January and February. Today 16th March, we moved on to the thoughts and emotions that we are holding onto. Having spent time on how we present ourselves to the outer world, cleaned our clutter, made space in our house and in your life for more of what we most desire, we were ready. We stepped into what "mindfulness" meant for each of us.

The group of women on this retreat in the UK are very aware of March with the wind and rain and grey days. Mindfulness in March however allowed us to listen to our own voices.
Our first exercise was

Listen to the thoughts and voices in your head as we settle into our comfortable retreat space. Make a list of everyone's voice that you hear. Who is speaking to you? Who is telling you what you "should be" doing or thinking. Can you find your own voice? What is it wanting to say?
In our second hour we shared the discoveries of listening to our own voices and the amazement of the old voices that are still living inside us. We discovered that mindfulness meant " nothing really," " a buddhist concept" to " a word my old Scottish Grandmother used."
In the third hour we chose a simple activity which allowed us to deepen our thinking. One lady relaxed in her bath and another read a very old buddhist book that she had started reading in 2003. I pulled out all my water coloured paintings that I had thrown in the bottom of a cupboard and reviewed my skills. Our inner voices all became clearer! I realised that actually I do have a certain amount of talent and felt ready to pick up my artist's brush and create my future vision. The old voices of teachers ahd gone.

Next month we are looking at "April Showers". Join us as we look at how our emotions change like the weather! We will notice the colours as Spring bursts forth.

Warm wishes from a very grey English Sunday.

Dorothy Larios and the Rest of your Life Virtual Retreat Group

It's all part of the process

2008-02-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

I've just finished a couple of weeks of some pretty intensive work on three upcoming spring retreats. Because I was away in South Africa for three weeks - following on the heels of the Christmas and New Year's holidays - I had a lot of time-sensitive work to be done when I returned on the 28th of January.

I've known since last spring that I would do these retreats - two of them anyway. I booked one retreat center back then and the other in mid-December. When I booked the second retreat, I decided to tack on a one-day retreat for the Monday following the weekend.

My own creative process - which I have struggled to come to terms with over the years- goes like this: I get an idea, might jot down some notes, and then I just live with it. I call it "percolating". I don't give it active attention, I just allow it to "be" with me...somewhere inside my brain and heart and spirit. Sometimes when I'm on a walk, or if someone says just the right thing, it might get pushed forward into my awareness, and I'll think some more about it. To be perfectly honest, I'm totally comfortable with this until I get to a certain point (which is different every time) when I feel like I ought to be more clear. I will give myself a talking to about the "ought" and realize okay...I'd like to be more clear. But try as I might...if the creative muse isn't speaking, then I can't budge her. Generally, though, I'm happy enough to wait until that unpredictable magic moment when I can see and feel the outline for the retreat. Then, I get to work, sometimes fast and furiously, other times it's a more leisurely pace. It just depends on the creative flow, which I've learned to respect over time.

So, for these retreats I've gone through that process and have the outlines; I've done the web content, figured out the advertising and marketing, contacted the appropriate people for those things. I've turned over a lot of stones and although there may be one or two left unturned - I'd be surprised. I'm careful and methodical - something that has developed over the years as I've grown in my practice. So, I've done all of that - days of writing, re-writing, phoning, designing web pages, organzing the advertising, weighing all the options. And now? Now comes the hard part: Letting go.

I want this to be an encouraging read, so I'll cut to the chase here. My experience and faith tell me that the people who are supposed to be on my retreat will be there. So, once I can remember that, I am able to relax and uncurl my fingers from their tight grip on the outcome of this retreat. When I can do that, I am able to breathe deeply into the knowledge that a Higher Power leads the women who are a good fit for my message to my retreats. As I finish up my preparations for now (there will be so much more to do the couple of weeks before the retreats, as you well know), I have done my little dance with doubt and moved on. Now I am able to say: My Divine Mother is gathering the women. My retreats are full.

Now, when doubting and frightening thoughts pop into my head ("I have how much money out there in deposits?"), I can quickly recall my affirmation and move into gratitude. I can think about the fact that there are women an ocean away who are either being gently nudged toward my retreats, or they're being prepared to find them. I love that concept. And, it let's me get on with my other work. If I get stuck in worry about this, I am prevented from moving forward with other important work. I know how many women I'd like to have. I know how many women I need to have. We'll see how many women are chosen to journey together on these weekends.

It's my job to prepare and market my retreats as best I can, and to show up at them as my best, most professional, authentic self. Gathering the Women belongs to The Divine - which is really good news because She knows so many more women than I do!

I hope this post is helpful and encouraging.
Coach Maggie Butler
www.maggiebutler.net

Retreat Coach Training in Colorado with Helene Van Manen is now taking registrations

2008-01-05T13:17:00.001-08:00

Join Master Coach Helene Van Manen for a special 6 day training May 13 - 18, 2008 This is your chance to immerse yourself in both a comprehensive hands-on training and your own personal retreat all in a majestic natural setting in Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The setting for the 2008 Retreat Coach Training is one of the most beautiful mountain settings on the planet - a real dude ranch!

Plan on growing yours skills and getting inspired to live the life and have the business as a Retreat Coach you dream of.

Who is Our Authentic Self and How Do We Find Her?

2007-12-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

ANNOUNCING:
A New Year Retreat for Women

seeking to live more fully

with their most authentic selves

Embracing Our Fullest Selves

The Quest for Women’s Empowerment

Jan 25th-27th, 2008

The Incarnation Center

Ivoryton, CT

The journey of seeking the authentic self is a courageous one. Being authentic requires honesty, transparency, confidence and certainty, as well as a commitment to stepping outside of the box. When we learn to live from the center of our authentic selves we are able to be clearer and more effective in our communication, leadership and personal relationships.

Utilizing visualization, mediation and other high powered creative processes you will map a journey back to your truest, happiest, most authentic self by identifying blocks and old messages that keep you stuck. With these new understandings you can become empowered to make new choices that support the merging of your bliss with your life’s work.

Relax Retreat Recharge Go Within Dance Play Create Integrate

$235 early Bird registration (till Jan 5th)

$275 Late registration

(Includes program, materials, all meals and lodging)

Why wait? Register TODAY!

When was the last time you did something for YOU???

contact: gaiagirlmargie@yahoo.com

520-432-5936

Facilitated by Coach Margie Scott

of “Living Your Bliss” Life Coaching and Retreats

http://gaiagirlmargie.zaadz.com/

http://www.artrageouscamp.com/

2007-11-29T11:28:00.000-08:00

Beginning in January 2008, self-care retreats get even better!

A wise gathering of women, the intimacy of a small group, the commitment to come together from far and wide into a sacred retreat circle ... this and more is a Self-Care Coaching Circle in the making.

Beginning in January 2008 the ripple of Self-Care Coaching Circles out into the world will begin.

What is a Self-Care Coaching Circle?

I can begin answering that by asking a few other questions ...
How many women do you know who feel overwhelmed, out of breath in their lives, or a bit foggy?
What about ... unclear about big decisions, a bit banged up by lots of changes in their lives, discontent?
Do you ever hear the words -
I'll take better care of myself when ... My family comes first ... I should eat better, exercise more, play more ...

These are tell-tail signs that self-care may be lacking. And yet how to make practicing fabulous self-care a priority when so many things get in the way, including our stories about why we can't?

One answer: come together with a small group of amazing women in a group coaching environment for a three month journey of fun and self-discovery. Together we'll explore what gets in our way of taking great care of ourselves, the price we pay when we don't, and we'll craft individual self-care recipes that support us in making lasting and joyful changes.

The format Options:
Virtual retreat circles or Face-to-face gatherings 2 times per month for three months, lasting 1 1/2 hours each / beginning January 8th, 2008.
Ongoing support between our gatherings
Opportunities to work with Buddies to dive deeper
To learn more go to: www.womansfieldguide.com

A coaching retreat -
magic, possibilities, shining brightly, diving deeply, breathing in and out and in and out to the depths of our toes and the tippy-top of our heads, stretch, play, self-discovery ... authenticity

coming in all shapes and sizes
indoors / outdoors
stillness and silence / dance and song

A coaching retreat -
prepared to be surprised, prepare to be inspired
prepare to be you!

- Corrie Woods
Learn more about upcoming retreats at www.womansfieldguide.com

Firelight and Candles Retreat led by Judith Geiger

2007-11-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

Alchemy Boxes and the Women who created them.

At this Firelight and Candles Retreat all of the women truly shined brighter than any of the other lights in the room. They were women who let their internal lights shine. Each one supported the other to self-discover and self-develop.

Each alchemy box was created to be an expression of themselves, to serve as a reminder of what they want to bring into their lives in 2008. Inside they stored treasures and ideas that will be a reflection (through out the year) of what is important to them.

When women step away from everyday life and come together in "circle", often a compassionate dialogue occurs. They are able to intuitively know what each other needs. That is exactly what this group did. Supported each other, cared about each other and I could feel the love grow in a very short time. I was honored to witness the unfolding.

Judith Geiger Flying Change Coaching

Check out my year long virtual program with two virtual retreats included. Judith's web site.

2007-11-16T19:21:00.001-08:00

My First Year as

Coach Diane

September 2006 was the launch of my dream to become a retreat coach. In the Summer of 2006, I ran across Helene's website. I had resurrected my "retreat" dream earlier that year, but found this opportunity quite by accident. Two days after having major surgery, I started my retreat coach tele class and made plans to hold my first retreat. I suddenly realized why I had spent years collecting "tools" and as I learned from Helene and my new network, found the motivation to compile and organize all my resources. I held my first retreat on November 12, 2006, with an advisory board of beautiful and powerful women. One year later, I held my one year celebratory, gratitude retreat with the same group of fabulous women.
In between those two momentous dates, I created a place within myself that nurtures the space for women to retreat. The list of my accomplishments includes very concrete activities such as writing a business plan, implementing a business system (banking, savings, etc), printing business cards, designing and writing newsletters, creating electronic resource files, and organizing a variety of tool kits. I also had to learn to work creatively and collaboratively with my husband to design a website that is both simple and beautiful.
The activities which have sustained, nurtured and helped me grow, though, are much more difficult to describe and define. In February at the in-person training, I created a manifestation board that is so close to my heart, I can look at it on any one day and see my life. I started a business journal, which contains the most creative ideas I have ever had and that pour out of my soul onto the paper as easily as water slips down a mountain stream. I can not wait to get home every day and check my email for the retreat coach group emails because I know that each and every one will bring new inspiration. The opportunities to see and experience the immediate world around me have increased exponentially because I am paying attention. And because I am paying attention, I have tried things I would not have thought possible before this (see the picture of me, completely afraid of heights, on top of a fire tower in Wyoming). Eight retreats have been born and each one is a gift from me.... to me.
When I look at the last 18 months, I am overwhelmed by how this has changed from a dream to reality. At my final retreat for 2007, my retreatants described it best for me:

Reflection: I have taken the opportunity to experience personal growth and mastery
Relaxation: I CAN and WILL incorporate peace and rest into my life
Discovery: I love staying open to the universe, because it always delivers
Freedom: I am continuing to evolve into the woman I am becoming

And so.......

I am Diane. I am a woman who is living my breathing patterns.I am a woman gathering continuous , connected circles.This circle has no position and no rank.This circle has relationship and certainty.This is a circle. It is more than a shape. It is a sacred space.We are connected and I am connected to you.

Coach Diane @ Breathing Patterns Coaching and Retreats

http://breathingpatterns.com

Putting the "Happy" Back Into "Happy Holidays"

2007-11-08T09:39:00.001-08:00

When Did We Stop Enjoying the Holidays?

Whether we want to admit it or not, the holiday season is upon us. It's not just the Christmas decorations that were next to the Halloween decorations at my local Target that clued me into this fact. If I had any doubt, I just had to look in my mailbox. Along with the catalogs hawking gifts, there are postcards from the postal service encouraging us to take advantage of flat rate boxes to mail packages from home instead of waiting in line at the post office.

This got me wondering. When did we stop enjoying the holidays? When did it become drudgery instead of the "hap-happiest season of all?"

I think we've been duped. I think Martha, mixed with a little competitiveness amongst women, has caused us to have unrealistic expectations of what we "should" do during the holidays. I think we are still trying to replicate the holidays from our childhoods without considering the realities of our adulthoods.

But, I also think we've been conditioned to be stressed out about the holidays. Everywhere you look there are images and articles about how stressful the holidays are for us.

Enough already! This year, I pledge to enjoy myself throughout the holiday season.

Raise your right hand and repeat after me:
"I, (insert your name here), promise to enjoy myself this holiday season. I will only do what I want and have time to do and let other people carry their own holiday baggage. I will use cash to pay for my gifts so that I won't feel guilty about blowing my budget. And, most of all, I will sing holiday music as loudly and as off key as I want to."

Creating Space for the Holidays Tele-retreat

One of the reasons we often feel overwhelmed during this time of year is that we forget that we need to create space for the holidays.

Give the first gift of the holidays to yourself by joining us for this short 3-hour tele-retreat* where we will find ways to create mental, emotional, and physical space in order to put the happy back into the holidays. At the end of this retreat, you will be excited, organized, energized, and eager to belt out a chorus or two of "Happy Holidays" with Andy Williams.

Details:
When: Saturday, December 1st
Time: 8:00-11:00 PACIFIC STANDARD TIME
Cost: $25 before Black Friday; $35 after Nov. 23rd
Special: Know someone who might want to participate, too? Register together and you will each get $5 off the registration fee.

To Register: Send an email to me at julie(at)newprofessormentor.com letting me know you want to participate.

*What is a tele-retreat? Everyone calls in to a conference call at the top of the hour and we talk and share just as if we were sitting in the same room. Then, we hang up and do an assignment. At the designated time, everyone comes back and we share some more. It sounds a little far fetched, but it surprisingly powerful. And the benefit is that you don't have to go anywhere. You call in form wherever you are! You have nothing to lose but lots to gain from giving it a try.

It's time to enjoy the holiday season again

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS LIVING FROM YOUR SOUL RETREAT!

2007-11-04T10:51:00.001-08:00

Descending into the Kiva…
What can happen on a Soul Journey into the Dark…

The Living from your Soul Retreat (new name for 2008: Journey with Your Soul) was originally designed as an exploration of ways to engage with your Soul’s voice – using non-linear practices that steer you away from your usual mind chatter and support you connecting with a deeper place inside yourself. We live in a culture that is on hyper speed and I believe that if we don’t slow down and take the time to connect with the depths inside us, we will lose what makes us unique, sacred beings. We’ll also miss out on our True Life. Listening to my own inner voice, I knew that I was seeking a place to hold this retreat that would offer a special environment for making this connection.

Enter Kelly Place. This special inn, located in McElmo Canyon holds many special treats…. Bordering the Canyon of the Ancients and gazing towards Sleeping Ute Mountain, in this temperate valley there are over 100 acres of hiking trails to explore the 25 on-site Anasazi ruins. While this 1000-year-old Native American culture has disappeared, their architecture remains and we can engage our imaginations in discovering the past. We can also engage in bringing to light our own hidden depths in the present.

I gathered this past weekend with 7 women in these special surroundings. We laughed, cried and shared the meaningful stories of our lives. We danced from our hearts to inspirational music and created Soul Collage cards, letting our Soul’s speak to us through visual imagery. But for me, the most powerful experience was our Journey into the traditional Kiva (underground ceremonial chamber in the earth) to hear the Voice of our own Beloved. Climbing down the wooden ladder, into the dark center of the earth can be a daunting experience. We are usually taught to deny or ignore the hidden corners of our life, yet we actually grow smaller living from this fear-driven place. It is this descent, this Journey into the Underworld, that offers us a chance to meet the dark mystery of our life and use it to find the wholeness we seek. As written in this poem of the goddess Inanna’s journey to the underworld by Starhawk, there are sacrifices to be made… vulnerability to expose:

The Descent of Inanna, by Starhawk
The Second Gate

The Second Gate is Fear
When you go down far enough
It arises
Wearing a helmet, armor
Wearing an enemy face
Carrying weapons
It blocks the gate

Fear says
Go back
And you hear what it threatens you with
If you go on

Fear says
Turn around
And you hear what it offers you
If you obey

Fear says
Something you alone can hear
And you know what it is.

Choose

To go on
You must take off your clothes
Lay down the cloak that keeps out the
Cold
And the shield that turns the spear
And the armor that turns the arrow’s
Point
Take off your breastplate and helmet
Fear doesn’t go away
But you walk toward fear
Naked
And the gate opens

Past the Second Gate you dance
Fearless in the open
Your skin one living organThat embraces air

Our bodies sat in the dark kiva, while to the sound of the shamanic drums, our Soul’s took individual journeys accompanied by animal allies visualized earlier that day. My role was a sacred charge, to be still and hold the intention of each woman – to find more self-trust, to be healed, to learn their legacy – as they each experienced what was getting in the way. They opened themselves up risking all the things their egos threatened them with losing. And in that magical cave of Mother Earth, they found their resilience and expanded power. We gathered that evening and ritually shared each of our Journeys, deepening the meaning… singing over our bones. The stories and poems that I heard brought me an overflowing sense of joy. I was surrounded by living Goddesses, as they made themselves the heroines of their Lives.

Here's an excerpt from one woman's story of her time in the Kiva:

"As the days grow cool and shorter, bear begins to run, and I follow him. He runs and runs and runs to the steady beat of the drum. At times he carries me on his back. We cross rocks and rivers, fields and forests. We do not stop, until at long last we reach a cave, the darkness. I am hesitant to enter, I have much fear, but bear assures me it is necessary for survival and he will be with me. It is time to enter the deeper depths of my soul, to crack open the hard layers, to unveil the truths inside. This is the only way, in order to emerge whole and true."

After sharing, each woman committed to an act that would bring alive her Soul’s longings in her life. She committed to stay in the conversation with her Beloved. And I knew that the Journey wasn’t over – there would be more insights as they continued to reflect on our weekend and all the Soulful practices we took part in together.

Are you living your life as the Goddess/God that you are? Are you in conversation with your Beloved? As we enter the more quiet, darker time of the year, perfect for this kind of inner work, how can I support you to step into your life this way? What additional joy and meaning could you find if you took the risk? If you are interested in 1:1 coaching, a bi-monthly women’s group or nourishing retreats, please contact me to find out more.

TRUE LIFE Coach Victoria

Visit my web site at http://www.truelifecoach.net/ The new Retreat schedule for 2008 will be posted online by November 20, 2007.

Or contact me at victoria@truelifecoach.net

ARE YOU LIVING YOUR TRUE LIFE?

New Virtual Retreat Offer

2007-10-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Do you feel like a fish out of water?

Is 2008 your year to leap into the company of Wise Women like yourself?

You can do just that for an entire year without leaving your living room. Let 2008 be your year of transformation (with all the support and inspiration you will need to move your life to the next level).

A very special year long offer designed to assist you to discover Your Passion and Your Purpose. It will connect you virtually with women from around the globe.

Coach Judith is offering two virtual retreats (on the telephone) and 10 months of follow up group coaching. That will be a full year of support and guidance. Designed this way (on the phone and low cost) so everyone who wants to be inspired can take part.

This offer is divided into two parts:

1. January~~full day retreat with 5 follow up months of group coaching. We will be working with Carol McClelland’s Heart Magnet program, designed with exercises to assist you to become clear on what you are drawn to. What you truly love. YOUR PASSION!

2. July~~another full day retreat with 5 follow up months of group coaching. We will be working with Carol McClelland’s Purpose Clarity program. This is designed to assist you to understand what your talents, skills and interests are. Let’s brainstorm ways to discover YOUR PURPOSE!

What is your intention for the New Year 2008? Do you have a goal that you could use support with or do you want to find a goal? If so, then please join this strong group of women who will support each other as they become clear on what they want and how they want to move forward.

For more information click here. and scroll down to
New Virtual Retreat Offer

This retreat is led by: Judith Geiger of Flying Change Coaching, LLC

Coach Juith is certified with the International Coach Federation.

A Kaleidoscope for Self-Care on Retreat

2007-10-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

As another Savvy Savory Self-Care Weekend Retreat (see details below) approaches I am thrilled with the opportunity to be in community with women who are hungry for greater self-care in their lives. Too, I love the reminder in my own life that I can jump into something I am passionate about with both feet (planning and facilitating such a magical gathering) and practice my own self-care along the way.

Hey, I am just like every one else ... my attention to a steady, intentional self-care practice ebbs and flows. I walk my talk by embracing fabulous self-care at most every turn, and I admit sometimes I look up to find life swirling around me wondering how I missed the self-care clues. The difference for me now is that I catch it early and can more easily come back to it.

That is some of what we look at while on a self-care retreat together.As a connected community
we support one another in asking powerful questions like ...

What are the clues (the red flags) that pop up indicating we need to take better care of ourselves?
What are the barriers that get in the way of practicing great self-care? (like - "That would be selfish")

We go on to create a feast of ideas for yummy self-care and ideas for lots of strong support.

Am I wildly passionate about this? Yes, I say with a big grin on my face. I believe getting really good at taking fabulous care of oneself is life changing - and tons of fun!

Beyond the topic of a self-care retreat ...
Here is a revelation for me that has come from seeing a transformation happen over and over to women (and I imagine men) on retreat ... In truth, the magic begins to happen as soon as a woman says, "Yes, I want to go on retreat!" That act of showing up for oneself and choosing sacred time just for oneself begins moving mountains. Amazing and surprising and wondrous inspirations begin to unfold. Read about any of the incredible retreats shared in this forum and you see what I am talking about!

So, back to The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat - I am excited to share the details:

When and where: November 16 - 18, 2007 at The Bend of Ivy Lodge in the gorgeous western NC mountains.
Size: Limit - 18 women
Self-Care Investment: $375 covers lodging, meals and materials

Envision fabulous meals, lots of fun, time to rest and relax and wander the forest ... and exercises, experiences, tools, and support to help participants get real and get excited about enhanced self-care.

Want to learn more? You are invited to check out www.womansfieldguide.com

Questions for Women On Retreating

2007-09-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

Have you been on a retreat lately with women you don't know?

What does it feel like to get away from your life and be in a nurturing circle of women?

What holds you back from making the time and spending the money on a personal retreat?

-Coach Helene Van Manen

Retreating with Woman in Recovery

2007-09-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

Recently, on a hot day in the Arizona desert, a group of woman headed to the San Pedro River for a day of retreat and to reflect on the idea of Empowered Relationships. These were not just any woman, or an odd mixture of woman attracted to a topic and signing up for a retreat in their free time. This very special group was a strong and courageous bunch, committed to a new life of healing and recovery. Residents of The Renaissance House in Bisbee, AZ they share the common bond of lives gone wrong, finding rock bottom, and working together to rise back up into their power and brilliance. Their ages and backgrounds are varied, but it was obvious they cared about one another and that a sisterhood was forming as they took the steps to turn their lives around.

We started our day next to this tree-a gorgeous and graceful Cottonwood who became a symbol for Empowered Relationships-a strong base, grounded, reaching up into new realms, healthy, alive and growing.

The San Pedro River is a rich riparian eco-system and she is a perfect respite on a hot desert day to retreat, reflect and spend some time going inward. I love taking retreatants there, especially those who wouldn't normally go there on there own. Of course this brings up all sorts of interesting aspects-there was one gal who couldn't sit still during a self noticing time due to the flies and ants-and it is an excellent opportunity to take a step beyond one's comfort level, to discover the message there and to learn more deeply about one's self.

A true retreat coaches dream is when her participants take full advantage of the opportunity before them and dance in the spontaneity and joy of the moment. After a long discussion about the difference between empowered and dis-empowered relationships, including some group coaching for one of the women who wanted to learn how to say no better, we took a walk to the rivers edge. Before we left each of the women picked out an affirmation card, and we walked in silence as they contemplated how the affirmation spoke to them based on our discussions of the day. Finally, the group dropped into a calmer place, and when we arrived at the river one of them sat down, took her shoes off and dipped her toes in the muddy, monsoon water. Another, and then another joined her. Soon, most of the women were sitting at the river's edge. I thought how this was such a metaphor for where they are in their lives right now, on the edge, ready to jump into the muddy waters of a life completely unknown and new to them. Before I knew it a splashing game began and soon 5 women were soaked to the bone, laughing outrageously (actually giggling like a bunch of little girls!), totally being present with play, release, fun and the moment as it presented itself to them. Eventually they settled down, while those less adventurous watched from the sides, and completely immersed in the water they proceeded to recite, very loudly, the Serenity Prayer. This touched my soul, as I have recited that same prayer many times in the arms of Mother Nature during my own healing and recovery process.

The opportunity to work with a population of women determined to change the course of their lives in the midst of learning all over again how to be empowered, healthy and strong is truly a blessing. It is my passion to support others on this journey, to be a guide as they discover their authentic selves, as they re-learn the call of their soul, as they bring forth their shiny spirits that have been hiding far to long and blossom into new beings. I hope the women of the Renaissance House got as much out of the day as I did!

(To learn more about the Renaissance House, a non-profit dedicated to the recovery of homeless and drug dependent women, visit http://renaissance-house.org/)

River Retreat with Helene Van Manen creates fun!

2007-09-10T09:42:00.000-07:00

How fun to find places in rocks and crevices where
one can squeeze into and bask in being with other women on retreat! Pictured here are Retreat Coaches who joined me on the Lower Gunnison River in Colorado early August to learn hands on the fine art of leading outdoor adventures.

Inner Peace

2007-08-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

SYMPTOMS OF INNER PEACE

Be on the lookout for symptoms of Inner Peace. The hearts of a great many have already been exposed to Inner Peace and it is possible that people everywhere could come down with it in epidemic proportions. This could, pose a serious threat to what has, up to now, been fairly stable conditions of conflict in the world.

Some signs and symptoms of Inner Peace

A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experience
An unmistakeable ability to enjoy each moment
A loss of interest in judging other people
A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others
A loss of interest in conflict
A loss of the ability to worry (This is a very serious symptom)
Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation
Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature
Frequent attacks of smiling
An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen
An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to love them back

Author Unknown

You Are Amazing

2007-08-05T21:11:00.000-07:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination. It is our light more than our darkness which scares us. We ask ourselves – who are we to be brilliant, beautiful, talented, and fabulous. But honestly, who are you to not be so? You are a child of God, small games do not work in this world. For those around us to feel peace, it is not example to make ourselves small. We were born to express the glory of god that lives in us. It is not in some of us, it is in all of us. While we allow our light to shine, we unconsciously give permission for others to do the same. When we liberate ourselves from our own fears, simply our presence may liberate others.”- Maryanne Williamson

If you're a women in transition this retreat camp is for you!!

2007-07-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

"Feel the quickening, there's no turning back. Let now be the time to birth the amazing woman you are at this exquisite time in your life."

Are you in a major life transition?

Are you wondering what your next steps are?

Do you need some help manifesting your dreams?

Are you ready to embrace your authentic self and live your dreams?

What if you had the opportunity to be with other women on the same path, supporting one another in obtaining clarity of vision, movement into manifestation, rejuvenation of spirit and connection to your authentic self?? Would you want to be there?

Now is the time! Join us for a very special ARTrageous Camp, just outside of Seattle, WA in the seasonal transition time of autumn. This 4 day intensive, women's only camp is designed to help you connect with your passion, define your purpose and live the life you have always wanted to create. If not now, then when??

ARTrageous "Women In Transition" Camp

Get your WiT's about you!!

Sept 20-23rd, 2007

Ronald, WA

Life transitions are defined in many ways. Sometimes it is about career, sometimes it's our relationships. Sometimes it's the unsuspecting twists of fate that set us on the journey of transition and transformation. Often transition, especially when we don't expect it, can be unsettling and challenging. ARTrageous Camps strives to provide a safe and supportive container that allows you to really explore what is asking to be called forth from the depths of your creative genius and authentic self. Using the platform of creativity we explore movement, improv, music, word, ceremony and various other experiential modalities to deepen our connection to the muse within that knows the answers to our biggest questions. In a play shop environment, where "you can't get it wrong", you are encouraged to offer your wildest dreams and obtain skills and resources to turn your dreams into reality. Personalized coaching and feedback grounds the experience for you on your unique path.

This 4 day intensive takes place in a natural retreat setting, allowing time for integration and relaxation, while we contemplate the question : "How do your gifts and bliss intersect with the world's need??" Do you know what your bliss is? Do you know what your gifts are? Come to this very special camp and discover for yourself the pathway to gentle transitions and great awakenings. Learn to live your life as Art and connect with your deepest passion.

"What do you choose to do with your one precious life? "

Register today. Camp is limited to 7 participants! Will you be one?

Early bird special ends Sat July 21st.

http://www.artrageouscamp.com/camps_seattle.htm

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RIVER RAFTING RETREAT!

2007-07-09T13:12:00.000-07:00

TRUE LIFE COACHING offers

BEING IN THE FLOW

IN SOUTHWESTERN COLORADO!

Do you have a wilder side, that thrives on challenges? Can you bring your unique self to blend with the synergy of an outdoor group experience? If so, you would've loved joining my River Rafting Retreat, BEING IN THE FLOW, this past June 20-24. Sixteen women, from around the U.S., came together and floated the Colorado River for 5 days. We were completely self-supporting - because of course, Wild Women are capable, creative and most of all, love to have FUN! I was honored, as Retreat Coach, to lead this extraordinary group, offering tools on Living in Abundance that can be brought to anyone's life - on the river and off.

From delicious meals (see yummy breakfast, at left), to hiking the redrock canyons, to playing in the inflatable duckies (soft kayaks) to gathering for daily Circles to share, listen and learn, to frequent dunking to refresh in the southwestern heat, the group was always ready to give it their all. An amazing synergy developed over the five days we traveled as a single community.

It was exciting to see so many women from completely different backgrounds come together and embrace this adventure experience. There were experienced boat guides as well as women who had never rafted before. We ranged in age from 27 to 59! From D.C. to Colorado, New Mexico to Oregon - city women... mountain women... and of course, river women! Sharing stories, laughs and tears as we built new friendships and learned how to live in abundance while Being in the Flow.

I taught tools I have worked with from the book The Trance of Scarcity (http://tranceofscarcity.com/) by Victoria Castle. By recognizing the State we are in, which includes the Stories and interpretations that we make up, combined with our bodies and how we are experiencing life in them, we notice if we're living with Ease. If not, why not create an upgrade? A place to live from that is aligned with what really matters to you in this moment. Using tools like the Cycle of Abundance you can stay flowing and in the ease of the river always. Learning to be Centered, even when Life has thrown you a curve ball, is a skill that we can all develop more, for the sake of living our True Life.

Our final act of creativity and teamwork was to create a ritual that highlighted what we had learned about ourselves and each other. Each group of 4 women designed a section and together we wove an experience that we won't soon forget. At sunset, in our circle on the beach, dressed for Ceremony, we honored each woman, listening to her and mirroring back what we all saw. I remember laughing and crying and my throat contracting as I witnessed these amazing women... more open and trusting, while revealing their hearts.

We each had a final word or two to describe our State. Mine is Overflowing Chalice. When I see a woman crack open, become more fully who she truly is and step forth to live life from a more expanded place, I do just that: Overflow! What an amazing feeling! It's why I lead retreats and hope that you will join me on one soon. Consider a weekend at a beautiful lodge this fall - southwestern Colorado offers one of the most beautiful environments to step away from your life and take the time to retreat. To hear your inner voice. Find out more at http://www.truelifecoach.net/retreats.htm or email victoria@truelifecoach.net to see what's happening next!

Judith Geiger's Country Retreat

2007-06-25T07:04:00.001-07:00

During a recent Country Retreat that I held at my farm the women were asking when they could do it again! One of the women who came to the retreat confined in me yesterday that when she first heard about the retreat she wondered if it would be a waste of her time. She said;
"It turned out to be anything but. The day went so fast that I did not want it to end!"

In the picture above you see eight amazing women who after spending time in nature and letting go of what no longer served them,are eagerly heading up the hill to start a new exercise. Designing beautiful vision boards. These women were so creative that each board not only told a story but they were also visually pleasing! One woman said "I am going to hang mine up in my new kitchen!" What a wonderful reminder of what she wants her future to look like!

Nature worked her magic at this Country Retreat in Central New York even though the sun was a little hard to find that day! These wonderful wise women made their own lights shine!

If you want to learn more about this Country Retreat just check out my blog!

Personal Life Coach and Retreat Leader; Judith Geiger
Flying Change Coaching www.flyingchangecoaching.com

The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat

2007-06-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

With the heat of summer rolling in I find my thoughts drifting back to early spring wildflowers, an afternoon nap by a crystal clear pond, a stroll beside the Bend of Ivy River in the early morning mist. Springtime in my North Carolina mountains is spectacular and it is the perfect time to rest, to retreat, to renew. That is just what 15 wonderful women gathered together to do a couple months back.

Our intention: To spend a weekend in community exploring and experiencing the importance of self-care.

The stage was set: incredible weather, yummy organic and delicious food catered with loving hands, travelers from as far as Canada and and close by as around the corner, and a common hunger we all shared for time on retreat.

Our Location: Paradise at The Bend of Ivy Lodge

We began in circle and ended in circle. It never ceases to amaze and inspire me to see women come together in spirit so quickly and to create bonds that carry forward into their lives in one short weekend.

I am reminded - gather women in a loving space and watch the magic unfold!

In our exploration of self-care we ... defined how we feel when we practice extraordinary self-care ... brainstormed a bounty of new kinds of self-care ... we had heart to heart talks about what gets in our way of taking great care of ourselves and by gosh - we broke those barriers down! ... we experienced self-care in the moment through movement and wonderful food and fresh air and creative activities and wandering in nature.

Most importantly we took time out of busy schedules to gift a weekend of renewal to ourselves.

a smile-filled memory shared by
Corrie Woods, Author, Life Coach, Retreat Leader
www.windrivercoaching.com

Retreats Reduce Stress and Help Us Remember Who We Are

2007-06-05T17:03:00.001-07:00

Summer afternoon, summer afternoon;
to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language."
Henry James

This is the view from where I live. My view has many colors of green right now dotted with beautiful purples and white clouds filled with rain.
How can I create an inner landscape that meets my outer one? That is the question I am asking myself these days as I live a retreat lifestyle here in southern Colorado. - Coach Helene Van Manen

Maggie Butler... leading retreats here and there

2007-05-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

The 8 Wonderful Wise Women at the first annual Gift of the Sea Retreat. Maine, April, 2007

This past month has been a month of retreats for me, leading women’s retreats on both sides of the Atlantic - in Maine and Ireland. I love the life I continue to create; love how my life intention continues to unfold and be enriched by so many creative, dynamic, reflective women from around the world.

At the end of April I had the privilege of leading 8 women on retreat in Maine. Gift of the Sea was held at the Marie Joseph Spiritual Center in Saco, Maine. Four days prior to the retreat, the southern coast of Maine was battered by a Nor’easter with hurricane winds that left major and heartbreaking destruction behind. Miraculously, by the time Friday arrived, the Coast of Maine was at it’s best: The bluest of skies and an ocean that just sparkled and danced in the sunlight to welcome these 8 women on their weekend journey to find the unique gift the sea was offering to them.

Coach Judith Geiger , a wise and gentle woman, attended this retreat and has already written about it and her experience in this blog. (Thanks, Judith!) I’ll only add that this fabulous group of women ranged in age from early thirties to 60, and resulted in a very richly textured tapestry of wisdom, experience and knowledge. What a pleasure it was to work with this group of unique individuals who shared in common a desire to create a space and time in their busy lives to experience the transformative power of nature, reflect on their lives, think about their heart’s desires. We laughed, walked barefoot on the beach (some at sunrise), journalled, walked an Audobon Trail in silence, did collage work, slept to the sounds of the ocean, sang and played a game or two. Because of the beautiful setting right on the ocean; because of the enthusiastic response of the participants; and because I loved doing this retreat so much....This retreat was the First Annual Gift of the Sea Retreat! Maybe we'll see you next year?

Back here in Dublin last week, I facilitated a one-day retreat for a group of women who attended my January, “2007 – Live Your Best Year” retreat. Last Friday we followed up on intentions they created at that retreat. We also looked at what was working for each of them, what wasn’t (then letting go to make room for another possibility), and shared wisdom from their journeys. With honesty and courage we heard that in spite of (or because of) disappointments and setbacks, all agreed that living their lives with focus and intention, as well as feeling respected and supported, was indeed making 2007 their “Best Year”.

They left energized, supported, encouraged and raring to go on a weekend post-Solstice retreat I will facilitate for them in August. This retreat is the third in a series of four designed to support them through the year as they create their lives with intention. We’ll be in a wonderful setting: a small, but big-enough cottage in the countryside of the Wicklow Mountains where we can walk, rest, collage, reflect and dance in the moonlight.

It’s a wonderful life, really, and I have a grateful heart.

Peace,
Maggie
www.maggiebutler.net

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? Mary Oliver

Helene Van Manen retreats at Arches National Park

2007-05-28T20:18:00.001-07:00

I have come late spring to these ancient rocks to pause before my summer begins. I take time to listen to what the red landscapes have to tell me about Who I am and what my next steps are. I am many things to many people in my life and when I stop and listen to the land, I re-find that part of me that is constant, real and unshakable. I need unshakable qualities during these times in which I live.

- musings of a Retreat Coach
the journal of Helene Van Manen May 2, 2007
Arches National Park www.retreatcoaches.com

Living in Full Bloom

2007-05-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

Last week I lead a women’s retreat in a beautiful local garden.
The theme was “Living in Full Bloom.” One activity was to stroll through the garden absorbing the environment with all of your senses. When you come upon something that really attracts or excites you, sit down and color it. (Everyone was given their own box of crayons!!!) Then write one or two sentences starting, “I like this ______ because…”
When we joined together as a group, everyone shared their artwork and description. Then I asked them to re-read the same passage but starting with, “I like myself because…”
I introduced the concept of the heart magnet and how what we are attracted to is in some way a reflection of our core being. Each woman was able to say and even own this attractive reflection of herself.
Then I read the following quote from Carol McClelland’s Heart Magnet Workbook: “You are entitled to create a world that allows and encourages you to flourish, thrive, and grow.”
When asked who really believed that statement, they all groaned. Their heart magnets fluttered at the possibility of creating a world that encouraged them to flourish, but the word “entitled” stopped them cold in their tracks.
After much discussion and honest sharing, we settled upon another word that was less threatening. “It is our birthright to create a world that allows and encourages us to flourish, thrive, and grow.” And we took some time journaling in that beautiful garden and bearing witness to the glorious possibilities that can blossom with the proper care and nurturance. It was an inspiring day for all.
That night when reading the spiritual memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love,” by Elizabeth Gilbert, this birthright and heart magnet concept was taken to another level. She quoted her Guru as saying, “God dwells within you, as you.” She went on to offer her understanding, “God dwells within you as yourself, exactly the way you are. God isn’t interested in watching you enact some performance of personality in order to comply with some crackpot notion you have of how a spiritual person looks or behaves.”
To know that you are unique and to encourage that special you to manifest, that is living in full bloom and that is your birthright.
Karin Marcus
Personal Coach / Certified Retreat Leader
“Let the beauty of what you love, be what you do” Rumi
Karin@Steppingoutcoaching.com 610-667-5247
www.SteppingOutCoaching.com

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RETREAT FOR MOMS

2007-05-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

MOTHERS SHARING POWERFUL TIME

GROWING AND NURTURING THEMSELVES

IN THE CANYONS OF SW COLORADO

WITH

RETREAT COACH VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM

MAY 6, 2007

One thing about being a Retreat Coach Leader - it keeps you on your toes, always needing to stay present and be with what is actually going on... as I learned again last weekend, as I prepared to lead my annual FOR MOMS ONLY RETREAT, a one day event to honor, celebrate and deepen our relationship with ourselves as Mothers. I'd been dreaming my vision of this day for months! I had a wonderful site in temperate McElmo Canyon, home to many Anasazi ruins (the ancient Pueblo people who lived in SW Colorado about 800 years ago), and endless red rock canyons to explore. I had planned a day of activities that blended action and reflection, giving the group time to bond and share their Mother Wisdom and take time to listen to their own inner world. I had prepared a delicious lunch for all of us to share, as we sat in the SUN, in a wonderful grassy meadow, just outside a very unusual 'cave-house'. But as I checked the weather on Friday morning, I saw to my horror that the forecast didn't just call for rain - IT CALLED FOR SNOW, ALL WEEKEND, with temp's around 35 degrees!! (See photo above, with fresh snow on Sleeping Ute Mountain in the background). I was devastated! My vision definately did not include snow on May 6th! But living as I do in the Rockies, I have to remember that anything is possible. I spent the next 24 hours working on creating a new Vision - one that could embrace Snow if need be, along with any other thing that Spirit might throw at me! After all - If Spirit can throw it, I can dance with it!

The snow whipped in and out of Durango, where I live, all Friday and Saturday. Late on Saturday I headed west, the 60 miles out to McElmo. The weather was definately sketchy but I was committed. It was amazing to see how much snow had already fallen (see photo to left, around Mesa Verde Natl Park). Anyway, once I got to the home of my friend Joyce, who hosted this retreat, things started looking up.

Sunday morning all the women arrived and after spending a few
hours in Circle connecting and sharing about our children and our lives
and having a wonderful lunch with fresh berry pies for dessert, we headed out for some sacred time on the land. Everywhere smelled so fresh! The high clouds kept us cool but no precipitation! One of our discoveries was an incredible petroglyph - a huge spiral carved in the ancient rock. We paused to discuss how our lives moved in and out on a spiral path, sometimes deepening, sometimes not - and the role having children played in all of that.

From the sandy wash we moved higher on the trail, topping out at a wonderful view above the whole canyon. We talked about what's possible when we get 'above' our life and can view it from the perspective of the eagle. How much more spacious things feel! How much more possibility there is!

After helping one another down some slickrock, we regrouped at the special cave-house. This cave has a wonderful overhang that protects it from the weather. And the family who owns this land, has built an outer wall, with windows and a door to create a little retreat house! We sat outside, on the 'patio' and I talked about Jean Shinoda Bolen's book "Urgent Message from Mother: Gather the Women, Save the World" and how as mothers we are so connected to the compassion and love necessary to direct the world in a more accepting and peaceful direction. But according to the Tibetan Shambhala Prophecy, that isn't enough - we need to blend our fiery love with the cooling insight that we are all connected and interdependent. Both are required to move us forward - on an inner level and in the physical world we call Earth. After sharing about this, I brought out large sticks and some yarn to make Beauty Prayer Arrows. By wrapping the yarn around the sticks, offering our prayers and intentions for the world, we created powerful ritual objects that hold our desire for change.

We completed our day in a ceremonial circle, in gratitude for so much richness in our lives. Each woman was honored for who she is as a Mother, as well as her powerful presence in the world.

Here's one retreatants comments:

"Many smiles on my face remembering Sunday. You are a magician with what you do. Loved to see the contemplation on faces while you spoke of crossroads and becoming the essence of ourselves." - Joyce K, Cortez, CO

You can find out more about my nourishing weekend retreats of self-discovery: Spa for the Soul Sep 28-30 and Living from Your Soul Oct 26-28 by visiting my web site www.truelifecoach.net If I can support you in living your True Life, via one on one coaching or women's retreats, please let me know. You can email me at victoria@truelifecoach.net.

ARTrageous Camps Michigan Muse-In

2007-05-07T17:29:00.000-07:00

Looking for a playful way to connect with your creative spirit in the peak of spring??

Join us for the

ARTrageous Camp Michigan Muse-In

June 8-10th

Mystical Resources

Farmington, MI

(near Ann Arbor)

This playful, lighthearted, and co-created event will support you in:

-exploring and connecting with your intuitive voice

-breaking through barriers around creativity

-honing leadership skills

-replenishing your creative spirit

ARTrageous Camps:

Where the people are the palette and your life is the canvas!
http://www.artrageouscamps.com/

ARTrageous Camp is a magical adventure where you can expand your creative abilities, find your true calling and have a great time doing it. They are designed for adults, to support the process of discovering where your bliss intersects with the world's need. They provide resources, personalized coaching, avenues to healing, support in taking the next step, and the learning of new skills. In a "you can't get it wrong" environment, where you are always at choice and we seek together the "yes, and....." of it all, you can dance on the edge of your brilliance as you explore how to live your beautiful life as Art. Come join us!

ARTrageous Camps were co-founded by Coach Margie Scott, Amberllyn Peabody, and Judith Dolmatch. The original camp was birthed on the Big Island of Hawaii 3 years ago, where an annual camp is held sometime between Jan and March. Camps on the mainland have taken place in Colorado, Oregon, Louisanna, and we are looking forward to going international in 2008 with camps slated to happen in Chile and Canada. The Michigan Muse-In will be our 11th camp in total. We are currently developing a fall 07 program in the Pacific Northwest specifically for entrepreneurs, workshop/retreat facilitator wanna-be's, and members of organizations or groups seeking a more collaborative, co-creative approach. Keep checking the website for more details.

If you are interested in bringing ARTrageous to your community, or special group we offer a hosting incentive program. Check out the website, if what you see inspires you, join us for one of our upcoming camps or contact Coach Margie for information on hosting a camp.

Robin Schepper's Birthday Party Retreat

2007-04-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

I am a birthday baby. I like to celebrate my special day because I know how hard it was for my mom to bring me into this world. I have had dinner parties and dancing parties but this year I wanted to integrate my values with my actions. I love nature, I love women and I love going to my favorite place in DC - the Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac River. I lead retreats for my clients along this trail but I decided to become a client for myself. I invited eight of my girlfriends to join me. We climbed over rocks and up cliffs. I asked them what they would be in nature and I shared how I would be the water because it knows no obstacles. I played my favorite coaching game with them that i learned from Coach Helene: Who are you? Who are you not? Who do you think I am? Even though many of the women have known each other for years, just hearing their descriptions of each other brought tears to my eyes. It was the best birthday present I could have ever gotten. So now I know what I will be doing for my next birthday, even if my girlfriends are complaining about their sore legs. - Robin Schepper ~ Wayfinder Coaching and Retreats

robin@wayfinderinc.com
www.wayfinderinc.com

Helene Van Manen reminds us that often we need to retreat within ourselves

2007-04-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

Sleeping In The Forest by Mary Oliver I thought the earth remembered me, she took me back so tenderly, arranging her dark skirts, her pockets full of lichens and seeds. I slept as never before, a stone on the riverbed, nothing between me and the white fire of the stars but my thoughts, and they floated light as moths among the branches of the perfect trees. All night I heard the small kingdoms breathing around me, the insects, and the birds who do their work in the darkness. All night I rose and fell, as if in water, grappling with a luminous doom. By morning I had vanished at least a dozen times Into something better.

Colorado retreat coaches

2007-04-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

View full size

"Womyn On The Land" Celebrate, Sing and Dance with Coach Margie!

2007-04-07T22:08:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I spent a beautiful Arizona desert spring day retreating on the land with six women ready to step outside of their normal lives, to get still and allow themselves to hear that which is asking to be called forth at this time. Our intention was to "honor our emerging spirits in the flush of spring and reconnect to the healing energy of Mother Earth" while taking time to connect our inner and outer ecology's. The retreat took place in the "The Heart Wash". Running through the center of a property stewarded by 2 incredible womyn, in the midst of the Mule Mountains, The Heart Wash is named such because of the huge abundance of heart shaped rocks that can be found there.

In our opening circle we were blessed with the presence of a gentle beautiful snake that found her way to us, gifting us with the spirit of transformation and the power of creation. During the day we sang a lot, letting our voices rise up into the wind, to be carried across the valley. There was solo time, staying present to the messages there for us to receive; as well as group processes done to enhance our understanding of what was needing to blossom forth in each of us at this time. There were tears and a lot of laughter. There was bonding and connection. There was reflection and introspection. There was celebration and understanding. As the sun sank down behind the canyon wall of the wash, we gathered up our things, leaving behind an altar honoring the land. A craggy old tree, roots exposed and twisted with sticks and other debris from last years very powerful monsoon floods, it was filled with heart rocks found about, from the smallest to ones hardly able to be carried.

A bit later we gathered again, this time for a sweatlodge, under the rising full moon and balmy night air. Here, in this ancient ceremony of cleansing and purification, we called up prayers and song for the world, each other, our loved ones, and our selves, and connected to the Divine Spirit as we each defined it. Between rounds, as the door was opened to let in the night air and a moment of relief, the full moon would blast her way in, dead center in the doorway. The magic was tangible and delicious.

Having the opportunity to share sacred time with powerful womyn, is a blessing, and a gift of being a retreat leader. I value this gift immensely and it fills my heart with joy and appreciation each time. These womyn came to the retreat ready to reveal themselves, to listen to each other, and to hear the voice of their own divine presence. They came away with new friends, a reconnection to the natural world around them, new perspectives and understandings, and an awareness of their own power and creativity. It was truly a rich day for all .

I run quarterly Wise Womyn Mini Retreats, here in South East AZ, basing out of a little art community called Bisbee. My next retreat will be July 1st. "The Summer of Our Dreams" will be about realizing our fullest potential and stepping into action, and will support womyn to start living life on their own terms, doing what they love.

At ARTrageous Camps (www.artrageouscamp.com) participants hone leadership skills, reconnect to their creative muse, explore their intuitive voice and have a lot of fun doing it! Join us at our next event in Michigan near Ann Arbor, June 8-10th.

I hope your enjoying the blossoming of spring, wherever you are (I know some areas are more able to believe it is actually spring right now!). I invite you to take some time to retreat, either with a group or alone, and discover what wants to blossom inside of you.

Blessings,
Coach Margie Scott

"... Retreat is about stepping out of your ordinary existence to listen and attune to your truest, most authentic self. It is about being self-referenced to become self-restored. It is setting apart time to tend the hearth of your inner life, feed your muse, reclaim your dreams." - Jennifer Louden

The Magical Enchanted Forest in Big Sur, CA

2007-04-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

If you've EVER wanted to pretend that you are a fairy princess and play in an enchanted forest, you HAVE to join me this September for the Princess Power retreat in Big Sur.

Now, I'm not one for making such bold statements, but My Honey and I just spent three days at the Big Sur Lodge having a wonderful time walking in the enchanted forest. After going through a very stressful few months, it was an amazing time of renewal and reconnecting with my Princess Power.

We hiked to an ancient waterfall where we were able to see a great metaphor for life in the way the water found its way to the bottom: some water just goes over the edge with lots of energy and falls straight down into the pools below while other water takes the road less traveled and ends up in the pools a little later than the rest of the water, but it gets there gently and without a lot of fuss. There have been times when I've been the water just exploding over the edge and other times when I've preferred the gentler way. But the net result is still the same: I've arrived at my goal.

Being amongst redwoods that are about a thousand years old had a tremendous grounding effect upon me. They've seen a lot in their lifetime and have been through a lot. Yet they still stand with grace and dignity.

I do hope you'll join me in September!
www.fairygodmothercoaching.com

Dr. Julie

In the Presence of Wise Women

2007-04-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from the US Virgin Islands where I led a women’s retreat, entitled “Embracing Change & Moving Gracefully through Life.” Once again, I was awed by the power of sisterhood that occurs when women gather together with focus and intention.
We stayed in the beautiful eco-resort Maho Bay Camps on St John’s Island. Living in tent cabins, eating and meeting in open air pavilions, and basking in the Caribbean seas, our senses were saturated by the sounds and rhythms of nature. On the first two days we explored the phenomena of change and how to manage the inevitable transitions of life. I presented the signs, purpose, and detours of the Seasons of Change module created by Carol McClelland, and my co-leader Linda Marrical explained the principles of yin/yang and the natural flow of the five elements as described by Chinese medicine.
The third day was dedicated to processing all this information and applying it to one’s own life situation. Through journaling exercises and an art project, each woman put together the “Pieces of My Puzzle.” Then we went on a wonderful adventure kayaking amongst the sea turtles.
On the fourth day, Linda and I devised an activity to give voice and clarity to each woman’s transition. We put color squares on the floor representing each of the five elements. Everyone took their chair and sat in the element and season with which they had identified. Then one by one they shared their journey and challenges.
For example, one might have shared,” I am in the season of Fall and my element is metal. There is so much change happening in my life. I’m in the process of divorce, my kids are devastated, and my parents are losing their mental faculties. I am sorting out what steps need to be taken now and acknowledging that I need to take time and care for myself.”
Then according to the Chinese module for the interdependency between the elements, the woman who was sitting in the mother element to metal would respond, “I am earth and I am your mother. I will nurture you with my stability, my abundance, and my compassion.”
Then the woman sitting in the Grandmother element would respond, “I am wood and I am your Grandmother who will discipline you with my qualities of flexibility, creativity, vision and patience.”
We went around the room this way, each woman opening her heart and being vulnerable and then receiving the wisdom of her mothers and grandmothers. They all had a sheet listing the qualities of each element, but they took those words and gave them life and meaning. They listened deeply to each other and responded from their heart. As leaders, Linda and I just sat back and watched in awe. Each woman became empowered in her element and spoke with such profundity and empathy. We were honored to be in the presence of such wise women. There was an air of mutual reverence and humility surrounding us. This is the majesty of women on retreat with focus and intention.
Karin Marcus
Personal Coach / Retreat Leader
“Let the beauty of what you love, be what you do” Rumi
Karin@Steppingoutcoaching.com 610-667-5247
www.SteppingOutCoaching.com

Jo Hatcher and Helene Van Manen Connect

2007-03-25T18:43:00.001-07:00

It's Spring - rains are coming and the first of April is here and Coaches all over are getting ready for their spring and summer Retreat Schedules. It's me: Coach Helene with the amazing Soul Collage Coach Jo Hatcher of California. Jo is one of those women that when you meet her, you instantly like her and connect.

This week be on the lookout for women that you connect with easily and naturally. Watch for the kind of women in groups that draw you in. What does it for you?

I often am really attracted to women who wear bright colored clothing or natural hand dyed fabrics. I love original jewelry; pieces that don't look mass manufactured. I watch for an easyness...an unrushed feeling around her body. You?

Coach Helene Van Manen www.coachHelene.com

Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive,
and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
— Anais Nin

The Results of Going On Retreat - Healed Body Image

2007-03-19T09:16:00.001-07:00

Something magical happened to me over our retreat and in terms of my body image ; all I can say is that I'm just not bothered any more. This is because I've shifted my focus in terms of a) not looking back with any negativity, b) accepting what's now (this is who I am and except for some minor glitches I'm healthy and have a lot going for me) and c) moving forward with an ongoing commitment to care for, love and honour myself each day. - MGB

2007-03-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

Maggie Butler at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs during Retreat Coach Training. She's a rock earth rock woman.

Back home...exhilarated and certified!

2007-03-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

I'm back in Ireland a little over 24 hours now, recovering from jet lag and nurturing the inspiration, love, support and energy I shared with 14 other coachings during our 5 days in Manitou Springs, Colorado.

I'll have more to say about this later, but I am so filled with gratitude for this amazing experience and wanted to send a heartfelt "Thank you" to all of you who were in Colorado: Michelle, Jo, Joanie, Rhonda, Ginny, Pat Oz, Patricia, Deb, Judy, Karen, Corrie, C A, Diane, and of course Helene who demonstrated the most excellent retreat leading skills imaginable! Some of you can be seen here, munching on cookies as we prepared for our Earth Day Flag photoshoot!

After our retreat - and my Retreat Coach Certification ceremony (which was held in the Land of Oz thanks to Coach C A Crossman) - I went directly to Dallas to be with my daughter en route home. When she met me at the airport she told me I glowed...that I was radiating energy and serenity - which is exactly how I felt inside.

For women, with their busy lives and complex roles, a retreat is an absolute necessity and not a luxury as Coach Judy has written below. There are untold, unique gifts that await you, the most powerful of which is meeting yourSelf. I must add, though, the experience of going on retreat with 14 other retreat coaches belongs in a category unto itself!

Thank you again all you wonderful, wise women!

Maggie Butler...Certified Retreat Coach!

A Retreat in 30 Minutes or Less

2007-03-07T14:53:00.000-08:00

I have a client who works in a dysfunctional, male dominated environment where alpha and beta males are all trying to mark their territories (and that is putting it nicely). During our coaching session this morning she confessed that she is weary of them trying to "piddle" on her, too.

This client is exhausted from having to "play their game." In a previous session, we had discovered that she has a latent Xena Warrior Princess in her and she has been letting her Xena persona come out when dealing with her colleagues. But she was wondering if the battles that Xena was waging were the source of exhaustion.

This is the perfect type of question to ask yourself for a mini-retreat. And the retreat doesn't have to be a big deal. It can be in the comfort of your own "nest" or in a beautiful location such as by a river or at the beach (I'm an Aquarius, so I'm partial to water locations). Grab a journal, a candle (if appropriate) and soothing music. Take a deep breath and close your eyes. In your mind's eye, see your inner wise woman come to you and sit with you. Do you need to be soothed? There have been many times that I've visualized myself crawling into the lap of my Inner Wise Julie just so that I could be nurtured. Ask your Wise Woman your question and then write down her response (without editing! I know we are prone to wanting to edit what we write down, but it is hard to listen to our Inner Wise Woman if we are telling her what to say!). I truly believe that our hearts, our Wise Woman will tell us what we need to know if we just stop to breathe and listen to her.

It turns out that my client realized that it wasn't Xena who was creating these battles but the last vestiges of her "victim" persona that was trying to create situations where she would be a victim. Her Xena self gives her strength and power to cut through the garbage that these colleagues try to throw her way. The Victim persona was the one creating her exhaustion. Together, we created a variation on Prince Charming cutting through the thorns in order to get to Sleeping Beauty. In order to get to the castle (the life she desires), my client will have to cut through the thorns. However, she is also the one in the castle, taking care of herself and getting the rest that she needs.

In September, I will be facilitating a Princess Power retreat in the Enchanted Forest (also known as Big Sur in California). In many fairy tales, the princess must go through the scary forest in order to find her personal power. During this weekend long retreat, we will explore those "spooks in the forest" that keep us from living our magical life. I hope you'll join us and find your Princess Power, too! Fairy Godmother Coaching Website

Until next time,
Make it a magical day!
Dr. Julie

Making New Friends

2007-03-07T05:47:00.000-08:00

What fun it was making new friends in Manitou Springs, Colorado when I went for the Retreat Coach Training. Every single coach there was amazing and interesting. I am pictured here with Deb who is on the left. We had taken a teleclass (telephone class) together and had spoken on the phone a few times, talking about our retreats but this was the first time that we had seen each other in person. As soon as I met Deb I felt like I had known her forever. Funny how things like that happen! We both enjoyed the adventures of the retreat. Some of the things we did included massage, watsu, (which I found an extraordinary adventure that I will post about later) mountain hiking, good food, journaling exercises, soaking in hot springs as well as pools and much more. It felt like such a wonderful gift that I gave to myself, to stand in the company of such powerful and loving women. I forget from time to time how much I need other women in my life. I get so busy with my family and work that the days go swiftly by and I need to stay mindful of my needs, as well as the needs others. So Manitou was a wonderful reminder of how I can nurture my self . To Retreat is not frivolous but truly essential! When I return I always have so much more of me to give to others which in turn makes it a win win situation!
Deb is from Connecticut and she is the ice skating coach who just sparkles! I am from Central New York and I am the coach who has a soft spot for horses and the outdoors!
Deb and I have some amazing retreats planned so check out our info often!

Judith Geiger

http://www.flyingchangecoaching.com

Retreat Coaches Grow Their Skills

2007-03-06T13:32:00.000-08:00

We danced
soaked in the hot springs at the desert reef
learned new skills
retreated alone and
together as a group

We laughed hard
journaled
had massages and warm stones
float over our bodies

We hiked mountain trails and
walked in mud and snow
We grew ourselves as Retreat Coach Leaders
so that we can go home and lead others
on their paths to wholeness

Listening To Your Inner Wise Woman On Retreat

2007-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Coach Judy Geiger (see her retreat blog at www.retreatcoach.typepad.com )

participated in the Colorado Retreat Coach Training last week and engaged in an exercise where you sit with a Wise Woman totem and allow her to speak with you. This is what Judy recounted:

"I went downstairs as soon as I woke and the wise woman metal was in her box. I brought her to my room with my cup of coffee. I held her to my heart and wrote what she said to me:

A wise woman knows when it is time to step into her magnificence and your time is now! Your life has been an evolution so don't stop now, keep pressing forward with the knowledge that you are beautiful in all ways and you never need to apologize for who you are or why you are here. Today's journey is significant in more than one way. Pay very close attention to what occurs."

Then Helene, you gave me this quote~

May you take one step, however small, towards that which you have always longed for. Now is the right time.

Ohhh I do get goose bumps!

14 Retreat Coaches Will Meet In Colorado Feb 28

2007-02-25T17:35:00.000-08:00

14 Coaches from 11 states and as far away Ireland ~ Maggie Butler www.maggiebutler.net ~
will arrive in Manitou Springs, Colorado for 5 days of learning with Retreat Mentor Coach Helene Van Manen in a training intensive that will combine growing their skills as Retreat Coaches as well as giving them each a chance to immerse themselves in a personal self care retreat. This experiential learning experience will be rich with diverse activities including day trips to the high mountains where they will visit Cottonwood Hot Springs as well as a day of eco literacy training on the trails at the Mountain Park Environmental Center.

What lucky Coaches these women are...as they will spend one day learning about Extreme Self Care for Leaders by visiting the warm magical yurt of Manitou Watsu which sits at the foot of Pikes Peak. And hailing from Santa Fe, New Mexico - Certified Retreat Coach CA Crossman
will lead the Coaches in a special evening mini-retreat - which will support their development both as Leaders and as women.

Watch for more details to come including photos of this gathering of the Coaches first week of March! Watch out Colorado! posted by Helene Van Manen

Retreat Coach Network - The Leading Retreat Coaches on the Planet Today

Retreating, and Opening, In Relationships

Take a Retreat and Detoxify your Soul by Certified Coach/Retreat Leader Victoria FittsMilgrim

New Year with New Challenges

Reflections from a Personal Retreat

Weekend Woman's Retreat

It's that time - time to register for The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat

Coach Victoria leads Quest for Your Authentic Leader

Retreat with Folks You'd Most Love to Learn with and Play With!

20 Retreat Coaches Gather in Colorado For Training and Retreating At the Foot of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains

FOR MOMS ONLY RETREAT BY TRUE LIFE COACH VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM

ARTrageous Goes to Chile!!

It's all part of the process

Retreat Coach Training in Colorado with Helene Van Manen is now taking registrations

Who is Our Authentic Self and How Do We Find Her?

Firelight and Candles Retreat led by Judith Geiger

Putting the "Happy" Back Into "Happy Holidays"

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS LIVING FROM YOUR SOUL RETREAT!

New Virtual Retreat Offer

A Kaleidoscope for Self-Care on Retreat

Questions for Women On Retreating

Retreating with Woman in Recovery

River Retreat with Helene Van Manen creates fun!

Inner Peace

You Are Amazing

If you're a women in transition this retreat camp is for you!!

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RIVER RAFTING RETREAT!

Judith Geiger's Country Retreat

The Savvy Savory Self-Care Retreat

Retreats Reduce Stress and Help Us Remember Who We Are

Maggie Butler... leading retreats here and there

Helene Van Manen retreats at Arches National Park

Living in Full Bloom

VICTORIA FITTSMILGRIM LEADS RETREAT FOR MOMS

ARTrageous Camps Michigan Muse-In

Robin Schepper's Birthday Party Retreat

Helene Van Manen reminds us that often we need to retreat within ourselves

Colorado retreat coaches

"Womyn On The Land" Celebrate, Sing and Dance with Coach Margie!

The Magical Enchanted Forest in Big Sur, CA

In the Presence of Wise Women

Jo Hatcher and Helene Van Manen Connect

Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." — Anais Nin

The Results of Going On Retreat - Healed Body Image

Back home...exhilarated and certified!

A Retreat in 30 Minutes or Less

Making New Friends

Retreat Coaches Grow Their Skills

Listening To Your Inner Wise Woman On Retreat

14 Retreat Coaches Will Meet In Colorado Feb 28

Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive,
and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
— Anais Nin