"Finding Alignment: Lessons from My First Women's Retreat"

When was the last time you felt completely in alignment—honoring your inner wisdom and living your values?

A bracelet to reflect our word of the year

I felt it this March, running my first Women’s Retreat in Craigleith, Ontario.

✅ Community

✅ Growth

✅ Vitality

Seven incredible women, a cozy, snowy chalet, movement, laughter, silliness, good food, and deep conversations.

In the past, I’ve worried about being “too much”—too intense, too pushy. In a group,  I’d stay up later than I wanted or hold back my needs to adapt. But this time was different.

I prepared upfront—polling the group to gauge the vibe, schedule preferences, and even playlist songs. With that input, I crafted a thoughtful agenda that honored the group but also allowed my own touch.

Then, I let it flow.

What did I learn?

• My bright light wasn’t blinding—it was nurturing. By honoring my vision and needs, I created space for others to do the same.

• “Caring for” and “taking care of” are different. These capable women took care of themselves beautifully—I just held the space.

• My love for a schedule? Turns out, it was a hit! It helped reduce their mental load and gave them permission to relax.

One session had us choosing a word to guide us this year. Mine was “nurture”—a reminder to slow down and tend to ideas and people with intention.

What’s your word for this year? How does it honor your values?