A Solo Retreat – Coming Home to Me
Last week, I took a bold step—a solo retreat. For most of my life, I’ve felt nervous about doing things alone. I’d cling to the idea of needing a “special person” to look after me, someone to soften the edges of uncertainty. But after a year of deep inner work, healing, and growth, I felt the call to go it alone. To stretch beyond my comfort zone. To meet myself more fully.
Retreats have always been a sanctuary for me—a place to connect with incredible women and to retreat, reflect, and realign. But lately, I’d been craving solitude. The kind of silence that lets you truly hear your own soul speak.
I discovered a solo retreat space in Hereford, lovingly offered by the inspirational Henny Flynn—whose podcast and book “All the Ways to Tell Myself I Love You” have touched my heart. When I learned she offered solo stays in a forest-surrounded cabin, it felt divinely timed.
Upon arrival, I was welcomed by Henny and her husband Anton, and shown to the cosiest cabin nestled amongst the trees. It was a sanctuary that felt both grounding and magical, with thoughtful touches and quiet beauty everywhere. A true home away from home.
I unpacked more than just bags—I unpacked emotions. Sharing my heart with Henny that first afternoon was a release like no other. I walked to the valley, sat under an oak tree by the river in the rain, and let the tears, fears, and doubts wash away. Nature held me.
Each morning began with birdsong, cacao, my drum and crystal bowls. I sang, danced, journaled, and wrote songs and poems that had long been waiting to be heard. The stillness was fertile ground for creativity and truth.
I drew three oracle cards: Receive. Grounded. Move. Each one mirrored my journey perfectly.
On Day Two, I climbed mountains and swam in the river. I got lost—and yet felt no fear. My “mistake” led me to a magical encounter with a fox cub, one of my power animals. It reminded me that getting lost sometimes leads us exactly where we’re meant to be.
Through a family constellation session, I gained a fresh perspective on my roots. I witnessed the energy of love pulling my family closer, even through hardship. The experience was deeply moving and symbolic.
By Day Three, I slowed down completely. I stayed close to the cabin, reflecting, integrating, resting. That evening, I pulled more oracle cards and sat by the river to write a final intention:
“Sitting at the water’s edge,
Inside I make myself a pledge
To honour me and all I believe
With grounding, support, And clarity.”
This retreat has changed me. I left with a nourished body, an open heart, and a quiet strength I hadn’t known I possessed. I no longer fear being away alone. In fact, I crave more of it.
Because now, I understand something powerful:
When you trust yourself, you’re never really alone. You always have the safety of coming home—to you.
Thank you Henny and Anton, from the bottom of my heart. I can’t wait to return.
