Dear Journal, This week has been so soothing for my soul. Spending time by the lake has brought a sense of peace that I’ve been yearning for and the perfect ending to this retreat. One of the most memorable experiences was relaxing in the kayak in the lake surrounded by lilypads. Aretha guided us through a lesson on breathing and letting go with the flow. As we paddled, she encouraged a pause, look for the flow of the water, and continue on our journey. Sometimes the journey is easy and we can go with the flow and at other times we need to pedal upstream so we save our energy for those moments. But if you don’t plan your journey and look whats ahead sometimes you find you’re just wasting energy. We also did some breathing and counting techniques, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly to the count of five. It was a simple exercise, but it helped me to relax especially when I felt a little anxious. I let my fingers skim the lake as we drifted on by. I felt the tension in my body melt away, replaced by a calm I hadn’t felt in a long time. We also learned about the life of the lilypads and how they grow through the mud to reach the surface. Aretha used this as a metaphor for our own lives, reminding us that even when we feel stuck or mired in difficulties, we have the potential to rise above and bloom. This imagery resonated with me deeply, as I’ve often felt bogged down by my past and my struggles. While kayaking, we encountered some adorable little frogs hopping around the lilypads. I couldn’t resist naming one of them—Lily, of course. She was so cute and hopped from one lilypad to the next. I swear she waved at me at one point or maybe the fresh air has made me delulu. In the afternoons, we spent time floating on the lake, practicing mindfulness and allowing our minds to cleanse. Aretha’s guidance helped us focus on the present moment, to let go of lingering thoughts and just be. It was a powerful experience, feeling the gentle sway of the water beneath me and the warmth of the sun above. As the time at the retreat comes to an end I sit by the lake, the water gently lapping at the shore. I feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to reset. It’s just the beginning of the retreat, but I can already feel the positive impact it’s having on my spirit. Catch you later, Alex
