I Went On A Women’s Retreat And Unplugged For A Weekend

When I think of a retreat I picture a group of people singing bible songs around a camp fire. Truth is, a retreat could change your perspective on life.

I sat at a long table with women of all ages, of all walks of life, with different goals and values. We had all come here alone and for ourselves, to improve things in our own lives, big or small changes.

The weekend had been an internal, emotional rollercoaster but I felt like I had a new lease of life when I came back.

The Reset is a retreat designed to give women the space to unplug and reconnect with what they want to achieve, giving them the tools and support they need to make changes in their lives.

It's ideal for those looking to achieve a healthier, happier life, but need the drive to get started.

The retreat is run by two Dublin based women, Lauren Healy and Vicky Shilling. They are there to guide you along your path of self discovery over the weekend.

What's the suss?

Picture this - you need a break from everything and everyone, so you pack up a bag and head off on a mini holiday, on your own.

For some, this sounds like the dream. For others, perhaps a bit daunting.

No matter what way it may seem, it's super beneficial to take some you-time and immerse yourself in a completely new circle, with women you probably might not have met in any other situation.

I had no idea what to expect and I had never taken a trip on my own so I was a bit nervous at first.

As soon as I arrived however, I realised everyone else probably felt the same and we began to mix quickly. Because I hadn't ever met anyone on the retreat, I got to spend time and have the chats with each person individually. There were no clicks, everyone just got along and I learnt so much from each person.

The retreat was based in an old country manor in Meath. Each person has there own room and there are tiny, helpful affirmations stuck all over the walls to encourage self-love over the weekend.

There was very little signal on site, so it wasn't just a weekend to unplug mentally, I also had a social media cleanse.

It's an opportunity for women who constantly feel too busy to prioritise themselves to make changes to their work or daily routines and get more from life.

What does the retreat involve?

The reset involves a set of activities, workshops, meditation and personal time.

It's a super chill vibe, you can participate in whatever you like and there's plenty of time to rest and recharge.

There's a pilates and yoga class with Julie Burke, walks, a cookery course and a movie night during the weekend along with some deadly workshops centred around diet, organisation, goals and personal growth.

Where is it?

The first retreat took place in the stunning Loughcrew Estate in County Meath. It was the ideal location - An oasis of calm, with nothing but hills and trees around it - I had the best nights sleep ever, it was so quiet.

There's an option for what kind of room you would like. I stayed in a twin room, so if you were really uncomfortable at the thought of going alone you could share a room.

What's on the menu?

The entire weekend was catered by Irish chef, Sinéad Delahunty.

Sinéad made the most deliciously healthy food for us over the weekend. I usually tend to pig out and get a takeaway over the weekend and wind up feeling crappy after, so this was such a nice change.

She also inspired me to make my own meals to bring to work and showed me how easy it was to do.

We had colourful salads for lunch and veggie curries for dinner along with some tasty sweet treats for dessert.

Each guest is also gifted with their own goodie bag, loaded with healthy treats to take home.

The dream.

How does it work for you?

On arrival, you're given a book that includes exercises to help you achieve your goals, recipes of all of the food you've tried over the weekend and weekly planners.

There are workshops everyday to help you move in the right direction and find out what's holding you back. During these workshops I realised what I really wanted for myself.

As someone who's passionate about their job, it's easy to get a bit caught up in it. I find myself prioritising my work over my self, my social life and my own goals.

The retreat gave me a bit of a kick up the arse and I reflected on this and got that buzz again, a fire in my belly, to work harder and work smarter to get where I want to be.

Physically, the pilates and yoga gave me a boost in energy and my body felt great after. I came home ready to start exercising more and being active.

What's the cost?

All prices include two nights accommodation, all food and drink throughout the weekend and all sessions including yoga, Pilates and meditation.

Rates are dependent on the room you choose and whether you're happy to share a room or a bed.

The prices range depending on the room from €550 - €750 for the weekend.

How do I book?

You can book by clicking here.

The Reset benefitted me in more ways than one.

It's the kind of break I didn't even know I needed until I finished it and I felt like a new person. I felt physically and mentally positive and ready to take on whatever challenges came my way.

I met women from all walks of life, we laughed, we cried and we made friends. We have a Facebook group where we are all still connected and keeping up with each other.

If you're looking to reset, recharge and reconsider - This retreat is a great place to start.

Time to grow!