The Start of My Healing Journey

Did you know that before I even imagined becoming a wellness coach, I began by attending a retreat for myself? This was the summer of 2009 – it seems so long time ago, but it was the start of my journey to dive deeper into my own self-development which was needed for my own sanity.

As a young child, I had attended Yoga, Meditation and Ayurveda retreats and pilgrimages with my parents in India, and then continued that tradition when we moved to Toronto. Retreats gave me an experience that was so profound, even as a teenager. Each time I attended one – I learnt at least one new idea (if not many!) and made friendships with like minded folks.

Retreats Bring You Closer

I loved attending retreats, so I decided to co-facilitate them too, to help others experience transformations, just like I did. Why are retreats so profound? Because transformations and shifts can happen in a short period of time when you are held and supported with like-minded souls.

The first time I co-facilitated a retreat was with another passionate Yoga teacher in 2016 – and since then, I have not looked back. Each time I facilitate it, I see the impact on the participants – how it brings them closer to who they are meant to be. 

It’s not just about leading retreats but also gifting myself with a retreat – A habit that I have not stopped, because each time I attend, I evolve.  I decided to treat myself in 2024 by signing up for “Closer Together – A Solar Eclipse retreat” in Kingston, Ontario which was going to be lead by Sophie Grégoire Trudeau and David Chow. I chose to attend this retreat because I have been following Sophie Grégoire Trudeau for a few years on Instagram (IG). I admire her passion to create awareness for mental health and overall well-being. In the past, she had presented some inspiring guests and speakers, during her IG posts, especially during Covid-19. 

An Auspicious Occasion

On April 8th, Philippe and I drove to Kingston, Ontario to attend a three day and two-night once-in-a-lifetime experience of a Solar Eclipse while doing some yoga, meditation and Kirtan chanting. A moment like this does not happen often. According to Vedic astrology this was a time of great importance because it was a Solar Eclipse and also the start of the luni-solar calendar, new beginnings and the nine days of the creative feminine energy. It was the most potent time in 2024 to set intentions on what we wanted to create in the year ahead. 

Believe it or not, we were greeted at the beautiful Retreat Chalet, by both, Sophie and David with warm hugs. At first, I was intimidated by the presence of Sophie, her beautiful aura and bubbly energy that she carries with her. I couldn’t believe that I was there – in her presence! This was also the first time that Sophie was leading a retreat like this. (talk about new beginnings!)

I had always admired her from far and now I was there with her and a small group of 30+ retreat participants. Before we even started the program of the retreat, all of us experienced the solar eclipse moment – the time when the loon on the lake thought it was night and started wailing. The music inside the chalet was humming with mantras and beautiful vibrations, just perfect for this auspicious time. 

There were so many highlights during this retreat, including a restful restorative yoga class lead by Sophie, which put me in total relaxation mode. My muscles were so thankful. The chanting of mantras with David touched many chords inside me, connecting me to my Indian Vedic roots. The food was so lovingly prepared by the wonderful cooks – all calming and Satvik for the gut. 

Perhaps, the most magical moment was when Sophie coached me to get inside the icy cold lake with her, Philippe, and her close friend. Well – guess what? I reluctantly agreed after Sophie gave me some tips on how to take a dip in the icy cold lake – without fearing the cold. Yup – she held on to my hands, asked me to look into her eyes and say some powerful affirmations. And wow!  I could not believe it – I surprised myself too. We did this ritual 3 times – sauna, cold water plunge and relax on the deck. The second and third plunge was much easier. I had just overcome a fear of the cold and thanks to Sophie, who personally coached me through this. I had even a deeper respect for her because I resonated with her authenticity, down-to-earth personality, fun attitude, and adventurous spirit!!

Syncronicities

The retreat was even more magnificent because I met four other inspiring women who lived in the Hudson, Quebec area (where we recently moved!) and they had travelled to attend this special retreat. It turned out that we were all neighbours living only 5 to 15 minutes away from each other. (What are the odds that we meet up in Kingston?) I made new friendships and have a wonderful new network! I had the chance to meet more interesting souls coming from various backgrounds – including a doctor, a fitness instructor, many experienced yoga teachers, business owners. The list goes on and on….

So, this is why I say that retreats can change your trajectory in life. 

Are you ready to join me in Mont-Tremblant this year? Check the pictures of this location – It’s set up on top of the mountains and surrounded by nature, streams, and gorgeous views. This year, we have own personal chef too!