by Laura Rennie | Apr 29, 2020 | Retreats
Whether you’re part of a religious group, wellness club, parenting co-op, or business cohort, you and your peers likely want to work together to meet mutual goals. Perhaps you want to raise money for a cause, learn how to communicate better, or bring in new members. One of the best ways your group can reach those goals is by attending a group retreat.
A group retreat can be as low-key as attending a workshop in a nearby town, or can be as intensive as a weekend getaway. The most effective group retreats will offer hands-on activities, group coaching, and flex or free time for free-flowing conversation. There are several benefits of group retreats. These include:
Group Retreats Improves Morale
When was the last time your group bonded over a shared experience? Offering your group a morale-booster, such as going on a hike, playing a new game, or cooking a meal together, will help everyone feel more relaxed around one another. This is especially beneficial for groups that have a clear leader or “boss,” because it evens out the playing field. Who wouldn’t love to see their pastor try ziplining for the first time, or listen to their wellness coach share a personal story?
Group Retreats Create Cohesion
One of the best aspects of a group retreat is that it gets everyone out of their comfort zone. This might intimidate some people at first, but it won’t take long to break the ice. If you’ve never attended a group retreat before, commit to being open to new experiences. Make a point to engage with everyone in your group. You never know, you might find that your coworker you’ve hardly spoken to shares your favorite hobby, or that the younger woman in your wellness group is looking for accountability from a more seasoned person such as yourself.
Even if everyone in your group already knows one another, a group retreat will encourage deeper personal connections. Through workshops and team-building activities, your group will grow closer and learn how to work more effectively together.
Group Retreats Promote Personal Growth
Group retreats don’t simply benefit the group as whole — they also impact each individual. A person can learn a lot about themselves when they’re with a group of people. One person might find it uncomfortable to try new things, while another person might blossom from being put in a strange environment. Ideally, the person heading up the group retreat will ask everyone ahead of time what they aim to get out of the experience. You might find yourself learning something new, making friends, or teaching others about your areas of expertise.
Is your group ready to try something new? Maximize the full potential of your team by booking a group retreat!
by Kim Wilson | Apr 14, 2020 | Health, Nutrition
As we transition into the spring season, our lifestyle changes and our cravings for nourishment may shift. This could be in the form of food, connection, relationships and other areas of fulfillment. Though this is a natural transition, we are experiencing a time where our day to day is being shifted. We are more limited with food choices as grocery store visits are less frequent. With the warmer temperatures and days of longer sunlight, we want to get outside and play but are now having to stay in and isolate. We are living in an uncertain time and one where many are having to pivot.
There have been some incredible examples of silver lining through this time. We are seeing dining room and kitchen tables converting to church, prayer and home schooling. Families are connecting more through games, cooking in the kitchen and friends are enjoying social time through online spaces. We are discovering new ways to get creative, restructure jobs, express creativity, learn and grow.
I’ve been hearing many women sharing and discussing their desires for a healthier “new normal,” balance, less stress and more self-care. As women, we carry many responsibilities and some of those are being shifted right now. We’re pouring more into our homes, families, relationships, careers and facing additional emotions and feelings. Possibly leaving our own needs and desires on the back burner. Ladies, I am here to tell you that your needs are important. Your self care is part of survival and it’s not selfish.
For me, I’ve had to develop a new routine. I will admit that the first two weeks had some good days and some not so great days. I decided that things needed to change in order for me to discover a new way of life that supporting my health and wellbeing. Not just for my own body and mind but so I could also show up the best possible to serve my family, friends, clients and community.
I set up a daily workout or movement schedule. Using what equipment I had at home and sticking to my gym routine. I created a menu for my meals and a shopping list since I knew trips to the grocery were cutting back. I’ve been connecting more through online platforms to check in with friends and family and connect through coaching. I committed to a Quarantine Kitchen with Kim cooking “show” to help others during this time. It also keeps me accountable to shower daily, get out of my yoga pants and implement self-care. I’m now adding in more Epsom salt baths each week for relaxation, stress management and immune support. These are just a few of my “new norm” routines that support my own bio-individuality.
Creating and implementing new habits and routines will help support you during this time. Maybe your self care looks like an Epsom salt bath. Maybe it’s a Zoom connection with a girlfriend and a glass of wine. Have you been saying “I wish I had more time to cook these recipes?” Well, now we have the time and more connection in the kitchen. While you’re cooking, throw a dance party with your kiddos or spouse. Different areas of life are now merging together and we are discovering how that looks.
Through my coaching programs and working one on one with clients, I emphasize several areas that support one another in life. These areas are fuel for life (nourishing foods), movement for life (whatever movement you enjoy), surrounded for life (relationships), fulfilled for life (passion, purpose, spirituality, and joy) and loved for life (self-care and love). Using a holistic approach, I educate others about how these areas of the “wellness wheel” are connected with one another.
Many if not all of these categories (in addition to careers) are being impacted during this time. They are also connected in many ways. Do you find yourself eating differently now? Maybe you’re feeling stressed, bored, uncertain of your career or experiencing tension in a relationship. Being mindful of how we are feeling, what we are thinking and our overall mindset is very important. Our thoughts, feelings and choices are not only harming or nourishing our wellbeing, but they affect our immune system too.
As we transition through this season and the ones ahead, I recommend reflecting on the different areas of life as mentioned (nourishment, movement, relationships, fulfillment and self-care and career. Where can you make changes? What changes do you think should be made? Would a new routine or schedule assist your mind, body and overall lifestyle? Spring is a great time to detox. Though it may be harder to do so with food right now, it’s a good time to release things that are not serving you well. Consider these areas (above) and see how they are intertwining in your life. Looking at a mind, body and spirit approach. How can you get creative with combining them? How can you nourish them?
Ladies, I tell all of my clients to think about the oxygen mask on the airplane. We have to put ours on first so that we can show up greater for ourselves and others. It’s time to move from the back burner. It’s time to pivot!
Stay safe and well!
by Laura Rennie | Apr 7, 2020 | Personal Development, Professional Development, Retreats
Are you planning to travel to Sedona, Arizona with us in October? This city in the desert is a must visit for nature and/or art lovers, with its vibrant art culture and stunning red-rock formations. Today we’re sharing packing tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Pack proper skincare and makeup
If you’re traveling from a cooler or more humid climate, the dry heat of Sedona might be a shock to your system. Our best packing tips for your face and body include gentle facial cleansers, hydrating lip balm, and body lotion. Items that will moisturize and protect your skin and lips are a must. Sunscreen is a must!
One of the bonuses to traveling to a place known for its natural beauty is that you can embrace your own natural beauty. If you plan on spending time outdoors (which really is a must in Sedona), opt for a tinted moisturizer with SPF over heavy foundation. Swipe on some bronzer and lip balm, and you’re good to go!
Layers are a must
While you might find yourself sweating in the sun during a day-time hike, evenings in Sedona are comfortably cool. The best time to visit Sedona is in the fall, when temperatures range from the 50’s to high 70’s.
Layers are always a great addition to your suitcase, because of how versatile they are. You won’t need a heavy winter coat for Sedona — a light sweater or jacket will see you through the crisp nights. And don’t forget a bathing suit if your accommodations have a pool, or if you wish to visit a spa!
Select sturdy footwear
Sedona is known for having excellent trails, so plan to pack sturdy shoes if your plans include hiking. If you don’t typically hike much, look for a pair of quality walking sneakers that have good grip. Two to three pairs of shoes should be plenty for your trip. Sturdy walking shoes and sandals are a must, but throw in a pair of dressier shoes if you wish. Some brands we love: Merrells, Chacos, Keens, and Tevas. Want more direction? Check out this list of 20 best hiking boots and shoes from Travel + Leisure!
Travel in style
Don’t forget to think about what you’ll wear on the plane! Consider items that are both comfortable and stylish, such as a maxi dress layered with a soft sweater. If your goal is to pack light, plan to wear your travel outfit twice — both to and from Sedona.
A carry-on suitcase should be plenty big enough for a weekend in Sedona, but plan to use a larger suitcase for an extended trip. Stash a foldable travel backpack in the front of your suitcase to use on your hike or to bring purchases home in.
Don’t forget travel accessories!
Be sure to pack a camera (or use your cell phone for pictures), charging cords, and a journal. You’ll also want to pack sunglasses, and perhaps a hat if you want extra sun protection. Leave your laptop at home if you can — Sedona is too beautiful of a place to spend your visit distracted by work. A collapsible water bottle is convenient for both your plane ride and exploring the sights.
Need more packing tips? Check out this extensive list of items to remember on your trip to Sedona!
by Laura Rennie | Mar 20, 2020 | Health, Kelye Rouse-Brown
When was the last time you got your friends together for a girl’s trip? Intentionally setting aside time to spend with girlfriends is worth the time and expense. Plus, there are countless health benefits that come with booking a vacation!
Let’s dive into four specific reasons why a girl’s trip is good for your health.
1. It gives you something to look forward to
Did you know that simply planning a trip can increase your happiness? A 2010 study showed that the participants felt most happy before their vacation! Imagine the pleasure you would experience if you set a date on the calendar for a girl’s trip. You and your friends would have a ton of fun things to discuss: where to go, what hotel to book, which restaurants to try — and so on!
Take your excitement to the next level by setting up a countdown on your phone. Treat yourself to something new, such as a stylish passport case, fashionable (but comfortable) shoes, or a satisfying book.
2. Female friendships are good for the soul
Psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada says, “Female friends [are] great for your self-esteem. A good female friend won’t fat-shame you or let you fat-shame yourself, they will tell you why you deserve that promotion or why your partner should treat you better. After walking away from a conversation with a good female friend you should feel confident and supported.”
While you might get plenty of social interaction with a spouse or coworkers, there’s something special about female friendships. Many women are empathetic and affirming, and can offer loving advice or join you in a good-for-the-soul laugh fest. A girl’s trip is a worthy investment in nurturing your friendships!
3. Time away increases creativity
Do you ever feel like you can’t escape the monotony of your routine? It’s hard to get creative juices when you’re in a rut. Vacation is the ultimate way to get unstuck! Breaking from your routine allows your mind and body to work in new ways. You might find yourself coming home with new ideas and perspectives.
Take advantage of the change in your schedule to try something new. Need ideas? Try meditation, journaling, or getting out in nature. Or learn a new skill! Cooking classes, dance classes, and language classes are all fun ways to get out of your comfort zone and be immersed in a different culture.
4. A girls trip promotes adult play
A girl’s trip is the perfect opportunity to engage in some good old-fashioned fun! Adult play has a ton of health benefits. It has the power to lower stress, increase brain function, help create stronger connections, and leave you feeling more energetic!
Go for a group hike! Sign up for a paint and wine class! Hunker down for a night of board games and jigsaw puzzles! Or, consider going “old school.” Think of activities you and your friends enjoyed as kids or young adults, and partake in those same activities while on your trip.
Are you ready to get away with girlfriends? Join us for a long weekend in sunny Sedona, Arizona! You’ll enjoy plenty of opportunities for connection, creativity, and play. Click here for more details and to register!
by Laura Rennie | Mar 10, 2020 | Group Coaching, Laura Hall
Have you heard of group coaching? (Or, are you interested in learning more about group coaching?) If so, you might be wondering what the difference is between group coaching and team coaching. There are many similarities between the two. Both types of coaching involve a facilitator working with a set of individuals. In both cases, individuals are looking to grow professionally through increasing leadership skills, learning ways to effectively communicate, and more.
But, there is a key difference between group coaching and team coaching. First, let’s define what each type of coaching entails.
What is Group Coaching?
In a group coaching setting, people who have a common interest gather together to work on individual goals. Each person has the opportunity to share his or her goals, and is held accountable by other members of the group. While a facilitator guides the conversation, members of the group are encouraged to share their perspectives and experiences. Thus, peer learning is accomplished.
Benefits of Group Coaching
Group Discussion
Do you ever feel stuck? You might be approaching your issue from the wrong angle or mindset. Group coaching provides a platform for each individual person to receive input from the rest of the group. Plus, you might be an expert on a subject that another individual needs help with!
Accountability
Never underestimate the power of accountability! With group coaching, both the facilitator and fellow group members will check in to see how you’re moving forward towards meeting your goals. While you will note your progress at each meeting, you also have the opportunity to create check-ins outside of the structured group meeting. That brings me to…
Mutually beneficial relationships
You might find yourself in a group with another person who has a similar goal to yours. You could be in a similar line of business. Regardless of the reason why, you’ll likely find yourself connecting with one or more members of your group. If this happens, look for ways to meet up outside of the group coaching setting.
What is Team Coaching?
Like group coaching, team coaching involves increasing the professional development skills of participants involved. However, instead of working on individual goals, participants work together to set goals and make decisions. This is a great option for workplace teams who have undergone a change in leadership or who are still getting to know one another. In a team coaching setting, each person’s individual skill set is seen as a valuable and vital part of the team’s success.
Which Type of Coaching is Right For Me?
Are you looking to meet goals you’ve established for yourself as an individual? Would you like to receive input and accountability from other people? If so, give group coaching a try.
Are you part of a team of coworkers or managers who would benefit from establishing shared goals? The success of team coaching is based on each person working together.
Still not sure if group coaching is right for you? We’d love to help!
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Our next group coaching session will discuss how strengths and money relate to one another. Financial Coach Jane Helm and Executive Coach Carol deLaski will lead a small group of women in exploring and applying two powerful tools, Money Personality and Strengths Finder. Learn more and register here!
by Carol deLaski | Mar 2, 2020 | Carol deLaski, Personal Development, Self-Care
This is the Year of the Woman when we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. At the risk of dating myself I have the Helen Reddy song, ‘I am Woman’ going through my head…
I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back an’ pretend
’cause I’ve heard it all before
And I’ve been down there on the floor
No one’s ever gonna keep me down again
CHORUS
Oh yes I am wise
But it’s wisdom born of pain
Yes, I’ve paid the price
But look how much I gained
If I have to, I can do anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman…
You can probably tell that these lyrics are referring to more than just physical strength. In addition to sheer stamina, what other attributes contribute to a woman’s overall, wholistic strength? What makes her resilient and capable of bouncing back from adversity? The answers will vary for each of us, but let’s look for commonalities.
What makes women strong and are we truly invincible?
To begin with…let’s think about the word strong and understand what we mean by wholistic strength. These are the qualities that make you the unique woman you are. They show up in the way you think and feel as well as in your physical and spiritual activities.
I wonder if you’re similar to me and can more readily identify the strengths of your friends and colleagues than you can for yourself. It’s easier for me to state what I treasure and appreciate about others, but much harder to ascertain that about myself.
Yet like our unique thumbprints, I believe that we each have our own individual ‘soul-prints’ that comprises our strengths, weaknesses, core values, and beliefs. God gave us each an individual design which we continue to develop through our life experiences, whether consciously or unconsciously.
Over the years, a certain degree of humility has kept me quiet about my natural talents. I’ve learned, though, that I need to identify these strengths and talents in order to gain confidence and to be aware of my blind spots, i.e. the areas that I don’t understand well about myself. If I’m unclear about my talents, how can I effectively manage them? It’s necessary to know what my God-given talents are in order to optimally use them for good. I will never be perfect, but being dedicated to lifelong learning helps me to continually evolve into a better version of myself.
I have been on a journey of greater self-awareness about my strengths for the past 7 years. Each day holds new opportunities for me to learn more about myself and how I manage my talents. I fine-tune how I use my gifts based on feedback that I receive.
Did you ever play the Hot and Cold game as a child? It’s almost like a verbal Hide and Seek. One person is the Seeker and leaves the room while the group quietly identifies an object to be found. When the Seeker returns to the room, she searches for the object based on guidance from the group. The group members, however, may only say ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ when directing the seeker. As the seeker moves farther away from the object the group says “cold, colder, cold”. As she moves closer to the chosen object the group encourages her with “warm, warmer, warm” and shouts “hot” when she touches it. There is delight on both sides when the Seeker finds what she is looking for. This simple childhood game is a great example of the need to give and receive feedback. We can be lost and off-course without it and waste unnecessary time going in the wrong direction. With a little help from our friends, we can more easily find our way.
We each have a role in guiding one another towards success. How? By giving positive feedback to reinforce behaviors that are working well. You do that when you let others know what you appreciate about them. It’s also crucial to let them know when their actions aren’t working well. Without feedback, we don’t know what to change. Effective delivery of feedback is a key leadership competency. You practice it every day whether you’re aware of it or not.
I enjoy teaching that our strengths have a light and a dark side. The light side is when they are working well and getting the results that we want. The dark side is when they are not working well. They are overwhelming others, or us, with too much of a good thing. I like to think of each of my top strengths as having a dial where I can turn them up or down to calibrate the desired impact that I want in different situations. With conscious observation, I can then notice when I need to use more or less of my strengths.
For example, my top strength according to Gallup’s Strength Finder assessment is empathy. That means I tend to lead with my heart, follow my intuition, and sense other’s emotions with ease. Simply put, I care a lot. It serves me well when I am connecting with others. I’ve been told that I’m a good listener and people can sense that I genuinely care. It can overwhelm me, though, when I am bombarded by negativity on the news or when I feel powerless to help improve a hurting person or situation. My empathy can also overwhelm others when I’m being too sensitive and trying to connect on a level that they may not be ready or willing to do so.
Empathy is only one of my strengths and I could tell you much more that I’ve learned about dialing it up and down. That’s another article! I have nine more strengths in my top ten and each one provides a wealth of information for me as a leader, a family member, and a friend. The truth is I will always be learning more about my strengths because each day provides new opportunities and configurations of people, situations, and experiences for learning. Knowing and owning my strengths gives me a powerful tool to better understand and use my unique thumbprint and God-given design for good.
Resilient women know how to use their strengths effectively and apply them wholistically throughout all areas of their life.
Are we invincible? What about weakness?
Unlike the superwoman in the song ‘I am Woman,’ this woman is not invincible.
It’s important to not only understand what makes us strong but also to examine areas of weakness. What do you do when you’re in the dark side of your strengths? One option is to turn it down and turn up a different strength. When my empathy is on overload, I know I need to re-calibrate by dialing up my strategic thinking strengths. My head balances my heart when it’s on overload. What else can we do?
Personally, when I get to the end of my own abilities (which is every day) I lean into my faith. I believe in a God and higher power who is supremely capable. In fact, I believe it is part of the divine design for us to hit our limits so that we will reach out for help. We aren’t meant to be all-powerful and all capable. We are meant to be in relationship with others – to need them – and to be needed. That’s the human balance.
In my book, Lost and Found: Discovering Strength in Love and Faith, I share my perspective that relationships are a beautiful kaleidoscope made up of many triangles. I picture each of my relationships as a triangle with God at the top and myself and the other person making up the other two points. As we each grow our relationship with God, the bond between the two of us grows stronger.
I also believe the Good Book which frequently says, “when you are weak, I am strong.” It reminds me of God’s promise to be present and provide His strength when I reach the end of my limits. It encourages me and reminds me that I am never alone. I don’t have to be strong and have it altogether all the time. I am designed to be imperfect and in need of help, both divine and human.
I can be a strong woman…and a weak woman at the same time. I can be good at some things and not good at other things. I can embrace my talents and relax in knowing that I am a work in progress, always learning more about how to effectively use those talents.
With that knowledge, I can sing “I am woman, hear me roar! I am woman watch me soar” into the realm of God’s love and guidance.
Resilient women know their limits and lean on their support team when needed. They are connected and know how to give and receive help.
What is your unique Strengths story?
We each have a story to tell about our individual qualities and how we use them. How have they contributed to your own resilience? What have you learned over the years about the light and dark sides of your strengths? When do your talents work best? When do they overwhelm you? What strategies do you have to address areas of weakness? What do you do when you reach your limit?
I invite you to discuss these questions and explore your strengths and resilience story with me at Discover & Own Your Strengths Evening Retreat on March 25th from 5:30-7:30 pm. I hope to see you there!
by LauraH | Feb 15, 2020 | Personal Development
“Just start writing”
That’s the voice I heard inside my head as I lay in bed this morning trying to mentally figure out what this blog was going to be about. I was struggling, as I often do when it comes to my turn in the blog rotation schedule, to figure out what I wanted to write about. My mind was swirling with topics and ideas of how the structure would be laid out when I very clearly heard… Just start writing… so here I am doing just that.
Let’s see where this goes!
I’m currently listening to We Are The Luckiest by Laura McKowen on Audible and the chapter I just finished was titled ‘Find a House Where the Truth is Told’. YES!!!! Oh, how I resonate with that title. I’ve been looking for these types of houses my entire life. My big vision is to find a world where the truth is told.
I want this and it scares me at the same time.
I want it because I’ve always been a seeker of truth… my truth AND your truth, which I know will be different. I want to know and understand myself at the deepest levels and I want you to feel comfortable sharing your truth with me because you know I’m a safe space and will not judge you. I want to be a house where the truth is told.
It scares me because what if I can’t handle my truth OR what if you can’t handle my truth. Will I internally beat myself up? Will you think I’m weird or crazy?
When I picture in my mind’s eye this house where the truth is told ( which by the way isn’t really a house, but rather a community of people that I surround myself with) I see teachers and students working together to support one another. When I look around I see how I am sometimes in the role of student and sometimes in the role of teacher… and you are too!
My teachers are those people who are unapologetically speaking/living their truth and are trusting that in their vulnerable sharing they will be setting an example for others to follow. Some of them are public figures like Brené Brown, Byron Katie and Laura McKowen, the author I’m currently reading, but many of them are not. They are everyday people who just happen to be within my sphere of influence.
My students are those of you who are learning from me in some way. Maybe you are reading this blog and resonating with it… maybe you are following me on FaceBook… Maybe we run in some of the same circles… Some of you I know are students because you’ve told me so, but many of you I don’t know. I am trusting that by showing up as authentically as I can each day, I am reaching the people I am meant to whether I know them or not.
I know I am always both a teacher and a student. The same is true for you! Do you get that?!? As one of my favorite teachers and poets, Rumi says, “We’re all just walking each other home”.
My One Word for this year is UNVEILED. If you aren’t familiar with the One Word process, I invite you to read about it here. This word has me thinking that there are layers to the truth. For me, my superficial truths are easy to share. They are always on the surface where they are easy for everyone to see, including me. However, we all have deeper truths, as well, that aren’t as easy to see. My suspicion is that some of my truths are so veiled right now that even I can’t see them. I’ve covered them up to protect them and to protect myself. Here again, I find myself both excited and scared at the same time.
One way I know that I will be continuing to build my House Where the Truth is Told is through FaceBook live videos. I’ve been using this platform to share from a place of authenticity. It has been a practice in unveiling for me and I plan to continue this when the spirit moves me.
Another way I love to connect is face-to-face. If our paths cross in any way in the future and you want to dig deep with me, yes please, let’s have a vulnerable, truth unveiling conversation! Sure, it might feel scary but I promise it will be exciting too!
Finally, I want to let you know about an upcoming opportunity…At the end of this month, I will be facilitating a safe space in-person group discussion where we can share our truths together. At this event, we will focus our truth-telling on our spiritual beliefs. We will explore questions such as: How do you define God? Are you clear about what you really believe or don’t believe? How do you put your spiritual beliefs into practice? These are some of the truths I will invite you to uncover and share during our time together at that event.
You’re invited to join this evening retreat titled Sacred Practices on Feb 26th with the Wholistic Woman community. You can read more about it here.
As always, if you would like to connect or have questions for me, please feel free to reach out! If we aren’t already FB friends and my videos sound like something you’d like witness, please friend request me and let me know you read this blog.
~ Laura
by Casey Clark | Feb 14, 2020 | Personal Development, Relationships, Retreats, Sedona
Explore and Grow with us in Red Rock Country!
Join the Wholistic Coaches on a journey to reconnect with your Wise Self in beautiful, soulful Sedona, Arizona. Create deeper connections with like-minded and adventurous women as you:
Step into deeper peace and find new ways to understand and accept yourself wholistically ~ heart, mind, body, and spirit…
Discover mindsets that unleash your full potential, making your life one that inspires yourself and others…
Identify what’s been holding you back and get unstuck. Learn how to navigate towards the more genuine you to experience greater joy and passion…
Learn to love all that you are and let go of what you are not…
Know more deeply what it means to be your authentic self. Discover who she is and how to empower her to shine.
Savor and take a Soulful Sedona attitude home with you to stay fully present and peaceful when the stress of juggling work, family, and personal activities reoccurs…
Enjoy a unique getaway full of fun and adventure simultaneously supported by the grace and wisdom of a very special Wholistic team led by your personal, skillful coaches Kelye, Laura, and Carol.
What are the retreat highlights?
Your registration for the Soulful Sedona Retreat includes:
- Welcome reception featuring Southwest appetizers and signature prickly pear margarita
- Pink Jeep tour with picnic lunch
- Vortex Hike guided by an expert local naturalist, with picnic lunch
- Coaching conversations with Carol, Kelye, and Laura
- Sparkling sunset toasts
- Special local dinner on Saturday night
- Wholistic journal/pen set to capture your experiences
What is the retreat agenda?
Thursday 10/8/20
Welcome Reception 6:30pm – 8pm
Friday 10/9/20
Rise & Shine Program with Coaches
Pink Jeep Tour of Sedona and surrounding area with picnic lunch
Afternoon Free Time (suggested activities):
- Sedona Rouge Spa
- Discover Tlaquepaque – Sedona’s shopping and art destination
- Chapel of the Holy Cross – chapel rises 200 hundred feet above ground surface between red rock formations, great architectures and Sedona views
Sunset with Wholistic Coaches – Calm your mind and spirit
Saturday 10/10/20
Rise and Shine program with coaches – 8:30 am
Morning Bell Rock Vortex Guided Hike and picnic lunch
Led by expert Guide Feather who will teach about the plant-life, geology, history, and Native American influences for 2-3 hours; Village of Oak Creek; 4 mile roundtrip
Afternoon Free Time (suggested activities):
- Sedona Rouge Spa
- Discover Tlaquepaque – Sedona’s shopping and art destination
- Explore Boynton Canyon Trail or Cathedral Rock Vortexes
Sunset with Wholistic Coaches
Sunday 10/9/20
Sedona Retreat Farewell ~ coach debrief ~ travel home
Note, exact times are approximate and subject to change. You will receive an official agenda before the retreat.
I've never traveled with a coach. What will that be like?
Our certified coaches are present to support your development and exploration during this destination retreat. All coaches will be involved daily to meet you where you are and provide a safe space for your growth and enjoyment of this experience.
Who will I meet?
The Founding Coaches and their team of experts will share their gifts, expertise and tangible takeaways to empower you to move forward and create more of what you desire.
The team includes your boutique hotel staff, your Pink Jeep tour guides, our vortex guide Feather, and others who are ready to make this a fabulous experience.
Will I have free time?
Yes! Sedona surprises and awakens the soul so we have carefully avoided over planning your experience.
Here are some great ideas to enjoy each afternoon on your own or with other retreat attendees.
- Pamper yourself with local spa treatments.
- Discover Tlaquepaque Village – Sedona’s shopping and art destination.
- Explore the surrounding countryside and hike additional vortexes.
- Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross – rising 200 feet above red rock formations.
- and so much more…
What does the retreat cost?
Special early-bird pricing for your Sedona getaway: $775 (ends April 30,2020)
Regular pricing: $875 (after May 1, 2020)
Are there payment options?
Payment plans are available through August 8, 2020.
To participate in a payment plan check that option when completing your registration.
We will calculate the payment amount based on the number of months between your registration date and the payment deadline of August 8.
You will receive a monthly invoice which you can remit through PayPal, a credit or debit card.
Do you give refunds?
The registration fee is not refundable, however you may transfer your registration to someone else. Contact our wholistic community support team for assistance in transferring your registration, if necessary.
How do I get there?
Flagstaff Airport is the closest small commercial airport, just a 45 minute scenic drive from Sedona.
Phoenix International Airport is a lovely 2 hour drive from Sedona.
We recommend that you book your flight with Southwest Airlines (typically $450)
Low cost shuttle service may be offered, if requested. If you choose to rent a car the cost is typically $150.
What hotel do you recommend?
A special block of rooms has been reserved for us at the boutique Sunset Chateau B&B. Visit their website and call their hospitality staff directly to reserve your room at 928-282-2644. They’re expecting your call!
What can you tell me about the hotel?
Sunset Chateau is nestled on a gorgeous hillside with panoramic views of Sedona’s world-famous red rocks. Experience artistically decorated luxury suites with uniquely curated art & furnishings. All of their spacious suites include modern conveniences and thoughtful touches to make you feel more at home including organic bath amenities, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and comfortable furnishings.
There are many places to unwind and enjoy the view, whether from your patio, in the lush gardens, or by the salt-water pool and jacuzzi. A wonderful made-to-order breakfast is included each morning in the dining room.
Can I cancel my room if something comes up?
To book your room, you will be required to pay for your first night’s stay. If you need to cancel, you would get a full refund if your cancellation is 60 days before check in.
Register Now!
Only $875
Early Bird Option: $775 before May 1, 2020
by Jane Helm | Feb 1, 2020 | Finances, Jane Helm
Have you ever thought about writing your autobiography? Chances are, it sounds daunting! To recapture your life and all that’s happened may take quite a bit of time and energy. Who would you write it this for? Documenting your life experiences would be an interesting read for your family and could serve to pass down some wisdom you have gleaned through your lifetime.
Your Money Story is a piece of each chapter of your life. It is uniquely yours, as there are no two stories that are identical. Although writing your story may feel as daunting as an autobiography, it can be broken down into specific chapters, that when pieced together, can impart some important clues around how your beliefs are driving your emotions around money. Even more interesting, how these are affecting your behavior with money.
Having written my own Money Story, I can attest to many “aha moments” that have given me insight into “why I do what I do” with money. As I have been working on my story for several years, I have learned that by documenting each chapter I have been peeling back layers of messages and emotions that hadn’t been leading to the behavior I knew I wanted to embrace.
We’ve all been given sage advice as to the best ways to manage our money, such as “spend less than you make,” or “pay off your credit card every month.” But turning this guidance into action steps is a struggle for many of us. In my past, I would beat myself up for the decisions I made, because I knew better…
I knew that spending more than I was making wouldn’t turn out well. I knew that my increasing credit card debt was going to lead to more worry, stress, and guilt. I kept asking myself, “what’s wrong with you?”
As it turns out, nothing was wrong with me! The unhealthy money habits were a result of a disconnect I had with my money story: mixed messaging, misguided perceptions, anger, and fear around money made for a perfect blend of a looming disaster. I hit rock bottom twenty- five years ago. I was broke and broken-not able to muster up the energy to tackle the enormity of my situation. The isolation was the frosting on the cake of my situation and carried my mindset to an all-time low.
It wasn’t until I started digging deep into my story that I could start my own journey to financial confidence. By unraveling my perceptions, and getting curious about my emotions I began to understand my behavior with money. Little by little I began making different types of decisions that were based on the emotional outcome I so desired, using that emotion as a guidepost in my everyday spending decisions. I was in the early stages of changing my goal from paying off a HUGE amount of debt to making decisions that would result in building my confidence.
I have written my Money Story! Each time I reflect on it I have new insights to incorporate into the story, leveraging my awareness of some behavioral blind spots, or messaging that can linger for decades. The transformation that I have experienced is a big part of why I founded my financial coaching business. I believe that everyone deserves clarity around their money behavior that can lead to a life of stress- free money management. Using our money story as a tool to build awareness, along with a plan to leverage the numbers we are working with can lead to a truly holistic approach to money management.
Brad Klontz, author of “Mind Over Money,” and founder of Yourmentalwealth.com, states, “Recognizing that our financial habits make sense given our history and the beliefs we internalized about money allows us to reflect on our financial mistakes with compassion and grace.”
By authoring your money story, you will triumph over the habits that are holding you back from reaching your financial goals, and give yourself the compassion and grace that will allow you to get un-stuck. Get ready for the next chapter of your Money Story to finally be told from the perspective of confidence!
by Casey Clark | Jan 22, 2020 | Carol deLaski, Goals, Kelye Rouse-Brown, Laura Hall
Every year, the Wholistic Woman Retreat community gathers together at our first evening retreat of the year to discuss our One Word for the year. This year, we thought we’d share with you the three steps of the One Word and how our founding coaches Carol, Laura and Kelye approach these three steps.
Coach Carol shares about looking in
My favorite way to prepare my heart for One Word is during my morning quiet time. I usually start my days, while still in my PJs, nestled in my comfy chair with a hot cup of tea, lit candles, and inspirational reading. It sets a positive tone for my day when I ground myself with gratitude, prayer, and personal reflection.
This is when I feel most calm, centered, and am ready to ask the powerful questions “What do I need more of? What do I need less of? What needs to go?”
My mind is quick with an answer however, I intentionally listen with my heart and soul, as well. For example, this year as I asked those questions my mind readily knew the answers: I need to slow down, do less, give myself more downtime, and allow myself more time to get from one activity to another. I came up with several words that captured this energy: Release, Receive, Savor, Time, Slow were a few of the options. I thought of many good words, but I wanted a God-inspired word. I waited for a sign indicating which one God was directing me to. I asked, what word do You want me to learn from this year, God?
In 2019 my Word repeatedly came to me with a physical manifestation. With my head bowed in prayer, it dropped heavily forward when my spirit knew my word: Approval. I wait for such a sign again this year. This is my 8th year using One Word to guide me and consistently the knowing of my word has come in my core instead of my head. I feel it more than I think it. I know it is true because of an inner calm or rightness to it.
When I get quiet, pray, listen, and wait, my word reveals itself to me.
Coach Laura shares about looking up
One Word is one of my favorite tools that we use and teach here at Wholistic Woman Retreats! Step 2 in the process is about waiting for your word to show up for you. It’s about receiving a word vs picking one. I’m a girl who looks for divine “signs” in life which I take as indications that I am where I am supposed to be. I have a playful plaque in my bedroom that reads, “If You’re Waiting For A Sign. This Is It”.
One of the amazing parts of the one word process has been the “signs” I have received that the word floating around my thoughts is indeed my One Word. This year has been no exception.
Late in 2019, as I began the One Word Process, the word “unveiled” came to mind. It comes from a notion I’ve held since my teens that at our core, we are all pure love and pure light. It’s what you see in babies when you look deep in their eyes. My belief is that over time we are conditioned by the world we live in and this bright light begins to be covered up with “veils” that block the light. As I thought about the questions, What do I need?, What’s in my way? and What needs to go? the answer was your veils. Hence the word, “unveiled”. Fast forward to December 30th… I’m on a holiday cruise with my family. I turn the TV on in my cabin and in the bottom right hand of the screen is the name of the program they are showing… UNVEILED. This was the sign I was waiting for and at that moment I knew, unveiled was my one word for 2020.
Coach Kelye shares about looking out
I have arranger in my top 5 strengths for executing skills so I get a kick out of living my word for the year and have fun with it. I truly am disciplined when I choose a word and become very loyal to how I lead each day throughout the year. My words over the years such as Shine, Move, Roots, LEAP, Savvy and Breathe stack up year after year forming new, fresh positive beliefs and habits. My new word discovery for 2020 is Rhythm and I have already started stepping out of my comfort zone with this word.
Stillness and meditation don’t come easy to me so I have to work harder to get in the “rhythm” of my day to show up my best and for others. This way of moving in the day has created a CEO in the flow approach personally for me. It started working for me at my Wholebeing Positive Psychology immersion at Kripalu health and yoga center in Massachusetts. All of my days included Let Your Yoga Dance which is a way to spread joy and consciousness and embodies Positive Psychology. Not leaving BREATHE behind, my 2019 word, I now focus on my breath and rhythm in my day. It became my 30-day Mindful Movement practice which I shared at two of our Wholistic Woman events to wrap up 2019.
Creating a practice is certainly one way to live out your word and to feel alive and aligned within. My goal now is to create a 365-day practice in 2020 with Rhythm. How do I keep my words front and center and grow year after year?
Here are some special examples:
Shine – the year I needed more sparkle after my mom passed away – I went to Sarah Mclachlan’s concert Shine On – and bonus, I received about 3 of her CD’s from friends that year. So listening to music or picking a song is a great way to keep your word alive.
Roots – the year I needed to feel more grounded with family – I traveled to Oklahoma to bring my mom closer to her mom and had a ceremony with her childhood friends and family. So traveling is another great way to feel the effect and internalize your one word.
LEAP – the year I needed help moving forward with fun – I created a LEAP program for my business that is now company-wide – it stands for Leadership, Engagement, Attitude and Positive Performance. Creating a program, or a mantra is a great way to personalize your one word.
Some other daily ways are to keep a journal or create a vision board. We are planning a vision board activity with my team in Texas to set the “tone” for vision 2020. This will include individual one words and our team one word, MORE, to focus on together.
All I can say about the third step in One Word is enjoy and experience the journey. I can’t imagine using the same word year after year; there are so many opportunities for growth and change. Change can be difficult and stretch us, but it’s all part of the process. Live it out and be ALL IN!
We look forward to seeing you at our One Word evening retreat – Gain 2020 VIsion!
