Bowen Island has always had a special place in my heart, as it’s where Gabriel and I had our intimate civil ceremony in 2011. We’ve always loved escaping the hustle and bustle of the City, even if it’s just for a couple hours on the charming little island. So, when my dear friend J, from Ava to Zoe invited me to her 2nd Annual Self Love retreat, I was ecstatic to say the least. It really couldn’t have come at a better time.
Seriously.
About a month prior to #AtoZselflove, Gabriel had been in the hospital for two weeks. Many tests, 30 pounds lost and very frail, he was diagnosed with Chrone’s Disease. I was just a mess; emotionally and probably physically. I was running low on patience and energy. I needed to take care of me.
The universe works in mysterious ways I tell you. It’s conspiring for you to live fully, to be happy, to succeed. And somehow, J got the message that I needed to dedicate some time and love, to myself.
When it was time to attend J’s Self Love retreat at Nectar Yoga B&B on Bowen Island, Gabriel was home and stable enough to hold down the fort, phew!
Self Love
J’s #AtoZselflove retreat is all about taking the time to rest, recharge and rejuvenate. Things that moms don’t usually remember (or have the time) to do. We’re always occupied with other tasks, like taking care of our families, tending the home, and running our businesses. Why is it that when we want to do something for ourselves, we somehow always feel some sort of way? You know what I’m talking about, MOMMY GUILT. UGH.
Seriously, ain’t nobody got time for that. I’m learning how to shove the guilt on the back burner because I don’t want to be back there anymore. I want NEED to start making myself a priority too.
I don’t know if it’s a Latina thing, but as soon as I start thinking about doing something nice for myself, I immediately think of my mom, and what she’ll think/say. And usually, it’s “Y LOS NIÑOS?” (“And the kids?”). *rolls eyes* hahaha, I hope she doesn’t read this.
So I’m taking this self love thing seriously now. Because I’m worth it.
Nectar Yoga B&B on Bowen Island
Driving up to Nectar Yoga B&B was serene. It’s a beautiful property with 2 cottages, The Forest Cottage and The Nectar Loft, a Garden Suite, a Geodesic Yoga Dome and a Finnish sauna. A blissful place to participate in detoxes, retreats, events and workshops too.
The guided meditation was my favourite. I had meditated before, but never guided through one. Andrea made it so easy to get lost within, without any chatter or distractions. It was bliss. I was able enter a state of complete relaxation while still being conscious. Just thinking about those moments brings me much peace.
Yoga. I don’t do it. Actually, the only times I have done yoga are via DVD for Prenatal. Oh, and when Nintendo Wii first came out. So clearly, I am a yoga amateur. But that didn’t stop me from enjoying the guided yoga sessions, that made me break a sweat. Andrea, led us through some gentle poses that helped stretch our hips and lower backs. I’d leave each yoga session feeling recharged and rejuvenated. Yoga is definitely something I would like to incorporate into not only my life, but my family’s as well.
Meditation and Yoga really go hand in hand for living a more conscious lifestyle. And it seems like it may be one of the missing puzzle pieces to my so called life. LOL.
Self Love means taking care of yourself by doing things that make you happy. It’s taking the time to relax, recharge and rejuvenate. Self Love also means looking within yourself and answering some questions consciously/honestly:
- Am I happy?
- What will make me happy?
- Do I have positive relationships?
- When was the last time I did something for myself?
- Am I too hard on myself?
- What makes me smile?
- What do I need right NOW?
Self love is acknowledging YOU ARE WORTH IT.
Janette, thank you for including me in this truly life changing experience. This group of women are generous, caring, humble, self assured and HILARIOUS, in their own way. And it was an amazing 3 days, getting to know one another over meals, yoga/meditation, music and walks in nature. A connection made to last a lifetime.
All Photos by Kristy Powers Photography
Visit and Book your trip to Nectar Yoga B&B
Read about the other attendee’s experience at the 2nd Annual #AtoZselflove Yoga Retreat on Bowen Island:
