I never said anything over the weekend as I wasn’t ready to share, but the main reason my anxiety was so bad was because just before the retreat I was at the funeral of a young person I worked with and looked after. She was my key child and it hit me so hard. I didn’t think I would be in any state to participate in the retreat. I’m so glad I decided to push myself.
From the hug Yaz gave me on arrival to the friendly welcome from all the other attendees, it all made me feel welcome and started to ease my troubled soul. The food throughout the weekend was absolutely amazing and helped bring everyone together over mealtimes. The stories that were told over the weekend were so inspiring and all aimed at helping us heal. I did so many firsts over the weekend and learned so much from everyone I talked to.
I left the retreat feeling the best I had since the news broke of the passing of the young person. My batteries were recharged, my soul less troubled and I had made some great connections. It was my first ever wellness retreat and the community and friendship shown by everyone guarantee it won’t be my last.
Darren (Andy’s Man Club)