Our very first retreat
It all started with a vision: a serene retreat where individuals could escape the chaos of everyday life and the weight of societal expectations. I dreamed of creating a sanctuary that fostered connection, allowing people to feel present and free. My goal was to curate experiences that would not only bring individuals together but also enable them to connect on emotional and spiritual levels, providing support and understanding during their stay. This was my calling—I wanted to dedicate my life to uplifting others and helping them rediscover joy, but it wasn’t until I envisioned these Safe Spaces that my path became clear.
Fast forward to September 2021: I found the perfect retreat location in Newburgh, NY, perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Everything about this space resonated with me, and I knew it was where our journey would begin. Before the guests arrived, I eagerly transformed the house, decorating the rooms with fresh flowers, placing goodie bags on each bed, and preparing a soul-nourishing dinner for a group of five. As the girls arrived, they settled in and soon gathered around the dining table for a delicious meal. What began as introductions quickly blossomed into heartfelt stories, turning strangers into fast friends. That night, we gathered by the fire pit to roast s’mores and share laughter, marking the beginning of something special.
The next day, we set off to the Washburn Trail in Cold Springs, NY, ready for a four-hour hike that would test our endurance and deepen our bonds. Afterward, we returned home to relax and recharge, preparing for a soothing dinner and meditation session. One of the women even jumped into our Higher Dose Sauna Bed to ease the soreness from our hike, embracing the retreat's restorative spirit. Later that evening, we indulged in a much-needed soak in the hot tub, unwinding before another exciting day ahead.
On our final day in the Hudson Valley, we ventured into the charming town of Beacon, where we discovered the delightful Glazed Over doughnut shop. With sweet treats in hand, we made our way to Long Dock Park for a peaceful picnic, sharing affirmations and soaking in the tranquil surroundings. To our surprise, the park offered kayak rentals, and we couldn’t resist the chance to paddle along the Hudson River for a few hours, embracing the beauty of nature. After our kayaking adventure, we returned for a paint-and-sip activity, where we created our own memory boxes, capturing the essence of our shared experiences.
As the sun set, we enjoyed our final family dinner, complete with s’mores and stories around the fire. Each moment spent together reinforced our motivation to continue providing these transformative retreats for our community. Five strangers entered the house but left as a family, recharged and inspired. This was just the beginning of our Safe Space journey a testament to the power of connection and the magic of shared experiences.
Shot by @pangaeaultimanyc
