Over 30 women from across the Flourish Together Network came together at The Space in Stockport, for a powerful day of wellness, growth, and connection. Following the themes of Spring renewal, change, and overcoming the Fear of the Unknown, the retreat offered a safe, supportive space for local women to inspire, collaborate and relax.
Inspired by a season of symbolic of new beginnings—the one-day retreat featured a carefully curated mix of mindfulness practices, creative workshops, and facilitated discussions. Each element was designed to help attendees explore their relationship with change and gently challenge the fear that often accompanies it. And true Flourish fashion, we couldn’t help but take the retreat as an opportunity to showcase the work, skills and talents of women across our Network, continuing our mission to invest in women as a force for social change.
The day began with a Mindfulness grounding circle, where Amna recited positive affirmations to calm the nervous system and set the tone for the day ahead. Followed by Erica McInnis – Nubia Wellness & Healing who gave us a taster of her Know Thy Self, Adinkra Cards, which prompted our attendees to think about how certain words and phrases related to their lives currently.
One of the most impactful moments came during the facilitative discussion where the ladies split in groups and shared their stories of change—from career pivots and relationship shifts to health challenges and rediscovery after loss. The vulnerability in the room was palpable—and so was the support. We paused for a hearty lunch before kicking off the second half of the day.
Clare Whittaker from H.E.A.R.T.S, reset the retreat with a Sound Bath, then Lucy from Calmer Yoga guided the group in a gentle yoga session offering a physical release to accompany the emotional work. We closed out the day, getting crafty with Andrea Young at Flower Therapy making Spring Peace Gardens. And we would like to extend a special thanks to Tamara & Pearline, our Therapists for the day who provided 5 star Indian Head and Neck, back & shoulder massages.
We love putting on the retreat because, for many who attended, the retreat marked a turning point—not because all their questions were answered, but because they were reminded they weren’t alone.
This retreat is the 2nd installment of our quarterly health and wellbeing retreat series following November’s Reclaim Your Calm event. With the success of this spring retreat, the social enterprise has plans to host future events that continue to explore personal growth, mental wellness, and community healing, so standby for dates around late summer.
As nature blossoms around us, so too do the women of Manchester—brave enough to face change, and wise enough to do it together.
