Today I am hosting the first of my Free Taster Days at the Quiet Garden. It is also the day that I am launching the new season of Petite Retreats to be held there.

For many people a retreat, even for just one day, is a luxury. Time is hard to spare, and funds are currently being stretched way beyond their limits for many people. Stress levels are higher than ever for just about everyone and we all need a release valve for the pressure that is building up.

In planning the new season of retreats we have thoughtfully and prayerfully considered ways in which we can take away some of the barriers preventing people from coming.

Firstly Time. Our day time retreats have always been timed to fit in to the school day, with drop off and pick up times taken into consideration. Refreshments are available from 9.30am (but the first meditation doesn’t take place until 10am). The day finishes at 3, but if your school run takes a bit longer we can always shift the timings around to suit.

That’s all well and good for those at home during the day, but what about those who work? Half our Petite Retreats are now taking place during the evening, beginning at 6.30pm and finishing at 9.30pm giving plenty of time to get home for cocoa!

Secondly Money. As we all know the cost of living is increasing, but we are decreasing! We have taken a long hard look at where we can cut costs without removing the ‘treat’ from retreat! All our Petite Retreats at the Quiet Garden now cost just £20 per person, which still includes three guided meditations, reflection cards, a journal, art and knitting supplies, a small take home gift, and, of course tea, coffee etc. and homemade cakes/cookies.

What about lunch? Well, if you are attending a day time retreat you are now invited to bring your own packed lunch, or if you really feel like spoiling yourself you can pre-order a picnic from our caterer at £10 per person. Evening retreats will include a time of sharing pudding, which is included in the cost.

£20 still too much? Then give us what you can. Can’t afford anything? Then please just come and be blessed. Feeling flush and would like to support others? Well, we are more than happy to accept a gift towards supporting those who may be struggling.

I know we all find it so hard to look after ourselves, but we can’t look after others unless we do so.

As one guest wrote to me

Everyone should do it. I came away feeling positive, clear-headed and energised.

Sally C, first time retreatant.

So what do we have in store this coming season? Take a peek at our programme:

We have also re-assessed our Online Petite Retreats, and details of these will be announced next month. Not sure if virtual retreating will work for you? Then look out for our free Taster Evening coming soon.