09/12/2025
Sometimes you need big things to happen to appreciate the small things.
My Mam died in late October.
I listened to my brother, and went “home” to see her, not that we knew then that the time would be so short, or so precious.
Not being a natural carer, I was thrown in the deep end and it’s doubtful I would have been able to swim at all, if not for her quiet grace, strength and humour.
I can’t describe what that month meant to me, with its highs and lows, its laughter and tears, its challenges and successes.
Living day by day, fully present, is something I have struggled with all my life (I tend to live in the past or the future), and she embodied it effortlessly.
Coming home to NZ, I find myself grateful for the little things, seeing the bigger picture of life and death allows me to see the joy in the minutiae that is living.
Now, more than ever I am letting go of things that don’t light me up and reveling in things that do. Simple pleasures like listening to the birds, or playing with the puppy, or even just sitting looking at the view.
I am giving myself time to grieve and to live, being kind to myself and creating space to see what unfolds.
I am drawn to redefining my priorities, shedding people and things that haven’t resonated for some time, embracing flexibility and creativity.
I feel that Mam’s passing is allowing me to do this without guilt, I feel more vibrant and alive and look forward to more passion projects in both the design and yoga worlds next year.
Now, more than ever, I realize the importance of taking time to nurture myself—this insight inspired me to create my Pause. Rest. Renew. Retreat where you can also take time to reconnect with yourself and Nature.
This is your invitation to join me in March 2026 at Mana Retreat Centre for three days of yoga, breathwork, and soul-deep rest.
Step away from the detail to see the bigger picture and leave feeling grounded, balanced and renewed.
To reserve your spot or learn more about the Pause. Rest. Renew. Retreat, head to https://manaretreat.com/event/pause-rest-renew/ or message me direct.
