An Unexpected Start at Living Skies Lodge

An Unexpected Start at Living Skies Lodge

On my first day at Living Skies Lodge, I decided to challenge myself with a plunge into the frigid waters. The icy sensation sent shivers down my spine, and I found myself questioning why I had chosen to do this. However, amidst the laughter and cheers from the other women participating, I realized that this trip was about more than just yoga or wellness trends. It was about learning to embrace discomfort and understanding that you are not alone.

A Retreat Nestled in Nature

Located near Carlyle, Saskatchewan, Living Skies Lodge is unlike any place I have ever been. Deb and Blair Andrew opted not for large resorts, but transformed their wooden home into a retreat. The accommodations here are incredibly cozy, ranging from private rooms with deep soaking tubs to three-bedroom cabins featuring outdoor Jacuzzis. This space made me feel like a part of their family rather than just a guest.

Experiencing the Grounded Wellness Retreat

Deb invited me to join the Grounded Wellness Retreat, a journey inspired by her personal story of self-growth. This retreat isn’t about flashy health trends; it’s about introspection and genuinely connecting with oneself and others. We were a group of six women, each from different ages and backgrounds, sharing and listening to each other in a safe environment.

Local Cuisine and Connection

The food here is primarily sourced from local ingredients, featuring nourishing dishes like overnight oatmeal, fresh fruits, hearty soups, and salads with game meats. Meals are shared around the table, fostering closeness and connection. Witty conversations and hearty laughter filled the air, making the atmosphere even more warm and inviting.

Unleashing Personal Potential

A unique aspect of the retreat was the Kolbe assessment, which helps uncover each person's natural way of acting. This isn’t just about personality; it’s about instincts and how we face challenges. It provided me with deeper insights into myself and clarified the path I chose in my digital storytelling career.

Connecting with Nature and Myself

The highlight of the retreat was the expansive greenhouse, where Deb introduced concepts of sustainability and permaculture. Here, we practiced yoga barefoot on the earth, immersing ourselves in the warm ambiance of those chilly winter days. Planting seeds like eucalyptus and sunflowers allowed me to feel the vitality and connection to the earth in a profound way.

Before leaving, I had learned so much about myself and experienced many new things. Living Skies Lodge is not just a retreat; it’s a place where I found peace and a sense of belonging.