“Growing up, I never knew a relaxed woman. Successful women? Yes. Productive women? Plenty. Anxious and afraid and apologetic women? Heaps of them. But relaxed women? At-ease women? Women who don't dissect their days into half hour slots of productivity? Women who prioritize rest and pleasure and play? Women who aren't afraid to take up space in the world? Women who give themselves unconditional permission to relax? Without guilt? Without apology? Without feeling like they need to earn it? I'm not sure I've ever met a woman like that. But I would like to become one.”

― Nicola Jane Hobbs

Returning from our Rejuvenating Roots Women’s Yoga & Ayurveda Retreat, I've been reflecting deeply on what it means to become a relaxed woman. Over four days, we immersed ourselves in nature, connected with horses, practiced yoga, engaged in rituals, savored wholesome Ayurvedic meals, laughed, crafted, and basked in each other's warm company.

We didn’t look at our calendars or scroll on our phones.

We did not rush.

We played.

We turned our faces to the sun.

We rested.

One of my teachers says, “our experiences shape our nervous system.” To become a relaxed person, we must cultivate relaxing experiences. It sounds simple, but it is not easy. How many of us, in the busy-ness of our day to day lives, make time to prioritize rest and pleasure and play? How many of us feel like we have to earn it first?

That's the transformative power of a retreat. It's an intentional pause, a step away from the everyday, and an immersion into peace. It's an invitation to claim our right to rest.

It’s not about dissociating from life, it’s about connecting to what really matters. Because to show up fully in our lives, to contribute to our communities, and to advocate for peace, we must first find peace within ourselves.

I believe each time we choose rest over stress we resist the propaganda that we are not enough — that we must be doing, producing, or consuming to be worthy.

To rest is a rebellion.

To slow down is a small act of resistance.

To simply be is a revolution.

Becoming a relaxed woman, and helping others relax is a big part of my purpose. When Jenny and I were designing this retreat, we thought of ourselves and all the women we love — women who are caregivers, women who are the glue that holds their communities/ families/ friends together. They are quick to take care of everyone else but when it comes to taking care of themselves, it is difficult to find the time. We wanted to give back to these women – to give them unconditional permission to relax and receive.

It was beautiful to witness each other take deep sighs of release, giggle in conversation, take solo time to journal or lie back in a hammock, and savor nourishing meals. Like a fern slowly unfurling frond by frond, we discovered there were more and more layers to our relaxation. And as each day passed we settled deeper into a place of peace.

Now, as I return to my daily routine, I notice myself giving from a place that is overflowing. I am nourished, connected to my purpose, and present. I think of our circle of women and wonder how they're moving through their week. I sense they're spreading the retreat's magic wherever they are now.

An Invitation to Claim Your Peace

If this resonates with you, I warmly invite you to my upcoming Restore and Retreat: Lakeside Yoga Getaway, from July 18–21, 2025, in the serene town of Leland, Michigan. Hosted at the charming Riverside Inn, this four-day retreat offers daily yoga sessions, scenic hikes through Sleeping Bear Dunes, and leisurely afternoons on some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Savor delicious local cuisine and Michigan’s celebrated scenery as you connect with nature and loved ones.

Perfect for solo travelers, couples and friends, this unforgettable getaway is an invitation to rediscover the joy of simply being. Whether you're seeking rejuvenation, connection, or a moment of peace, this getaway is designed to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.

Spaces are limited, and we would be honored to share this transformative experience with you. For more details and to reserve your spot, please visit:
👉 Restore and Retreat: Lakeside Yoga Getaway

Access Peace Wherever You Are

Whether or not you can attend a retreat in person, I created a gentle “Pocket Practice for Peace” just for you — a short, downloadable ritual to help you return to yourself in moments of overwhelm. Think of it as a retreat you can access — as part of your morning routine, on your lunch break, or even into bed.

🕊️Click here to download your free Pocket Practice for Peace.

Love and Yoga,
Kaytee