Shoreham wellness retreat

Press release
September 2010

Traditional Healthcare Inc. held its first wellness retreat in the Mornington Peninsula region of Victoria on 27 – 29 September 2010. The weekend provided the opportunity for a focus on mind, body and soul.

It was also a fundraiser for Traditional Healthcare’s current project – to build a sustainable healthcare clinic in India.

As many Victorians were winding down at Friday night work drinks, a group of people were getting into the downward dog as the sun set over the lake at the beautiful Iluca Eco Retreat.

This kick-started a full weekend of activities run by experienced practitioners who generously donated their time for the cause to run a range of health, fitness and spirituality workshops and one-one-one sessions.

Participants were truly spoilt for choice. Early risers started their days with uplifting sessions of sunrise meditation and yoga to the sound of kookaburras echoing through the trees.

Night owls danced the night away with salsa then relaxed by glowing lanterns for some pre-bed meditation.

Those feeling active during the day took on the challenges of Aikido, a Japanese martial art, yoga handstands, and Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art and dance form.

Others who felt the need to centre their energies took time out for Qi Gong and Tai Chi by the lake. Thai Massage and Shiatsu sessions were enjoyed by many who discovered the joy of giving, as well as receiving.

Many enjoyed interesting talks on topics such as nutrition, numerology, and volunteering, to yoga philosophies, cycles and biorhythms. One-on-one sessions in tarot reading, Traditional Chinese Medicine, numerology, and live blood analysis were also very popular.

Throughout the weekend, participants were treated to a diverse range of delicious food made from the best fresh produce with gluten-free and lactose-free options.

Even non-vegetarians were impressed with the hearty lentil and minestrone soups, luscious green bean and baby beet salads, tasty ricotta canolas, decadent chocolate slices and luscious berry friends.

A strong community vibe was felt by all throughout the whole weekend which transformed the retreat into something truly extraordinary. There was a magical feeling in the air as people made meaningful connections while they shared dances, meditation, martial arts, food, and laughs.

It was as if kindred spirits had come together, bonded by a higher cause.

The weekend has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on everyone involved:

• “An amazing weekend – so many different practitioners available to us. A great vibe between attendees, most inspiring.” - Rachel
• “A wonderful experience – supporting both your own personal development and that of a needy community” – Valentina
• “An amazing weekend that has inspired me to try so many new things I don’t know where I’ll find the time!” – Lily

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers, practitioners and participants who have paved the way for more amazing retreats to come.

Special thanks

John Ogilvie, Chris Bellanger, Steven Booth, Libby Mitchell, Deanne Linde, Natalie Smith, Russell McClelland, Annica Makoto, Kate Mead, Matthew Corie Wade, Tasja Spoat, Tom Connor, Becky Andrews, Heidi Cobelans, Shane Guy and Takeshi Kondo.

Contact us

Contact us to find out about future retreats and be added to our mailing list.