JustBe – Spa Break in East Sussex
23rd-25th February 2023
Well ladies, what can I say about our two-night spa break in East Sussex? A lot!
The setting was in the beautiful grounds of the East Sussex National Golf Spa Resort. The vast picturesque landscape was stunning. The hotel rooms were spacious with outdoor seating and balcony’s that looked out over the golf course and woodlands beyond.
From the moment we arrived to the moment we left; the company was great, the treatments were awesome, the service was exceptional, the friendships were genuine, the food was flavoursome – especially the breakfast and the supply of raw honey straight from the hive.
We laughed, we cried, we spoke, we ate, we sang, we fellowshipped then laughed and cried some more. We were pummelled in the jacuzzi, scrubbed with salt crystals, massaged with scented oils, steamed whilst singing angelically and energised by scenic walks. The fellowship was deep and the conversations were real!
We reflected on ‘self-care’ in an inspirational Saturday morning session led by Rev Sheila Belgrave who reminded us to prioritise ourselves in several key areas; mind, body, spirit and health. We were encouraged to ‘make a self-care plan’, make use of a journal, share our concerns, love who we are, rest and be still, make time to meditate and pray, and also make good use of Groupon, Wowcher and other apps which provide discounted spa breaks and self-care activities.
When I arrived home on Sunday afternoon, I reflected on what I have personally taken away from my first trip away with the gorgeous JustBe ladies. My key take-aways are that we all have a story, we are much more than we appear to be – so don’t judge. We are inclusive, we are kind, we are warm, we are caring and we are compassionate. I have been reminded to make time for myself and that this is not being selfish but something that is essential in ensuring I maintain the very best version of myself. As I said, I have lots to say but I really can’t find the words to express just how meaningful this experience was and dare I say, for some of us, even life changing. If you’re stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, under the weather, lonely, need a spiritual reset or just simply fed up, this was definitely for you. If you missed out, the good news is that we are hoping to have this retreat again in 2024.
A very big thank you to Yvette for all the organising and planning that guaranteed the success of this trip. A shout out to Rev Sheila and Valecia and anyone else who contributed to this awesome experience. And finally, a special thanks to all the ladies who opened their hearts and provided a safe space for others to ‘just be’ themselves.
Jacqui O’Donnell
