I originally approached Wendy at Role as one of only 2 qualified HeartMath practitioners in the North West. The training I received was nothing short of life changing and this quickly progressed to 1:1 coaching sessions and most recently to a week-long retreat on the Isle of Mull.
The retreat helped me do exactly as it suggested to STOP and take stock of where I am currently and where I want to go. I have emerged refreshed, relaxed and with a resilience I would never have believed possible. I don’t use these words lightly. The results of a week away in a simply stunning part of the world have given me a clarity and calm that was missing from my life.
The experience has helped me return to work in an extremely pressurised and energy draining environment with a total different perspective. We often can’t change the source of stress, but I am living proof that we can certainly change ourselves and the workshops Wendy ran have given me the skills to do this.
The retreat was very well organised, we were completely looked after and it was such good value for money. Like all these things though, they are nothing without the people and this is where the Retreat took people power to a whole new level. From Wendy turning her own dream into a reality to Amy and Sam who made running the show seems effortless to James and Laurent who truly brought training alive, the whole week was amazing. My final “Wow” moment though is reserved for my fellow retreatees who felt able to show their own vulnerabilities, share their stories and give a piece of themselves. Each and every woman became part of my own journey and their kindness and humour will be forever carved on my heart. Thank you Wendy for creating an environment where this was all possible, you are one amazing lady.
Charlotte Marshall - Senior Manager, NHS
The retreat helped me do exactly as it suggested to STOP and take stock of where I am currently and where I want to go. I have emerged refreshed, relaxed and with a resilience I would never have believed possible. I don’t use these words lightly. The results of a week away in a simply stunning part of the world have given me a clarity and calm that was missing from my life.
The experience has helped me return to work in an extremely pressurised and energy draining environment with a total different perspective. We often can’t change the source of stress, but I am living proof that we can certainly change ourselves and the workshops Wendy ran have given me the skills to do this.
The retreat was very well organised, we were completely looked after and it was such good value for money. Like all these things though, they are nothing without the people and this is where the Retreat took people power to a whole new level. From Wendy turning her own dream into a reality to Amy and Sam who made running the show seems effortless to James and Laurent who truly brought training alive, the whole week was amazing. My final “Wow” moment though is reserved for my fellow retreatees who felt able to show their own vulnerabilities, share their stories and give a piece of themselves. Each and every woman became part of my own journey and their kindness and humour will be forever carved on my heart. Thank you Wendy for creating an environment where this was all possible, you are one amazing lady.
Charlotte Marshall - Senior Manager, NHS
As a business owner going through some real challenges that are creating high stress levels, STOP gave me the opportunity to pause, reflect and learn from other like-minded people.
The location was utterly breathtaking and I could get addicted to the clean air of Mull.
The content of the week was excellent. I particularly learnt a lot from the Leadership Embodiment days. As business owners we are constantly working our minds to cope with the demands of running a business but this was really different and focussed on how we use our bodies to handle the challenges we face in all areas of our lives. This for me was really powerful. Recognising how difficult situations make your body react was incredibly enlightening and I really do recommend this to anyone in a leadership role. The Heartmath practice session was a useful reminder for me and an opportunity to go deeper into the science – I love Heartmath and use this as a coping strategy every day.
Wendy the retreat leader was simply fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble and I was delighted to support Wendy who has been a tremendous support to me personally over the last few months. Wendy took on board feedback for how to make the retreat better (and take some pressure off her!) and on a day when I really felt like not being involved it was handled without judgement and I really appreciated that.
STOP has set me up for the next few weeks of what continues to be a very challenging time for me and my business. I have made lifelong friends with some of group and I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Wendy, THANK YOU and put me down for the PAUSE!
Tracey Murphy - Managing Director, HR Savvy
The location was utterly breathtaking and I could get addicted to the clean air of Mull.
The content of the week was excellent. I particularly learnt a lot from the Leadership Embodiment days. As business owners we are constantly working our minds to cope with the demands of running a business but this was really different and focussed on how we use our bodies to handle the challenges we face in all areas of our lives. This for me was really powerful. Recognising how difficult situations make your body react was incredibly enlightening and I really do recommend this to anyone in a leadership role. The Heartmath practice session was a useful reminder for me and an opportunity to go deeper into the science – I love Heartmath and use this as a coping strategy every day.
Wendy the retreat leader was simply fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble and I was delighted to support Wendy who has been a tremendous support to me personally over the last few months. Wendy took on board feedback for how to make the retreat better (and take some pressure off her!) and on a day when I really felt like not being involved it was handled without judgement and I really appreciated that.
STOP has set me up for the next few weeks of what continues to be a very challenging time for me and my business. I have made lifelong friends with some of group and I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity. Wendy, THANK YOU and put me down for the PAUSE!
Tracey Murphy - Managing Director, HR Savvy
How can I give a sense of the unique atmosphere of the whole weekend?
A group of women who did not know each other were afforded the chance to connect, share and develop an amazing and close supportive bond through a well thoughtout and gentle retreat experience.
The house was simply beautiful and the countryside with its wildness, beauty and remoteness aided the restfulness and solitude for those who wanted it. Conversation around the kitchen table was key to sharing our diverse, yet strangely similar stories, with most realising that, despite our differences, we all had the same hang ups and self doubts.
The workshop from James opened up a new understanding of what 'dread butterflies/that sinking feeling' really means and he gave us the tools to recognise, acknowledge and deal (accept and grow tall?) with this emotion and becoming stronger and confident with everyday situations.
On the Monday I kept asking how these feelings fitted into life experiences. He would not be drawn! and by Tuesday I realised there was a need to concentrate on the feeling, so when it occurred we would then understand and Feel it; then be able to react as taught.
I have been alarmed at the number of times I've experienced the sinking feeling this last week. The beauty is I've recognised and reacted positively and faced the dis-ease.
The food was perfect. Simply because you had planned all the meals! For most, the decision of what to eat (then shopping for it!) is most women's repetitive trial. And as women we are pre-programmed to clear up, no one minds that at all.
The food was truly delicious and Sam was an hilarious chef with his wellies and flat cap! Whilst his was adventurous and tasty, yours was comforting, delicious and seemingly effortlessly prepared and presented. Yet I know you were anxious most of the time. Not only did you organise but you catered as well, I hope you realise how amazing your planning was.
I could go on but suffice to say thank you to you and Amy and Sam for being expert hosts in a spotless happy house; and for all the ladies who met, connected, relaxed and created such a magical and loving atmosphere. It was a privilege to witness the relaxing of tension and the revelation of everyone's true beautiful persona.
Hats off to you Wendy- for your first retreat - it was spectacular.
Sue Lord - Owner of 3 thriving East Lancashire Children's Nurseries
A group of women who did not know each other were afforded the chance to connect, share and develop an amazing and close supportive bond through a well thoughtout and gentle retreat experience.
The house was simply beautiful and the countryside with its wildness, beauty and remoteness aided the restfulness and solitude for those who wanted it. Conversation around the kitchen table was key to sharing our diverse, yet strangely similar stories, with most realising that, despite our differences, we all had the same hang ups and self doubts.
The workshop from James opened up a new understanding of what 'dread butterflies/that sinking feeling' really means and he gave us the tools to recognise, acknowledge and deal (accept and grow tall?) with this emotion and becoming stronger and confident with everyday situations.
On the Monday I kept asking how these feelings fitted into life experiences. He would not be drawn! and by Tuesday I realised there was a need to concentrate on the feeling, so when it occurred we would then understand and Feel it; then be able to react as taught.
I have been alarmed at the number of times I've experienced the sinking feeling this last week. The beauty is I've recognised and reacted positively and faced the dis-ease.
The food was perfect. Simply because you had planned all the meals! For most, the decision of what to eat (then shopping for it!) is most women's repetitive trial. And as women we are pre-programmed to clear up, no one minds that at all.
The food was truly delicious and Sam was an hilarious chef with his wellies and flat cap! Whilst his was adventurous and tasty, yours was comforting, delicious and seemingly effortlessly prepared and presented. Yet I know you were anxious most of the time. Not only did you organise but you catered as well, I hope you realise how amazing your planning was.
I could go on but suffice to say thank you to you and Amy and Sam for being expert hosts in a spotless happy house; and for all the ladies who met, connected, relaxed and created such a magical and loving atmosphere. It was a privilege to witness the relaxing of tension and the revelation of everyone's true beautiful persona.
Hats off to you Wendy- for your first retreat - it was spectacular.
Sue Lord - Owner of 3 thriving East Lancashire Children's Nurseries
Today I have today returned from what can only be described as an inspirational week of self-discovery! To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect, but it was Wendy’s passion and conviction that made me book, together with her belief that the week’s retreat would provide me with the time and space to think and reflect, which it did in abundance. Book with your heart, as your logical brain won’t understand!
The retreat is on the Isle of Mull, which has the most beautiful scenery. Myself and others often walked in the early morning before breakfast or after dinner. It was great to hear the sound of the sea against the pebbles, see the birds (including eagles if you were lucky), it was truly tranquil. I even took a dip in the sea, though it literally took my breath away! The stunning accommodation is in a secluded spot, with fantastic views of the sea and we often had deer wondering in front of the house on their nightly walks. The house is big enough for you to be on your own when needed, or together as a group. The food was fantastic and the feeling of togetherness was great. The mobile connection was poor, but that added to the experience, as being ‘cut off’ from social media, emails, news etc. and provided more reflection time.
I have been on numerous training courses over the years, this one is about understanding yourself and listening to your body and using it to gain what you want – whatever that may be. Each and every person had a different reason for being at the retreat, but we all wanted to learn more and as a group worked well together to enable us to discover what our ‘journey’ could be. It was a supportive and safe environment, though we did work outside our comfort zones at times. The people on the course were all at different stages in their lives, which added to the diversity of experience. I know this all sounds clichéd, but I cannot describe it in any other way.
I have no hesitation in booking on the retreat again, because I know it will provide me with a different set of experiences. I urge anyone needing / wanting ‘to be’, of wanting to learn and understand more about themselves and how they can affect others to book on the retreat today, you won’t be disappointed and you don’t know where your journey could take you.
Jane Jones - DipM MCIM Chartered Marketer
The retreat is on the Isle of Mull, which has the most beautiful scenery. Myself and others often walked in the early morning before breakfast or after dinner. It was great to hear the sound of the sea against the pebbles, see the birds (including eagles if you were lucky), it was truly tranquil. I even took a dip in the sea, though it literally took my breath away! The stunning accommodation is in a secluded spot, with fantastic views of the sea and we often had deer wondering in front of the house on their nightly walks. The house is big enough for you to be on your own when needed, or together as a group. The food was fantastic and the feeling of togetherness was great. The mobile connection was poor, but that added to the experience, as being ‘cut off’ from social media, emails, news etc. and provided more reflection time.
I have been on numerous training courses over the years, this one is about understanding yourself and listening to your body and using it to gain what you want – whatever that may be. Each and every person had a different reason for being at the retreat, but we all wanted to learn more and as a group worked well together to enable us to discover what our ‘journey’ could be. It was a supportive and safe environment, though we did work outside our comfort zones at times. The people on the course were all at different stages in their lives, which added to the diversity of experience. I know this all sounds clichéd, but I cannot describe it in any other way.
I have no hesitation in booking on the retreat again, because I know it will provide me with a different set of experiences. I urge anyone needing / wanting ‘to be’, of wanting to learn and understand more about themselves and how they can affect others to book on the retreat today, you won’t be disappointed and you don’t know where your journey could take you.
Jane Jones - DipM MCIM Chartered Marketer
The reason why I chose to go on the retreat was because I literally haven't stopped working for 18 months, I was extremely stressed, I needed to relax and force myself to STOP working. I didn't know much about the workshops, but I was open-minded.
The week completely exceeded my expectations. The tranquil setting forces you to slow down and be present allowing you benefit from the workshops with no distractions. You naturally feel like you want to take advantage of being in such a beautiful place by going for walks and taking in the views.
The workshops have given me skills which I have already noticed have made a big difference to my life. I feel like my stress levels have massively reduced when returning to work, and I am able to manage my work and relationships without stress or pressure. I have returned with a healthy mindset which I know has already changed my life.
Initially I was slightly nervous about spending a week with women that I didn't know. However, one of the best things about the retreat was sharing it with a group of like-minded women who I now feel have become great friends.
I will definitely be returning to The Isle of Mull and will be booking on another STOP retreat.
Zara Moon - Architect and Managing Director, Zara Moon Architects
The week completely exceeded my expectations. The tranquil setting forces you to slow down and be present allowing you benefit from the workshops with no distractions. You naturally feel like you want to take advantage of being in such a beautiful place by going for walks and taking in the views.
The workshops have given me skills which I have already noticed have made a big difference to my life. I feel like my stress levels have massively reduced when returning to work, and I am able to manage my work and relationships without stress or pressure. I have returned with a healthy mindset which I know has already changed my life.
Initially I was slightly nervous about spending a week with women that I didn't know. However, one of the best things about the retreat was sharing it with a group of like-minded women who I now feel have become great friends.
I will definitely be returning to The Isle of Mull and will be booking on another STOP retreat.
Zara Moon - Architect and Managing Director, Zara Moon Architects
It’s Monday morning (fortunately I’m not back in work today), having just returned from the most incredible week ie the ‘Stop’ retreat on Saturday.
It’s hard to put into words, in fact it’s impossible!! All I can say is if your considering going on one of these events? Don’t hesitate, you will not regret it!
Never in a million years did I expect to get along with ten other, supposedly like minded ladies! I couldn’t have been more wrong, none of us wanted to leave!!
The week started with myself and three other complete strangers, setting off on a very long drive to the top of Scotland, which we all admitted, filled us with dread.
Long journey, what long journey? It passed by in a flash and before we knew it, we were boarding the ferry in Oban. By which time, we were all certain we were in for a wonderful week.
The location, accommodation and food were all beyond expectations, just perfect!
For me, I feel the journey to the rest of my life has just begun. I’m feeling light, calm, strong and basically better equipped for what life has in store and I’m certain I will do it again soon.
Huge thanks to Wendy for what has been a truly amazing experience, you are a guiding star I very much needed to meet, ‘Thank you’ 😊
Deborah Smith - Managing Director, Fennel UK
It’s hard to put into words, in fact it’s impossible!! All I can say is if your considering going on one of these events? Don’t hesitate, you will not regret it!
Never in a million years did I expect to get along with ten other, supposedly like minded ladies! I couldn’t have been more wrong, none of us wanted to leave!!
The week started with myself and three other complete strangers, setting off on a very long drive to the top of Scotland, which we all admitted, filled us with dread.
Long journey, what long journey? It passed by in a flash and before we knew it, we were boarding the ferry in Oban. By which time, we were all certain we were in for a wonderful week.
The location, accommodation and food were all beyond expectations, just perfect!
For me, I feel the journey to the rest of my life has just begun. I’m feeling light, calm, strong and basically better equipped for what life has in store and I’m certain I will do it again soon.
Huge thanks to Wendy for what has been a truly amazing experience, you are a guiding star I very much needed to meet, ‘Thank you’ 😊
Deborah Smith - Managing Director, Fennel UK
I met Wendy a long time ago but had not seen her for ages when I heard from a mutual contact Laura Leyland that Wendy was running an event that involved mentoring students from Blackpool and Fylde College for the day called Oysters and Pearls. I went to the event, had a great day (hoped that I helped the student I worked with!), reconnected with Wendy and met her wonderful daughter Amy. Wendy and Amy both had fascinating stories about their life’s journey since I’d last seen Wendy a few years ago. These journeys are what lead them to create STOP, a one week retreat designed for busy women who often forget to do the same, and I managed to get a spot on the week.
I made the journey up to Mull by train with two friends. After a lovely ferry and car journey (plus some very good fish and chips from a van near the harbour) we arrived at the secluded Carsaig House with a view of the sea, deer’s and stags virtually within touching distance and an amazing view (the photo’s don’t do it any justice, you have to just go there). The peace and tranquillity that surrounded the place along with the beautiful views made it astounding. The old house was beautiful and sympathetically renovated with obvious love and care. Our first night was hosted by Sam and Wendy. Sam’s cooking was as amazing as he was entertaining. I met all of the other lovely ladies on the retreat and was amazed by the depth of experience and knowledge in the room. Wendy explained what they had in store for us for the week to come and we all got our first quiet night’s sleep in a while! No traffic, no pollution, no street lights, no people, no shops, no worries (or at least they were 300 miles away in Preston!)
The first two days of the retreat were lead by the lovely James who delivered a Leadership Embodiment course, Wendy taught us Heart Math, Amy and her close friend Laurent taught us using their impressive acting skills (who knew they could be transferred to a business course??) The individual courses were carefully crafted to be linked together. We all laughed, some of us even cried a couple of times, we got to know each other on a much deeper level that you could have thought was possible with strangers that you had only just met. The simple techniques taught helped us understand ourselves and each other like we never have before, it was a journey of discovery, connection and learning to interact with others in a much more improved way once we got back to the real world. I won’t give too much away – you need to experience the course to know what it is really about and I’m sure that we all must have got what we needed but very different things out of it.
I thank all of the other women who were there in Mull along with Wendy, Amy, Sam, James and Laurent. You helped me gain a much greater understanding of how to behave, recover, become calmer, judge less, read others, align and sympathise with their situation and include them in a solution when things become fraught and to be more open. I started a new job the Monday after a came back from Stop. The things I learned on Mull will stay with me forever and have been immensely useful in my new role, not only to me but the people at work that I am now with daily. They have no idea the ripple effect that you have created. I have many stories to share and its only been nearly two weeks since we got back. Looking forward to keeping in touch, sharing discoveries, stories, experiences and how we have changed and grown 😊 xx
Rachel Gill - Joint Venture Business Partner, Cheetham Jackson
I made the journey up to Mull by train with two friends. After a lovely ferry and car journey (plus some very good fish and chips from a van near the harbour) we arrived at the secluded Carsaig House with a view of the sea, deer’s and stags virtually within touching distance and an amazing view (the photo’s don’t do it any justice, you have to just go there). The peace and tranquillity that surrounded the place along with the beautiful views made it astounding. The old house was beautiful and sympathetically renovated with obvious love and care. Our first night was hosted by Sam and Wendy. Sam’s cooking was as amazing as he was entertaining. I met all of the other lovely ladies on the retreat and was amazed by the depth of experience and knowledge in the room. Wendy explained what they had in store for us for the week to come and we all got our first quiet night’s sleep in a while! No traffic, no pollution, no street lights, no people, no shops, no worries (or at least they were 300 miles away in Preston!)
The first two days of the retreat were lead by the lovely James who delivered a Leadership Embodiment course, Wendy taught us Heart Math, Amy and her close friend Laurent taught us using their impressive acting skills (who knew they could be transferred to a business course??) The individual courses were carefully crafted to be linked together. We all laughed, some of us even cried a couple of times, we got to know each other on a much deeper level that you could have thought was possible with strangers that you had only just met. The simple techniques taught helped us understand ourselves and each other like we never have before, it was a journey of discovery, connection and learning to interact with others in a much more improved way once we got back to the real world. I won’t give too much away – you need to experience the course to know what it is really about and I’m sure that we all must have got what we needed but very different things out of it.
I thank all of the other women who were there in Mull along with Wendy, Amy, Sam, James and Laurent. You helped me gain a much greater understanding of how to behave, recover, become calmer, judge less, read others, align and sympathise with their situation and include them in a solution when things become fraught and to be more open. I started a new job the Monday after a came back from Stop. The things I learned on Mull will stay with me forever and have been immensely useful in my new role, not only to me but the people at work that I am now with daily. They have no idea the ripple effect that you have created. I have many stories to share and its only been nearly two weeks since we got back. Looking forward to keeping in touch, sharing discoveries, stories, experiences and how we have changed and grown 😊 xx
Rachel Gill - Joint Venture Business Partner, Cheetham Jackson
Wow what a wonderful opportunity to go on a retreat to the Beautiful Isle of Mull. Being self employed there are so many different hats we have to wear as business owners, which at times can get rather challenging. As a coach myself I work with people to look at keeping their lives in the flow and therefore I endorse this by ensuring I take time out for my own personal development which often includes resilience resource.
Having returned from the retreat, I have already incorporated some of the new/refreshed learning into a pitch for some new work and I got amazing feedback. Therefore this demonstrates that it pays to stop, reflect and then come back stronger and ready to tackle those courageous goals with an energetic approach. Thanks Wendy for encouraging me to come along and I will look forward to being part of the team who will work with you to deliver the PAUSE retreat in September, this is definitely something I will be doing on a regular basis.
Katy Mason - Managing Director, Another Way
Having returned from the retreat, I have already incorporated some of the new/refreshed learning into a pitch for some new work and I got amazing feedback. Therefore this demonstrates that it pays to stop, reflect and then come back stronger and ready to tackle those courageous goals with an energetic approach. Thanks Wendy for encouraging me to come along and I will look forward to being part of the team who will work with you to deliver the PAUSE retreat in September, this is definitely something I will be doing on a regular basis.
Katy Mason - Managing Director, Another Way