When MJ first met Paula just a few weeks before the inaugural Ecopsia Retreat, she thought she was being called in to help. As a seasoned nurse with 40 years of service and deep experience in caring for others, MJ assumed her role would be to support the group—not to receive anything herself.
But, as she reflects now, “Spirit had other ideas.”
The Catalyst
Just two days before the retreat, MJ’s life took an unexpected turn. A full-time job she was due to start was suddenly pulled away. She arrived at the retreat on uncertain ground—emotionally vulnerable, facing a sudden loss of direction, and unsure of what would come next.
“I thought I was coming to help,” MJ shares, “but I ended up as a participant. And it was totally life-changing.”
Transformation Through Space and Sisterhood
What MJ found wasn’t just a retreat—but a sanctuary. A space that allowed her to stop doing and start being.
In those quiet, expansive moments—with the gentle rhythms of nature and a group of women she’d never met before—MJ encountered something she had long denied herself: deep, authentic connection.
“Within 24 hours, I felt safe. Truly safe. And that’s something I’ve never experienced with a group of women before.”
Despite decades in female-dominated work environments, MJ had always felt guarded, disconnected. But at Ecopsia, she felt held. Not just emotionally, but spiritually. During a particularly powerful session, she experienced what she can only describe as a moment of being cradled by a feminine energy she never knew she needed.
“It was like being in the arms of the space Paula Williams and her team had created.”
The Reawakening of Purpose
Amidst the breathwork, sound baths, and soul-led sessions—many of which she had never encountered before—MJ began to uncover the voice of her heart, long buried under the noise of logic and fear.
“For 20 years, I’ve had ideas in my heart that my head always overruled. I kept saying, ‘That won’t pay the bills.’ But being here made me realise I’ve got to let go and trust. If I follow what’s truly in my heart, I will succeed.”
She left with more than clarity—she left with conviction.
No Spiritual ‘Label’ Needed
Perhaps the most powerful part of MJ’s story is her assurance that Ecopsia isn’t just for the overtly spiritual. It’s a retreat for anyone—regardless of background—who needs a space to simply be.
“You don’t need to be on a spiritual path. Maybe you’re just tired. Maybe you’re a mum. Maybe you’re always looking after everyone else and never yourself. This is a space where you can come back to you.”
Even the unexpected joys—like taking goats for a walk—became symbolic moments of play, connection, and grounding.
Conclusion
MJ came to Ecopsia to give. But she received more than she ever imagined.
She left with a heart open, a new sisterhood, and a renewed sense of direction.
For anyone on the edge of burnout, carrying invisible burdens, or simply yearning to feel held—MJ’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful healing comes when we step into the unknown.
If you just need some space to find out who you are, this is the place. – MJ
Are you ready to experience the peaceful, powerful atmosphere of Ecopsia? We can’t wait to welcome you here and support you on your journey. Reach out today.
