Going Off Grid
The Ronda Hills are calling and I must go
If you enjoy ‘with ease’ and would like to support my work, be offered first refusal to book onto my writing & wellbeing retreats with best selling authors, receive discounts towards my therapeutic journaling workshops, please buy me the equivalent of one cup of coffee, by becoming a paid subscriber. Thank you so much.
Dear Friend
How are you today? It’s a little overcast here in South Wales, but that’s ok, as I’m off on an exciting journey to the Ronda Hills in Spain tomorrow where the sunshine will be in all its glory.
I have been invited to spend a few days in a picturesque village, located in the Serrania de Ronda. I’ll be staying in a rustic family owned hotel, in one of the many pretty while villages of Andulcia. During my stay I’ll be evaluating the hotel’s potential as a retreat venue. I’m hoping it will be everything I’m looking for - stunning views, cute nooks to write from, delicious local cuisine, super comfortable beds, enough space to host yoga classes, breath work sessions and writing masterclasses, a venue where my guests will be able to rest, write and rejuvenate their souls. Additionally, I’ll be offering my insights and advice to the owners, on how they can enhance their venue to host retreat facilities just like the ones I facilitate here in the UK.
One of the most exciting aspects of this trip will be the opportunity to engage with the local community. Engage in conversation with local suppliers, enthusiastic wellbeing entrepreneurs and mooch about the quaint little streets to see what I stumble upon. This small hotel, with its rich history as a former olive mill, I’m sure, will hold so many stories. Knowing me, I’ll love getting to know the local characters, learning all about the area’s cultural heritage and truly immerse myself in the traditional Spanish way of life.
Interestingly, my trip coincides with the celebration of the 40th of May, apparently a unique local tradition making the beginning of the Spanish summer on the 10th of June. I’m really curious about the history behind this festival and I can’t wait to discover the stories and significance behind the 40th of May.
The thought of being “off-grid’ for four days is going to be quite a treat for me. I don’t know about you, but if there is an opportunity to be online, then I usually I’m online, whether that be here on Substack or engaging with friends and guests via my social media channels. It will be blissful to not be interrupted by relentless reminders, emails and notifications, and alternatively have the opportunity to walk in the hills, chill by the pool, journal, read my book, and enjoy alfresco dining while the sun sets. I’ve got a good gut feeling that the Ronda Hills will provide the perfect backdrop for a digital detox with ease, the perfect place to reflect and recharge away from the maddening crowds.
Have you ever visited Ronda? If so, are there any places of interest you could recommend? Any cute cafe’s, restaurants, local markets or interesting walks I should consider whilst I’m there?
Inspired by my up coming trip, I’ve curated a few therapeutic journaling prompts, please help yourself…
1. Reflect on a time when you felt truly disconnected from your digital devices. How did it feel, how did it impact your overall wellbeing?
2. Think about a place that is rich in history that you’ve visited. What stories or experiences stood out to you and why?
3. Write about a time where you immersed yourself in a new community. How did it change your perspective, how did it light you up?
I’m literally counting down the hours for my little adventure to Ronda, filled with anticipation and excitement of what will unfold over the next few days. In all honesty I’m hoping that this small historic hotel holds the promise of new discoveries, and a deeper connection with both the mountains and the culture surrounding them. I’m looking forward to sharing this mini adventure with you, hoping I’ll be able to capture the essence of rural Spain.
Until the next time,
Take care, stay safe and keep on journaling xx
What’s On 'with ease'
Creative Unblocking Weekend Retreat with Ease & Emma Gannon - only 1 bedroom left available. 16th-18th November 2024
Rage on a Page - next series now open for bookings, I’m looking to work with 4 women and there are 3 spaces left available. September 2024
Doing Hard Things with ease & Stacey Heale - SOLD OUT but there is a waiting list for the next retreat. Plus there is a bursary place for one lucky guest.
Digital Detox Weekend Retreat - coming soon October 2024 in a gorgeous beach house near Pembrokeshire. Join me to learn how to take back control on the amount of time you spend on your device, find new ways to entertain yourself, embrace more positive daily activities and generally feel more upbeat and happier.
Thought for a moment you were talking about Rhonda Wales 😅 But then the pool. Really love what you're doing. 💜
Hope you're having a fab time Tanya! Looking forward to hearing more 🌞