Returning to Real Retreat: Reclaim Your Essence with Women Supporting Women

June 14, 2025 | Northern Ontario

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often forget to prioritize ourselves. Work, family, and responsibilities can leave us feeling drained, disconnected, and burnt out. But what if you could take a day to step away from the noise, reset, and focus on your mental and emotional well-being? The Returning to Real Retreat is your opportunity to do just that.

On June 14, 2025, join us for a one-day retreat in the serene, beautiful countryside of Northern Ontario, where we will come together as women to reconnect with ourselves, each other, and nature. Hosted by three experienced Registered Psychotherapists—Carmen Jelly, Betty Hagey, and Leah Brown—this retreat is all about providing a supportive, compassionate environment for women to thrive.

A Day of Learning, Rejuvenation, and Connection

The Returning to Real Retreat isn’t just a break from your everyday life; it’s a chance to tap into the essence of who you truly are. Whether you’re dealing with burnout, feeling overwhelmed, or simply needing time for self-reflection, this retreat offers you the opportunity to recover and rejuvenate.

Through guided workshops, reflection activities, and group discussions, we will help you explore your mental health and self-care in ways that feel nurturing and empowering. You’ll learn strategies to manage stress, understand burnout recovery, and reclaim the joy that comes from knowing yourself deeply.

As Carmen Jelly writes in her book, Returning to Real: Embracing the WE in Me, “True healing begins when we give ourselves permission to be—to be who we are, free of the pressures to conform, and to accept our own journey with compassion.” This philosophy is at the core of our retreat, where each woman is given the space to simply be.

A Beautiful, Rural Setting in Northern Ontario

Imagine spending the day in the peaceful, rustic charm of Northern Ontario, surrounded by lush forests, rolling fields, and the gentle hum of nature. The retreat is set in a tranquil rural location, far from the distractions of the city. Here, you’ll find yourself immersed in the calming presence of the outdoors, with the added joy of being around horses—animals known for their intuitive and healing energy. The horses will be part of the experience, offering moments of connection, reflection, and a unique bond with nature that will leave you feeling grounded and refreshed.

“The energy of the land, the animals, and the community will bring you back to yourself. This is a space where you can breathe deeply and reconnect to the essence of who you are.” — Betty Hagey

Understanding Burnout and Recovery

In today’s world, burnout is an all-too-familiar experience, especially for women who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. The pressure to “do it all” can lead to exhaustion, stress, and a loss of connection to your inner self. At the Returning to Real Retreat, we will help you understand the causes of burnout, recognise its symptoms, and offer practical tools to heal and recover.

As Carmen Jelly writes, “Burnout happens when we forget that we, too, need nurturing and care. We give and give, but without replenishing ourselves, we soon have nothing left to give.”

This retreat is designed to help you fill your cup. Through mindfulness practices, self-compassion exercises, and group support, you’ll leave feeling empowered, rejuvenated, and ready to take on life with a new perspective.

Your Mental Health is a Priority, Your Happiness Essential, Your Self-Care a Necessity

At the heart of this retreat is the belief that your mental health, happiness, and self-care are not luxuries—they are essential. As women, we often put others’ needs before our own, but it’s time to shift the focus back to us. When we nurture ourselves, we can better support the people we love and create a life that is fulfilling and balanced.

“Self-care is not selfish; it’s a necessity. When we take time for ourselves, we are not only healing ourselves but creating a ripple effect of healing that reaches others.” — Leah Brown

We look forward to sharing a day filled with energy, joy, rejuvenation, and profound connection. The magic of being surrounded by supportive women, in the healing embrace of nature, and in the company of skilled therapists, will offer you a transformative experience that nurtures your heart, mind, and spirit.

Join Us at the Returning to Real Retreat

This retreat is more than just a day away—it’s an invitation to prioritise yourself and reclaim the joy and balance you deserve. Come learn, relax, and experience a deep sense of connection and renewal.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this transformative experience. Join us on June 14, 2025, for the Returning to Real Retreat in Northern Ontario. We can’t wait to welcome you.
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Carmen Jelly, Betty Hagey, and Leah Brown are dedicated to supporting women in their journeys toward mental health and well-being. With their combined expertise and compassionate approach, they offer a safe and empowering space for all who attend.
Let’s step back into our true selves together.