Finding My Voice At NEHA’s Women’s Retreat
Finding My Voice At NEHA’s Women’s Retreat
Written by Jennifer Carroll-Fischer.
Posted: December 2, 2024. This article was originally shared in our Winter 2024 Newsletter.
This summer, I had the privilege to attend NEHA’s Women’s Retreat at The Guest House in Connecticut. I have wanted to attend for the last few years, but it never seemed to be the right time; and honestly, I was a bit hesitant, being on the quiet side. I am so thankful that I did make the time and made it a priority to attend this year!
Words cannot adequately describe the experience that I had as a first-time attendee. I felt so welcome, from the minute I stepped through the door. The weekend provided the perfect space for allowing myself and this wonderful group of women an opportunity to be heard, supported, make new and strengthen connections, relax, let loose and have fun together! The programming and activities were perfect ways to allow these special connections and experiences to happen within the group as well as individually.
It has been quite a tough year in my household health-wise, and this event was exactly what was needed to find my footing, voice, and inner strength to keep moving forward. The location provided the serenity, delicious food (even modified for those with dietary restrictions, like me) and beautiful spaces to connect, whether by the pond or in the comfortable lounges.
Claire Fry, a voice actor and coach, started us off and led us through a few phenomenal group actives to help us meet one another. In our groups, we found our voices individually and collectively. We literally combined our voices and put them together in an amazing soundtrack, truly representing the heart of NEHA. However, this voice discovery not only solidified our connection as a group and representation of NEHA, but we were also able to discover where our own voices can be strengthened. I felt so empowered and ready to use my own voice in areas where I had let it soften.
Next, we took park in Reiki sessions, led by Lena Suarez-Angelino. For those who have never experienced this modality, it relaxes and centers you in a very gentle, unobtrusive way allowing for a deep sense of peace. Lena also led us in learning ways to simplify and find support in our lives. It is amazing how many ideas can be generated by a group of strong women.
We participated in terrarium building where we shared the same foundation, but able to truly express ourselves through our choices. Who knew how much support can be felt and fun can be had by seeing the uniqueness of each and every person. This is not to mention, the jigsaw and crossword puzzles, the music, the ice cream, the rap sessions, the laughter, the fun.
This retreat will indefinitely be on my priority list. I am so grateful for our sponsors who supported this event and helped make this experience possible for me and the other attendees. If you have any second thoughts or feel you are too busy, put this time aside for yourself. You will be glad you did. I hope to see you there, next year!
NEHA’s 12th Annual Women’s Retreat will be held at Margate Resort in Laconia, NH, from Friday, April 25 to Sunday, April 27. Learn more by clicking here.
Jennifer and her husband live in Kensington, CT with their three children. Jennifer’s son has severe hemophilia B.