SACRED SELF - A WOMEN’S WELLNESS RETREAT At the *Sacred Self Retreat*, we will dive deep into the concepts of connection, to self and to others, and use practices like Qi Gong, meditation, and mindful presence to expand our sense of self and attune to the energy around us. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we understand energy—*Qi*—as flowing through all things. Through Qi Gong, we can tap into this flow, connecting with the world around us and cultivating a peaceful awareness that goes beyond words. This practice of expanding awareness is not just an abstract concept; it can be profoundly transformative. As a Shiatsu practitioner, I have experienced the power of energy connection firsthand. Whether I’m working with clients in person or online, I can often feel their energy, sensing their emotions, their state of being, and even areas of tension. This sensitivity is something that I’ve developed over time, but I believe that it is a skill that each of us has within us to some degree. The more we practice, the deeper our sensitivity to energy becomes. But with this heightened sensitivity comes great responsibility. When we recognize that our thoughts, emotions, and actions ripple outward into the world, we realize that we have the power to choose how we show up. In moments of frustration, we can choose patience. In moments of anger, we can choose compassion. While it’s not always easy—especially in today’s world—*the Sacred Self Retreat* provides a space to strengthen our connection to loving-kindness, to cultivate peace in every interaction. Imagine being able to sense the energy of everyone you meet—not just on a physical level, but truly holding them in your heart. Picture the impact of radiating kindness and calm in every interaction, even without saying a word. Science now shows that the energy field of the heart extends several feet beyond the body. What if we could harness this heart energy to uplift others, heal, and support them? As you cultivate this awareness, you’ll begin to notice how connected and peaceful life can feel. The illusion that we are separate falls away, and we begin to understand that we are part of something much larger than ourselves. So, I leave you with a question to ponder as we approach the Sacred Self Retreat: What if we are all connected on a much deeper level than we imagine? What if your intentions, your thoughts, and your kindness could create a ripple effect of positive change in the world? Exploring this connection to energy is at the core of my practice, and I invite you to explore it for yourself. Take a moment each day to sit quietly, to feel the energy around you—whether it’s the presence of a loved one, the trees in a nearby park, or the larger energies of your community and the world. Notice how this practice shifts your experience of life and how it deepens your sense of responsibility for how you show up in the world. WANT TO LEARN MORE? https://joannefaulkner.ie/sacred-self... If this resonates with you, if you’re curious to explore this profound connection with yourself and the world, I invite you to join me and a wonderful community of kindred spirits at the *Sacred Self Retreat*. Together, we’ll expand our awareness, explore energy connection, and experience what it means to live with an open heart.