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Spirited Recharge
In 2022, I began exploring ways to create gathering spaces for spirited-minded individuals, in Leeds and nearby (physically and/or spiritually!) to connect and recharge each other.
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The inspiration came from my interfaith work and network. Whilst really enjoying meeting people from different backgrounds and learning from each other, there was never a space to truly be together. To move from identity sharing to a nurturing sense of spiritual community.
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So I organised a retreat day in Boston Spa, then another one, and a third as it gained momentum. Then a new idea; a 'Kindred Spirits Club' local evening session. Other ideas included a book club and slow mindful cooking sessions together too.
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And then on October 7th 2023, the devastating attack by Hamas in Israel seemed to change everything. And I retreated as the world seemed to become a more frightening place, and relationships were challenged as allegiances were declared according to popular, deeply unhelpful bi-polar narratives (are you with us or against us? Are you Pro-Palestine or Pro-Israel?).
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Recovering from this has been a long process, but I am still committed to this idea of connecting and creating meaningful spaces together as humans with spiritual needs, beyond our own religious identities and practices.
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If Spirited Recharge appeals to you and you're on Facebook, you can request to join the group here.
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If you're not on Facebook, please fill in the contact form on this website and I will make sure you're kept in the loop as Spirited Recharge develops.
Previous Gatherings:
Marmalade for the Soul
As the depths of January and February bring the unique seville oranges to our kitchens, it's the perfect opportunity to come together and embrace the wholesome joy of marmalade-making. A small, intimate group gathered with just four simple ingredients—oranges, sugar, water, and good conversation —create something truly special.
Spring Awakening
8th June 2023, in Boston Spa
At the beginning of the day, seventeen individuals gathered together with a sense of curiosity and openness to a day that most were unsure really what it was all about. By the end of the day, one group had formed through laughter, creativity, a few tears, and a shared sense of renewal. It was a privilege to gently steer the day and witness the remarkable journey taken by each person, and the group as a whole.
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The venue in the rural town is perfect as it's close enough to Leeds whilst also feeling totally "away from it all" (and there were a couple of Londoners who'd come a little further to attend too!). We were able to enjoy the space of the Oasis centre, as well as take a lovely amble along the river and enjoy nature all around us; connecting with the sounds, sights, and touch of nature.
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Individually and collectively we created art, and reflected, and made new connections and felt renewed.
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The next Spirited Recharge will be in October as we lean in to all that autumn can teach and inspire us. Please subscribe to the website to ensure you know about the next one when the details are released!
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"Connection with like minded people."
"Love and positivity is everywhere."
“I enjoyed doing different things and meeting so many new and interesting people.”
“I felt a sense of belonging and appreciation of people, nature and belief and living in the now.”
The First Retreat, September 2022
The first retreat day was in September 2022 and saw 15 people gather and create a wonderful space together in Boston Spa.
It truly nurtured and piqued curiosity in each other's spiritual practices.
We enjoyed a Jewish meditation, yoga, intentional paired conversations, a Christian reflection and a Muslim call to prayer and submissions.
I am truly grateful to those first pioneers who took the leap of faith (no pun intended!) with me and gifted their time, good intentions and open mindedness.
Winter Warmer Retreat, January 2023
16 wonderful people met at the Oasis School of Human Relations with open minds and curiosity for a day that included Iyengar Yoga, walking, talking and deep active listening in pairs, a meditation, a delicious vegetarian lunch, and an open creative discussion and reflection on winter and wintering.
Some comments from participants:
"It was extremely relaxing and heart warming, so I'm feeling the love!"
"A reminder yet again of how working with rather than against something is always so much better for the soul and spirit. Embracing mid January as a time of warmth and soul, light and creative thinking."
"There was a lot of positive energy, life experiences thoughts all in this space."
16 wonderful people met at the Oasis School of Human Relations with open minds and curiosity for a day that included Iyengar Yoga, walking, talking and deep active listening in pairs, a meditation, a delicious vegetarian lunch, and an open creative discussion and reflection on winter and wintering.
Some comments from participants:
"It was extremely relaxing and heart warming, so I'm feeling the love!"
"A reminder yet again of how working with rather than against something is always so much better for the soul and spirit. Embracing mid January as a time of warmth and soul, light and creative thinking."
"There was a lot of positive energy, life experiences thoughts all in this space."