Mother & Daughter Weekend

2 Aug

This is the beautiful Gaia Retreat just a few minutes from Byron Bay – just what the Doctor ordered.

As my strength improved I was keen to spend some time out of the house. (As comfortable as it is – I was beginning to feel like a hermit!) A weekend away with Mum also seemed like an ideal opportunity to take stock – for both of us. The whirlwind that has been the past few months just happened. We’ve talked lots along the way – but mostly about treatment/possible outcomes. While dealing in a very practical way with the reality of the situation, there hasn’t really been any time to reflect on the gravity of the situation.

Red wine and a sumptuous dessert helped the conversation along!

 

Being Olivia Newton-John’s retreat – there was much support for breast cancer sufferers/survivors. There were also plenty of lovely orchids and lillies – her favourites! A recent photo shoot had the star herself lounging back in this beautiful chair. Being a bit of a fan, Mum just couldn’t resist!

 

Without much explanation – the staff seemed to intimately understand my situation. This is one of the therapists Angelika, who expertly and ever-so-gently gave my cramped back and sides some much-needed attention in the massage room.

Did I mention the food? Everything organic and each dish beautifully prepared. Mum even tucked into the green lentil curry! (For those who know Mum – the photographic proof was necessary!)
Alongside the dining room is a very comfortable lounge area – complete with a well-stocked library and a unique collection of sculptures – including many female torsos.
Although I was hoping to take part in the morning yoga and other daily activities – I was still a little delicate so opted out. I was more than a bit frustrated at needing to retreat to the room for a ‘nanna nap’, but still had a wonderful time.
Mum had a date with one of the in-house naturopaths and also took the time to explore the spectacular scenery from various vantage points throughout the property. We also sat in on the cooking class which had a Middle Eastern flavour – baba ganoush and saffron & cardamom basmati rice!

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