Rest, Restore, Explore: An Invitation to Show Up for Yourself
The giving season is upon us. For many, the holiday season is one of vast complexity. The joy and challenge of gathering together with family and/or friends, the longing for lost tradition and loved ones, the excitement of giving and gathering alongside the exhaustion of burnout.
Sometimes, admittedly, the pressure of gratitude and “merry & bright” seems daunting and unkind. The end-of-year holidays bring so much.
With that in mind: pause a moment to notice and settle that anxious feeling that might be creeping up.
Breathe in.. 1 … 2… 3… 4… 5 and out
Long exhale – 1 … 2… 3… 4… 5… 6… 7… 8… again…
Breathe in.. 1 … 2… 3… 4… 5… and out
Long exhale – 1 … 2… 3… 4... 5… 6… 7… 8…
accessible meditation at rest | restore | explore retreat at l'Artesania
We can be real about the stress of the season, and still look for the joyful glimmers that keep life more balanced.
In the spirit of gratitude the season calls for ...
[insert record scratch] let's name that we’re claiming the much needed community and spirit of the season - minus the colonization & murder - because that ain’t cool and we don’t embrace that - but man, it’d be nice if we could acknowledge and learn from it as a nation.
…. I digress.
the glorious bounty of spain
With gratitude in mind:
- I love having meaningful work and relationships, like with my friend, business partner, and co-conspirator Dee
- The health of my children and access to support and care for them brings me peace - and the privilege, especially now, is not lost on me.
- Having something to look forward to keeps me moving forward, like holiday events, a quiet Christmas rom-com on Saturday with my cats and favorite blanket, and trips out of the country!
- Space to just be and work on being the best version of myself in this season of life makes me feel whole.
We invite you to give to yourself as well; here are just a few ways:
- Take time for you in the upcoming days and weeks. Even if you’re hiding in the closet for some long exhales – do it!
- Write down what makes you feel whole and encouraged this time of year. Consider how you can grow that.
- Take a mindful walk. Listen to the sounds. Feel your body moving. Notice what is true and present for you.
- Take the Rest Quiz based on Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith's book Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity, to get feedback on your restful practice. Did you know that there are seven types of rest?!
- Think about what you have to look forward to, and consider investing in yourself – what do you want to learn? What do you want to do? Where do you want to go?
courtney enjoying the Mediterranean with retreat guests in 2025
And shameless plug: consider investing in yourself by joining a Rest | Restore | Explore retreat at l’Artesania in 2026 or 2027. Our small, curated, all-inclusive, exploratory, joyful, and contemplative retreat experience takes place every spring and fall at our retreat center nestled in a coastal mountain valley just outside of Barcelona, Spain. Registration and payment plans are available for the following retreat dates:
- 17-23 May 2026
- 18-24 October 2026
- 7-13 March 2027
- 3-9 October 2027
Invest in yourself without having to plan details of an international trip to Spain; we handle all of that for you because we know you need it.
We believe that rest doesn’t need to be earned. Choose your commitment of rest, travel, restoration, health, and healing. Schedule time for you, as you need it for this season.
quaint town nestled in a valley of the Prades mountians, located close to l'Artesania
With love, light, and best wishes for joy, rest, and restoration this holiday season,
Courtney (and Dee!)
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