A 5-Day Women’s Retreat

RENEW, REWILD, RECALIBRATE

Shirlee Williams | Laura Foster 

July 28th – August 1st, 2023

The perfect spot to unwind.

This 5-day all women’s retreat will combine the practices of yoga, meditation, breathwork and self discovery with the integration of community and conversation. There will be plenty of time to explore the 25 kms of hiking trails or lounge on the dock.

Swimming, saunas and an evening bonfire will touch all the parts of yourself that you have been missing.

South Frontenac, Ontario

Bloom Holistic Retreat Centre

Bloom Holistic Retreat Centre is lakefront on the shores of beautiful Loughborough Lake in South Frontenac of Eastern Ontario. This magical oasis sits upon 600+ acres of biodiverse boreal forest and combines the unparalleled comfort of zen-inspired space and mindfully curated rooms and views.

Bloom was designed by celebrated architect Siamak Hariri and offers 16 rooms with ensuites, a light filled yoga studio that accommodates 40 mats and access to a 1700 square foot outdoor yoga deck for those warm summer evenings.

The kitchen at Bloom follows a farm-to-table food philosophy that makes every meal at the communal table truly memorable. A fire pit and outdoor pizza oven add to the charm of the experience.

Lake vistas, forest bathing, bird watching and hiking along 25 kms of smooth trails are just some of what’s in store for you.

“The retreat left me with the most uplifted feeling and a spiritual awareness that I don't give enough attention to most days. It was definitely soul inspiring!!! As a teacher she has such a kind and engaging personality with a beautiful soul who truly brings out the best in people. I had the best week with a best friend and felt blessed to have met such a caring & fun group. Enjoyed lots of laughter and so much positive energy!!"
Wendy A.
Wendy A.

Step One: Curate

Intention.

We have set into motion a very conscious desire to allow all of us to flourish during this intentional 5-day retreat experience. We will be collectively communing for meals, walking through the forest, swimming in the lake, full moon bathing and flowing on our yoga mats – together + apart.

We are also consciously calling in space for deep reconnection and inner peace. This type of nervous system recalibration comes from creating a gap between the busyness and responsibilities of our daily life and the silence and self awareness that comes from putting down our phones, releasing the need to drink alcohol and being lighthearted and curious to quietude.

It is simply transformative and does requires a level of curation.

Step TWO: Unplug

Go off duty.

The invitation to let your family and friends know how important this 5-day retreat is for you.

Request the opportunity to not be responsible for being on your phone or checking in with all the goings on of life and work back home. We will be providing our phone contact for those who want to share that with their love ones as an emergency contact so that you can power off your electronics or simply leave them at home.

We will share all our photos and you will have the gift of presence – being in the experience instead of documenting it with electronics and social media.

Imagine that.

Step Three: Deep Exhale

As many times as necesary.

Step FOUR: Integrate

RENEW, REWILD, RECALIBRATE

As women we hold so much of humanity’s energy.
It’s our superpower and our kryptonite.

HOLDING

And in some cases, gripping.

We can put it down and more importantly, we can deepen into what calls to us – in this moment, this season, this lifetime.

Along the way we can laugh, release and step into our playfulness.

Women are meant to be in union. We are designed to see, hear and witness each other’s greatness and hold space for the rewilding of our soul’s desires.

One of the most beautiful outcomes of our retreats is that we witness a collective exhale and letting go of all that we have consciously and unconsciously gathered.

Our intention for this retreat is to offer the space and experiences that allow you to:

  • Recalibrate your nervous system
  • Immerse yourself in a journey of lighthearted self discovery
  • Renew your vision and re-focus on what truly calls to you
  • Reimagine life in the here and now
  • Rewild your sense of curiosity and perspective of what’s possible.


If this is a Wholehearted, Full Body YES … Follow Your Lead + Register

Allow us to nourish your heart and soul in the collective of a women’s retreat.

Full Body YES, I am in!
"For the past few years, I have been searching for guidance to start creating the life that I so badly crave. All the books I've purchased, workshops I've signed up for over the years. And within a matter of one week, your retreat has given me the hope, courage and clarity to move forward with the life I want to live. I can't believe that within a week how my perspective has shifted. This retreat was truly life changing for me. Your patience, attention to detail, knowledge and kindness was so obvious. I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate. I feel truly blessed.”
Kathryn
Kathryn

ABOUT US

Meet your hosts.

Shirlee Williams

Jay Shetty Certified Coach | Registered Yoga Teacher

I have always been a seeker of “WHY”. Curiosity has led me down a spiritual path of yoga, meditation, breathwork and entrepreneurship. I opened and directed a successful yoga and spin studio for 14 years. I have been teaching Yoga Trainings for over a decade and running international retreats throughout Mexico and Costa Rica. I am a certified Life Coach and host a podcast called Becoming You.

I call myself a spiritual mindset coach and I am deeply committed to living and helping others live a full authentic life.

Showing up as my true authentic self in the world is my magic. The intentionality I bring to life, is the sweet spot. My open heart and resilience keeps me evolving and growing. This unwavering inability to never quit is how I show up in the world.

I wholeheartedly believe that anything is possible. The more we connect with each other and walk our own authentic path, the brighter we shine. My mission on this planet is to remind you of your own greatness. ❤️

Laura Foster

Women’s Coach | Yoga Teacher | Breathwork Facilitator | Experience Maker

I’m Laura [Dr. Laura Foster if you want to get all formal] – personal leadership coach, retired chiropractor, yoga + Elemental Rhythm breathwork teacher, podcaster, retreat leader and founder of Soul Inspired Gurl. I’m compassionate, bold and fiery as hell and I see the fire that’s within you – ready to break through the old to create the life, love and legacy of your dreams.

I wholeheartedly believe that we are each meant to walk our own sovereign path, alongside other women and incredible humans who also have the courage to walk their own. As the New Earth and unity consciousness comes forth we each have a roll to play and I deeply honor whatever is coming through you to be seen, witnessed, healed and expanded.

My purpose is to lead women back to themselves and transform the way they choose to show up in the world – one sovereign genuine step at a time. I’m thrilled you’re here and I can’t wait to experience this retreat together.

prepare

What to bring.

  • workout/yoga clothes for daily movement
  • cozy, comfortable clothes for restorative practice
    light sweater (sometimes it can feel a bit cool in the morning practice so it’s nice to have a light sweater or shawl for meditation)
  • ​comfortable everyday clothing & pj’s
  • yoga mat (only if you prefer- the studio is well stocked with mats and other props)
  • meditation shawl, eye pillow, and any other personal practice items
  • water bottle (glass bottles and open vessels are not permitted in the studio)
  • seasonal clothing for outdoor activities
  • walking/hiking shoes
  • bathing suit
  • sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
  • bug repellant
  • personal toiletries (Ensuite bathrooms are stocked with soap, shampoo and conditioner)
  • ear plugs or noise canceling headphones, if you are a light sleeper
  • house slippers (Bloom is a shoe-free venue)
  • journal and pen
  • travel alarm clock
  • small flashlight
  • a book you are reading (consider bringing the real thing as we are encouraging everyone to stay off devices/electronics as much as possible)
  • any personal creative/art supplies you love to travel with

What’s Included

Your retreat package includes:

  • 4 night’s accommodation at Bloom Holistic Retreat Centre. There are a wide variety of rooms, all in the main building with queen, king and twin beds. There are single and shared accommodations available. All rooms have an ensuite 3 piece bathroom with shower.
  • Daily farm-to-table, vegetarian meals beginning with dinner on the first evening until brunch on our last day. Bloom works with local farmers and their own gardeners to source the very best local ingredients. You will be enjoying authentic food made with care – both for the planet as you as you share in the bounty at their communal tables.
  • Retreat schedule includes: meditation, yoga, Elemental Rhythm breathwork, outdoor sauna, journaling, yoga, silent meditation hiking, cacao ceremony, full moon ceremony, vision quest, self discovery workshops.
  • An abundance of free time to swim, relax, read, hike and explore.
I'm saying yes!

Itinerary

What we're doing.

(Subject to change.)

Sounds Dreamy! I'm in

Your Accommodations

These rooms tho.

ALL THE ROOMS are spectacular. For ease, lake views will be given to first registered.

SHARED: 4 BUNK BEDS

Bloom Quad Room

$1111 + HST

One Spot In Quad Bunk Room

A lower level room with two bunk beds and ensuite bath. Each bed has its own light, fan, and privacy.

This room will be shared with 4 people. If you’re coming solo we’ll pair you with three amazing new friends.

BOOK NOW

SHARED: 2 TWINS

Bloom Shared Suite

$1800 + HST

One Spot In Twin Bed

This room features 2 twin beds with ensuite for two people with a view of the surrounding forest or lake view.

This room will be shared with 2 people. You can book with a friend (price is per person), or we’ll pair you with someone incredible.

BOOK NOW

PRIVATE: 1 Queen BED

Bloom Private Suite

$2400 + HST

One Queen Bed

This room features a queen bed with ensuite for one person with a view of the surrounding forest or lake view.

BOOK NOW
“This experience was one filled with sharing, learning, love, connection to self and sisterhood. This retreat was clearly created from her heart and soul and filled with integrity, love, knowledge and passion. She has a gift for holding space and gently encouraging women to come together without judgment to be their authentic selves. I loved the conversations, creativity, workshops, nourishing food and nature that brought us all closer throughout the weekend. My heart and soul were fully nourished and revived when I left, leaving my me feeling soul-full.”️
Lea K.
Lea K.

Payment

The investment.

  • All rates are listed in CDN funds and include all the details listed in ‘What’s Included’.
    All rates are exclusive of applicable taxes. HST will be added to all retreat rates.
  • A $500 nonrefundable deposit is required to hold your spot in this retreat. Balance can be split into payments depending upon time of reservation [discuss with us for specific details on this].
  • Payments can be made by e-transfer [no fees] or via online payment processor [surcharge].
  • Retreat payments are 100% non refundable. If your plans change you may find a suitable replacement to take your spot [less $150 admin fee]. If we are able to find a replacement we will refund your money less the $150 admin fee.
  • Final payments must be made on or before June 15, 2023.

testimonials

From the mouths of goddesses.

"I thought I knew why I was doing this but it turned out to be so much more than I could have ever imagined - it was everything I didn’t know I needed. Shirlee and Laura have an amazing synergetic energy that draws you in close in such a comfortable, patient, thoughtful and loving way. The physical work, the mindset work, the reflection work is all woven together in an intentional way that leaves space to also just flex and flow with what might be required at the time it is needed. I am forever changed…and so very grateful for that. I tear up when I think about what I was witness to…so many beautiful, touching, moving moments that have changed me forever."
Lesley B.
Lesley B.
"Shirlee and Laura’s connection is magnetic. They both have so much wisdom to share. . I stepped into this retreat with no expectations and felt I got exactly what I needed. It was full of real moments, vulnerability, trust and beautiful connections. My heart is full. Grateful ❤️"
Nadia P.
Nadia P.
"11 strong women, 7 lush days, and 2 fabulous leaders made this retreat in the dense jungle of Costa Rica an experience of a life time and one that I will carry in my heart forever. We started out as strangers but ended as kindred spirits. My heart is open, I am trusting the process and I now have new friendships that offer and bring support, love with no judgment."
Sandra S.
Sandra S.
"If you are looking for leadership,mentorship and yoga and meditation? Laura and Shirlee will be an amazing choice with their own personal leadership and collaboration you will be transported to be the best version of yourself … it’s worth the investment in yourself. Thank YOU forever grateful for this opportunity to be supported by you both. Shirlee and Laura compliment each-other and are a dynamic duo. I was grateful they both took time to chat with everyone in the group making everyone feel and Know they are seen , heard and loved and truly valued. They were and are the lighthouses.
Lisa
Lisa
"The Goddess Retreat was everything I did not know I needed and wanted. Together with the other women, we all came into this experience with our own stories, intentions and expectations. We also came with our own version of walls that we use to shield-protect us from those stories, intentions and expectations. The guards that surrounded our most vulnerable pieces of ourselves ... The Goddess Retreat experience asked us to broke down our walls, surrender to our environment & fears and OPEN our hearts to a new version of ourselves. By weeks end, every single one of us found our true inner Goddess & dance in the glory that makes us whole!"
Ashley L.
Ashley L.
"To anyone considering gifting yourself a retreat with Laura and Shirlee, I have two words - DO IT!! Life keeps on life-ing and it can seem daunting to arrange all the moving parts to actually book the retreat, get on the plane, and step away from all you have going on. But there really is no greater gift to yourself. A retreat is time away to rediscover who you are, to soften, let go, breathe. A time to reconnect with your true essence, to laugh, and cry, and step outside your comfort zone. A time to embrace adventure and sisterhood. I loved it all - daily meditation and breath work, incredible yoga classes, yummy food, swimming in the ocean, treating myself to wonderful body treatments. Laura and Shirlee are brilliant facilitators. You will feel seen, heard and held by these women. Booking this retreat is the best thing I have done for myself in a very long time."
Sarah J.
Sarah J.
"I had a special time at the goddess retreat. Connecting, unplugging a bit, having fun and bonding with a group of unique women during the retreat was really valuable in many ways. It filled my cup. Thanks for the lovely week! "
Jill
Jill
“I want to genuinely thank you for being such an amazing soul. This retreat was very hard for me to attend, for many reasons, but the universe had been throwing me signs that I needed to do it from all directions, so I listened. And how grateful I am for doing so. You made it easy to be there. You held space for us in a way that not many people can. You saw each and every one of us. You guided us so gently yet so firmly. I don't think words can really explain the experience of this retreat for me. I came with the intention to clear my head and rest for a couple of days. I left with so much more: a clear head, a full heart, a happy soul, and some amazing friendships amongst many other things. Best decision I have made for myself and for everyone around me! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Thanks for the lovely week! "
Liliana
Liliana
If you were like me and pondering the idea of whether you should go on this retreat or not, maybe this may help you with your decision. Being a “newbie” to yoga, I was intimidated that it would be too advanced for me. Well, I was completely wrong in my thinking. Many of us were beginners and at no point did I feel less than. The self discovery sessions were truly life changing and inspirational. It’s a time to let go and think about what you really desire and want out of life. It’s an incredible journey you’ll take in just one week but introduce them into your life for good. I can’t believe that I almost didn’t go because of insecurities and financial guilt. Free yourself of these thoughts and treat yourself to a week that you’ll never forget! It is a must and the journey of a lifetime❤️ Thank you for a week full of incredible experiences and fun memories💕"
Liliana
Liliana

As to your qs

Frequently asked questions.

Nope! The August civic holiday is Monday, August 7th – the following weekend.

We welcome all beginner yogis and no experience is necessary. Bloom has all the necessary yoga mats and props so it is not necessary to bring any special supplies unless you have a special relationship with your yoga mat. If you are concerned about your physical health and participating in this retreat, please consult your doctor and reach out to us.

If you are a single registrant – awesome! We have found that over 50% of the individuals who sign up for our retreats are coming alone so do not worry if this is something you’ve never done before. We may arrive solo, but we will move throughout the experience as a mini-tribe of beautiful souls. Many of the people you meet during this retreat will likely become life-long friends.

Absolutely! Bloom is able to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and most food sensitivities.

To be completely wowed and leave feeling like you’ve given yourself the biggest gift ever. That’s a bold statement – we know, but after hosting many retreats in various settings we are accustomed to the magic that happens in a retreat.

Retreats are inherently different from vacations. On the surface it may look a lot like an all-inclusive style vacation, but once you arrive you’ll start to settle into the glorious routine of taking space and time to unroll your yoga mat, breathe deep, expand outwards and enjoy the process that unfolds. The workshops and classes are like icing on a soulful adventure.

Bring your open heart and sense of fun and you’ll be sure to have an incredible time (and if you feel inspired to truly unplug – be prepared to set down your technology while you are here).

  • Drive to Bloom Holistic Retreat Centre – 20 min north of Kingston, ON.
  • Take the train to Kingston station and take an Uber or taxi to Bloom.
  • Closest international airport is Ottawa, ON [175 km], Toronto, ON [265 km] or Montreal, QC [315 km].


When you arrive at 1425 Rutledge Road, you will see a limestone house at the front of the property—please pass the house and continue along the private laneway for 2 kms until you arrive at Loughborough Lake.

  • Transportation to and from the retreat center.
  • Applicable taxes [HST].
  • For international travelers: medical or travel insurance.

Bloom is an alcohol free and drug free property. Smoking is restricted to outdoors and not within 30 meters of the house.

A 5-Day Women’s Retreat

RENEW, REWILD, RECALIBRATE

Shirlee Williams | Laura Foster 

July 28th – August 1st, 2023

Women are meant to be in union – collectively communing at the table over delicious farm-to-table food and walking shoulder to shoulder in the forest. We are designed to see, hear and witness each other’s greatness and hold space for the rewilding of our soul’s desires.

Join us. It won’t be the same without you.