Illuminated Path

I've been very quiet lately. I'm not going to be as active here as I'd like for a little while longer, as I am making room for wearing another hat that is equally important to me.

I spill the tea about what's been happening in the background in my latest blog post if you want to know the full story.

Work in Progress It’s generally taboo in business to talk openly about the business side of your business to your clients. But here I am in all my messy, human glory.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, I'm postponing this workshop to 14 April. The booking page is still the same: https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/how-to-draw-classical-labyrinths/

If you're in Ayrshire, it's super easy to pop across for the afternoon for this workshop - Heather Lodge is just a 5 minute walk from the ferry terminal.

And don't forget that you can book 1-on-1 services with me that weekend, if you'd like a bit of relaxing "me" time in a beautiful, peaceful setting at the same time! https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/services/

I might be pretty quiet on social media, but I'm a busy bee in the background!

Finally launched my services page! 🚀

Currently the only bookable dates and times for in-person services are once a month on Arran, and you can book a Zoom session for Spiritual Coaching on Wednesdays. Keep an eye out, though, because I'll be adding more availability soon!

Services Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the fear of change. If you have had enough of your status quo, leave your fears behind, step onto a new path…

Karen Simpson Photography did such a beautiful job capturing our Love From Within retreat last month.

I'm also grateful that she's better at social media than I am, so I could just nick her post instead of remembering to do my own! 😁

I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be offering services at Heather Lodge Holistic and Well Being Centre on the Isle of Arran! I'm kicking off my offerings with a labyrinth workshop that will cover a brief history of labyrinths and a tutorial on how to draw your own classical style labyrinth. You can view the details or book your spot on my website at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/how-to-draw-classical-labyrinths/

I have some exciting news! (Especially for locals) Keep an eye out for the announcement later this week!

The Saturday night tour of the castle by the Tweed Valley Blogger - TVB Tours was a really fun addition to the retreat. Whether you're visiting Scotland or just wanting to explore your own back yard, Stewart is engaging and knowledgeable. You won't regret booking a tour with him.

That's a wrap on Love from Within. Thank you to everyone who made it such a memorable weekend. Especially the amazing staff at and the incomparable . More photos to come when I've had a chance to crash back into mundania.

We had a beautiful start to our retreat last night. I'm so excited to share this weekend with this wonderful group of participants!

Has winter got you going out of your mind yet?

We're retreating to the woods at Neidpath Castle this weekend!

If you'd like to join us to soothe your soul, we can take a last minute addition until Thursday night! Go to https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/ to find out more or to register.

Been on the fence about signing up for the Love From Within wellness retreat at Neidpath Castle this weekend? Don't even know what a "wellness retreat" is? 🤷‍♀️

Well, you're in luck! I've got a new blog post up about the benefits of going on a wellness retreat. It looks at the different kinds of wellness retreats, how Illuminated Path does them, and some of what you can expect next weekend. You can read more here: https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/what-are-the-benefits-of-going-on-a-wellness-retreat/

There are a couple of spaces left, and we are still offering the pay-what-you-can sponsorship for complementary therapists if you want a last minute getaway to take care of the most important relationship you'll ever have - yourself! 💖

What are the benefits of going on a wellness retreat? If you’re looking at going on a wellness retreat but are wondering if it’s for you, this blog post tells you everything you need to know to decide.

We still have a couple of spaces left, if anyone wants to avail of our pay-what-you-can offer for complementary therapists!

🎉 We have received a special sponsorship to help offset some of the registration fees for Complementary Therapists who want to attend the Love from Within Wellness Retreat on February 9-11, 2024 on a “pay what you can” basis, as space permits.🎉

Complementary Therapists are the helpers and healers who support us, especially through these last few years. We recognize that many of us who fit that description are deeply empathetic and often choose to help those who can’t afford full fees. We see you, and we are so grateful for the work you do. Stories we hear from people who tell us how you helped resolve life-long pain or “literally saved” their life come up regularly.

When the idea was brought up to give back to those who give so much, we recognized how much that sentiment matches our values, and we couldn’t wait to be able to bring this to you.

It’s with deep gratitude that we are extending this offer. If you are in any field of Complementary Therapy and have been contemplating the need to invest in yourself with some reflection and restoration in a supportive community, now is the time!

We hope you recognize this as a generative offer, and if you can pay full fee or are unable to attend this event, please pass this offer along to some of your colleagues who may really appreciate some time for themselves.

The offer is open until we fill the retreat capacity, so respond quickly to ensure your spot.

You can take advantage of this offer by emailing me (Elizabeth) at [email protected] with the subject line “Complementary Therapist.”

Not sure if you fit our definition of a “Complementary Therapist”? Reach out and ask! (You probably do.)

Full details of the retreat can be found at illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within

Follow your heart 💖

Fall in love with yourself at our Love From Within retreat 9-11 February 2024 at Neidpath Castle in Scotland.

More information at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

Don't forget, we have a special pay-what-you-can sponsorship for complementary therapists, as long as spaces remain. DM or email me at [email protected] for more information.

Don't take anything personally.

But maintain healthy boundaries.

🎉 We have received a special sponsorship to help offset some of the registration fees for Complementary Therapists who want to attend the Love from Within Wellness Retreat on February 9-11, 2024 on a “pay what you can” basis, as space permits.🎉

Complementary Therapists are the helpers and healers who support us, especially through these last few years. We recognize that many of us who fit that description are deeply empathetic and often choose to help those who can’t afford full fees. We see you, and we are so grateful for the work you do. Stories we hear from people who tell us how you helped resolve life-long pain or “literally saved” their life come up regularly.

When the idea was brought up to give back to those who give so much, we recognized how much that sentiment matches our values, and we couldn’t wait to be able to bring this to you.

It’s with deep gratitude that we are extending this offer. If you are in any field of Complementary Therapy and have been contemplating the need to invest in yourself with some reflection and restoration in a supportive community, now is the time!

We hope you recognize this as a generative offer, and if you can pay full fee or are unable to attend this event, please pass this offer along to some of your colleagues who may really appreciate some time for themselves.

The offer is open until we fill the retreat capacity, so respond quickly to ensure your spot.

You can take advantage of this offer by emailing me (Elizabeth) at [email protected] with the subject line “Complementary Therapist.”

Not sure if you fit our definition of a “Complementary Therapist”? Reach out and ask! (You probably do.)

Full details of the retreat can be found at illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within

Anyone else feel like this year crashed onto the scene in a cloud of glitter, roaring that it’s time to party just after you put your comfy pjs on to enjoy a quiet night in? No? Just me?

It’s been a bumpy start, but now that the furniture has been put back in its places and it’s safe to bring the breakables out again, I’m feeling surprisingly energised to dive back into things with a renewed enthusiasm.

Stay tuned for big news!

Today is the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. It marks the longest night and the turn towards the returning light.

It’s no wonder that there are celebrations in almost every culture around this time. If you struggle with the darkness of this time of year, or the holidays are hard for you for any number of reasons, this is your reminder that the light gets longer every day from here.

Winter also reminds us of the restorative power of rest.

For those who will celebrate over the holidays, I wish you the joy and warmth of the season.

For those for whom it’s just another bank holiday, I wish you the peace and restoration of rest.

I will be enjoying some time for introspection in the warm glow of the lights that illuminate the darkness and assert with quiet defiance that even the darkest night will end.

A good exercise to help keep perspective on what's really important. Especially useful this time of year, but applicable every day.

If you are joining us at our February retreat at the wonderful Neidpath Castle, you may want some recommendations for local accommodation.

Why not follow GO Tweed Valley for links to lots of options for your restorative and relaxing weekend?

Neidpath Castle itself also has a range of self-catering accommodations within the grounds, each with a different theme (but all fit for Kings and Queens).

Who can benefit from our self love retreat in the Scottish Borders in February?

Anyone who is in need of peace and time to reflect and who is open to experiencing a range of holistic approaches to help them take the next steps.

Reserve your spot today at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

Do you find it hard to relax your mind? A sound bath can help.

It’s an immersive experience, scientifically proven to lower your resting heart rate.

The term sound bath refers to absorbing curated sounds and their vibrations (not in a literal bath).

You’ll be lying on blankets and listening to the mesmerising, soothing noise of the sound bowls and other percussion instruments.

Not only is it a lovely experience, but it’s also a great way to reach a state of deep relaxation.

Leave feeling calm and rested.

It’s amazing the emotions a sound bath can sometimes bring up, too.

Have you tried a sound bath? What did you think?

If you want to experience a sound bath for yourself, we will be holding a sound bath as part of our retreat in the Scottish Borders in February. Join us to find the peace and relaxation you need in a luxurious and historic location. Sign up at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

During the holidays, it can feel like we are juggling more and more balls in an attempt to ensure everything has been done and everyone else has everything they need.

But what about you? Do you need to find some peace and some space to reflect about your own needs?

Join us in February for a weekend of self love and discovery at a luxurious and historic location for a wonderful retreat.

Love From Within - Illuminated Path Treat yourself like royalty and become your own Valentine at the ‘Love From Within’ wellness retreat, hosted in the historic Neidpath Castle in Scotland. Whether you're single, coupled…

The Love From Within retreat programme is full of moments to restore and revive you.

From the candlelight labyrinth walk on Friday night in a fabulous historic castle location to forest bathing in the beautiful castle grounds, all our participants will be able to have a range of different experiences.

Reserve your space today at

Love From Within - Illuminated Path Treat yourself like royalty and become your own Valentine at the ‘Love From Within’ wellness retreat, hosted in the historic Neidpath Castle in Scotland. Whether you're single, coupled…

💙Embrace your gifts and magic 💜🙏

Do you want to feel like Royalty and spend time pampering yourself?

If you’re anything like me, you’ll have dreamed of spending time in a grand castle and its picturesque grounds more than once…

The good news is, now you can.

Set in the beautiful, history-soaked Neidpath Castle, my next retreat is an opportunity to find Love From Within.

Take self-care to the next level in this luxurious setting. Experience a range of health, wellness, and spiritual practices focused on embracing gratitude and love in its many forms.

The retreat is three days to connect with yourself in a supportive group environment, reflect on your emotions, and learn to be kinder to yourself. Do so by exploring spirituality in a way that resonates with you personally and immersing in nature against the backdrop of Scotland's rich history.

Alongside tailored retreat activities, you’ll be pampered with fine dining catered lunches in the romantic Neidpath Castle which will be your beautiful fortress for self-reflection.

Together, we can bring warmth, light, and love into your life during the dark depths of winter.

Book your space today at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

Do you remember what you did for fun as a kid? When was the last time you picked up a paint brush, without any thought to whether it would look “good”? What about the stories you made up to act out through your toys? When did you decide it was time to “outgrow” your imagination? Who even decided that playing was only for children anyway?

I spent most of the weekend working on a visual journal I started on the Veriditas Path of the Holy Fool pilgrimage to Chartres last year. I’ve been so busy for the last year that it fell to the bottom of the list of priorities because it wasn’t something I intended to use to support my efforts to build my business.

Intellectually, I know that creativity and play have been demonstrated time and time again to have measurable emotional and cognitive benefits. I’ve known this for years and years. Yet, I repeatedly put the things I do just because I enjoy them aside as soon as I get busy.

Even though I know that is exactly when we need them most. The joy of the creative process (when there is no agenda attached to it) is exactly the restorative tonic that helps me be more productive in every area of my life.

And yet… I so easily fall into the trap of thinking that I shouldn’t allow myself the time for it, simply because I am not commodifying it.

I was prompted to pick it up again after I read Donna Ashworth’s piece, “That Thing You Do” from her book Wild Hope:

“That thing you do, that thing you’re just good at. The thing that has always drawn you in, from childhood. That thing that has brought you something the rest of the world can’t see. You should do that, much more often. It doesn’t matter if it makes you money, or if anyone else thinks it’s worthwhile. It’s your thing. And every time another adult does their thing again, something in the universe shifts. It’s like pieces of a puzzle that was never supposed to make sense, but was always supposed to just be. You must do your thing again, my friend. It matters.”

It was just what the doctor ordered. I’m filled with joy and have more drive to do the things that have nothing to do with art.

If you’d like to recapture the joy of doing your thing, come play with me and Natasha Morisawa MFT and Associates at the Love From Within retreat at Neidpath Castle, 9-11 February 2024. Book now at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

Do you worry about making decisions, as you feel like you’re going the wrong way?

It might be time to walk a labyrinth.

Unlike a maze, a labyrinth only has one path to the centre…Rather than worrying about making decisions, physically walking on a single path can help your mind untangle things that have been puzzling you within.

It allows you to trust you will go on the journey you’re meant to, avoiding the feeling of wrong turns.

Labyrinths have a long and intriguing history, stretching back to the Neolithic period. They can help you with:

💫Mindfulness and meditation
💫Stress and anxiety reduction
💫Spiritual enlightenment
💫Problem-solving and creativity
💫Community and connection

Have you ever walked a labyrinth? What did you think?

If you haven’t and you want to find out more, send me a message. As a Certified Veriditas Labyrinth Facilitator, I can introduce the labyrinth to those who are new to it and I can help experienced labyrinth walkers to enrich their practice.

You can also experience working with the labyrinth at our Love From Within retreat 9-11 February 2024 at Neidpath Castle. Reserve your space today at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

Want to see more of what happens at an Illuminated Path retreat? Here are a couple more photos of the Winds of Change retreat I hosted with Lisa Angelini, Holistic Psychotherapist and Life Coach on the Isle of Arran. One participant, Meghan, had this to say about her experience:

✨“Not having done anything like this before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, so I turned up to the Winds of Change retreat with an open mind. Everything from the labyrinth walks to the sound baths was a new experience for me. Although I’d heard about the benefits from others, it’s not until you try them for yourself do you know what it’s really like.

My favourite thing about the retreat was I finally had time to reflect - away from both home distractions and work. Feeling a bit frazzled from a hectic couple of months, it was exactly what I needed. Thank you, Elizabeth and Lisa, for an experience I’ll never forget. I came away feeling calm, grateful, and lighter.”✨

Could you use some time away from the everyday for yourself? The Love From Within retreat, 9-11 February 2024, promises to take our restorative retreat experience to the next level with our very special venue, Neidpath Castle, and an explicit focus on your relationship with yourself. Treat yourself like royalty this winter and reserve your spot today at https://www.illuminatedpath.co.uk/events/love-from-within/

I am very excited to launch the next Illuminated Path retreat in February 2024: Love From Within.

I am partnering with the wonderful Natasha Morisawa MFT and Associates, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in private practice in California.

In the historic and luxurious setting of Neidpath Castle in the Scottish Borders, we are inviting you to join us for a weekend of discovery and self-love.

🌟Reconnect with yourself: Get time dedicated to yourself but in the presence of others, so you can see yourself from a different perspective. Learn to love who you are without exceptions, feeling pampered and looked after.
🌟Immerse yourself in nature: The rich history of the castle and the stunning scenery serve as an immersive backdrop to explore the natural world through practical, hands-on scenarios to unleash your creative free spirit.
🌟Learn and grow: From understanding the nature of your emotions to embracing practices to enjoy the present, the retreat is focused on taking you on a journey of personal growth and enlightenment. Finally, learn to love yourself as you are.

Bookings are now open, so go to www.illuminatedpath.co.uk and book your spot to join us in February to explore your Love From Within.

You're not going to be perfect every day.

I know I'm not.

I'm absolute rubbish at talking about myself or being concise. Both are necessary for marketing. So I recruited some very talented marketing professionals to help me get started. Even with the very best advice, and step-by-step instructions, I struggle with consistency.

Some days I knock it out of the park and wind up with some work I'm VERY proud of, which was how my week (more-or-less) started.

Other days (like today) I look at my marketing plan and cry because I did one of the five things I was supposed to do this week.

And then my inner critic likes to beat me up and tell me I'm a failure and who do I think I am trying to run a business like this?

Well, I think I'm someone who is going to remind you that it's okay to be human and have limitations. Which is one of the first things you need to hear when you look for support as a professional.

When I was just starting out as a commercial driver, one of the older guys in the company gave me the best advice: if you're having a bad day, sit on your bunk and cry.

As I stared at him, slack-jawed, he told me that anyone who told you they never cried when they first started working in this industry was probably lying. And a whole bunch of the other guys who'd been around a while agreed. (My co-workers were definitely one of the best parts of that job.)

It's okay to cry when you are overwhelmed. We put so much pressure on ourselves to be perfect. Especially as professionals with a public image to maintain. So if you've had a rough week, give yourself a break. Do something that makes you feel good. And start again in an hour. Or tomorrow. Or next week.

And here's a picture of my disappointing experience of the Fairy Glen on Skye last April (my travel companion included for scale). Because even a natural wonder can't always be perfect.

Hopefully I'll be making my retreat launch announcement for real by the end of today.