Finding Calm in Connection: A Day of Peace, Nature & Self-Care

Find a place of calm, space to collect thoughts and connect with others

I just wanted to share a little bit about a day of peace and tranquillity that’s become important to me. It’s all about holistic fairs - events that are increasingly gaining popularity, and for good reason. One in particular that I have begun to attend and indeed on one occasion presented a talk on Polyvagal (the Vagus nerve and the impact it has on us) and a workshop on boundaries, is the TLC Holistic fayre.

The reason I haven’t been involved in presenting there lately is that, as a therapist, I know how important it is to find spaces that genuinely nurture and calm my own nervous system. Over the past couple of years, I’ve found a place that feels like a gentle retreat. It’s a day/weekend that offers so much more than just activities; it’s like pressing pause in a busy world. I will likely present in the future but at times we all need to pause to make way for experiencing from a different perspective.

TLC Holistics hosts a variety of workshops — some free, others with a small charge — and I’ve seen how stepping a little outside our comfort zones can lead to wonderful discoveries. I often invite friends or family to join me, and each time, I see how everyone finds something that resonates deeply with them, even the sceptical have found something here. That’s the magic of connection — whether it’s with loved ones, nature, like-minded strangers or even just ourselves. In a world where we often hide behind screens, these moments help us reconnect with what truly matters.

This weekend a favourite of mine was Claire’s somatic dance and meditation class. At first, swirling shapes and closing your eyes might feel a bit awkward (and it did for me too), but it’s also an invitation back to that innocent, joyful inner chid. So if we can, even just for a moment, why not embrace that feeling? She then moves into a meditation that can bring a sense of calm, it’s also perfectly normal to experience some emotions surfacing at this point — that’s part of the process, and it’s all safe here.

Barefoot walk through nature. Pic courtesy of Matt Roberts (@pfmattroberts)

Another beautiful opportunity is connecting with nature — walking barefoot through the woods with Matt, tuning into the air, the earth, the energy of the plants. It’s simple but profound, and it reminds us of the importance of grounding ourselves.

Some might find all this a bit “hippy dippy,” and that’s okay. If that’s not your thing, there are plenty of other ways to find peace — whether it’s drumming, a sober rave, embracing natural scents, nourishing foods and drinks, crystals, massage maybe reflexology and more. Whatever resonates with you, these events are a lovely chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect with yourself and nature, surrounded by caring people who truly know their stuff.

For me, these days have become essential. They help me slow down, clear out any negative energy, and support my wellbeing so I can be the best version of myself ready to support you when you need it.

Just a quick note: the TLC Holistics event isn’t a counselling space, but it offers that much-needed moment to breathe and reflect amidst life’s busyness.

If you’re looking for a gentle break, a moment of calm, or a way to reconnect, maybe just consider these kinds of events. Sometimes, a little pause is all we need to find clarity, peace, and renewal.

(This is not an endorsement or paid promotion; I'm simply sharing my experience in hope to support people that may need it)