my-retreat

The Flower Moon

Fri, 01 May 2026 22:12:26 GMT

A moment to soften, release and begin again

There is something quietly powerful about a full moon.

It asks nothing of you, yet it invites everything.
A pause. A breath. A moment to notice what has been building beneath the surface.

And this one feels even more special.

The Flower Moon rises today, bringing with it a soft, expansive energy. Named for the abundance of blossoms at this time of year, it symbolises growth, unfolding and the beauty of becoming.

And alongside it, we step into Beltane.

A time of fire, fertility and new beginnings. Traditionally marked with flames, celebration and a deep connection to the turning of the seasons, Beltane carries a powerful energy of transformation - of stepping fully into life.

Not rushed. Not forced.
Simply… opening.

For me, this moment always feels like a gentle turning point. A chance to release what no longer fits, and to step, with quiet intention, into what is ready to bloom.

My Full Moon Ritual

My ritual is simple. It isn’t about doing it “perfectly” - it’s about creating a moment that feels intentional, calming and yours.

I begin by preparing a small space.

Soft lighting. A quiet corner. A sense of stillness.

And then I light a candle.

That moment always feels like a gentle beginning. A signal to myself that I’m stepping out of the day and into something more reflective. The flame becomes a focus point — steady, calming, present.

White Crystals

I always include white crystals in my ritual.

They carry a beautifully clear, calming energy - like a breath of fresh air for the mind.

I tend to reach for selenite to clear and soften, clear quartz to amplify intention and milky quartz for gentle, nurturing support.

I place them around me, or hold one in my hands. There’s no set way - I simply trust what feels right.

Release

This is where the ritual deepens.

I take my journal and begin to write:

What am I ready to release?

Thoughts, habits, emotions, worries - whatever comes up, I let it flow onto the page without overthinking.

Then I take it one step further.

I write the key things I’m ready to let go of onto a separate piece of paper.

And this is where this moment feels especially powerful.

With the energy of the full moon and the fire of Beltane, I burn the paper safely, allowing the flames to carry those thoughts away.

Fire has long been used as a symbol of transformation - of clearing, releasing and making space for something new.

If burning doesn’t feel right for you, you can also bury the paper in the garden, returning it to the earth instead.

Both feel deeply connected to the energy of this time.

Welcome In

Once I’ve created space, I turn gently towards what I want to invite in.

Calm. Clarity. Energy. Ease. Joy.

Nothing forced. Just a soft intention.

I sit with it for a few moments, breathing it in, allowing it to settle.

A Little Guidance

I love to finish my ritual by drawing an oracle card.

Two of my favourites are The Universe Has Your Back and SoulCards.

I simply shuffle, ask for a little guidance and see what comes.

Sometimes the message is exactly what I need to hear.
Sometimes it’s something to reflect on over the next few days.

Either way, it feels like a gentle conversation with myself.

A Moment to Be

The final part of my ritual is stillness.

The candle flickers.
The crystals rest quietly.

Everything feels just a little lighter.

This is where the shift happens.
Not dramatic. Not overwhelming.
Just… softer.

Bringing It Into Your World

You don’t need anything elaborate to mark the Flower Moon.

A candle. A pen. A few quiet moments.

If you feel drawn to crystals, include them. If not, your breath and your intention are more than enough.

The beauty of this ritual is not in what you use, but in how it makes you feel.

The Flower Moon reminds us that growth doesn’t have to be loud.
It can be gentle. Natural, unfolding in its own time.

And with the energy of Beltane, it becomes a moment not just to reflect, but to transform.

Love,
Julia ��

The Secret to Better Skin? It Might Be This One Step

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:06:21 GMT

When it comes to skincare, most of us have the basics covered.

Cleanse. Tone. Moisturise.

But there’s one step that so many people either skip… or aren’t quite sure how to use properly.

And honestly, it can make the biggest difference of all.

Serum.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you really need one, the answer is yes… and your future skin will thank you for it.

So what actually is a serum?

Think of a serum as your skin’s support system.

It’s lightweight, usually water-based, and packed with highly concentrated active ingredients that can travel deeper into the skin than your moisturiser can.

That means instead of just sitting on the surface, it’s actually working within the skin.

Helping with things like:

Fine lines and loss of firmness
Dehydration
Dull or tired-looking skin
Breakouts or congestion
Uneven tone or pigmentation

So rather than just maintaining your skin, it’s actively improving it.

Do you still need a moisturiser?

Yes… and this is where people sometimes get confused.

A serum and a moisturiser do completely different jobs.

Your serum goes deeper and does the work.
Your moisturiser sits on top and protects, hydrates and locks everything in.

It’s not one or the other. It’s both.

And when you use them together properly, that’s when you really start to see a difference.

Why I always recommend a serum

If you were only going to upgrade one thing in your skincare routine, this would be it.

Because:

You’re getting a much higher concentration of active ingredients
It absorbs beautifully with no heaviness
It targets exactly what your skin needs
And it supports long-term skin health, not just how it looks today

It’s a small step, but it’s a powerful one.

To be honest, any well-formulated serum used consistently will benefit your skin. The key is choosing the right one and using it properly.

The ones I use and recommend in My Retreat are from Temple Spa, because I know how they perform, how they feel on the skin, and the results they deliver.

Choosing the right serum for your skin

One of the reasons I love the Temple Spa serums is because they’re so easy to understand.

Each one has a clear purpose, so you can choose what your skin needs… and even switch things up depending on how your skin is feeling.

If your skin needs comfort and support

Temple Spa Be Strong Serum

This is the one I’d suggest if your skin feels a little dry, sensitive or out of balance.

It’s a silky gel-cream that helps strengthen the skin barrier, boost hydration and bring everything back to a calmer, more settled place.

If you’re thinking about firmness and lift

Temple Spa Be Firm Serum

A beautiful option if you’re starting to notice changes in firmness or elasticity.

It’s light, velvety and works to support the structure of the skin, helping it feel smoother and a little more lifted.

If your skin is looking a bit tired or dull

Temple Spa Let's Concentrate Serum

This is your glow-giver.

It helps to refine and brighten, giving your skin that fresher, more radiant look… the kind where people say you look well but can’t quite put their finger on why.

If you’re dealing with breakouts or oiliness

Temple Spa Clear to Me Serum

Lightweight, fast-absorbing and really helpful if your skin feels congested or unsettled.

It works to rebalance and clarify, leaving your skin looking clearer and calmer over time.

Morning, night… or both?

This is the lovely part, there’s no rigid rule.

You can:

Use one serum morning and night
Use different ones depending on what your skin needs
Or even target different concerns at different times

So you might glow in the morning, and firm or clear at night.

Or support and hydrate in winter, and brighten in summer.

It becomes a routine that moves with you.

How to use your serum properly

This is where the magic happens… and it’s often the bit people rush.

Cleanse your skin
Apply toner if you use one
Take 1 to 3 drops of serum
Gently press it into your skin rather than rubbing
Give it a minute to absorb
Then apply your moisturiser

That’s it.

No complicated routine, just a simple step done well.

A little nudge…

If you’ve been thinking about trying a serum, this is a really good time to start.

There’s currently an offer on the Temple Spa serums:

1 for £40 (save £10)
2 for £60 (save £40)

And they’re also included in some of the collections, which makes them even better value.

You can take a look on my website at www.templespa.com/juliamurray .

The final thought

Skincare doesn’t need to be overwhelming.

But the right product, used in the right way, can make a real difference.

A serum is one of those products.

Quietly working away in the background… supporting your skin now, and in the years to come.

And once you start using one, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

With love,
Julia ��

Why Luxury Spa Experiences Should Evolve | My Retreat Cullercoats

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:40:14 GMT

Creativity, Innovation and the Joy of Reinvention

I find something deeply energising about creating.

Not just in the beginning, when everything is new, but in the ongoing process of evolving, refining, and reimagining what something can become.

At My Retreat, creativity is not an occasional addition. It is at the very heart of everything I do.

Creativity at the Core

From the very beginning, I knew I didn’t want to offer treatments in the traditional sense.

I wanted to create experiences.

Immersive, sensory journeys designed to be entirely personal.

That intention led naturally to multi-therapies, where different elements are woven together into one seamless journey. Massage blends into facial, crystals meet bodywork, sound and scent enhance touch. Experiences such as my signature multi-therapies bring together different elements in one seamless, deeply restorative journey.

Each therapy becomes more than the sum of its parts.

Themes began to emerge. Stories. Atmospheres. Entire worlds.

Seasonal collections, coastal inspirations, immersive concepts that allow you to step out of daily life and into something altogether different.

Some experiences are fleeting. Limited editions that exist for a moment in time, before making space for something new. Others return, gently evolved, like familiar places revisited with fresh eyes.

You can explore my current therapies and availability here .

Seasonal Evolution

Over time, I have come to value simplicity just as much as creativity.

My core menu has become more refined, offering a carefully considered selection of treatments that can be adapted entirely to you.

Alongside this sits a more fluid, seasonal offering.

This is where creativity is given space to unfold.

Each therapy is shaped by the time of year, but also by place, by nature, and by moments that invite something a little different.

Some are inspired by the coastline I call home — where salt, sea air and the steady rhythm of the waves are woven gently through the experience.

Others emerge from nature itself, through changing seasons, wild botanicals, and the shifting colours and textures of the landscape.

At times, the inspiration comes from my experiences. A place I have visited, times of celebration, or a feeling I want to capture and share.

These therapies are not fixed. They are created, experienced, and then allowed to evolve. And it is this quiet reinvention that keeps My Retreat alive.

Ongoing Learning

Creativity does not happen in isolation.

It is shaped by experience, by curiosity, by a willingness to keep learning.

Over the years, I have been fortunate to travel to and train in different parts of the world, each one leaving its own imprint on how I work.

In India, I deepened my understanding of traditional techniques and the connection between body and energy. In Turkey, I found inspiration in rituals of cleansing, warmth, and care. A trip to the Outer Hebrides inspired a new therapy to capture the essence of the place through new ingredients and aromas.

These influences are not replicated exactly. Instead, they are absorbed, translated, and woven gently into the therapies I create.

There is always something new to explore. Always another layer to uncover.

A Different Kind of Membership

This same philosophy extends to my memberships.

They are not designed as loyalty schemes or incentives.

They are something more intentional.

A commitment to self-care.

A decision to prioritise time for rest, restoration, and wellbeing.

For some, this takes the form of My Retreat Discrete — a flexible, supportive way to stay connected to regular treatments.

For others, My Retreat Elite offers a more immersive experience, with deeper benefits and a greater sense of exclusivity.

For those who feel ready to make that commitment, you can discover more about my membership options here .

Both are built on the same foundation.

Not reward, but value.
Not obligation, but choice.

Always Evolving

Reinvention does not mean losing what came before. It means building on it. Keeping what works. Letting go of what no longer fits. Creating space for what wants to emerge next.

My Retreat continues to evolve, as I do.

But at its core, one thing remains constant.

Everything is created with you in mind.

Your experience.
Your time.
Your sense of being cared for, completely.

That is where every idea begins. And where it always returns.

Love, Julia ��

The Art of Detail

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:09:10 GMT

Luxury is rarely created through grand gestures.

More often, it is found in the attention to detail.

The small things most people might overlook are often the very things that shape how an experience truly feels. A pause. A scent. A soft texture. The gentle shift from the outside world into a calmer one.

At My Retreat, these details are never accidental. They are thoughtfully chosen and form part of the whole experience.

My intention has always been to create more than a treatment, but a true luxury day retreat experience where every detail supports deep relaxation.

Here in Cullercoats, My Retreat has become known for offering therapies that feel less like appointments and more like stepping into a calm and restorative space.

Arrival

The moment you arrive, the pace begins to change.

You are welcomed into the lounge, a calm space I’ve created to help you transition from the busyness of daily life into something slower and more restorative.

A gentle spritz of aromatherapy may greet the air.
Infused water waits nearby.
Soft lighting invites you to sit, breathe, and arrive.

There is no rush here.

Before a therapy even begins, there is a moment simply to land.

The Therapy Room

Stepping into the therapy room should feel like entering another world.

At My Retreat the treatment bed is gently heated, creating instant comfort as your body settles. Lighting is soft and considered, never harsh or clinical. Music is chosen carefully to support the rhythm of the treatment.

Fresh Egyptian cotton towels are warm, soft and plentiful. Nothing scratchy. Nothing hurried. Nothing that feels like an afterthought.

Because when it comes to creating a truly nurturing experience, compromises have no place.

A Complete Sensory Experience

True relaxation happens when all of the senses are invited to soften.

Scent plays a powerful role. Aromatherapy oils drift gently through the room, chosen not only for their therapeutic properties but for the mood they create.

Sound matters too. Music is carefully selected to support the flow of the therapy, helping the mind gradually quieten. There are no other distractions, just you cocooned in a peaceful space.

Texture is everywhere. Soft towels. Warm oils. Smooth stones. Gentle wraps.

Visual calm is just as important. The room is intentionally uncluttered, allowing the eyes to rest and the mind to follow. Even colour therapy has been thoughtfully considered to support your relaxation.

And then there is touch. The most powerful sense of all.

You can soften into my experienced and professional hands, knowing you are fully supported.

Every therapy I offer is designed to flow with presence and intention, allowing your body to feel safe enough to truly let go.

Investing in Beauty

The same attention to detail extends far beyond the treatment room.

Professional photography helps capture the atmosphere of My Retreat as it truly feels.

Branding has been carefully curated so every piece of communication reflects the experience you receive. My own watercolour paintings bring softness and artistry to the visual language of the brand, echoing the gentleness of the therapies themselves.

Printed materials are designed to look and feel beautiful in your hands.

Even the website has been thoughtfully created, so the journey begins long before you walk through the door.

Because when something is crafted with care, it should feel that way at every stage.

A Quiet Kind of Luxury

Luxury is rarely loud.

It does not need to announce itself.

Instead, it reveals itself slowly through thoughtful details, considered choices, and the feeling that everything has been created just for you.

At My Retreat, that feeling is entirely intentional.

It is my way of helping you step out of the outside world for a while and into a calm, restorative retreat of your own.

With love,
Julia ��

Why Customer Experience Is the Heart of My Retreat

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:49:57 GMT

Customer experience has always been the heart of My Retreat.

Long before I chose the Egyptian cotton towels, the Temple Spa products, the music playlists or the seasonal themes, I chose a feeling. I chose how I wanted people to feel when they stepped through my door.

My original vision was simple but powerful: spa-level luxury delivered with the heart and attention of a dedicated, one-to-one therapist. Not a conveyor belt. Not a clinic. Not a busy salon. A private sanctuary.

Today, My Retreat is an award-winning, one-to-one sanctuary in Cullercoats, offering bespoke massage, facial and holistic therapies designed entirely around you.

The Journey Begins Before You Arrive

The experience does not start when you lie on the couch. It begins much earlier.

It begins on social media, where you get a sense of my creativity and philosophy. It continues on my website, where every treatment is explained clearly so you feel confident before booking. My communications before your appointment are warm, personal and informative, ensuring you feel cared for long before you arrive.

This continuity and care helps create relaxation before the therapy has even begun.

A Private, One-to-One Sanctuary

My Retreat is intentionally one-to-one. I work from home to provide privacy, intimacy and calm. There are no ringing phones, no overlapping appointments and no rushed transitions between clients.

I leave generous time between appointments so you never feel part of a schedule. You are the focus.

This private sanctuary model allows me to offer truly bespoke treatments. Whether you book a massage, facial, immersive experience or seasonal ritual, your therapy is tailored to you on the day.

More Than a Treatment

Throughout your visit, I am not simply delivering a service. I am paying attention.

Over the years, I have come to know my clients well. I remember the names of your children and partners. I know when someone has exams, surgery, a new job, a loss or something joyful on the horizon. So, when you walk back through the door, I already understand a little of what life has been asking of you. That is not paperwork. That is care.

Every therapy is shaped not only by what your muscles or skin need, but by what your life is asking of you at that moment. Some days you need deep muscular release. Some days you need gentle restoration. Some days you need space to talk. Other days you need silence.

As a holistic therapist, I attend to the physical, emotional and energetic aspects of wellbeing because they are never separate.

The details matter. The music is chosen to match the rhythm of your treatment. The room is prepared with intention. The oils are selected for both therapeutic benefit and sensory experience. After your therapy, you have time in the relaxation lounge, so you never have to rush back into the outside world.

You walk in, and you float out.

Experience Is Everything

In a world where many spa experiences feel standardised, I have built My Retreat around something different: individuality.

Everything begins and ends with you, the client.

If you are looking for more than a treatment, if you are seeking a luxury, one-to-one spa experience designed entirely around you, I would love to welcome you.

You can explore treatments and book your appointment here:
Book Your Experience at My Retreat

With love,
Julia ��

The 8 R’s of Returning to Yourself

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:47:38 GMT

The 8 R’s of Returning to Yourself

A Gentle Journey Through Meditation and Inner Renewal

In my work, I am constantly reminded that true wellbeing is not about adding more to our lives.
More doing. More striving. More fixing.

It is about remembering.

Remembering who we are beneath the layers of busyness, responsibility, expectation and noise.

One of the most beautiful frameworks I have come across for this inner journey is the 8 R’s of Meditation, originally shared by Anthony Strano. Over time, I have woven this into my own reflections and retreats, as it mirrors so closely what I see unfolding in my clients, and in myself.

These eight stages offer a pathway back to calm, clarity and connection.

Not by force.
But by returning.

1. Returning

Returning to the original qualities of self: peace, purity, love, bliss and wisdom.

Before the world asked anything of you.
Before roles, labels and responsibilities.

This is the place within you that has always been whole, gentle and wise.

When we begin to meditate, to pause, to breathe, we begin to come back here.

A coming home.

2. Relaxing

Disconnecting from the external world and reconnecting with your inner self.
Tuning into a peaceful source of energy, often felt around the centre of the forehead.

Here, the nervous system softens.
The shoulders drop.
The breath deepens.

The illusion of constant busyness, speed and worry begins to loosen its grip.

You no longer need to hold everything.

A start of letting go.

3. Remembering

Remembering your spiritual identity.
“I am a spiritual being.”

Not just a body that does.
Not just a mind that thinks.

But a being of awareness, light and presence.

From this remembering, a quiet strength arises.

A source of positive energy.

4. Releasing

As we reconnect with our inner source of peace, something beautiful happens.

We begin to release.

Wasteful thinking.
Doubt.
Fear.
Anger.
Worry.

Not by fighting them.
But by no longer feeding them.

They gently fall away.

A sense of freedom.

5. Rebalancing

With freedom comes balance.

We begin to respect ourselves more deeply.
To value our inner world.
To reconnect with spirituality and eternity.

We feel our shared humanity.
Our compassion.
Our tenderness.

We start living from the inside out.

A new awareness of the self.

6. Rediscovering

As we continue, we rediscover what was never truly lost.

Our values.
Our wisdom.
Our inner resources.

We realise they were always there, quietly waiting.

We begin to live with greater intention.
With purpose.
With quiet confidence in our uniqueness.

A sense of hope.

7. Restoring

Now we begin to embody what we have remembered.

Our strengths return.
Our natural qualities shine again.

Confidence and self-esteem arise effortlessly.
Not from comparison, but from self-connection.

We know, deeply, that we are beings of peace and love.

And that we can meet life’s challenges with grace.

A feeling of strength.

8. Recharging

Finally, we experience a true renewal.

A leap of consciousness.
A deep reconnection with our spiritual self.

The mind is recharged.
Tranquillity flows into our thoughts.
Into our words.
Into our actions.

We find the courage to let go of judgement, dissatisfaction and impatience.

A new vision opens.

We accept life as it is.
And ourselves as we are.

A mastery of self.

Walking This Path Gently

What I love most about the 8 R’s is that they are not something to “achieve”.

They unfold naturally.

Sometimes slowly.
Sometimes unexpectedly.
Sometimes in quiet moments on the couch.
Sometimes on the treatment bed.
Sometimes in stillness.
Sometimes in tears.

This is not about perfection.

It is about presence.

About returning, again and again, to the truth of who you are.

With gratitude to Anthony Strano, whose original teachings inspired this framework.

With love,
Julia ��

Three Simple Tools That Enhance Your Treatment

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:18:47 GMT

Three Simple Tools That Enhance Your Treatment

(And Support Your Self-Care at Home)

At My Retreat, every treatment is shaped around you: your body, your energy, and what you most need in that moment.

Alongside my hands, I sometimes use carefully chosen tools (as well as all of the geothermal treasures I have), to enhance your experience. These are not gadgets or shortcuts. They are professional instruments that allow me to work more precisely, more comfortably, and more effectively — so you receive deeper, longer-lasting benefits.

They also help to protect my hands, ensuring I can deliver the best quality massage to everyone.

And what’s more is, they can also inspire simple self-care between visits.

Here’s a little insight into how they work.

Kindness to the Therapist’s Body = Better Care for You

Massage is a physical art. By using tools where appropriate, I protect my hands, wrists, and shoulders from strain, allowing me to work comfortably and sustainably.

This matters — because it means:

I can maintain consistent quality
I can work with precision
I can remain fully present with you
I can continue offering high-level treatments long term

Looking after myself is part of looking after you.

Crystal Gua Sha | For Flow, Radiance, and Deep Release

(Jade, Rose Quartz & Amethyst)

Gua Sha is a smooth crystal tool traditionally used in East Asian medicine to support circulation and energy flow.

In some of my therapies I may use jade, rose quartz or amethyst gua shas, each chosen for their unique energetic qualities as well as their physical properties.

With gentle, flowing strokes, Gua Sha encourages:

Lymphatic drainage
Improved circulation
Reduced puffiness
Natural radiance
Relaxation of facial and body muscles

Alongside this, I can also use slower, deeper movements to work along tight muscle fibres, helping areas of tension soften and unwind. This supports what therapists call myofascial release; gently easing the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles, allowing them to relax and lengthen.

On the face, this brings brightness and lift.
On the body, it helps stubborn tension melt away.

Many clients describe this work as both deeply soothing and quietly transformative.

Thai Foot Stick | For Grounding and Whole-Body Balance

The feet contain hundreds of reflex points that correspond with different organs and systems within the body. This forms the basis of reflexology.

The Thai foot stick is a smooth wooden tool that allows me to work these reflex points with accuracy and sensitivity, without discomfort.

Using this tool supports:

Improved circulation
Nervous system calming
Release of lower leg and foot tension
A deep sense of grounding and stability

Because the feet are closely linked to the rest of the body through reflex pathways, this work often creates a ripple effect encouraging balance far beyond the feet themselves.

Many clients find this part of their treatment especially comforting and restorative.

Trigger Point Tool | For Targeted Tension Release

Sometimes muscles hold small areas of congestion or “knots” that don’t easily release with flowing massage alone. These are often known as trigger points.

A trigger point tool allows me to apply gentle, focused pressure to these areas with great precision, encouraging them to soften without strain or discomfort.

This technique helps to:

Release muscular adhesions
Reduce pain and stiffness
Improve movement
Restore ease to overworked areas

It works in harmony with deep tissue and neuromuscular techniques, supporting the body’s natural ability to let go and rebalance.

Clients often notice immediate relief in areas such as the neck, shoulders, back, and hips.

Supporting Your Wellbeing Between Visits

Your treatment doesn’t begin and end on the massage table — it continues in how you care for yourself day to day.

Some of these tools can be used gently at home to support your wellbeing between sessions, and I’m always happy to share simple, safe guidance if this feels helpful for you.

This may include:

A short facial Gua Sha routine
Gentle foot work to ease tiredness
Simple self-release techniques for shoulders and jaw

These practices are not about replacing professional care. They are about staying connected to your body and supporting the work we do together.

Small rituals, done regularly, can make a beautiful difference. So do please ask me if you would like me to show you.

A Thoughtful Part of Your Experience

At My Retreat, nothing is used without intention.

Every tool is chosen because it enhances your comfort, supports your body, and deepens your relaxation. Everything is guided by training, intuition, and your individual needs in that moment.

Whether your treatment is delivered with hands alone, tools, or a combination of both, the intention is always the same:

To help you relax.
To help you release.
To help you return to yourself.
To help you leave feeling restored.

If you ever feel curious about any part of your treatment, you’re always welcome to ask. I love sharing the “why” behind what I do.

With love,
Julia ��

Nurtured by Nature

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:58:05 GMT

THE STORY BEHIND MY AUTUMN WOODLAND THERAPIES

When I created my Nurtured by Nature series earlier this year, my intention was to bring the rhythm of the seasons into the therapy room — to let nature guide the way we rest, release, and restore. Each collection reflects the changing landscape and the subtle shifts we feel in ourselves as the months unfold.

The Autumn Woodland collection was inspired by the beauty of this season — a time of soft light, golden leaves, and quiet renewal. It invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with your own natural rhythm. I wanted to capture that sense of calm and reflection through therapies that feel grounding, soothing, and gently transformative.

I’ve been offering these therapies since early September, and the response has been beautiful: clients describe feeling lighter, grounded, and quietly renewed.

Each experience begins with my signature welcome ritual, helping you settle and let go of the outside world before your chosen therapy begins.

�� Forest Healing Massage – 1 hour 15 minutes

A soothing back-of-the-body massage using warm juniper towels, wild rosehip oil and grounding cedarwood. Deeply restorative and reconnecting.

✨ Golden Glow Facial – 1 hour 15 minutes

A radiant facial infused with gold, truffle and autumn berries to brighten and replenish your skin as the seasons shift.

�� Falling Leaves Energy Cleanse – 50 minutes

Begin with a soothing scalp massage and guided visualisation of falling autumn leaves, gently releasing what no longer serves. Crystals and sound therapy then cleanse and restore your energy, before a grounding foot massage anchors you back to the earth.

Each therapy has its own character and rhythm, yet all are designed to help you feel balanced, nurtured, and in harmony with the season. Like the woodland itself, they encourage stillness, reflection, and gentle release.

These A utumn Woodland therapies are available until the end of November, with limited availability remaining.

With love,
Julia ��

STEP INTO THE SPRING ARBOUR

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:25:24 GMT

HOW MUSIC AND AROMA ENHANCE YOUR MY RETREAT EXPERIENCE

At My Retreat, every element of your journey is carefully chosen to create an immersive experience—one that transports you into a serene spring arbour , where nature’s awakening energy surrounds you. The gentle komorebi —the Japanese word for sunlight filtering through the trees—guides my inspiration, helping me craft a space of renewal, vitality, and tranquility.

the role of music: sunlight through the trees

Music is the unseen guide in my treatments, setting the tone for relaxation and deepening the sensory journey. The carefully selected Komorebi - Sunlight Through the Trees by Deuter is a soundscape that mirrors the very essence of a spring arbour. Its delicate harmonies and flowing rhythms evoke the feeling of soft light dappling through fresh green leaves, carrying you into a state of peaceful renewal. As you rest within this haven of blossoms and fresh growth, the gentle melodies encourage your body and mind to embrace the energy of spring—a time of cleansing, rejuvenation, and awakening .

spring clean for back and feet: a breath of fresh air

This ritual focuses on purifying and energizing, much like the first fresh breeze of spring. Here, the scents of wild peppermint and eucalyptus swirl around you, their crisp and cleansing aromas cutting through tension and fatigue. Just as a cool breeze rustles through young leaves, these invigorating scents awaken the senses and refresh the body. As you lie in your tranquil spring arbour, feel the tension melt away, replaced by a renewed sense of clarity and lightness.

spring awakening facial: fresh and rejuvenating

Your face, like the landscape of early spring, deserves a moment of renewal. This facial is a celebration of freshness—both in aroma and texture. Imagine the feeling of dewy, verdant botanicals , their cool touch soothing and hydrating your skin. The aromas—bright, crisp, and green—mirror the sensation of walking through a lush arbour after a gentle spring rain. This treatment is designed to bring life back to your complexion, leaving it as radiant as the morning sunlight filtering through new foliage.

spring blossom upper body ritual: gentle, restorative, rejuvenating

This treatment captures the soft, restorative essence of spring blossoms . Inspired by the fleeting beauty of apple and cherry blossoms, this upper body ritual is a moment of deep relaxation. As gentle hands work through tension, imagine yourself beneath a canopy of delicate petals, the air filled with their sweet, subtle fragrance. This ritual encourages you to pause, breathe deeply, and embrace the fleeting beauty of the present moment.

a complete sensory escape

Every detail of your experience at My Retreat has been designed to immerse you in the spirit of spring. From the delicate interplay of light and shade in the music to the invigorating and restorative aromas, each element works together to transport you to a sanctuary of renewal. Step into the Spring Arbour, let go of winter’s weight, and allow yourself to be guided by nature’s rhythm into a season of fresh beginnings.

Are you ready to embrace the vitality of spring? Your journey awaits.

Book now here .

NERVOUS CLIENTS

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:45:18 GMT

I’ve been going for therapies and to spas all my life, so I feel very comfortable with what’s going to happen and know how to ask for what I want. But often when I visit other places, they do neglect to consider that not everyone is familiar or comfortable in those settings for a wide range of reasons.

So, if you haven’t been for a therapy before or often and don’t know what to expect, or you are a little underconfident about asking questions, or perhaps just want to be reassured that you are in safe hands, please read on.

This article walks you through what happens at My Retreat when you come for a therapy. It may be different in other places, but I want to make you feel as safe and relaxed as possible. This is what you can expect.

First is to say that I have a sign on my door that asks you not to knock. That may seem strange, but it’s to avoid disturbing other people who may still be enjoying their therapy or relaxation time. Please don’t arrive too early as the door may still be locked, or someone is enjoying their relaxation time. I do try to leave ample time between clients to avoid this but please be aware.

If the door is open, and you’re not too early then do please just come in. That will feel a little odd the first time you do it, walking into someone’s home that you don’t know. But I will be there to welcome you and hopefully put you at ease as soon as possible.

We will sit in the relaxation lounge and do your consultation. You will already have completed some online forms, but we will chat through your therapy, and I can answer any questions you may have. I’ll talk you through everything that will be happening and make sure I know all your preferences. For example, some people don’t like their feet touched or their scalp massaged, or I will ask about your preferred massage pressure or aromas.

After that, I’ll take you upstairs where I’ll ask you to wash your hands and then come into the therapy room. It’s a large, beautiful space, with subtle lighting and candles. I’ll leave you alone to get undressed, while I wash my hands, having explained exactly what I’d like you to do to get comfortable on the massage table and cover yourself.

I will knock before re-entering to ensure you are ready – and then the magic will begin. I give physical cues to help you feel what’s coming next and will keep my verbal instructions or questions to a minimum to allow you to switch off, unless you’ve told me you’d prefer me to explain as I go along.

If I need you to turn over, I will hold the covers so you can do this easily and privately.

At the end of your therapy I will tidy the room and leave you to relax a moment, before ringing my singing bowl to signify that it is concluded. I will remove any towels or wrappings necessary before I speak to you so that your return to reality is as gentle as possible.

I will then give you a hot cloth and a cold glass of water before leaving you to get up slowly and get dressed. There really is no need to rush here, just come back downstairs when you are ready. I will have prepared you a hot water, and you’ll have a choice of herbal teas. You can also use my foot massage machine if you’d like. I’ll leave you alone with your thoughts, or a magazine for 5-10 minutes before coming back to chat through your experience.

I hope that helps you to visualise how a therapy at My Retreat is organised. If you have any further questions prior to coming, please do send them to me here at julia@my-retreat.co.uk .

Julia x

INTRODUCING MY RETREAT’S CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS: A FESTIVE PAMPERING EXPERIENCE

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 09:36:09 GMT

CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS – now where did that idea come from?

As I’ve been recuperating from my hip replacement op, I’ve had great fun conjuring up this year’s Christmas special therapies.

The theme for these has been bubbling (if you’ll pardon the pun) for a few years, so having the time to finally bring them to fruition (also sorry!) has been thoroughly enjoyable.

I’m delighted to bring to you My Retreat’s Christmas Cocktails! Now, many of you know that I don’t drink alcohol so this is the best way I can think of to enjoy a cocktail or two, as a pampering treat. I don’t think you’d enjoy the real thing any better than these!

As usual I start with an idea, and as I’ve said I’ve had this one on the list of themes for a while, so truth be told, I can’t really remember when I first thought to do it. I think it may well have been when I did a hand and foot therapy several years ago called Winter Wassail, and it got me thinking about other Christmas drinks.

The next phase is always research, which involves trawling the internet for lots of potential contenders. There were some that I felt naturally lined up to be included like mulled wine and buck’s fizz, but others were a little more of a challenge. Some I really like the idea of but don’t make the final cut, like Plum Pudding Punch, but I’ll keep that in reserve should I ever revisit this theme, so all is never lost.

Once I had selected my favourites, I then had to research possible products that would allow me to create the aromas and ideas behind the cocktails. Usually, I go to my core ranges first. These are the product houses that I know, love, and trust the most so I will always try to keep within their ranges wherever possible. But obviously with such unique and specific smells and ‘tastes’ to recreate I’ve had to look further afield for some. I always look for high-quality spa products whenever possible, and other criteria around animal cruelty, vegan, organic also are involved. At the end of the day, if I wouldn’t use it on myself, I wouldn’t use it on my clients.

So let me take you through each therapy and explain the treats waiting for you and how they’ve been created.

The Mulled Wine Spiced Hand Ritual.

Well, no Christmas drinks list could omit a mulled wine and the aromas of orange, cinnamon, and clove are quintessential at this time of year. Many salons and spas will use a similar blend for seasonal massages, I have myself, so this time I wanted to do something a little different and decided on the hands and lower arms.

These are areas that are often overlooked when it comes to real pampering, although we may get our nails done, when was the last time you had a hand massage? We hold so much tension in our arms and hands, especially using technology. But also, in the winter our hands often suffer from the cold, so they really deserve an extra treat. I blend the oil myself from essential oils and a base oil. In this case I chose pomegranate seed oil for its intense moisturising properties, and to maintain the theme. I use it for the massage of hands and lower arms, plus neck and shoulders when the hands are in their heated mittens. I supplement with luscious Temple Spa products that layer the aromas further with bergamot, fig and pomegranate. The products I’m using for this hand ritual are the hand wash and lotion duo and ever-popular Sugar Buff for the scrub.

The Buck’s Fizz.

As many people treat themselves to one on a Christmas morning and with such a lovely orange aroma and the fizziness it is great for any celebration.

This therapy came together easily as Temple Spa’s premium range has champagne extract, and they have an orange fizzing exfoliator, orange concentrate and glycolic toner – so I had to look no further. The facial I’ve created is ideal for this time of year as these products all contain Vitamin C which rejuvenates and smooths the skin. The truffle also infuses luminosity which will help to give the skin a glow that’s perfect for party-time.

The Eggnog.

Made with eggs, milk and various spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and vanilla with bourbon or rum usually. I really felt it should be included in my list, but the spices were too similar to the mulled spices, so when I discovered a chocolate version I was thrilled! I mean, chocolate at Christmas… of course!

I have some wooden massage eggs, so knew I’d want to include those, so did consider this for the back massage until I discovered a fantastic range of professional pedicure products that had a chocolate line. Made with clean, vegan, paraben-free and gluten-free formulas they’re up to My Retreat’s standards, smell deliciously of chocolate and I’ve added a further touch of fragrance which has hints of rum, vanilla, and cloves. Enjoy a four-step foot treat, with soak, scrub, masque and massage – not forgetting the eggs which help knead into those calf muscles to promote relaxation. Perfect after a day’s Christmas Shopping.

The Espresso Martini.

I felt I needed something extra special for the back, that was more than just a massage. In previous years I have done a candle massage so that was in the back of my mind when I was looking through the potential cocktails. When my research threw up an espresso martini – I thought aha! And then I discovered a coffee and vodka fragranced massage candle – the joy! This is a hand-poured vegan and cruelty-free candle that uses only the most natural ingredients, including a cotton, lead-free wick. 100% natural emollients, no paraffin, no petroleum products, no chemical dyes. Only the best for us!

But even then, I felt I wanted to go further and as I know that coffee is a fantastic exfoliant, it lends itself to a great back scrub. By exfoliating first, the skin nourishing ingredients of soybean oil, shea butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E are better absorbed into the skin to leave your back scented, smooth, and soft.
Coffee is also a great stimulant as we know, the aroma is fresh and energising, so whilst you will very well relax during this therapy, you’ll feel invigorated afterwards.

The Mojito.

And last, but not least, is the mojito! Mint, lime, soda, sugar… and usually white rum, such a delicious fragrance combination, it lent itself with being close to the nose! I decided to use this as inspiration for a hair treatment and incorporate the face and neck and shoulders while the treatment is doing its thing.

For this I decided to create the hair treatment myself with fresh mint and lime, as well as the essential oils, steeped in jojoba oil which is the best hair oil. After applying and wrapping the head in warm towels, I use a foaming lime cleanser on the face before massaging with ice globes to represent the ice in the drink. Some people are put off by the idea of cold massage, but don’t be! It’s so refreshing, has fantastic benefits for the skin in terms of circulation and lifting, and is not so cold you can’t relax and enjoy it. Finishing off with a soothing mint moisturiser before massaging neck, shoulders and up into the scalp. The massage is deeply relaxing and stretching for tight muscles and works the treatment deeper into the hair.

The facial products are from a professional range called Naturally Thinking, and are vegan, cruelty and paraben-free.

Each of the therapies begin with a little aperitif. Well, it is Christmas! This helps bring you into the space, grounds you and starts the relaxation process. It’s also a little bit of fun as I’ll be cleansing your feet and hands with a sparkling and cooling fizz. At the close, I’ll also stimulate reflexes on the head, hands and feet to begin to awaken the senses.

It’s often difficult to know how long each of the therapies will take, and to create a package, it’s usually best to have them the same length. Obviously with experience you get a feel of what the general timings will be, but I never know for sure, so I usually run a trial first. My lucky Elite members get to be the recipients of these trials as one of the perks of their membership, and it gives me great feedback. However, with being incapacitated at the moment, I’ve had to go with my gut instinct that they will take around 45 minutes each. I will still trial them once I’m up and about to practice the flow and check all the products are doing what I would expect, but in order start to market I had to pin down a timing and price. I can adapt to manage the timings, especially as they are shorter therapies.

As it’s Christmas and to allow myself some flexibility on my phased return I have decided to offer these individually as well as in combinations, which you can choose. I don’t often do shorter therapies, especially less than an hour, so do take advantage to come and have a treat for yourself. I’d love to know which ones you’d like to try and also your feedback on the creative process I’ve described.

With love,
Julia x.

MY RETREAT: FINALIST IN PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 09:14:03 GMT

I’m thrilled to announce that My Retreat is one of three finalists in the North Tyneside Business Awards! We are in the Retail and Service Provider category, recognising businesses in the retail and service sectors that excel in delivering exceptional customer experience.

The criteria were

Exemplary customer service and satisfaction
Creative and effective retail strategies that enhance the overall experience for customers.
A commitment to continuous improvement in service quality

I’m a stickler when it comes to these aspects of my business. Knowing that others appreciate what I’m trying to achieve is a fantastic endorsement.

We were asked to submit evidence to support the nomination, and it was primarily my clients’ reviews that I think have helped My Retreat be selected as a finalist. So, thank you all!

REFLECTING ON THE AWARD FROM NORTH TYNESIDE BUSINESS FACTORY

After being selected, I had the pleasure of hosting two members from the North Tyneside Business Factory. They interviewed me and took a tour of my business, allowing me to discuss my greatest passion – serving my loyal clients and providing them with the ultimate relaxation experience.

The nomination not only acknowledges my commitment to providing exceptional services but also places My Retreat among a diverse and esteemed group of businesses in all the categories. To be ranked alongside such a wide range of enterprises is truly an honour, as it reflects the rich tapestry of talent and innovation in our local business community. This achievement only motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries and delivering even better, bespoke services to my valued clients.

Thank you to the @ntbusinessforum for this incredible opportunity!

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FINAL

I’m grateful for the recognition and excited about celebrating with everyone at the final on 16th November, at the Village Hotel.

I will be posting lots of updates as we approach the final, and of course all the excitement on the night itself, so watch this space!