Last weekend we went on a nourishing women’s retreat in honour of some of India’s oldest traditions ~ Yoga, Meditation, and wholesome loving food. 

We wanted to highlight the foundations behind why we do the things we do, as well as the importance of practicing loving self care towards oneself and others. Something that is so intrinsic to our artisans and makers in India. Rooted in yogic philosophy, the energy poured into each and every Daughters of India garment is done so by honouring ritual and creating through mindful intention.

Our beautiful teacher, Karalee Wisse, facilitated our journey through various types of Yoga, Meditation, and creative practices. While Tina Rostant, nourished our tummies with delicious bountiful meals! A dream-like space was held for us at Milk Bar Valley where we were supported to traverse our inner sanctuaries, together.

We set our Sankalpa ~ our intentions, and created art with our hands. We learnt our lungs are our best friends and to breathe our way through hardship. We connected with nature, one another, and ourselves. 

Through asana, breathwork, ritual, ceremony, meditation and mindfulness, we practiced presence in honour of Love. We studied the most invaluable lesson this magical life has to offer; that healing ourselves heals all those around us and generations past. And to always pour from a full cup.

The first goal is to open the Jaly Playschool, a daycare run by, and for, Samugam community members, ensuring Samugam is self-sustainable in their ability to continue developing Sewing the Seeds. 

The second sustainability goal is to upskill more Sewing the Seeds women in ethical and sustainable slow fashion design and production! Through this, Samugam will be able to fund more empowerment projects, ensuring more women will have access to employment so they can support their families.

We are so honoured to be able to assist an incredible organisation who are helping so many women in India. Our gratitude extends to all of you, for your support is helping many women empower themselves to help empower other women all over the world! We love seeing you wear our garments, for us, this feels in alignment with our sankalpa ~ to honour the beauty in you.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

We honour the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we gather, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.

With love,

Yoga Instructor/ Facilitator @karaleereed_yoga

Chef @tina.rostant & @caribbeanie_

Retreat Accommodation Space @milkbarvalley

(Words by Ella Josephine Archer)