While I never found any pots of rainbow gold, my stay at the award-winning Creacon Wellness Retreat was one of the most magical experiences in my life.
Far better than finding a pot of gold, I found a golden pot of love and connection.
My first moment at this idyllic Irish wellness retreat in Wexford, Ireland happened one cold November evening. It had been raining all night, and I was driving in from Dublin. Before enjoying my magical wellness stay, I had to first manage how to drive on the left while sitting on the right and shifting with my left hand. After driving through the country roads and those pesky roundabouts, I was ready to call it a night.
I was a little worried that because the rain and back roads delayed my arrival, I might arrive at a closed retreat. Instead, the second I pulled up, a light came on, and Marcela and Jonathan were there to greet me with a warm smile, a nourishing meal, a cozy fireplace, and a wonderful conversation. I immediately felt at home.
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The healing had already begun.
The late night menu consisted of ginger, lime, and ricotta quenelle, with baby pears and sun-dried tomato “sand” along with a large glass of refreshing pH 7.0 Kangen water and a healing elixir. The dining room was so lovely and inviting, with simple décor and beautiful furnishings. The hallway was dressed with a stunning framed picture of Sai Baba, and while I stared at it, one of my favorite quotes of his came to mind:
“Love one another and help others to rise to the higher levels, simply by pouring out love. Love is infectious and the greatest healing energy.” – Sai Baba
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Back in the dining room, I met one of the yoga instructors, Sharon, who invited me to a cup of delectable lemongrass mint/ginger tea. We had a lovely conversation and before heading to bed, she gifted me with a beautiful Mala she had recently handcrafted. A priceless transfer of loving energy to deepen my mantra and meditation practice.
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I was hit by a huge wave of immense gratitude.
It was now time for sleep. My room was quaint, cozy, and deeply peaceful. No TV, no bright lights, no noise, and no distractions. For the first time in a long while, I slept like a baby.
I woke up filled with joy, excited to start my day! My morning was spent staring out into the beautiful garden, meeting the rest of the staff and guests, and perusing the magical grounds. A schedule filled with the day’s activities was provided and you can select whatever appeals to you or simply spend the day doing whatever you please. I love the idea of not having to stick to a schedule.
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Dipping into the Fountain of Youth
I was feeling motivated to move my body, so I headed towards the yoga/library room for Jonathan’s 40-minute ‘Five Tibetan Yoga Rites’ class. It was incredible! Jonathan’s class follows the 2,500-year-old Tibetan practice, which focuses on enhancing flexibility and increasing longevity. [spacer height=”20px”]
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The Five Tibetan Rites are five simple kriyas (movements through two or more poses) that can be completed in less than 20 minutes and will help you live a long, healthy, and vigorous life, like that of a Tibetan Monk. This is why it is referred to as the Fountain of Youth. These 20 movements effectively strengthen and stretch all the main muscles in your body and the benefits are bountiful:
Benefits of the Five Tibetan Rites
- Detoxification
- Balance the chakras
- Reverse the aging process
- Sleep soundly
- Enhance memory
- Emotional and mental health
- Relief from joint pain and arthritis
- Improved strength and coordination
The Tibetan Rites will clear your mind and keep you and your body in a youthful state of being. After Jonathan’s class, I was feeling vibrant, happy, and confident!
Breathe in the fresh Irish air.
After class, I spent some time exploring the peaceful lodge. Snuggled in the luscious hills of the Irish countryside, Creacon Wellness Retreat is surrounded by natural beauty. The meditation and yoga rooms are calming and truly something special. So, whether you are inside or out, the atmosphere is consistently relaxing. [spacer height=”20px”]
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A Retreat for Healing
Later that afternoon, I experienced Liz’s deeply therapeutic Tibetan bowl healing class. Some moments cannot be described, they can only be experienced, and this is one of those moments. I felt both free and at peace internally. Throughout the class, I was supported by Liz, who was so gentle and caring. I consider her to be a true empath. I really encourage everyone to explore a sound healing class. Sound healing is particularly good for those who live with repetitive stress or are battling against addictive patterns.
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There is a transformation with every vibration.
Creacon also has a lovely library fit for a Fuddhist! They encourage you to be curious and borrow whatever catches your eye. I spent hours glancing over their wonderful collection of books. I, of course, went straight for the Bhagavad Gita. After all, it is considered to be one of the best spiritual books ever written. It was now time for a wholesome and nutritious lunch!
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Food as Medicine
For lunch, I was spoiled with a delicious sweet potato, coconut, and almond soup. The soup was coupled with raw veggies and incredibly fresh homemade hummus. Yum! By promoting the idea of food as medicine, the menu never disappoints. Visitors and retreat guests can choose from a range of tasty gourmet meals, as well as healthy snacks and a juice cleanse. In addition to the wonderful nutrition, you can also sign up for a myriad of treatments ranging from energy therapy to quantum bio-feedback, cranial-sacral reflexology, organic natural facials, Mala making, mindfulness classes… and so much more!
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If you love healthy eating, try my yummy Vegan Caesar Salad
Thank you Creacon Wellness Retreat for promoting healing on so many levels. I am passionate about wellness travel because I truly believe that food is medicine, that kindness and connection with others heal us, and that what feeds us is a lot more than what is on our plate.
A very special thank you to the founder, Derek O’Neill, for continuing to inspire and improve the lives of so many. You have offered a small slice of heaven, and I am eternally grateful.
Namaste.
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