Finding Serenity in the Peaks: A New Derbyshire Wellness Retreat

There’s a fresh, exciting energy flowing through the hills of Derbyshire as a new wellness experience invites visitors to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate. With the county’s rolling countryside and tranquil vistas, it lends itself perfectly to be the setting for The Wellness Directory, the brainchild of local entrepreneur and holistic health advocate, Michelle Tansley.

Unlike a traditional retreat anchored to one location, Michelle’s innovative approach offers curated wellness experiences across Derbyshire’s most beautiful spots - from quaint village halls to historic country houses.

A Personal Mission

“I had reached a point in my life where I was dissatisfied with the behaviours and habits I found myself repeating and the outcomes they created, and I had a constant underlying ‘sense of impending doom’,” says Michelle, as she reflects upon her inspirations behind starting The Wellness Directory.

“I came to the realisation that I needed to make some changes to my lifestyle. I read a lot of self-development books and began putting in the work to positively alter my mindset, which then led me to look at everything from ways to reduce stress, how we can use food as medicine, the effect alcohol has on both our mental and physical health, and the importance of sleep, movement and time in nature.”

With many people, discovering a sense of wellbeing is a journey in itself, and one that Michelle admits she is still on herself: “I can honestly say that my whole life has changed for the better, but that’s not to say I’m not still a work in progress and I have a lot left to learn! Through my retreats I want to share these practices and their positive effects with everyone, as I can vouch first hand for how great they can make you feel.”

Curated Retreats in Stunning Locations

Each retreat is tailored to the seasons, and set in unique locations across Derbyshire. The first retreat in January is based at the quaint Alderwasley Village Hall, and includes a Pilates class with Lydia of Lydia's Pilates, a cacao ceremony with Roseanna Croft and a yoga class and sound bath with Emily from Breathe Sanctuary. Not only that, but Michelle will be putting her diet & nutrition qualifications to use to cater her own retreats, ensuring that the food matches her natural whole food ethos.

“I'm very lucky to be working with these inspiring women who are so passionate about what they do - it’s infectious!” says Michelle. “The aim of The Wellness Directory is to build a community and to help everyone to feel the best version of themselves. They are for anyone and everyone regardless of previous experience, and whether you attend with a friend or come alone, you will always be assured of a warm welcome.”

Exciting Plans Ahead

As The Wellness Directory gains momentum, Michelle’s plans are expanding. “My next retreat in March focuses on the gut-brain connection and will incorporate workshops such as breathwork and kombucha making, and following on from that I'm working with some really amazing Derbyshire venues to bring forward a host of wellness retreats and creative workshops.”

Michelle’s passion for physical and mental wellness is clear, and these events are a true reflection of that. They’re a call to be present and to celebrate the healing power of nature - a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the beauty of the world around you.

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Discover more about The Wellness Directory here.