Writing retreat in Tuscany
A dreamy week of creativity, connection, and courage.
I set my email’s out of office as I prepared to leave for the airport. Thank you for your email. I’m pursuing big dreams at a creative writing and yoga retreat in Italy. I can't wait to reconnect with you when I return. In the meantime, wishing you wellness, wild ambitions, and radical rest. - Sarah
The day was finally here. The yoga and writing retreat I had booked months ago in Tuscany, Italy was happening. I had read the description online, and immediately thought the daily itineraries sounded like a dream. I also thought it might be a perfect opportunity to take myself seriously as a writer, and surround myself with others who did the same.
I awoke the first morning to the sound of roosters crowing eagerly at 5 a.m. Clearly I wouldn’t need an alarm clock here, as the animals beckoned us to keep their pace.
It was more beautiful than I could have possibly imagined. The air was crisp and fresh. The vegetation was lush with sustenance. Creativity and peace felt at home there, and I did too.
The retreat was envisioned by a fantastic author, Emma Gannon (check out her newest book, Table For One), and organized by Tara’s team at Aweventurer. It was hosted at a 13th century Tuscan farmhouse called Ebbio, surrounded by 17 acres of self-sustainable farmland and countryside. The founder shared stories about her life and work as a healer; first as a nurse, and later practicing Eastern medicine. I was in awe of her vision and resolve in building a stunning and expansive estate, right on top of an extinct volcano. I knew it would be the perfect place to cultivate creativity and growth. Our days consisted of morning yoga classes, creative writing workshops, swimming adventures, delightful conversations, and delicious meals.
Conversations on the first night were rich, like a full-bodied red wine. These women were witty and hilarious. They were deep and contemplative. They were brave and unapologetic. It felt like a gathering of good witches. During writing workshops, I would look around the table and think, wow. These are real writers. How did they get the courage? My favorite authors are the most honest with their words, and I admire them for that. It’s why I trust them. I wondered if I could be that brave. Posting my real words, with my real name, for real people to see, made me want to hide under the table rather than decide I deserved a seat there, too. I pictured the imaginary critics with their noses scrunching up as they howled with laughter at the audacity of this woman, me, daring to believe she had anything of worth to share.
I focused on dialing down the inner critic, because this week was not for her. She would surely return as the editor and commentator, but this week was for my dearest inner advocate. She is not as loud, but her voice is just as strong. This week, I let her speak through my pen. She grew to believe her words were worthy. As I closed my journal on the last morning, the birds continued their joyful song. I think they agreed.
Thank you to the incredible women who shared in this journey with me.
, , , , , , , , & .Your creativity, bravery, and generosity blew me away. Special thanks to the one and only
for envisioning this experience, and for bringing it to life. It’s just the beginning of a wonderful ride in writing.
With love + kindness, Sarah McQ.
Sarah it was just perfect wasn't it! Feels a bit like a distant dream now…. Love your photos and your words. Keep on writing✍️❣️
It was so amazing to meet you, Sarah! I feel so lucky that our paths crossed. Can’t wait to see where your writing journey takes you next and get to know you better!