Student Voices - Stepping Into Training - Helen

Training is an inevitable component of career development and indeed personal growth. So, like most people, I had a huge bank  of past experiences to draw upon when anticipating what might lie in store at the first Rites and Rituals Ceremonialist Training Weekend.

New experience? Check

Hard work? Check

Pushing myself out of my comfort zone? Double check.

However, I also had the feeling that I was about to step into something really special.  The  thorough, and soul searching application and interview process had made me sure of that.  So last Saturday, as I drove from my wee  glamping pod to our training venue, the Big Shed, I felt as though I was about to board a plane to a wonderful destination, as yet unvisited.  What would it be like? What would I experience? What will the others be like?  Can I do this? But the minute I stepped into the space,  my anxieties disappeared as  quickly as the last toilet roll from the supermarket shelf during the  Pandemic.

From the minute we all introduced ourselves with warm hugs, I knew I was amongst kindred spirits.  Together we explored ceremony, ritual and I felt completely at ease with my new friends, and with myself.  Lindy and Victoria  are amazing facilitators and helped us navigate this new territory with ease, and with  a huge dollop of humour.

The icing on the cake was the beautiful scenery  that we immersed ourselves in.  Surrounded by majestic mountains, and Loch Tay in the distance. As well as our minds and souls being nourished, our appetites weren’t left out by the array of delicious food on offer, including some mighty fine cake and brownies.

I didn’t think it was possible to feel energised and relaxed at the same time, but somehow it happened. I didn’t want the weekend to end. However, I am pleased to say the feel good factor has lasted all week.

I can’t wait to continue on this special journey.