Laura Bell • 7 June 2025

Zesty Lemon Energy Balls - NUT FREE

A New Chapter: Yoga, Food & Connection


This week marked a beautiful milestone for us. We hosted our very first Yoga & Seasonal Supper Evening and Day Retreat. What a joy it was! Both events were filled with warmth, laughter, movement, and the most wonderful mix of local students, retreat guests, and dear friends.


These gatherings felt like more than just events, they were a chance to reconnect, recharge, and simply be. Sharing yoga and nourishing food in a mindful, welcoming space reminded us just how powerful these small moments of togetherness can be.


The evening was very mellow, with a relaxed yoga flow with myself followed by a 3 course seasonal meal, where conversation and laughter flowed.

Our Day Retreat at The Barn gave our guests time to really settle in. it was an opportunity to show off our wonderful North Wales venue and for us to try out our new business idea. We began with a strong yoga practise to help ground and relax the guests. We walked into the hills, breathed deeply in the fresh air, and even dipped toes into the newly renovated woodland pond, complete with a jetty! It felt like stepping into a secret sanctuary. We also had the pleasure of welcoming chef Kelly Mason, who generously shared some of her favourite cooking tips and seasonal inspiration with us all.


And of course, what’s a retreat without something delicious to nibble on?


I had the fun job of making energy balls for our guests, and I wanted to share this quick, zesty recipe with you. It’s perfect for busy weekends or a midweek pick-me-up. They're easy, bright, and full of goodness, just like the events themselves.


Both events were a great success, and we’ll be offering them every quarter going forward. They’re a beautiful way to honour the changing seasons and to reconnect with yourself, with nature, and with each other.

Ingredients
Makes 18 balls
3 tbsp coconut oil

1 cup dates de stoned

1 cup oats

1 cup desiccated coconut

1/3 cup whole chia seeds

2 tbsp maple syrup/agave 

zest of 2 lemons

juice of 2 lemons

1tsp vanilla extract

Method
Blend all the ingredients together in a food blender.
Roll into balls, then roll in desiccated coconut.
Store in the fridge and they will keep for a week.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe by Kelly Mason one of our retreat chefs here at Zest Life.

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In the relentless pace of modern life, we often wear busy-ness as a badge of honour. Our calendars are packed, our inboxes are full, and our minds are constantly whirring with to-do lists and responsibilities. We pour our energy into work, family, and social commitments, often leaving one crucial person overlooked: ourselves. The journey toward good wellbeing - a holistic state of physical, mental, and emotional health - can seem complex and intimidating. We read about intricate diets, intense exercise routines, and advanced meditation techniques. But the truth is, the most powerful and fundamental step is the simplest one: taking time for yourself. This isn't a luxury or an indulgence; it is the absolute foundation upon which all other forms of self-care and personal growth must be built. Why "Me-Time" is Non-Negotiable Thinking of "me-time" as selfish is a common misconception. In reality, it is a necessary act of self-preservation and rejuvenation. Imagine your energy and emotional reserve as a well. If you are constantly drawing water out for others without ever allowing it time to refill, the well will eventually run dry. When you are depleted, your ability to be a patient partner, an effective employee, or a supportive friend is severely diminished. Taking time for yourself is the conscious act of pausing the demands of the outside world and dedicating that space solely to your own needs. It is about shifting your focus inward, even if just for a few minutes. The Ripple Effect of Self-Connection When you prioritise this dedicated time, the benefits ripple out into every facet of your life: Stress Reduction: Stepping away from the constant noise allows your prefrontal cortex - the decision-making part of your brain - to rest. This pause can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to a calmer nervous system and clearer thinking. Problems that seemed insurmountable often become manageable after a period of quiet reflection. Emotional Regulation: When we are rushed and stressed, our emotions tend to be erratic and reactive. Time alone offers a chance to check in with yourself: How am I really feeling? What do I need right now? This awareness is the key to managing your feelings rather than letting them manage you. Increased Productivity: It may seem counterintuitive, but a short break can dramatically improve your performance. Taking time off allows for "diffuse thinking," where your brain makes connections and solves problems in the background. You come back to your tasks with renewed focus and fresh ideas. A Stronger Sense of Self: Constant interaction with others means we are often adjusting our behaviour to fit a social context. Solitude allows you to reconnect with your authentic self - your values, your dreams, and your genuine interests - free from external judgments or expectations.