Journal

It has taken me over a week to gather my thoughts & integrate the experience of hosting a retreat & immersing myself in the beauty of Waitata Bay, Pelorus Sound. The intensity of this time of year for my business and the buildup of being semi off-grid for nearly 11 days can create a mountain of to-dos to come home to. And so it was, blissed out and feeling like a new woman I arrived back to my office in Dunedin with a serious sense of urgency behind my workload and assimilated into position. Knocking out the to do list, catching up on emails/admin, editing collections of photo sessions, meeting with clients, creating content for the final touches of a new website (coming soon... eeeeep!), prepping for this week's Rewild Women's Retreat in The Catlins, and managing to create tiny pockets of space for time with myself & my loved ones.

On the edge of burnout but resourcing from my tool kit of practices and new found creative prompts, I now find myself in Curio Bay immersing myself in yet another body of water and frolicking with Hectors dolphins and my other spirit animal, Shaye Simpson. 🤣 🐬 This morning's swim with these magical creatures has reinvigorated my mindset and taken me back to the state of being I held for myself in Waitata Bay a couple of weeks ago for the 3 day creative retreat I hosted with Jane Pike called Coming To Your Senses. I feel compelled to speak to this experience as not only a facilitator but also a participant.

Let me start with the element of water. The majority of the makeup of our body consists of water and the energy that water harnesses is something that we still do not completely understand. Brilliant minds the likes of Viktor Schauberger (Living Energies of Water)have spent their lifetime dedicated to this specific research and without that sort of mind for it, I know in the marrow of my bones that water is a source of life & a key to my own transformation and healing. This is why I have followed the oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams in all of my travels and why I choose to share this healing energy with many of my clients, friends and family. I speak the language of water and understand its messages. I feel sometimes like a conduit between others and their reclamation of their innate connection with this ethereal element.

Our pilgrimage to the Pelorus Sound was one that unexpectedly moved me in ways I've never felt before. I believe there were a myriad of reasons for this... The collective unknown creativity, shared stories and beliefs that resided within our group of wanderers, mystics, powerful wāhine, and inspiring souls. The messages we received from our ancestors, from nature, from each other and from the embrace of the beautiful hues of blue from sky to sea. Creative writing prompts that stirred the soul into a stream of consciousness not tapped into for years, maybe lifetimes... The steady vibrational orchestra of the cicadas all around us, and the purity of the moments of silence just before dawn as we conversed with Venus & the moon before the sun made its presence known.

As women, we have traditionally been the storytellers of our culture, society, & communities. It is in our human nature to pass down traditions orally and to express ourselves through the written word & through language. To feel a disconnect from this way of being can feel isolating and I believe we begin to lose touch with the magic of being alive, of being present & still enough to receive the messages that are meant for us. This retreat was a culmination of practices to revive this part of us, to reconnect with the storyteller within. And that we did, oh so beautifully. We each shared stories of heartbreak, of turmoil, of joy, of laughter, of love, of struggle and our own tales of radical liberation & freedom. We redefined our place in this world and our relationship within it on our own terms. We arrived at a sense of perspective that shook the narrative we arrived with and questioned the beliefs that felt true. We were so present in the moment we were able to slow the hands of time, savouring each delicious moment as if there was no other place to be in this world but right here and right now. A chance to create space to dedicate to the art of the story, to weave this through our everyday.

When I speak of the present, my mind settles into the soil of the forest floor. I smell the earthy goodness of the wildness around me and I admire the beauty of the tall pungas, noticing the light dappled through the textures of the fern fronds. The water is not the only one who speaks to us. The constant composting of life that once was and the rebirth of what will be is a cycle ever present as you walk along the tracks above Waitata Bay. Peaking through the trees, you see the clouds caressing the mountains across the Sound and you think of the stories this land carries in its rich history. I feel small & insignificant yet completely connected to this wild & untamed place. To live here is to know that you are at the mercy of the elements of nature. This is the contract you sign when you commit to this adventure. As my friend Jane quoted from a book she had recently read on this trip, "The wild does not owe you cosy." We spend so much of our lives in search of convenience, comfort and security. But nature is not always this. And that is okay. So it is. So are we.

I'll finish this journal entry with a vulnerable but true share of the Stories I Arrived with. This was one of the many creative writing prompts that we worked on as a group and shared with each other. Each of our writings I think surprised us in a way, words flowing from a place deep within.

"The stories that course through my veins and emerge from the cells of my body are tales of a lost art. The artist that was never recognised for fear of shame. The explorer that became lost in the abyss of a fog of uncertainty, doubt, and degradation. A tale of loves unrequited and souls betrothed to darkness.
But it is not as morbid as it seems because these stories have a thread of light that has been traveling through the depths unseen. Threads of gold that piece together the brokenness of time lost and voices never heard. The story now is bursting at the seams and cannot be contained even if I tried. The veil of oppression and the remembrance of the stars lives within me. It is the balance of many worlds that forms the grit of my bones. The wildness calls to me and I can no longer let guilt stand in my way. The messages are clear as I stumble on the words to tell these stories that flow through me.
I come from worlds created for me. Boxes that were meant to contain & assimilate. I now am ready to build the foundations of the world I can be free in, a world where you can be free too. And what is free? Beauty in the smallest of moments and tendrils of hope. A longing to capture the sun as it rises over the water or to liaise with the stars as they fade away into the dusty blue skies of the dawn...."

That freedom that we seek, it is within us. The art of stillness, of noticing, of creating space for tiny beautiful things is our journey to get there. If this moved you, if these words resonate... Maybe just maybe, it might be time for you to join us. We'll be back in Waitata Bay February 2025. See you there, I truly can't wait.

Photography by
KASSANDRA LYNNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Coming to Your Senses - A Sensory Journey of Connecting to the Soul

As a photographer, I am fortunate enough to spend my days capturing the beauty of this magical place. The rugged landscapes, the mesmerizing coastline, and the untouched wilderness provide an endless array of subjects for my lens. I also host Rewild Portrait Experience weekends here where I work closely with women & couples who embark on a journey of self discovery & exploration through adventurous photo sessions. But it's not just the photography that keeps me coming back to this hidden gem; it's the experience of staying in such a dreamy location. This place is quite literally my spirit animal.

When I first set foot on the property, I couldn't believe my eyes. A sprawling 600 hectares of private farm land, adorned with native forest and lined with epic coastlines and cliffs. It's a place that feels like another world when you're there.

But it's not just the breathtaking natural beauty that sets this place apart. It's the attention to detail and the rustic charm of the cabin itself. Designed after a traditional musterers hut, the cabin exudes a sense of history and authenticity. You can almost imagine the hardy mustering men and women who once called this place home, tending to their flocks and living off the land.

Stepping onto the deck, you're greeted with rocking chairs that beckon you to sit and take in the ever-shifting landscape. It's a place where time seems to stand still, where you can watch the sun rise and set in a dazzling display of colors. And if you're lucky enough to be here at the right time, you might even witness the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Australis dancing across the night sky.

But the rustic luxury doesn't end with the cabin itself. Venture down to the private beach, and you'll find a sanctuary all to yourself. The soft sand between your toes, the gentle crash of the waves, and the sense of peace that washes over you - it's a feeling that is truly incomparable.

And if you're a nature lover like me, you'll be in paradise. The bird life here is simply incredible, with the New Zealand Falcons, Hawks, Tui, and Kereru adding a vibrant splash of color to the landscape. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a graceful fallow deer grazing in the distance, its majestic presence adding to the magic of the place.

It's not just the beauty of the surroundings that makes this location so special; it's the range of experiences on offer. As a photographer, I invite you to join me for a Rewild Portrait Experience. Imagine being able to capture this dreamlike setting as the backdrop for your most treasured memories. Whether you choose to stay in the cabin or have your shoot there, I guarantee that the result will be nothing short of breathtaking.

So whether you're searching for a romantic escape, an elopement venue, or simply the best accommodation in New Zealand, look no further than the Catlins Coastal Hideaway in the Catlins. Here, rustic luxury, untouched nature, and unforgettable experiences combine to create a truly magical destination. Book your stay today and let your wildest dreams come true.

If you'd like to book accomodation, follow the link! If you'd like to book in a portrait experience at this dreamy spot, get in touch and we'll bring your vision to life in one of the most incredible places in NZ.

Dreamy Places to Visit in New Zealand

Have you ever had someone check your ego at the door? Or perhaps you've called someone else out in the same way? We often tend to consider the ego in a negative connotation, and I used to agree with this sentiment. However, during a recent discussion in a yin yoga training, my perspective on the ego shifted. In the realm of personal development and spiritual practices, there seems to be a prevalent idea that the ego is something to transcend or even eliminate entirely. Concepts like ego death and transcending the ego have gained popularity, suggesting that a life free from ego is the path to enlightenment or true self-realization. However, what if we looked at the ego in a different light? What if, instead of trying to get rid of it, we learn to befriend it? In this post, we will explore the idea of embracing the ego as an ally rather than an enemy and how it can lead to personal growth and self-awareness.🌟🤝

To befriend the ego, we must first understand what it represents. The ego is the part of our psyche that identifies with our individuality, separates us from others, and shapes our self-image. It is the "I, Me, & My" that we connect with and see ourselves as. It is essentially our story, our beliefs, and how we show up in the world. While an over-attachment and inflation of the ego can lead to negative behaviors and attitudes, a healthy & balanced ego serves an important function in our lives. It is an essential part of our humanity and an integral aspect of being present in our collective human experience, showing us that while we are separate, we are also a part of the whole.🌍❤️

Acknowledging the Positive Aspects of the Ego

Rather than dismissing the ego as an obstacle to overcome, we should recognize the positive aspects it brings to our lives. When nurtured and allowed to grow, the ego provides a sense of identity, self-worth, and personal boundaries. These boundaries allow us to navigate the story of our lives and change trajectory when needed. The ego drives us to achieve goals, assert ourselves, and navigate social interactions. By acknowledging these positive qualities, we can start to see the ego as a necessary and integral part of our being, especially in the earlier stages of our lives.🌱💪

Embracing Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

Befriending the ego means developing a healthy relationship with it. Instead of suppressing or ignoring its presence, we can use it as a tool for self-awareness and personal growth. The ego can serve as our accountability partner, constantly questioning our thoughts, actions, and motivations. It can help us pause and reflect before reacting impulsively, asking ourselves if our choices align with our values and if there's a better way to handle situations. The key here is to maintain a healthy balance, not allowing for co-dependency or unhealthy attachments to our story and beliefs. Can we maintain awareness and also allow ourselves to become a witness to how we move about in our world? A good friend doesn't hold us back but supports and inspires us to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be. This is not only good for the individual but also for our communities and environments that we live in.🧘‍♀️🌻

Cultivating a Compassionate Inner Dialogue

To befriend our ego, we must cultivate a compassionate inner dialogue. Rather than harshly criticizing ourselves or indulging in self-aggrandizement, we can adopt a balanced approach. Just like a good friend, the ego can gently call us out when we veer off course, reminding us to align with our true intentions and values. This compassionate self-talk encourages growth and self-improvement while maintaining a healthy sense of self-worth. Without this healthy balance, we may not know or be able to observe when we've stepped out of line or when we may need to voice our needs more clearly. This compassionate inner dialogue is of utmost importance because we spend the majority of our lives inside our own minds, navigating what can feel like the storm of thoughts sweeping through and wreaking havoc on our body, mind, and spirit. If we can pull ourselves up and speak to ourselves with compassion and a true desire to understand ourselves, then we can really begin to transcend the chaos of our lives.🌈💭💖

Balancing the Ego with Other Aspects of Being

While befriending the ego is valuable, it's also important to strike a balance and integrate other aspects of our being. This includes cultivating qualities like empathy, compassion, kindness, discernment, critical thinking, humility, and interconnectedness, to name a few. By recognizing that we are not defined solely by our ego, we can expand our perspective and engage with the world from a more holistic standpoint. The ego is but one way that we can view the self in the world around us. How can we adapt this principle into our relationships, careers, spiritual practices, and care for the environment?🌱🌺🌏

Rather than viewing the ego as an enemy to be vanquished or transcended above, we can choose to befriend it, harnessing its potential for self-awareness, personal growth, meaningful relationships, and accountability. By developing a compassionate and balanced relationship with our ego, we can navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and integrity. So, what do you say? Let your ego be your amigo in the best way possible because ultimately, we are meant to be here, right now, in this human experience. Don't spend all your time trying to ascend out of it.🙌😊

The Ego is Not Your Amigo... or is it?

As a photographer, I am constantly in awe of the power of love and the magic it brings to these intimate moments. And this elopement was no exception. From the moment they said their vows, surrounded by the sweeping landscapes and the gentle caress of the ocean breeze, there was an undeniable sense of timelessness. It was as if the universe stood still, capturing this precious moment in its eternal embrace.

I couldn't help but wonder, what is it about elopements that make them so special? Is it the intimate atmosphere, the absence of distractions, or the freedom to truly focus on what matters most – the love between two souls? These rhetorical questions danced in my mind as I clicked the shutter, freezing these fleeting moments in time.

As the ceremony ended, the real adventure began. Helén and Philipp embraced the spirit of the day, fearlessly climbing up rocks and cliffs, their laughter echoing through the wind. A perfect metaphor for the journey they were about to embark on – conquering any obstacles that may come their way with love, joy, & unconditional support.

With every step they took, every dance in the sand and every splash in the waves, I couldn't help but feel a surge of inspiration. This was not just a wedding, it was a celebration of life, of love, and of the wondrous world we inhabit. It reminded me of the magnitude of the human spirit and the ability to find beauty in even the most ordinary of moments.

The weather played its part in this grand adventure, bestowing upon us a gentle sprinkle of rain to keep us cool amidst the warmth of the day. It was a reminder that life is unpredictable, that we must learn to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in every raindrop that falls upon us.

As the sand clung to their bare feet and their smiles illuminated the beach, I realized that this was not just a destination wedding, but a destination for the heart. Dunedin provided the perfect backdrop for this love story to unfold, its rugged cliffs and sandy shores mirroring the strength and beauty of Helén and Philipp's union.

And as their journey continued, I couldn't help but be grateful for being a witness to this beautiful elopement. Being a wedding photographer is not just about capturing images; it's about telling stories that transcend time and space. It's about freezing moments in an everlasting embrace, reminding us of the love that exists in this world.

So, as I reflect on this elopement adventure with Helén and Philipp at Ocean View Beach in Dunedin, New Zealand, I am reminded once again of the power of love. It is a force that knows no boundaries, that can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, and that can ignite the spark within us all.

If you're seeking wedding inspiration, if you crave a beach wedding that is both intimate and grand, or if you dream of a destination wedding that will leave you breathless, I invite you to consider the enchanting beauty of Dunedin. Let the cliffs and waves bear witness to your love story, and let me, as your wedding photographer, capture the timeless magic that unfolds before us.

For in the realm of elopement photography, there lies a world of adventure, beauty, love, & wild adventure! A world that invites us to be present, to be fearless, and to embrace the magic of life itself.

If you are looking for a wedding officiant who will create a memorable and meaningful ceremony, I highly recommend Anke from Significant Moments NZ. As a Celebrant, Anke truly knows how to create a personalised and heartwarming experience for couples on their special day. Her attention to detail and ability to incorporate the couple's unique love story into the ceremony is truly remarkable. Additionally, Anke's warm and calming presence will surely put any wedding couple at ease, allowing them to fully enjoy every moment of their ceremony.

Helén & Philipp

As the silly season for photography, retreats, and coaching comes to an end, my wee family and I eagerly anticipate our annual trip to the backcountry. A serene place known as Paradise, located just beyond Glenorchy, near Queenstown, has become our sanctuary for the past three years. This haven provides us with the perfect opportunity to detox from the constant screens, Wi-Fi, cell phones, and never-ending workload that consumes our daily lives. For a blissful span of ten days, it's just us - my scruffy Dutchman, our two scruffy pups, and me.

Our home away from home during these ten days is Dolan's Hut. This cozy refuge offers us a respite from the hectic outside world, complete with a crackling fire, a small lounge area, and a comfortable bed setup. An outdoor kitchen and a delightful outdoor bath add a touch of luxury to our rustic retreat. And let's not forget the "loo with a view" - a humorous feature that never fails to bring a smile to our faces.

With each passing year, this trip becomes even more cherished, engrained within the fabric of our lives. In June 2023, we embarked on our most recent adventure and were met with a breathtaking winter wonderland. The area had recently been blanketed in a thick layer of snow, transforming it into a scene straight out of a fairytale. The warmth of the fire and the soothing embrace of the bath allowed us to enjoy the ethereal beauty of our surroundings while keeping comfortably snug.

Our days were filled with long walks around the Paradise Trust property, as we immersed ourselves in the untouched wilderness. Admittedly, we might have gotten lost once, entangled in the awe-inspiring landscapes that surrounded us. But such moments only added to the sense of adventure and allowed us to stumble upon hidden treasures. It was during these times that we truly appreciated the opportunity to disconnect from our digital devices and reconnect with ourselves and each other. It was also a great test for our relationship, apparently we handle stressful situations very well together. lol.

Landscape photography became a natural extension of our immersion in nature. Capturing the stunning scenery that unfolded before us felt both therapeutic and invigorating. It is a reminder of the creative element of my work, which sometimes gets lost in the hustle of the busy season. The sparkle of sunlight on every snow-covered leaf and blade of grass gave the impression that the fairies themselves were alive and communicating through a secret language only they understood. The sense of magic in the air was simply undeniable.

In addition to photography, I found solace in the peacefulness of meditation and the escapism of reading. These activities allowed me to delve deeper into my own thoughts and emotions, uncovering newfound perspectives and tapping into wellsprings of creativity. This time in Paradise becomes a catalyst for personal growth and introspection, as we shed the weight of our everyday responsibilities and simply allow ourselves to be.

As we packed our bags and bid farewell to Dolan's Hut, we carried with us the memories of this extraordinary experience. A beautiful fiery sunrise sent us off that final morning. The digital detox, the connection with nature, and the valuable time away from the demands of work had rejuvenated our spirits. Our annual pilgrimage to this winter wonderland, to our personal piece of paradise, had reminded us of what truly matters - family, love, adventure, magic, simplicity, and the beauty that lies within the natural world.

So, until the next time we venture into the backcountry, we hold onto the photographs, the cherished moments, and the lessons learned during our time away. Knowing that Paradise will always welcome us with open arms, ready to transport us to a world where the only thing that matters is the serenity found amidst the snow-capped mountains and the whispers of the fairies & elves in the wind.

Already eagerly anticipating our next trip come 31st May!

If you want to experience the magic & rustic beauty of Paradise, I highly recommend booking into one of their huts for a few nights! It's also an amazing place to get married or celebrate a special event. 10/10

Journal

Coming to Your Senses - A Sensory Journey of Connecting to the Soul

Dreamy Places to Visit in New Zealand

The Ego is Not Your Amigo... or is it?

Helén & Philipp

General Adventures in Paradise