Essence of Presence
Tandi Kolbe
Deep within the heart of the Karoo, where time is marked only by the rising and setting of the sun, Julie Robinson invites small groups of men and women to embark on an inner journey that is not merely a retreat; it’s an expedition into the essence of who we are in relation to ourselves and others, our inner and outer worlds.
Amidst the endless horizons, rugged and harsh landscape, deep and intimate connections were effortlessly formed. The colour of laughter and joy woven into the warmth of our Basotho blankets that kept us warm as we nestled around the fire under the canopy of a starry night.
The experience of an inventure in the Karoo with Julie offers a sanctuary where questions arise not to be answered but to be held in the beauty of the inquiry itself.
Tracing back on the steps of this inner adventure that required us handing in our phones and watches before we descended into what felt like the womb of the Karoo, I’ve now emerged with a deep yearning for real connections with myself, with life, with others, that are often drowned out by the constant, and empty noise of busyness, WhatsApps and emails.
The opportunity to join Julie on this five-day journey with six other women was a chance to awaken the senses, to rediscover the beauty of nature, and the joy of intimate connection that comes with walking with the invitation to notice; to notice the flowers, the rocks, the sky, the earth, my breath, my body, the emotion I carry and the unexpected beauty that comes from slowing down to all that exists to support me.
Each day Julie presented us with thoughtful gifts, each purposively selected with immense joy and love.
Drawing on her love and support, together, we sat with, navigated, and learned to breathe through and overcome moments of discomfort presented by a landscape of this nature. Through this experience, I learned to truly appreciate the gift of my own breath, and the strength drawn from being supported and loved in the process.
On my inventure in the Karoo, I came to realise that although my phone allowed me to be constantly in contact that I was holding loneliness and had lost deep and meaningful connections.
On my inventure in the Karoo, I realised that slowing down provided me with the space to hear my heart, and that opening my eyes to see deeply was akin to living fully.
I learned that the busyness of my life, was not fostering genuine connections, and that to be present was to authentically connect, and that this is the essence of love.
An inventure with Julie Robinson in the Karoo is more than a retreat; it is an invitation to reconnect with your most authentic self, the people and the world around you.