Nurture & Nourish- A Gentle Path to Wellness

I just love the word nourish.

It conjures up such a beautiful picture in my mind — green fields, kind people, fresh air, and vibrant fruit and vegetables bursting with life.

But for me, 'nourish' can’t exist on its own. It needs its companion: nurture. They go hand in hand.

Nurturing has been at the heart of my work as a holistic wellness coach for over thirty years. It’s about creating a safe, supportive space where people feel seen, heard, and gently guided. From there, nourishment naturally follows — introducing clients to a healthier, more balanced way of living.

And that nourishment goes far beyond food. Yes, we examine what’s on the plate, but we also consider friendships, environment, daily habits, and mental well-being. We look at what feeds the soul just as much as what fuels the body.

True wellness isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about learning how to nurture yourself with compassion — and allowing yourself to be nourished in every sense of the word.

I am often struck by the things people say when they come for treatment. Some apologise for bursting into tears, or worry that my hands must be tired from working on their feet! I was once told, 'sometimes you just need someone to gently hold the thread while you keep weaving' — and I think that applies beautifully to my work.

When a client sheds tears, I reassure them that tears are the cleansers of the soul. Often, it’s the first time they have felt safe enough to truly let go of their emotions.

Holding it all together for everyone — that’s something women do incredibly well. But learning to release the constant worry for others doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process, one I guide and support with every client.

Nourishing and nurturing are more than practices to me — they are the essence of my work. This year, I chose to honour that belief by turning the focus inward, allowing myself the same gentleness I offer others. The result is the Soul Wellness Retreat in Portugal: five days and four nights of unhurried rest, deep relaxation, and nourishing rejuvenation.

If this resonates and you’d like to learn more about the Soul Wellness Retreat in Portugal, you can find the details here. There is no rush — only an open invitation. https://tr.ee/SaXfYu

So now, having read all that above, which word speaks to you — nurture or nourish?

Or have you realised, like I have, that we need both?