The Retreat

Positively Different is a retreats company based in the heart of beautiful countryside in the National Forest, offering "down to earth weekend retreats, to refresh the spirit and calm the mind."

"WE AIM to ensure you are thoroughly relaxed and refreshed during a Positively Different retreat."

What to expect on a typical weekend break.

As part of the weekend you will be offered two nights' accommodation in an AA**** hotel including breakfast and one evening meal; a meditation class; a guided contemplative walk through the woodlands of Calke Abbey, complete with delivered picnic; and a workshop with a complementary therapy theme which should further add to your sense of relaxation. These activities will provide you with simple, yet effective, techniques and skills to use at home for yourself or with family and friends. You may also choose a free therapy from the wide range on offer (please see therapies offered by Essential Holistic Health).

Also on offer is an the opportunity for personal guidance by arrangement with the spiritual director/lifestyle coach; time to explore the local area; browse through the library of inspirational literature; or just chat with others and relax and unwind. The Saturday evening has been left free for you to sample the local pubs, bars and restaurants. If you are alone on the retreat and would prefer some company to dine with, let us know and arrangements can be made. The concept is one of relaxation, so you can join in where and when you wish to, but you are also free to spend your time as you wish, with no hassles.

Retreats are currently based at the Coach House Hotel in the pretty market town of Melbourne, South Derbyshire. All the bedrooms have en suite facilities; there are twin, double and single options to choose from, with tea and coffee making facilities and television.

We are Positively Different

Annie Baxter
ANNIE is the retreats organiser and spiritual director. Her background includes time in a hectic newsroom as a features writer and sub-editor, so she knows all about work related stress. Although a practising Christian from an early age, Annie has developed a much broader view on life. She brings to the mix a wealth of knowledge and experience in the areas of core beliefs, meditation, spiritual contemplation and a down-to-earth approach to their practical application. A qualified vocational skills tutor, she has been involved in personal mentoring for 20 years.

Andrea Clarke
ANDREA is an Honours graduate and member of the Complementary Therapists Association. She runs her own practice, Essential Holistic Health, offering a wide range of treatments, to cater for many different needs. She has more than 10 years' experience with clients, and comes from a spiritual rather than religious background, which she finds sits comfortably with her energy field and earth/land healing work. She has developed and run courses in most of the therapies in which she is qualified.

Alwyn Haines
ALWYN has a similar spiritual background to Annie, having spent many years within the church, including stints in a position of leadership. However she now practises her faith in a more holistic way. She is a staff member at a senior school in Derbyshire; previously she has worked in the business world. She provides a vital supporting role to the retreat as a whole - including providing the picnic!

Bookings and Prices

Our price for a two-night stay, including workshops and a free complementary therapy treatment, is £250, share a room and save £20 per person,

Group bookings of 10 will pay for only 9, saving £250.

For all bookings and information please contact Annie Baxter on:

Telephone: 07866 156562

E-mail: positivelydifferent@talktalk.net