Rest & Renewal Retreat
for Women Affected by Cancer
December 11-13, 2026
with Julie Trombley
Cancer changes more than the body. Many women find themselves living in survival mode long after appointments slow down – feeling anxious, on edge, exhausted, disconnected, or unsure how to rest anymore. Others feel shut down, numb, or far away from themselves, even as the world expects them to “be okay” again. This retreat is a response to those very real experiences.
The Rest and Renewal Retreat offers a gentle, supportive environment where women can slow down, tend to their nervous systems, and experience the healing power of rest and connection. Over the course of the weekend, participants will be guided through mindfulness practices, nervous system regulation tools, gentle movement, meditation, and opportunities for meaningful connection with others who truly understand this path.
This retreat is intentionally low-pressure and invitational. There is no fixing, no forcing, and no expectation to share more than feels comfortable. Wig and makeup are optional. Rest is encouraged. Each activity is offered as an invitation, allowing participants to honor their energy and capacity in each moment.
The weekend is designed to help participants:
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- Feel safer and more settled in their bodies
- Reduce chronic stress and nervous system overwhelm
- Experience deep rest and restoration
- Reconnect with themselves after the intensity of a cancer diagnosis
- Feel less alone through shared community
At its heart, the Rest and Renewal Retreat is about creating space – for rest, for healing, and for remembering that support exists. Participants leave feeling more grounded, more connected, and more resourced to meet the next season of life with greater steadiness and compassion.
Julie instructed my first meditation course and it was a wonderful experience. I’d describe Julie’s teaching style as calm and thoughtful. She always listened to and acknowledged student needs and feedback. I felt very welcomed in the class and learned a lot of useful tips and practices that gave me a solid foundation as I started practicing meditation. Based on my experience, I would highly recommend Julie as a meditation instructor, regardless of where you are in your own personal journey.
Julie is a welcoming and thoughtful mindfulness teacher, she makes meditation accessible and easy to follow. She a natural teacher in many facets and exudes patience & caring. She has a calming, non-judgmental and educational approach to groups and retreats. I’m so grateful that she shares her gifts of gentle wisdom with such an open heart, making it possible for all to feel safe to practice and be vulnerable to grow together. I never miss an opportunity to attend one of her events.
Your Guide for the Journey
Julie Trombley
I’m a deeply spiritual Health Educator turned Coach and Mindfulness Meditation Teacher (certified in both). I’m also a breast cancer survivor and am looking for more ways to be of service to women affected by cancer.
I was raised in a high control religion. Leaving it at the age of 18 remains one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve been able to cultivate a meaningful and life given spirituality that leans heavily on Celtic, Pagan, other Earth-based traditions. I also have been a student of Mindfulness Meditation (with close ties to Buddhism) for the last 20 years of my life. I completed Jack Kornfield & Tara Brach’s 2-year Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Program in January of 2025.