Recharging the Mind and Body: What a Weekend at Hemsby Taught Me About Joyful Living
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Hemsby Fitness Weekend — three fantastic days packed with energy, laughter, movement, and connection. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing. With a schedule bursting with choices — yoga, HIIT, belly dancing, aqua classes, sticks and kicks (inspired by the martial art Kali), and even a Drum session where we exercised while drumming on giant Pilates balls — there truly was something for everyone.
It was the Drum class that stole my heart: the pure fun, the rhythm, the feeling of total freedom. No overthinking, no pressure — just movement, laughter, and music. In many ways, it reminded me of a key lesson we often explore in hypnotherapy and mindfulness: the importance of being fully present and finding joy in the moment.
Joy, Movement, and Mindfulness
One of the core principles of mindfulness — and one that I weave into my hypnotherapy practice — is the idea of being in the now. During the weekend, I wasn’t thinking about my to-do list or worrying about the week ahead. Whether it was a Zumba class, laughing through an Abba dance session (Abbatastic!), or dressing up in our most colourful 1980s outfits for the evening event, I was simply present — and it felt incredible.
Research shows that activities like dance, music, and movement naturally trigger the release of endorphins, our body’s “feel-good” chemicals. Engaging in fun activities is not just a luxury — it’s a crucial part of maintaining emotional and mental wellness.
In hypnotherapy, we often help clients reconnect to these feelings — of freedom, playfulness, and self-expression — especially if they’ve become lost in the seriousness of everyday life. Sometimes, healing doesn’t come from sitting still and thinking hard about problems; it comes from moving, laughing, and letting go.
Lessons from the 1980s Night
The 1980s themed party was another reminder of the power of play. Everyone dressed up — Wonder Woman, Mr T, Mario, punks, neon leotards, roller skates and more! I wore a black dress, black lace fingerless gloves, and an 80s bow in my hair, fully embracing the spirit of fun.
When we allow ourselves to play — free from judgment, free from expectation — we create space for healing and growth. This is exactly the space I aim to create for my clients during hypnosis: a safe, empowering space where they can shed old limitations and reconnect with their natural confidence and creativity.
Mindful Moments: Connection and Gratitude
Sharing meals with my sisters and friends in our beautiful, spacious apartment was another highlight. Sunny weather, good food, and great company created an environment of gratitude and simple pleasure.
Mindfulness isn’t just about meditating quietly (although that has its place!). It’s about fully experiencing what’s happening right now — a shared laugh, the sun on your skin, the beat of a drum, the sparkle of neon leg warmers on a dance floor!
Final Reflections
This weekend was a beautiful reminder that movement is medicine, laughter is healing, and presence is powerful. Whether you’re working with hypnotherapy to overcome challenges, building resilience through mindfulness, or simply living your life more joyfully — reconnecting with fun, freedom, and your true self is vital.
If you feel like life has become too serious or heavy, perhaps it’s time to ask:
“When was the last time I danced like nobody was watching?”
“When was the last time I truly let go?”
Sometimes, the best therapy starts with a smile, a beat, and a few neon leg warmers.
Read more about other mindful moments with my family