October, 2014
Is there a more appropriate place than California to mix my love of nature, a healthy lifestyle and exploration with the talents of, Katrin Sandberg (@storycoachen) A more perfect setting to expand on the idea, “if you can dream it, you can do it!’? We didn’t think so and set out to create something very special, to share with like minded women.
Katrin and I offered a seven day trip to a group of Swedish entrepreneurs, from various business backgrounds. These strong, brilliant women were interested in taking the next step in their personal and professional development and exploring their impact on the world.
Our schedule was intense but balanced; story coaching, deep encounters and interactive talks, with L.A. based entrepreneurs, and open discussions, within the group, during organic “family style” meals. SoCal activities included hiking, yoga, bike riding and swimming; always to return to our home for the week, Greenleaf Oasis, a magical house in the heart of Topanga Canyon. The incredible mountain views and surrounding natural beauty seemed to imbue us with the power and energy to stay connected to our higher purpose.
We had a personal Eco- chef, Emily Glarner-Chan (@foodbyemily), staying with us the entire week! With her positive energy, beautiful soul and inspiring personality, she became a huge part of the experience.
Some of the activities we did…
– Day trip to mythical Joshua Tree National Park, in the Mojave desert. The landscape of Joshua Tree is something beyond anything else I’ve encountered. I led a hike, through an environment of cactus, rocks and spectacular boulder formations. We explored the vast desert with open minds, Katrin gave the group a story coaching then we all dug in and enjoyed our organic picnic lunch, provided, by our personal chef, Emily.
- Lecture, at Saba Theatre, by Marianne Williamson. Marianne is an author and one of the world’s best inspirational speakers! It was amazing!
- A visit to Mariel Hemingway and Bob Williams, at their ranch in Malibu, ”The WillingWay”. Together, they created a company called Running with Nature They have embraced a different path – one full of athletic adventures, herbal epiphanies and alternative solutions to live a healthy, happy life.
- Lunch, at Malibu Farm Cafe, Helene Henderson, the Swedish owner and inspiration, shared her story about how she made it happen. In five years, she went from cooking classes for friends, pop up farm dinners and a dream, to having a hugely successful concept restaurant, on the Malibu Pier. Her entrepreneurial advice is ”Trust yourself, stay true to you!’. Inspiring woman!
Maria Söderholm 