Sessions
What happens in a Session?
"So, do I just give you my phone and sit in silence?"
Close, but not quite ;)
For avoidance of doubt, you won't be hugging trees, charging crystals or moon dancing (nothing wrong with any of that but it’s not what we’re about).
Instead, (once your phone is safely locked away) you'll get settled in with a drink. Each session is different, but typically will start with a gentle colouring activity to settle the body and the mind. You'll then be given a self-reflection prompt card. Don't panic! This is for your eyes only, so no-one else will know what you're working with. You'll contemplate this question as you Write or Collage a response. Naturally, your mind will wander. Let it. Other optional activities include letter writing, self reflection sheets and gratitude lists.
Whilst there's no talking throughout the sessions, relaxing background music removes any awkwardness and ensures a restorative experience.
The sessions end with an optional communal tea/wine - ideal if you want to chat and share experiences with the women you've sat with (but there is absolutely no requirement to stay on for this - you do you).
If you're not keen on the self-reflection element, and just want to switch off from technology at the end of a long day, join us for one of our group Reading, Walking or Listening sessions.
Or, if you want to go a bit deeper, book in for a Half Day Retreat which includes aspects of all of the above.
For our guests privacy we don't take photos or record sessions.
The Switch Off is rooted in the age-old concept that by removing distractions and embracing silence, you give yourself space to explore thoughts, ideas and problems (instead of hiding or running from them).
The Switch Off isn't therapy, but it's a good place to start.
More details about each session can be found on the Book In page.
Who runs them?
The Switch Off is working in partnership with a range of practitioners from across the wellness and creative industries
It has been set up by an ageing millennial who has worked in communications for the last 20 years (and who is all too familiar with the overwhelm that comes from being constantly connected).
In 2022, Maddy turned off her phone and walked for 45 days along an old pilgrimage route across Spain. Whilst she doesn’t claim to have all the answers (and is still working on finding that elusive inner contentment!), she’s now a big believer in the power of silence and hopes to encourage more women to regularly find a moment to slow things down.
One session (probably) won’t change your life, but she thinks developing the habit of switching off and reconnecting with yourself just might…
Where are they held?
The long term aim is to have our own space.
Until then, The Switch Off is working in collaboration with different venue partners including hotels and residential buildings.