As I sit here, heavy rains are pouring down over us in Wilderness. We are drenched in goodness and water for a couple of days. I cannot see far, as my usual view is veiled by this downpour. Farmlands and the Outeniqua Mountains are there, yes, but just not in plain sight now. And that is what I am experiencing in my deepest parts currently. I am looking back at my ‘Bali time’ and, although I cannot be there now or turn back time, I know all of it is still there. The memories, the growth, the experiences that changed my life. And I do not say that lightly…
My story and how I came to cross paths with the Smiling Soul team is a long one, one that is not for sharing today, but I will give you a glimpse into it as that is truly at the heart of my Smiling Soul Level 2 Retreat. A couple of years ago, I had this deep inner knowing that I needed to visit Bali – even if it was impossible for me to see how it could happen. I left it and just kept on living my life fully, day by day. Until the call came again a year later and I knew deeply that if I didn’t follow it, I would miss out on something huge in my life. Without hesitation and some intervention, I found myself on a flight a few weeks later, heading to the Island of the Gods for my first Smiling Soul retreat! And golly gosh, I have never looked back!
My second retreat with Brett Shuttleworth and his team was of the same calibre as my Level 1 retreat. Although completely different in structure, it still had all the elements of exceptional planning, profound wisdom, teachings and a deep sense of… I am safe here. Stepping off that plane and knowing I was in good hands for my time there was unparalleled. Only after that sense of safety settles in can a person fully absorb the experience of it all.
What always stands out about Smiling Souls is their professionalism. From enquiring to booking, from asking to going, from getting there to going again – everything is meticulously planned and executed accordingly. They have a golden standard in that regard and it shines through.
The Level 2 Masters of the Free retreat was held in Bali this time around and it was a great adventure for all. The retreat was built around activities and exploration just as much as it was focused on inner growth. This was definitely not a ‘sit and meditate’ retreat. It was an active invitation to live life fully, to dive into the unseen while embracing new experiences. That is what I love about journeys with Smiling Souls – they take every aspect into account regarding how we, as human beings, function, learn, grow and integrate. And nothing is ever forced onto a participant. You have the freedom to honour yourself, to follow what you feel called to do, but the opportunities to explore are always there, alongside a gold mine of wisdom and teachings.
We sailed between the islands in style! Visiting Labuan Bajo, Pink Beach, Komodo Dragon Park, Manjarite Island, Kawana Island and Uluwatu. The activities were jam-packed and full of life! We had stunning walks, meditations, snorkelling sessions (amazing!), tube rides, lavish dinner parties, fire dancing and, of course, we swam in the open ocean! The teachings were planned according to our day’s activities and they were, as always, perfectly aligned.
There is an extraordinary paradox in Brett Shuttleworth – depth and playfulness, wisdom and lightness. This, I have found, is only possible for those who have mastered both ends of life’s spectrum – the darkness and the light, the weight and the weightlessness of it all. He walks the path he teaches and that is what makes his guidance so powerful. He peels back the layers and veils that stand in the way of an enlightened life, showing that life can be lived fully, spiritually and happily – with a smile. He knows the work he speaks of, not just as concepts but as lived experience. On this trip, we explored six ‘Masters of the Free’ – Krishna, Ganesha, Jesus, Shiva, Hanuman and Buddha. Brett delved deeply into each one, unpacking their teachings in a way that wasn’t just intellectual but visceral, felt, embodied. He has a gift for guiding each individual deeper into themselves, challenging beliefs where needed with grace, compassion and, when called for, hard truths. He meets every person exactly where they are, from a heart centre of love and care. And if your foundations need shaking, he will shake them. But always, always, you walk away more whole and integrated, simply by opening the ears of your heart.
What sets Brett apart, for me, is that he understands South Africa. I could have chosen any international retreat, but this one stood out because he knows, deeply and fully, what we as South Africans carry within us. The culture, the beliefs, the ways of life in this gorgeous, complex country of ours. That foundation of understanding was so important to me. Participants come from all over the world, but for this Afrikaans girl, there is something about homegrown wisdom that lands differently. It resonates. Brett’s story is one of immense transformation – from South African soil to the far reaches of the world in pursuit of spiritual depth. He spent years with different teachers, immersing himself in the work and yet his heart will always be aligned with South Africa, no matter where he travels. His sharp wit, his ability to see through illusion and his depth of character have been forged by trials and tribulations. And yet, despite everything, his optimism and belief in the goodness of life shine through.
He is a teacher, a guide, a soul who walks this path not to be followed, but to illuminate the way for others. To remind us that freedom isn’t something to be sought but something we already are. And that, perhaps, the greatest path to enlightenment is to live with an open heart, an open mind, and a smile that reaches the soul.
One cannot talk about a Smiling Soul retreat without speaking about the incredible support team. At the heart of this is Rupali, the retreat angel, whose presence is a soothing balm to every soul she encounters. With grace, care and deep understanding, she nurtures, holding space with the warmth of a mother’s heart. She is both a gentle guide and a steady anchor, ensuring that everyone feels seen, supported and safe. Together, this is a team of dedicated individuals who bring clarity, wisdom and unwavering encouragement, making sure that every detail is tended to so participants can fully immerse themselves in their experience. Any leader is only as powerful as those who walk beside them and Brett’s team is a testament to that truth. Together, they are like a beautifully crafted dish – each element adding depth, richness and love – served with the sole purpose of nourishing the souls who embark on this retreat journey.
Every retreat has something unique to offer, but the depth of transformation depends on one’s willingness to surrender. If you feel called, listen. And if you commit – especially to a Level 2 journey – do not arrive burdened with expectations. Expectation creates limitation. Instead, come with an open heart, an open mind and open hands, ready to receive whatever unfolds. Trust the process, immerse yourself in the unknown and breathe in the fresh air of new experiences. Let the retreat strip away what no longer serves you, clearing the way for the light within you to shine even brighter. Release the past, embrace the present and simply be. The rest will follow, as it always does, when we allow ourselves to truly step into the moment!
Love and light, always…
Gérraine
