‘Wellness on the Water’
As our theme of the trip was Wellness, we decided to share with our families ways in which we can take care of ourselves and the benefits of holistic approaches to wellness and wellbeing as demonstrated within our Family Support Centre.
We wanted our families to spend time together, relaxing and enjoying a trip on our waterways surrounded by nature whilst also taking time out from normal day to day life. Our aim was to provide gentle activities and a supportive environment where a relaxing vibe was key. Our Complementary Therapist and Reiki practitioner Vicky was on board to offer luxurious hand massages for those who wanted to partake. Wendy kindly made hot drinks to welcome everyone onto Cecilia and we provided snacks and lunch for everyone throughout the day.
One of the group said: “The day was very relaxing and it was a nice way to meet other families. It was a pleasant distraction.”
We climbed aboard Cecilia at Alvechurch and headed towards Tardebigge. Families were able to steer the boat or sit outside at the helm and watch the world go by. A game of waterside bingo was enjoyed and we talked about the significance of wellness and how we can use our hands in many ways to support our wellbeing. Holding hands, touch, breathing exercises and more. Each family was invited to do some rock painting using finger prints on a family rock to celebrate them being together and the support they share. We enjoyed a picnic lunch, even though the sun didn’t make much of an appearance and we were able to disembark and learn all about how the locks work and those feeling strong took turns to have a go.
We turned around to head back on Cecilia and families by now have bonded and friendships have been made. Chocolate milk topped with
whipped cream, the order of the return journey with any left-over snacks proved popular. We had a relaxing journey back, games played, hand massages on tap and plenty of chat and photo opportunities. As our families safely returned to Tardebigge, they were handed a reminder of their day with hand exercises and hand cream for those who wished to practice!
One of the group said: “I loved the wellness aspect of the day, it has highlighted the importance of taking time for ourselves. I’d 100% recommend this trip, Primrose has and will always be a warm, welcomed hug.”
Thank you so much to our wonderful Primrose families for coming along and making the trip a special one to remember and to Wendy and her team for making it possible.
