Gratitude, Growth & the Beach That Held Me
A Slower Start, for a Powerful Cause
I’d planned to start sharing sunrise reflections, as those quiet, early hours are when my soul feels most at peace. But today unfolded a little differently.
Tonight, I’m taking part in the CEO Sleepout... sleeping outdoors at the Riverside Stadium to raise funds and awareness for homelessness. I’m bringing my sleeping bag and joining other business owners in solidarity, and after a full-on week, I allowed myself a little more rest this morning.
With that in mind, today’s post is about something deeply grounding to me: gratitude.
Why Gratitude Always Comes First
Gratitude is how I begin my day.
It’s not just a nice habit, it’s a lifeline. It helps me reframe moments that feel heavy. When things don’t go right, when I feel hurt, or when the path ahead looks uncertain, I return to gratitude. It doesn’t fix everything, but it softens the edges and realigns me with what matters most.
The Beach That Carried Me
Today, I’m writing this just a five-minute walk from my home, at the beach that has held me through every season of my journey.
During 2020 and 2021, this beach was my sanctuary. At the time, I didn’t live here yet. My son and I would drive to the coast, here or to Redcar, just to feel grounded again. While some people thrived during those lockdown years, for us it was a period of survival. And like so many others, we’re still healing from it.
But through all of it, the sea held space for us.
From Survival to Sacred Space
This stretch of sand has held my tears, my uncertainty, and my exhaustion. But it has also held my joy.
It’s seen beach fires, laughing yoga, walks with friends, and daily solo strolls. And now, it’s where I lead others through transformation too, through my RISE Workshops and seasonal Get Ready to Rise Immersion Days.
When I say the beach is part of my events, I mean it quite literally.
Every in-person RISE workshop includes an optional netwalk - a gentle, intentional walk that continues the connection we’ve created indoors.
The Get Ready to Rise Immersion Day includes guided netwalking and a wild sauna, offering a truly holistic reset.
Our next immersion is booked for 25th July, and yes, the beach will be part of it again. It always will be.
Because what once carried me through my hardest days… is now the place where I help others rise.
What Are You Grateful For Today?
Take a moment and ask yourself:
What am I grateful for today — and why?
Write it down. Feel it in your body. Let it be your anchor.
And if you’re curious about joining a future event or simply want to chat, comment below with the word RISE, or send me a message [email protected]. I’d love to connect.
For now, wish me luck as I sleep under the stars tonight.
So much love,
Sara 💜✨💜
