Winter Wellness Wakeup: A Q&A with expert retreat leader Jeanne Marie Mudd

Jeanne Marie Mudd is an executive and team coach, grief and life coach and public minister with more than three decades of experience guiding individuals through life transitions, leadership growth and spiritual renewal. From February 20-22, Jeanne Marie will lead a Winter Wellness Wakeup Retreat at UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge. This Q&A has been edited for clarity and brevity.

What inspired you to create this winter retreat?

We have many winters in life. Sometimes it’s the season — the cycle of nature — but sometimes it’s the season in life, which isn’t necessarily being in older age. Sometimes we’re in winter because things have happened in life that cause us to feel like we’re not in spring or summer or autumn, but a little lost, and so this is a beautiful time in the actual natural season of winter to pause and stoke inner fire so that it gives us that outer light.

What makes this retreat different from other wellness experiences?

This is a profoundly holistic retreat; it’s body, mind, heart and spirit. So often, retreat experiences are limited to one or two things, but here we’re blending them all together. Participants will experience a retreat that refreshes them and come away with a plan.

What can folks expect during the three days with you?

Everything from learning about longevity science and sleep science — that’s so important for refreshment and so invitational in winter, even in California, where the days are shorter — to mindful eating and movement and practices for mental clarity. We’ll also have time to explore through creative expression, explore nature, savor delicious meals, and enjoy a sound bath. Guests will also create a personal plan to take home.

What do you hope guests will take away from this experience?

We’re looking for people to feel a sense of deep refreshment and renewal, a calm clarity and a reconnection with joy.

What makes UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge an ideal location for this event?

It’s exceptional in every way. It has exceptional natural beauty, deeply caring professionals on everyone on the team, amazing cozy fireside spaces for learning, laughter and loving kindness.

What inspires you to do this work?

I just love love. And the joy of experiencing people moving in a journey to become their best selves.