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Nurture Your Spirit & Nourish Your Body

Join MJ Waddell and Terri Orr for a retreat to nurture your spirit with yoga and meditation, nourish your body with delicious plant-based meals, and connect with nature in the exquisite coastal surroundings of Bald Head Island, NC.

Bald Head Island is a two-mile journey across the Cape Fear River from Southport, North Carolina, and the site of Old Baldy, the state’s oldest standing lighthouse, circa 1817. You can only reach this subtropical island by passenger ferry or private vessel!

Amid the island’s 12,000 acres, you’ll find 10,000 untouched acres of beach, marsh, and maritime forest preserves and charming neighborhoods that respect the natural beauty of the surroundings.

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We would love for you to join us on this womens-only,
4 night/5 day retreat to paradise!
BOOK A CALL TO LEARN MORE

A Powerful Way to Reset and Respect Your Mind, Body, and Spirit


In our fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s easy to put ourselves last—pushing through exhaustion, stress, and the endless to-do lists. But true well-being requires space to pause, breathe deeply, and replenish. A retreat offers that sacred pause, allowing you to step away from daily responsibilities and immerse yourself in intentional self-care. It’s an opportunity to unplug from distractions, reconnect with yourself, and embrace the nourishment that only time in nature, movement, and community can provide.

Giving Yourself This Gift Isn’t Indulgent—It’s Essential.


Spending time with other wise women in the coastal setting of Bald Head Island will amplify this experience. The ocean breeze, the rhythm of the tides, and the natural beauty of the landscape create an environment that soothes the nervous system and invites a state of peace and tranquility.

Sharing this retreat experience with like-minded women will foster deep connection, reminding you that you’re not alone on your journey. Whether through yoga, meditation, nourishing food, or heartfelt conversations, this retreat will provide the reset and recharge needed to return home feeling refreshed, inspired, and deeply cared for.

How You’ll Be Nurtured and Nourished

The purpose of the Nurture & Nourish retreat is to provide you with a much-needed pause—a space to step away from the demands of daily life and truly care for yourself in a meaningful way.

Over the course of these few precious days, you will reconnect with your body, mind, and spirit through gentle movement, nourishing meals, and time spent in nature. By limiting digital distractions, you’ll cultivate a renewed presence, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the moment.

AM Yoga and Meditation

Start each morning with a centering yoga session to awaken your body and calm your mind. Set a positive tone and intention for the day ahead.

Buffet Breakfast

Nourish and fuel your body with a variety of plant-based breakfast choices. Prepare for a day of island adventures together or on your own.

Connect with Nature

Spend time exploring the island with the group or on your own. Join Terri on a nature walk, visit the Turtle Conservancy, climb Old Baldy Lighthouse, go on a guided kayak tour, enjoy the sun and surf at the beach, hop on a golf cart or bike with MJ, and go explore. So many adventures!

Community Dinners

Come together each evening for a nourishing plant-based meal. Terri will share and teach you the how-to, the why, and the benefits of enjoying nature's bounty. You choose to help prepare or watch, learn, and then eat! Wine will be available.

Evening Activities

End each day with a relaxing, restorative yoga and meditation practice, and/or a sunset gathering on the beach, and/or a gathering circle of gratitude. Sessions led by MJ.

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You’ll leave feeling lighter, less burdened by stress and negativity, and more focused on the good in your life!

New friendships will blossom, and you may even gain fresh clarity on your purpose or future goals. Whether it’s through deepening your yoga and meditation practice, learning new healthy ways to nourish your body, or simply soaking in the magic of a sub-tropical island, you will return home feeling refreshed, refocused, and deeply nurtured—ready to bring this sense of balance and renewal into your daily life.

About Bald Head Island


Bald Head Island offers a variety of tours and exploration opportunities for visitors. You can explore the island’s rich history by taking a guided tour of the Old Baldy Lighthouse or by visiting the Smith Island Museum of History.

For a more adventurous experience, take a kayaking tour through the salt marshes and tidal creeks, or go on a scenic bike ride around the island’s 14 miles of trails. Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking sunset views from the beach or take a nature walk to spot some of the island’s unique wildlife.

Explore the Bald Head Island Conservancy’s program offerings and contribute to the conservation of this unique coastal environment. With so many ways to explore and experience the beauty of Bald Head Island, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Where You'll Be Staying


American Dream is situated on an oversized lot on a quiet cul-de-sac with outstanding views of the Bald Head Island golf course and lagoon. This beauty was completely restored and taken down to the studs in 2020. There are 3 full bathrooms, a powder room, and an outdoor shower that will be shared.

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The Rooms
This retreat is limited to 8-10 women!

Bedroom #1

Main Level: King Bed

Single Occupancy: $1995

Double Occupancy Shared Bed: $1295 per person

Bedroom #2

Main Level: King Bed

Single Occupancy: $1995

Double Occupancy Shared Bed: $1295 per person

Bedroom #3

Lower Level: Bunk Beds: Twin top, Double bottom

Single Occupancy: $1895

Shared: $1195 per person

Bedroom #4

Lower Level: Queen Bed

Single Occupancy: $1895

Double Occupancy Shared Bed: $1195 per person

Bedroom #5

Loft: 2 Queen Beds

Shared: $1195 per person

(Single occupancy is not available for this room).

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Book before May 15th, 2025 and receive an early bird discount of $100 off!
BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL TO LEARN MORE

Payment Policy

  • Book before May 15, 2025 and receive an early bird discount of $100 off!

  • There will be a required deposit of $200 to secure your spot 

  • Balance due in full August 1, 2025

  • Once a deposit is made you will receive confirmation as well as required waivers and everything you’ll need to know for your retreat.

  • Payments via Venmo, Paypal or check

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations made by July 15th, 2025 or more before scheduled arrival date, deposit and any money paid will be fully refunded

  • No credit or refund available if cancellation is after July 15th or if participant leaves the retreat early for any reason.

  • If you can fill your spot with another guest by August 1st, 2025 deposit and any money paid will be fully refunded

“No Cars, No Cares”

I have been vacationing on Bald Head Island for 15 years and I can guarantee you will be extremely comfortable staying at American Dream.

There are no cars allowed on the island, just golf carts and bikes. “No Cars, No Cares” is their slogan.

-MJ WADDELL

This Retreat Is For Women Who...


  • Are in the Prime-Time of life—women who have spent years caring for others, giving their energy to family, careers, and communities, often putting their own needs on the back burner. Now, it’s time to invest in you.

  • Crave rest without an over-scheduled itinerary. This intimate retreat welcomes just 8-10 women into a beautiful, comfortable home on Bald Head Island. From the moment you step off the ferry, everything is taken care of, allowing you to fully unplug, unpack, and exhale.

  • Wish to indulge in fresh meals without the need to plan and cook! You’ll be nourished in every way, including delicious, thoughtfully prepared plant-based meals that support your well-being.

  • Long for freedom to nurture yourself in a way that feels natural—whether that’s through yoga, meditation, long walks by the ocean, exploring the island or quiet moments with a cup of tea. This is your time to reset, recharge, and receive the same care and kindness you’ve so freely given to others.

This Retreat Is NOT For Those Who...


  • Are seeking a fast-paced, go-go-go experience filled with jam-packed schedules and high-intensity activities. If you're expecting advanced yoga sessions or complex meditation practices, this may not be the right fit—no prior experience is required, and all sessions are completely optional.

  • Prefer isolation; while there will be plenty of time for quiet reflection, we value the power of social connection and shared experiences.

  • Are seeking a therapeutic retreat for those in need of intensive emotional healing or professional support for deep-rooted issues.

  • Have mobility challenges and require assistance getting around due to the natural landscape and setting.

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This is a space for women ready to embrace rest, nourishment, movement and adventure in a happy, positive atmosphere!
BOOK A DISCOVERY CALL TO LEARN MORE
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Everything That's Included:
  • 4 nights/5 days at a fully renovated, beautiful coastal home

  • Daily AM and PM yoga and meditation

  • Fresh plant-based breakfast buffet to start your day of island adventure

  • A community dinner with a delicious and easy plant-based menu and “how-to” with Terri

  • Exploring the island and connecting with nature via group activities

  • Connecting with each other in conversation, sharing circles and games

  • Golf carts and bikes for you to explore the island (bikes are limited and shared)

  • All activities are optional…Nurture and Nourish as you like.

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What's Not Included:
  • Transportation: Getting to Bald Head Island

  • Airfare to and from Wilmington, NC Airport

  • Transportation from the airport to Deep Point Marina (approx $55-$60)

  • Ferry ticket from Deep Point Marina to Bald Head Island ($23 round trip)

  • If you drive, parking in the secure lots across from the ferry is $12 per day

  • Gratuities to baggage handlers at the Ferry (recommended but not required)

  • Prepared lunches (but you will have full access to the kitchen, fridge and pantry to prepare your own)

  • Island activities including but not limited to Climbing Old Baldy ($8), guided kayak or island tours, spa treatments, dining at any one of the many restaurants and cafes

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Meet Your Hosts

MJ Waddell


Yoga found me nearly 30 years ago. This mysterious “mat magic” hooked me after my first savasana. Three decades and dozens of trainings later, I’ve taught nearly every style to every age and demographic.

Now in my sweet 60’s, “Dr. Mat”, as I lovingly refer to her, is still magical to me and is my wisest therapist. Practicing yoga and meditation, learning healthy eating with nutrition expert, Terri Orr, exploring a sub-tropical coastal island, connecting with a community of wise women...Well...This nurture and nourish retreat will surely be filled with magic moments for all.

Terri Orr


I advocate for healthy living and graceful aging. Being a certified health & well-being coach I’ll bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and fun to nourish your body and palate.

Food is medicine! I practice and teach a lifestyle that’s predominantly a whole-food, plant-based diet. Our nutritional needs change and it’s never too late to make improvements. There are a lot of healthy years ahead!

Preparing nutritious, whole-food, plant-based meals is my jam and I’m excited to get cooking with you! I’m a naturalist and can’t wait to spend time in nature, hiking, bicycling, photographing, and exploring Bald Head Island and all its beauty with you!

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Testimonials


"MJ listens to my needs and interests and designs my session around my strengths and weaknesses. She also teaches the “why” of yoga, names of poses, why we do them, and where I may feel them in the body, as subtle as that feeling may be. I can’t say enough good things about her."

-SHERRI SIMPSON, PROFESSIONAL ACTRESS AND HOMEMAKER

"I appreciate the energy, space, and container MJ creates when sharing techniques for meditation. I find her teachings so valuable and easy to apply."

-ERIN STEWART, VOICE TEACHER AND MINDSET COACH

"MJ is a great instructor! She demonstrates and guides you through each position with highly accurate verbal instructions. I really appreciated how she helped me with using the props correctly and checking in on positions. As a beginner, this was a fun class!"

-DALE L., YOGA FOR BEGINNERS STUDENT

Sounds like fun? Book a free discovery call and find out if this retreat is right for you.
BOOK YOUR FREE DISCOVERY CALL
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Frequently asked questions

  • Comfortable yoga and meditation attire

  • Layers for varying temperatures

  • Bathing suit

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat

  • Insect repellant

  • Comfortable walking and exploring shoes, flip-flops for the beach

  • Water bottle

  • Yoga mat and any preferred props (blocks will be provided)

  • Journal and pen

  • Casual wear for dining and activities

  • Toiletries

  • Earplugs (they're handy just incase you have a roommate who snores)

  • Small tote bag

  • Phone charger

If traveling by plane, fly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM). From there, you can arrange ground transportation to Deep Point Marina in Southport, NC (1301 Ferry Road SE, Southport, NC 28461), where you will take the Bald Head Island Ferry. If driving, head to Deep Point Marina in Southport, NC, and park in the secure lot for $12 per day before boarding the Bald Head Island Ferry.

Ferry tickets can be purchased at Deep Point Marina Ferry Terminal or online via the Bald Head Island Transportation, Inc. www.baldheadislandferry.com a $23 round-trip ticket is required.

Private shuttle services and rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are available. Upon request, we can also help coordinate transportation with a list and contact numbers of private shuttles. The approximate cost is $55-65 one way.

Bald Head Island is car-free! Transportation options include golf carts, bicycles, and walking. Three four-seater golf carts are available for retreat guests. A couple of bikes will be available at the retreat house, or you can rent bikes by the hour or day at Coastal Urge and Riverside Outdoor Recreation, https://www.riversiderecbhi.com/ with prices ranging from $12-$30 per hour/day.

The retreat will feature plant-based, whole-food meals prepared with fresh, nourishing ingredients. A breakfast buffet will start your day. Lunch is on your own, with full access to the fridge and pantry at the house. Community dinners each evening will include plant-based tutorials and preparation demonstrations by Terri. Wine will be provided at dinner. There are no strict guidelines for drinking alcohol. We do expect you are a responsible human and will not over-serve yourself. If you're not a fan of plant-based eating and need a burger, several dining options are available on the island. There is no judgment of any kind. We will try our best to accommodate simple dietary restrictions with advance notice.

Yoga will include steady, slow-flow, and restorative yoga suitable for all levels. Meditation will consist of guided mindfulness sessions designed to deepen relaxation and awareness. Meditations will take place at different spots on the island.

Included activities are golf cart rides to familiarize you with the island, beach walks and nature exploration, and evening gatherings for reflection and connection.

  • Kayaking and paddleboarding

  • Hiking trails and nature preserves

  • Spa treatments

  • Shopping in the village

  • Historical tours of the island.

Check out BHI Adventures https://www.bhiadventures.com/ for a guide to Bald Head Island's food, drinks, shopping, adventures, and activities.

Typical temperatures are in the high 80s, with lows in the 60s. The average temperature is around 75 degrees, with humidity at 76% on average. Evenings may be cooler, so bringing a light sweater or jacket is recommended.

Yes! While retreat meals are provided, you may wish to explore the island’s dining options. Check out BHI Adventures www.bhiadventures.com for a guide to Bald Head Island's many restaurants and cafes.