Well, That’s Awkward Podcast – EP3: Retreat, Reset… and Cystitis?
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- November 10, 2025
Well, That’s Awkward Podcast – Episode: Retreat, Reset… and Cystitis?
Wellness retreats look serene on Instagram — but real life doesn’t always match the brochure. In this episode of Well, That’s Awkward, hosts Susan Osman and Rachel Branson get hilariously honest about the behind-the-scenes reality of spiritual retreats, healing weekends… and inconvenient bodily timing.
What Happens When Wellness Meets Real Life?
In this episode, Rachel returns from a spiritual retreat in Bedfordshire. The setting: labyrinth walking, oracle cards, fire ceremonies, sound circles, breathwork, deep reflection and spiritual awakening…
But with one very awkward twist.
Rachel arrived with a bladder infection.
Suddenly those slow, serene ceremonies and mindful rituals become slightly less peaceful when you’re clenching herbal tea in one hand and cranberry sachets in the other — and praying the next bathroom isn’t too far away.
Because wellness isn’t always floaty clothing, perfect nutrition and glowing skin. Sometimes it’s hoping no one hears you ask for the third jug of water… again.
Inside This Week’s Conversation
In this episode of Well, That’s Awkward, we explore:
- the real experience of going on retreat alone
- the awkward reality of talking about bladder issues with strangers
- spiritual practices vs the practical logistics of actual bodies
- why wellness perfection is a myth (especially over 40)
- how humour + honesty makes midlife wellbeing more relatable
It’s funny. It’s honest. It’s proof that midlife wellness doesn’t always behave itself — and that sometimes the awkward moments are the most bonding ones.
Listen to the Episode Now
🎧 Listen to this episode of Well, That’s Awkward: Retreat, Reset… and Cystitis?
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Why This Episode Matters for Midlife Women
Women over 40 are navigating wellness differently — with lived experience, not perfection pressure. This episode opens up a conversation around body honesty, humour and the permission to show up as you are… not as the retreat brochure wants you to be.
Because real wellbeing is not about looking flawless — it’s about connection, compassion, humour… and sometimes cranberry juice.
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