🌿 Evexia: A Journey Through Seasons on Kos

As the days gradually stretch longer and the scent of spring starts to mingle with the air, I find myself reflecting on the rhythm of life here on Kos. Living on this beautiful island, I’ve come to understand that the seasons here aren’t just about the weather — they mirror the cycles of my own life and work. The contrast between the slower winter months and the bustling summer days is stark, yet both are necessary and valuable in their own way.

Pilates on the beach at sunset

Winter here is a time of rest, recuperation, and deep reflection. It’s a quieter time when the island feels like it’s taking a collective breath. The tourists have all but disappeared, and the streets are calm, allowing the island to catch its breath, too. It’s during these months that I can focus on the things that often get pushed aside during the busy months: organization, planning, and finding new ways to serve those who visit us.

While the island rests, my business — like many others — pauses for a bit. There’s space to reorganize, refresh, and prepare for what’s to come. It’s a time to reflect on what worked well, what could be improved, and where we want to take things in the coming months. For me personally, it’s a time to focus on the little things that make my work meaningful: connecting with the local community, fine-tuning my services, and setting intentions for the future.

But now, as spring begins to blossom and the days get warmer, I can feel the island waking up again. It’s as if the land itself is stretching, yawning, and slowly coming to life after a long slumber. The flowers start to bloom, the markets start to fill with fresh produce, and more and more visitors begin to trickle in. It’s a slow arrival at first, almost like a quiet whisper that promises the energy and vibrancy that summer will bring. There’s something about this transition that fills me with excitement and anticipation — but also a bit of apprehension.

Retreat Visit to Pandrosia

Summer on Kos is a whirlwind, and every year it feels like a new adventure. It’s when we welcome you — the tourists, the seekers, the wanderers — and I get the privilege of doing what I love most: helping people reconnect with themselves, their bodies, and the beautiful surroundings of this island. I love the energy that comes with it, the stories shared, the deepening connections, and the moments of joy that make this work so fulfilling.

Yet, as exciting as it is, there’s a strange mix of feelings that comes with this shift in energy. As much as I look forward to the vibrant, bustling summer months, there’s also a sense of uncertainty. Will this summer be as fulfilling as I hope it will be? Will everything go as planned? There’s always a little bit of risk involved when you’re self-employed, when you’re putting your heart and soul into something and hoping it pays off. It’s part of the thrill, but also the fear.

What keeps me grounded during these moments is remembering why I do this — because I truly love it. I’m so lucky to live here, to wake up every day to the Mediterranean sun, the sound of the waves, and the beauty that surrounds me. I feel deeply connected to this island, to its rhythms, and to the people who choose to visit. There’s nothing like seeing the faces of those who come to experience the peace and beauty of this place. It’s an honor to be part of their journey.

This year, however, there’s a new twist to the season — and one that brings with it even more excitement and joy. We’re not holding a retreat in May, and for good reason! In May, my family is coming to visit. It’s not often that we all get to be together, so this year, they’ve decided to descend on the island for a much-anticipated holiday. Normally, they visit sporadically throughout the summer, but this year, they’re coming all at once.

Family Visit to Antimachia Windlmill

This is a beautiful moment for me, one that I’m cherishing fully. It’s a time for family, for celebration, and for personal milestones. For those of you who know me, you’ll know that I’m also getting married this year, and I can’t wait to have my loved ones here to share in this special time. It feels like the universe is aligning in a way that makes this year especially meaningful. Though I will miss holding a retreat in May, I’m so grateful for the chance to pause, be with my family, and soak up the love and energy that will undoubtedly fill the island.

As the island slowly fills with the energy of the summer season, I find myself reflecting on the importance of balance — the quiet of winter, the vibrancy of summer, and the moments in between. The changes in the seasons are a reminder to slow down, to rest when needed, and to embrace the excitement when it arrives. I’ve learned that the anticipation and the uncertainty are just part of the journey, and that with each new season, there’s a chance for growth, renewal, and celebration.

So as I look ahead to the summer, I welcome it with open arms, knowing that it will bring both challenges and joys. I’m excited to share the island with you, to create meaningful connections, and to continue doing the work that fills me with purpose. And this May, as I take time for family, I’ll be reminded that sometimes, the most important retreats are the ones we take with the ones we love.