Press & Reviews

“Let's be clear that retreats are not something I normally jump up and down to attend. With that being said I would attend the Heirloom Springs Retreats over and over again. This retreat had just enough and more than enough of everything that was offered. The workshops were full of useful information and taught and given in a way that wasn't overwhelming for people who don't like to share or talk about their feelings.

There were mocktails and cocktails for us to choose from and not one ounce of green juice or wheat grass shot was served, which was greatly appreciated. Just real, local, delicious and healthy(ish) food. There were some tears and tissues but no judgement to be found and when I left I felt like I could breathe again. I would recommend this retreat to anyone and everyone!”

–C.S., Signature Retreat Attendee Spring 2023

“Thank you for creating this transformational experience that is part Pilates intensive, part new acquaintances becoming special friends, add in a side of stunningly beautiful scenery in a picture-perfect setting, toss with food so delicious and photo-worthy you think you are in a Martha Stewart photo shoot and you get the special place that is Heirloom Springs. Thank you for creating and sharing it. I will be back.”

–S.V., Pilates Pedagogy Attendee 2023

"Get yourself to Heirloom Springs! It was the perfect fill-your-cup experience for me. Time in nature, nourishing and delicious farm-fresh food, time for introspection, and beautiful spaces to enjoy yoga and pilates. I left feeling refreshed and connected, indulged but not gluttonous. So many wonderful experiences but also so much ease - nothing is rushed or forced - just a great flow. The cute farm animals don't hurt either!"

–A.M., Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2023

"Having visited Heirloom Springs for both their Signature Retreat and the Pilates Pedagogy retreat I can assure you that there are few experiences that fully satisfy one's body, mind and spirit as well as Rachael Lieck-Bryce's carefully curated experiences. From morsel to movement, each moment is rich with intention and inspiration. There are no empty spots on the farm, just opportunities for reflection, self-care and community. Whether you are a guest, a student, or a retreat organizer, Heirloom Springs is base camp for your physical, emotional and mental higher self.”

–A.U., Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2022 & Pilates Pedagogy 2023

“Heirloom Springs is a thoughtful, intentional and life-giving space. From listening to the rooster, chickens and quails cackles, to Luke quietly munching on grass, to the leaves rustling in the wind - one cannot help but slow down, reflect and listen. Rachael's Signature Retreat is a thoughtfully curated experience of nature, gardening, intention setting, health and delicious, fresh food. It is apparent that the derivation of this retreat is closely related to Rachael's own life journey. I had a wonderful weekend learning, laughing, crying, eating, sweating, reflecting, hiking and exercising. Did I mention the food?! Signature Retreat demands you to disconnect to reconnect and disengage to reengage. It helped to be in the company of an incredible group of strong, intelligent women. I left the retreat recharged, re-centered and more connected to myself, others and nature.”

-E.T.J, Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2023

“I arrived at Heirloom Springs feeling worn out. I had even considered a last minute cancellation of the retreat because I’d traveled for work extensively that month, would be missing a track meet and play performance for my kids, and then missed my plane! But I showed up, and was gifted with just what I needed, exactly when I needed it. Rachael, her team, and the other guests nurtured my body, mind and soul, and invited me to slow down and listen, and to reflect on what really matters. I can’t recall a time I have so quickly developed such deep connections with new people. I left Monroe, VA, inspired by the beauty of the place, feeling valued, uplifted, hopeful and reinvigorated.”

J.R.P., Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2023

“The Pilates Pedagogy is a remarkable event for Pilates Instructors from different backgrounds. Host Rachael Lieck Bryce is a Lead Educator for Real Pilates New York with over two decades of teaching experience to clients and teachers. Her connections around the world enable the arrangement of many renowned teachers as guest instructors. The topics have been most useful to me as a practitioner in the industry both at the business side and the teaching aspects. I am also amazed by the organic and tasty food made available to us in the event. This retreat has given me one of the best memories in my Pilates journey.”

-P.S., Pilates Pedagogy Retreat Attendee 2024

This was my first retreat, and it could not have been any more enjoyable than it already was. The days were filled with impactful workshops and activities that deepened my knowledge in plant medicine, as well as, discovering new interests that resonated with me and are beneficial to my self care. The meals were amazing and served in an atmosphere that encouraged kinship with the entire group. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience at the beautiful Heirloom Springs.

-R.W., Herbalism in the Blue Ridge Attendee 2024

Having been a Pilates student at Rachael’s studio in Dallas I was lucky enough to be on the mailing list for her latest venture after her move to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I followed with interest as the farm took shape and she started offering classes and retreats. It all looked so peaceful and purposeful. I was finally seduced enough this year to schedule a retreat and see for myself. The world has gotten awfully harsh lately and unplugging for a weekend seemed like a good idea. 

I’ve never been on a retreat and didn’t know what to expect, but this is what I got: a weekend spent largely outdoors in peaceful and beautiful surroundings (the farm is so inspirational) in the company of a small group of interesting and delightful women, incredibly delicious and healthy food, workshops that were woven seamlessly into a program that included physical activity and encouraged quiet “me” time for reflection. I’m not a big journaller, but I spent a good bit of time doing just that over the weekend, reflecting on where I’ve been and where I want to head. I’ve actually referred to it several times since I’ve been back, for inspiration and to keep myself moving in the right direction. I thank Rachael for sharing her farm, her talents, her life experience with us. Highly recommend this retreat to anyone interested in getting their life back in focus in a wonderful setting.

-S.H., Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2024

I want to share my experience at the Heirloom Springs Pilates Pedagogy Retreat, which I attended a week ago.

For a long time, I've been searching for a retreat specifically designed for Pilates instructors that would provide a comprehensive and practical approach, a place where I could connect with like-minded professionals, expand my knowledge, and create meaningful connections. As Pilates instructors, we are dedicated to helping our clients, and one of the goals I was looking in a retreat was to find rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.

I stumbled upon Rachael's post on Facebook, and I was immediately drawn to the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the Heirloom Springs Pilates Pedagogy Retreat. Rachael's prompt and detailed responses to my numerous questions put me at ease. From the moment I arrived at the retreat on Thursday until I left on Sunday afternoon, I experienced a unique, enriching, and rejuvenating journey.

Rachael succeeded in bringing together an exceptional group of people who shared a common bond - our passion for Pilates. The atmosphere was collaborative, supportive, and inclusive, with a focus on mutual growth and learning. The expertise and professionalism of the instructors, Kristen Davis, Karen Sanzo, and Grace Ranson were outstanding. Each of them brought their unique approach and wealth of knowledge to the sessions.

Kristen Davis is an extraordinary woman, a dedicated and experienced Pilates instructor who generously shared her profound and extensive knowledge of Pilates and her experience on running a successful independent business. Karen Sanzo who is an experienced physiotherapist and a rare Pilates instructor, has a unique ability to connect the deep professional understanding of human anatomy to the understanding of movement that benefits the body. She is a gifted teacher, and I was privileged to learn from her. Grace, an instructor with a generous spirit, and her background as a yoga instructor adds a unique perspective to her Pilates teaching. She brings a different perspective to Pilates, infusing it with a spiritual dimension that emphasizes being present in the moment, mindful breathing, and a sense of movement. Grace is a special and empowering woman who makes you want to be in her presence . Sophie, who managed the retreat, ensured that every detail was taken care of, including the delicious and healthy food. And, of course, last but not least Dear lovely Rachael Lieck Bryce, who made this all possible! Rachael is a woman of wisdom. A wise, talented, and nurturing mentor for life. I enjoyed listening to your stories, told with intelligence and sensitivity, beyond measure. I learned a lot from you, not only in the field of Pilates but also in business and as a woman to woman. I admire your ability to see the big picture while also paying attention to every small detail. And this quality is not trivial. Thank you for connecting us all and making this amazing weekend possible.

I want to express my gratitude to Rachael and the entire team for creating this exceptional experience. I feel fortunate to have been part of this group and to have had the opportunity to learn from such talented instructors. The connections I made with my fellow retreat participants, are priceless. Thank you for being open, honest, and willing to share your knowledge and expertise.

In conclusion, it's all about the people. I feel grateful to have been part of this special group and to have experienced such a unique and empowering journey. The Heirloom Spring Pilates pedagogy retreat was a perfect combination of a serene environment, comprehensive content, and exceptional people. Thank you, Rachael, for this opportunity.

-C.B., Pilates Pedagogy Retreat Attendee 2024

Last weekend, I had the most magical experience at Heirloom Springs Retreat, tucked away in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia! Our host, Rachael, and her amazing team created an unforgettable weekend, overflowing with special moments in the perfect setting.

We practiced yoga in a serene gazebo surrounded by nature, enjoyed Pilates in a charming barn, and hiked through the mountains. One of the highlights was dipping our feet in a natural spring—talk about grounding! We learned about gardening while savoring the freshest pesto, straight from the garden. And, of course, we bonded with the cutest animals—Reese, Oreo, and Buttercup, the sweetest goats, plus a horse named Luke who loved his peppermint treats. Watching the chickens take dust baths and the ducks enjoying their version of “happy hour” was pure joy.

We also took time to journal, walked a labyrinth for self-reflection, and embraced the importance of loving ourselves. The farm-to-table meals were beyond delicious, and every bite was a celebration of fresh, local ingredients.

But what made the weekend truly special was spending it with amazing people—listening to one another, bonding, and lifting each other up. The perfect mix of movement, relaxation, and connection. Huge thanks to Rachael for her impeccable attention to detail that made every moment magical. I couldn’t have asked for a more refreshing and heartwarming escape!

-T.R., Signature Retreat Attendee Fall 2024