- Founder, Alice Hansen
I grew up in a little Australian town by the seaside. Idyllic really. At five, I wrote. Prolific tales of family yacht trips spilled across primary school pages in wayward letters. (I’m still a mad writer – it’s 2.44am as I write these words.) During those Catholic school years there was a knowing that I naively thought was universal. I liked girls. I was in love with my PE teacher. Some say you can’t know that young. I knew with all my being. It was exciting until I reached high school and in the unspoken Catholic manner, I quickly understood I was ‘wrong’ to the core. It was the 1990s and it was still illegal to be gay in Tasmania. Acceptance was not in fashion. So, I buried that part of me deep down until the age of 26.
At 15, I was handed a sugary Sub Zero bottle or three at a friend’s party. It was glorious. For the first time, I felt free. If I was going to have to kiss boys, this was the antidote to get me through. My mask. Problem is, I began turning to alcohol for every negative emotion to come. If life got too hard, my bestie was there waiting to fill my cup with the self-worthiness I lacked.
I took off on a full tennis scholarship to America at 18. I bid farewell to a beautiful circle of friends and spent five years afar. I loved my time there and the beautiful Americans I came to know, who invited me for the likes of thanksgiving in Texas when the turkey was too big for the oven. My real drinking career began on return home, when I was no longer a tennis player, had lost a good deal of identity and tried to navigate settling back into Tasmanian life. My life became suitably well soaked in alcohol.
My first trip to rehab was in 2008. It felt foreign and hideous. How could I have landed here? I must hold some record … I would follow this up with 26 rehab admissions. I’m not proud of this. In fact, only family and close friends knew of the rehab revolving door. I share this only because if I can find true freedom from alcohol, anyone can. After all, I am someone who has jumped the fence and escaped rehab, I’ve been rushed to a New York hospital by ambulance (not recommended, coming with a $AU14,000 bill), and have reached a blood alcohol level of .6, unable to breathe on my own. I woke up on a ventilator to hear the doctor say “you shouldn’t be here.” He had a point – Amy Winehouse didn’t make it at .4. It left me wondering that perhaps I should be here. That I have something to give. Today, I feel it almost my duty to share what I have learned. Enter: Wild Wellness.
I believe every path to wellness has its place – from AA to rehab – they just weren’t for me. It’s about finding the right fit. I tried AA meetings in dark rooms out the back of churches – huddled away from society like broken souls. A good friend had success in these circles, she even found her husband in the fold. Yet, I’d sit beside the electric radiator, sipping instant coffee, listening to older men talk of their drinking days wondering why I wasn’t in a yoga class. On occasion after AA, I would go straight to the bottle shop.
Though I accepted I had full blown alcohol dependence, I saw no point announcing to the group, “I’m Alice and I’m an alcoholic.” It wasn’t about denial; it was about a lifelong label. It didn’t sit well, nor hint at a hopeful future. It wouldn't be until I came across This Naked Mind in America, founded by Annie Grace who has helped millions, that I realised others felt the same way about labels. In rehabs, I could no longer handle sitting in sterile rooms, doing group therapy beside the likes of a mother with cuts up her arm who no longer wanted her children. As I stared down into my ‘mindful knitting’ I wanted to cry for her.
Following attempts with AA and $800-900/day rehab, I made a controversial decision. I said no more. I was going to take a different path. Thankfully, I’d managed to maintain a writing career, working as a destination journalist for Tourism Tasmania and later freelancing for glossy magazines, launching Tailored Tasmania and authoring more than 10 books. I even built a little house that featured on Grand Designs Australia – described by the TV host as my love letter to Tasmania. I could take the shiny exterior and pack my bags. Those close knew I was hurting, stumbling and doing my best to survive.
I made the bold (and rather awkward decision) to move to my childhood home with my parents. Back by the ocean where it all began. A flippant comment by my father about his Navy days and compulsory morning PT sessions got me thinking more deeply. I’d ranked among the top 20 junior tennis players in Australia because of daily discipline – something I’d never applied to my drinking recovery. And so, it began. Up on the whiteboard I set five non-negotiable daily rituals. I kept them manageable for a reason: so that I could achieve them without fail. It would become my recipe to wellness – a blueprint that ended a rehab legacy that stretched from 2008 to 2019. I’ve not needed rehab since.
Wild Wellness, as I termed it one day washing my parent’s car, saved my life. I mined the world for experts who spoke to me, and injected their insights into daily life. What’s more, I found great joy in the journey. The discomfort of having your bags searched by a nurse was replaced by the freedom of sunrise ocean plunges. Indeed, stumbling across Dutchman Wim Hof and his cold-water therapy was a pivotal moment.
I was curled up hungover in bed watching Netflix (been there?) when Wim Hof described his breathing technique and I followed along. My breath-hold went from 30 to 90 seconds. Even in my broken state I couldn’t ignore what had just transpired. Shortly after, I was diving into the water from alpine tarns to wild rivers 150+ days straight, a cornerstone to my wellness. I added a good dose of gratitude, sent bucket loads of pristine Tassie water down the hatch and I surrounded myself with positive, healthy folk.
I credit my recovery also to dear friend Chris Raine, who founded Hello Sunday Morning (HSM). HSM has played an integral role in changing Australia’s drinking culture. When I hopped on the site and saw positive words spill across my laptop, punctuated by imagery of surfers and morning brunches and ‘the good life’ on the other side of alcohol, I was hooked. I will be forever grateful to Chris for founding a platform fueled by hope. I’ve since been able to thank him in person, complete with sharing Tassie jogs and ocean dips.
On the HSM website I came across This Naked Mind, the author Annie Grace - a powerful character in my return to Alice. The moment I turned on her Audible voice, I kept repeating “that’s me.” She’s taken me on a journey of shifting unconscious beliefs – it’s delivered genuine and lasting freedom.
The above is only a hint of the Wild Wellness Method that broke me free from alcohol’s shackles. I don’t promise it’s a fix all. But I do know it’s my proven recipe and it can be tailored just right for anyone who is ready. The more I timidly began to share the concept with others, the more empowered I became.
An addiction doctor in Sydney, Dr. Chris Davis, said he’d hop aboard right away. Since then, dear Chris joined more than 20 of us at a Tassie retreat; guest speaking so openly he brought tears to others. This co-founder of the Clean Slate Clinic bid goodbye with mention it was a 'life changing' for him. My furthest thought would have been moving the doctor in this way - but such is the power of a collective Wild Wellness crew - it's far beyond just me now. Psychologist and Mindset Coach Annia Baron spoke with vivacious, masterful craft and NLP Practitioner (plus childhood bestie) Nikki Karpeles shifted folk in the room to their core ... through her words. Tourism leaders smiled with anticipation that Tasmania could become the epi-centre of wellness, a hospital psychiatrist said she’d do anything to help, friends admitted their own struggles or shared tears about loved ones they feared losing. It was time for change.
Australia’s burdened health system cannot manage. And I’ve come to believe that often the answers are within. They’ve been there all along. Sometimes we just need the right roadmap. Wild Wellness is the roadmap I want to share. After all, a wise Johann Hari shared in his Ted Talk that "the opposite of addiction is connection." I believe no words could be truer. Those who struggle often need the simple words he closed with, “I will sit with you.”
I can’t wait to take the Wild Wellness journey with you,
Love Alice xx
3 CAPES WILD WELLNESS WALK
By group request
DO NOTE: To register interest click here and name your date/walk option, as spots are limited. 2024 trip: $3895
After sold out trips in 2021/22, we're ready with fresh dates for 2023 and 2024.
Spend four life-shifting days on the Three Capes Track deep diving into nature, writing, walking and Wim Hof plunging.
Join Alice and Piet, for a wild trek along the Southern Hemisphere’s highest sea cliffs, to the world’s edge. Let Piet (trained by Wim Hof himself), guide you through the power of breathwork and cold-water submersion. Prepare to embrace your story, through journal writing with author Alice Hansen. Let the healing power of nature have its way between long table dinners and fireside chats. Wild Wellness is a journey to wellness that has the capacity and tools to last a lifetime.
Find full details of the experience & book here.
Dates also available by request.
What others say ...
In need of a personal reset & reboot I booked the Wild Wellness Walk. This trip delivered just that, plus a whole lot more. Passionate & knowledgeable guides reconnected me to mother nature. Daily practice of the Wim Hof method invigorated & renewed. Evening journal writing guided by Alice Hansen gave everyone time to reflect & discuss ‘Connection, Care & Commitment.’ A trip that nourishes the body, mind & soul. Life changing for me.
- Michelle
WILD WELLNESS @ THE COVE
Oct/Nov, 2024 TBC | Available by request
THE COVE, NORTH WEST TASMANIA
DO NOTE: To register interest click here and name your retreat option, as spots are limited.
This Wild Wellness Retreat is the antidote to modern life stress; for anyone feeling the overwhelm and needing a lasting life recalibration.
Our Cove retreat is for those looking to optimise their wellness through a science-backed, wholistic approach.
So, get your Wild Wellness fill across 3 days overlooking Bass Strait. We're bringing the very best practitioners including a Wim Hof-trained Piet Blokker and Chef Sophia Davey to Tassie's North West for this Australian first where years of lived experience merge with health professionals and global thought leaders (sold out in 2021/22). The Cove is Tasmania's latest seaside escape - perfect for our wholesome methods and a good dose of relaxation. The sunsets here are next level glorious.
Get ready for Wim Hof Method ocean plunging (where the Little penguins play come evening), practitioner-led sessions beneath the stars, powerful journaling and guided breathwork. This is no ordinary wellness blueprint. You'll discover the Wild Wellness 3 pillars: connection, care and commitment.
This retreat is for you if:
- your wellness is secondary to your to-do-list
- limiting beliefs interrupt your flow
- you want wellness to be a fun adventure
Not sure what to expect? Read this cracking Sydney Morning Herald piece by Andrew Bain who attended our last retreat.
*Choose from six accommodation options, starting at $165/night
*Prices for accommodation are per person. Discount of 15% off full retreat price applies to those sharing a chalet, cabin or A-Frame. So bring along your partner, friend or +one! The Butter Shed is for individuals.
DETAILS
Friday 2pm-Sunday 10am
Price per person: starting from $1495 pp
Maximum guests: 18 + instructors
For all enquiries and bookings please email: alice@tailoredtasmania.com
*Please note, this is not a medical detox
INCLUSIONS
- Accommodation x 2 nights and use of The Cove facilities
- Chef prepared meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner x 2). Advise any dietary requirements.
- Wim Hof Method instruction
- Approx. 2 hours of author-led journaling sessions
Transfers to/from The Cove not included (approx. 15 minutes from Devonport Airport, 1 hr 15 mins from Launceston Airport)
Don’t forget to bring comfortable athletic wear for breathwork/walking, cosy layers for fireside journaling, personal yoga mat if you prefer, and bathers/thongs for cold water plunging.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Butter Shed King @ $165/night ($1495 total for accommodation & retreat)
Hillside Cabin @ $200/night ($1565 total)
A-Frame w/ toilet + basin @ $240/night ($1645 total)
A-Frame w/ full bathrooms @ $280/night ($1725 total)
Cliffside Chalet without bath @ $300/night ($1825 total)
Cliffside Chalet with bath @ $350/night ($1925 total)
LOCATION
256 Waverley Road, Don, 7310, TAS (approx. 15 minutes from Devonport Airport, 1 hr 15 mins from Launceston Airport)
WHAT IS WILD WELLNESS?
This blueprint for wellness is an Australian first; taking years of science-backed knowledge and condensing it into days. It’s a simple, wholesome wellness script. There is no better place on the planet to experience Wild Wellness than Tasmania.
Australia's Productivity Commission Report estimates mental illness is costing Australia $220 billion a year. Our burdened health system cannot cope. We believe there's another way ... a wilder way. No matter what your wellness goals might be, this method is about returning to you; listening in.
The method is based on three core pillars: connection, care and commitment. Think invigorating cold dips, nourishing Tassie fare and fireside journal writing. You'll discover a blueprint to lasting wellness. We take the best of the traditional model and bring it into nature’s office.
WHAT IS THE WIM HOF METHOD?
It's a combination of breathing, cold therapy and commitment, offering a range of benefits. The power of the Wim Hof Method can help unlock a range of well-researched and documented health benefits including:
· Rebalancing your immune system
· Reducing inflammation
· Improving focus, mood and cognitive function
· Improving cardiovascular health
· Balancing the body's stress response
RETREAT TEAM:
ALICE HANSEN – FOUNDER/JOURNALING FACILITATOR
Alice is a professional travel writer and author. As the founder of the Wild Wellness Method, she has cultivated relationships spanning 20+ years with experts across the wellness field. On her quest to seek answers for her own struggles, she has connected with medical experts, international thought leaders and tapped into decades of experience to formulate a proven blueprint. Writing is a key element and she’ll guide you through a journaling process tailored to your wellness journey.
When she’s not at the laptop, you’ll find her on wild Tasmanian trails.
SOPHIA DAVEY - BLOOM KITCHEN - CHEF
Sophia from Bloom Kitchen is an intuitive personal chef, specialising in Ayurvedic, Vegan, Vegetarian Cuisine for wellness retreats all over Australia and the globe. Drawing passion and inspiration from her world travels and yogic philosophy, particular attention is paid to each dish which, is holistically prepared with and aligned to 3 core pillars - gut health, flavor and freshness. All ingredients used are proudly organic and locally sourced. With a deep understanding of the principles of Ayurveda and a passion for healing from within, each meal is balanced, nutrient rich and alive with prana. Combining an array of spices from all corners of the globe, Sophia's dynamic creative cooking style will leave you feeling deeply nurtured from the inside out. Find out more about Sophia here.
PIET BLOKKER - WIM HOF-TRAINED
Piet was trained by none other than Wim Hof himself! Dutch born, Piet now calls North West Tasmania home and lives by a flowing river perfect for cold water plunging. At the age of 50, Piet was challenged with Lymphoma and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Realising he needed to take care of his health, he began learning about reflexology, energy healing and came across Wim Hof, taking the 10-week course straight away. It proved a life saving decision - his awakening process began and today Piet is enjoying life free from arthritis and cancer. A Wim Hof trained breath worker and cold water therapy pro, Piet can't wait to guide you through your Bass Strait plunge.
RETREAT ITINERARY
FRIDAY – 2pm onward
Introduction to Wild Wellness and welcome
Afternoon breathwork with Wim Hof-trained Piet Blokker
Candle-lit chef-made dinner
Fireside journaling session (Pillar 1: Connection)
SATURDAY
Breathwork/meditation with Piet
Cold water plunge with Piet
Chef-made breakfast
Chef-made lunch
Optional yoga/free time/massage appointments (advise at time of booking)
Candle-lit chef-made dinner
Fireside journaling session (Pillar 2: Care)
SUNDAY
Breathwork/meditation with Piet
Cold water plunge with Piet
Chef-made breakfast
Group sharing session/journaling session (Pillar 3: Care)
Departure 10am
*the above itinerary may be subject to change
RETREAT ELEMENTS: JOURNALING/CONTEMPLATIVE WALKING
The power of hitting pen to paper. It’s not new. Leonardo da Vinci’s journals spanned some 5,000 pages. But the therapeutic wonders of reflective writing didn’t emerge until the 1960s, when a New York psychologist devised what he coined the Intensive Journal Method. On this walk, we won’t pen thousands of pages but we will invite self-discovery through the written word. Our Wild Wellness Journaling Method will cross our three foundational pillars.
We combine journal writing with optional contemplative walking. In a noisy world it’s rare to hear nature’s silence. But in this Tasmanian stillness, it’s possible to reconnect with you. Nature has a way of casting its healing spell. In Japan, it’s known as forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), and literally translates to bathing in the forest atmosphere. It doesn’t require anything of you but to tap into the senses and soak it in …
This is your retreat, your words and your Tasmanian journey.
WORKSHOP ELEMENTS
Cold therapy
Ready to invigorate your life? Discover the power of cold-water therapy - delivering everything from reduced inflammation and better sleep through to increased immunity. Our morning submersions will have you feeling alive and energised.
Breathing
Take a deep breath. Isn’t it about time? Learn scientific breathing techniques that work wonders and can be tapped into for a lifetime to come. This breathwork is about boosting energy, dropping stress, recalibrating the nervous system, detoxing your system and so much more.
Nature
In Tasmania, we are gifted with nature in her most wild mood. We’ll immerse you in our island landscape to soak up its transformative ways. The Cove enjoys access to a stunning coastline that we’ll be exploring on foot together.
RETREAT INCLUSIONS
Guided by Wim Hof-trained Piet, discover the power of cold-water therapy and breathwork. We’ll go deep, exploring the benefits across four days of wilderness immersion. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never dipped a toe into the Wim Hof Method or you’re an enthusiast from way back. You’ll learn strategies and tools that will last long beyond your four days, under expert guidance. Expect to be challenged, reset and exhilarated.
WIM HOF METHOD WORKSHOPS
2 x cold water plunge
3 x breathwork/meditation
ALICE'S WORKSHOPS
Day 1: Tonight, we meet our Wild Wellness journals. Around The Cove fire or looking out to Bass Strait, we begin our writing. Alice introduces you to Wild Wellness and its three pillars; connection, care and commitment. Of the ‘three C’s’ this evening the sun sets as we contemplate connection.
Day 2: It’s journal time. Today, we explore care, namely self/soul care and care for others. Do you care for yourself as you would a dear friend? We ask questions and we let answers flow.
Day 3: Our final morning is about commitment. Wellness doesn’t just happen in three days. It’s not about escaping life - your retreat is lifelong with Wild Wellness. We make our commitments in writing and ensure we have plenty of fun, nature and joy weaved in.
HEALTH INFORMATION
The retreat is for 18yrs+
For the Wim Hof Method elements, we advise out of precaution not to participate if you are:
· pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive
· epileptic
· have high blood pressure, coronary heart disease or other cardiovascular/heart issues
· have a history of serious health issues (ex. Stroke, COPD)
· have Raynaud’s disease (Type 2)
· have cardiovascular issues & health conditions including high blood pressure (please get in touch if you have concerns and consult your doctor)
If you have questions relating to health or any of the above apply to you, please contact alice@tailoredtasmania.com and seek approval from a medical professional.
*Do note, this is not a medical detox. This retreat is not suitable for those with severe alcohol dependence.
All participants will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire and waiver during the booking process.
CANCELLATIONS
All bookings incur a 20% cancellation fee which is non-refundable
If you cancel within seven days of the retreat or fail to arrive, the full retreat cost is incurred
Special/emergency cases can be discussed
Covid-19 Cancellations
If the retreat cannot proceed due to Covid-19 restrictions, a full refund will be issued
We have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place
Minimum Number Cancellation
We have the right to cancel the retreat up to 14 days prior to the start if minimum numbers are not met. You will receive a full refund. If other reasons prevent the retreat from going ahead (unforeseen circumstances) you are welcome to a full refund/reschedule.
Direct bookings
For all enquiries and bookings please email alice@tailoredtasmania.com
*If you’re intending to book, please include dietary requirements + accommodation preference
*Travel insurance is recommended.
WILD WELLNESS FIRE + ICE WALK
Sept 24 | Also available by group request
KUNANYI / MOUNT WELLINGTON, SOUTHERN TAS
DO NOTE: To register interest click here and name your retreat option, as spots are limited.
Discover Wild Wellness through fire and ice
Ready to deeply share the wilds of kunanyi? This is a truly immersive day out, a feast for the senses. You'll experience what Wild Wellness is about through journaling, meditation, mountain water dipping and connecting to nature. Discover the wonders of kunanyi like never before. Listen to the stories of the mountain's history and unique plants and animals all in the care of knowledgeable local guides. Be coached through Wim Hof Method breathwork and icy river plunge (by Piet, trained by Wim Hof himself) followed by writer-led journaling beside a roaring fire and mountain stream.
The small group experience visits North West Bay River which collects its crystal waters from kunanyi's alpine plateau. We'll head off along the Cathedral Rock Track following the gurgling mountain river for about 2km. Once we've settled in on the river bank we'll have an extended break for our breathwork and cool river plunge (not compulsory but will ignite every sense!) After returning along the track fully refreshed, enjoy a gourmet burger lunch. It's a hearty Tasmanian affair with plump burgers and local flavours on the menu including East Coast cheeses and Pigeon Hole Baker treats to keep you going.
Not sure what to expect. Read about our 2021 retreat in the SMH and 5 reasons why you should join us on the mountain!
Let kunanyi / Mount Wellington connect and ground you.
To book your spot on this intimate walk visit: Fire + Ice Walk
*if you’re keen to plunge, please bring a towel and spare thermals. You might also like to bring along your own yoga mat and blankie for the breathwork, though we'll have some on hand.
*this walk also is available by request and ideal for corporate/team building/small group connection.
AF-WW ONLINE 10-DAY COURSE
Ready for a life re-set? This Australian first is a merging of medical professionals, decades of experience & international thought leaders – all at your fingertips.
The Alcohol Free (AF) course is for those seeking a lifestyle recalibration who are keen to enjoy the journey. Based on a personally proven blueprint for wellness, we take years of science-backed knowledge and condense it into days. Think exclusive GP-hosted conversations, ocean plunges & NLP-led body scans, psychology insights and recipes designed to put back what drinkers are often deficient in. It's all right here.
I’m Alice and I’ve created this method for just one reason - I wish it was available 20 years ago for me. What you’ll find is a blueprint to freedom from alcohol. That doesn’t necessarily mean giving up forever. Your goal might be to cut back, or perhaps challenge yourself to a 3-month break to see how it feels … a sober curious experiment.
In this course you'll discover the 3 pillars that form the foundation of the Wild Wellness Method. The secret to this method is that it’s an easy recipe to follow, it’s backed by science and packed with genuine fun.
It's time to turn your wellness wild.
Find out more: ENROLL NOW.
Early Bird Price $129 - Limited Time Only
Enroll by May 30, 2021
From June 1, course $199
Full course content available June 1
WW ONLINE 10-DAY COURSE
Ready for a life re-set? Wild Wellness is an Australian first – a merging of merging of medical professionals, decades of experience and global thought leaders - right at your fingertips. It's the latest antidote to modern day stresses.
This blueprint has been 20 years in the making – an innovative, science-backed approach condensed into days. In this course we’ll explore the method's 3 core pillars: connection, care and commitment.
Prepare for virtual Wim Hof Method ocean plunges, doctor-led sessions beneath the stars, guided breathwork, powerful journaling and more. Our online courses provide you opportunity to access this from your pocket, anywhere in the world.
Wild Wellness is for those seeking to optimise general well-being through a holistic approach. Perhaps you’re struggling with life balance or maintaining healthy eating.
With 20+ short videos, complete with audio, text and detailed resource list, this course will benefit everyone from those exploring improved wellness through to individuals ready to create massive life shifts. So join us virtually, or even at one of our Wild Wellness Tasmanian retreats.
It's time to turn your wellness wild.
Find out more: ENROLL NOW.
Early Bird Price $129 - Limited Time Only
Enroll by May 30, 2021
From June 1, course $199
Full course content available June 1