NorthStar Wellbeing & Lifestyle Avis 

I completed the Rathlin Retreat with Nuala and 14 lovely ladies on Thus 11th - Sat 13th August. From our meeting up at the ferry with Nuala on Thursday to our return ferry on Saturday, I had truly the most unforgettable experience. Nuala's organisational skills were second to none - accommodation, food, walks, music, entertainment, swimming with seals, beautiful poetry, affirmations, stories - the list goes on and on. All had a big influence on me, challenging me in so many ways and making it so memorable for us all. You are truly inspirational Nuala and I am full of admiration for you and all that you achieve and do. 💖

For such a long time I had deliberated over signing up to a walking trip. Two reasons kept holding me back- as a naturally shy person I wasn’t too sure how comfortable I would feel in a new group. The second reason- simply, was I fit enough!

I finally took the plunge and signed up to do the walking retreat to Rathlin Island. Even in writing this review now I honestly don’t think my words will convey just how special this trip was. It was everything I had hoped for and more. A huge part in that was down to Nuala who led the group. What can I say- from the moment I met Nuala at Ballycastle Harbour I just knew everything was going to be ok. She simply oozes kindness and positivity, and it is clear that she cares deeply about everyone having the best experience. Her attention to detail is exceptional and the little extra touches (essential oils, pillow spray amongst many other things) all added to the overall wonderful experience.

We were blessed with glorious weather, scenery, food, an amazing group of ladies and memories that I’m sure we will all cherish for a long time.

Oh and in answer to my initial queries- I was immediately made feel so welcome and the trip was so inclusive that even my introverted self soon overcame any social awkwardness! And as for fitness levels- I would definitely say that the walks are achievable, and I always felt that I could go at a pace that suited me.

So for anyone who may be feeling like I was and is toying with the idea of such a trip, I would say go for it! You honestly will not regret it!

I feel so blessed to have spent two magical days on Rathlin with an incredible group of women under the care of the wonderful Nuala. From the minute we met until we left Nuala took care of our every need; food, treats, motivation, exercise. She combined this with opening up a world of fun, laughter and friendship. She encouraged us to appreciate not just the beauty in the environment but also in those around us. A weekend that that was good for the body, heart and soul.

What a way to explore the beautiful treasures of Rathlin Island with the effervescent Nuala leading the pack! Our 2 days were filled with fun, laughter, trekking over glorious hills and dales, and evening full of craic, shared wisdom and reflection. Thanks to Nuala for making this trip so enjoyable, easy and yet also inspiring and thought provoking! Wonderful from beginning to end 🙏🙏

I’ve been on a few of Nuala’s walks and hoping to join along in a few more now through the summer.
I absolutely love joining Nuala’s groups for an adventure and it’s a great way to meet new people and see new places.

Beautiful walks, scenery, company. Makes sure everyone stays together. Attention to detail, kind, caring individual who runs the group. I would highly recommend at any level of fitness.

Nuala has a beautiful soul and such a vibrant, inclusive energy and she is so good at what she does. You always know you are in safe and competent hands.
I have done too many of her walks to count and have met some amazing people along the way. She holds a peaceful space for us all to connect with each other and the beauty we have around us so close to home. I'd urge anyone to take the chance to book onto one of her activities as all different abilities are catered for.
You won't regret it!

I’ve joined Nuala on many walks & a couple of walking retreats over the last couple of years, from more local walks around Roe Valley & Binevenagh to day trips to the Mournes and Donegal & weekends in Rathlin & Ballycastle. Each walk has the same elements we’ve come to appreciate on Northstar walks - connection to each other & to the land, a focus on our mental & physical well-being, mindfulness & gratitude & then there’s laughter, always laughter!
As a group, we walk together & we cheer each other on & this comes through from Nuala who is a big believer in the collective energy of a group supporting one another to try new things.
I’ve completed the 50K Causeway Coastal Walk & almost completed the 6 summits challenge - just Slieve Donard to go!
For me, as a full-time carer, the walks are about carving out time for myself to connect to nature and connect to other like-minded people. They also provide a level of physical & mental challenge that I enjoy too. I am so grateful to be a part of the Northstar walking group. Here’s to many more adventures together!
Highly, highly recommended!

I joined Nuala’s group a few years ago and it has been so inspirational.
Each walk offers a different perspective on things and is an excellent way of clearing your mind and rejuvenating your spirit.
I would highly recommend it to everyone.

I have taken part in a number of walks with Nuala over the last 6 months.Zen walks night walks and hikes over mountains.
Nuala puts you very much at rase and always plans the routes and is efficient in communicating with walkers
by e mail or watts app.
I have enjoyed every walk always meeting new and liked minded women.
The walks are well paced and there is always time for a herbal tea and a piece of chocolate.
Walks start and finish on time and Nuala always gives advice on what to bring length and difficulty of the walk.
The walks are good for body mind and soul.It is so important as women to have me time.
Thankyou Nuala I would recommend your walks.

Nuala came into our centre to deliver laughter yoga for our Autism families. She was fantastic at adjusting the session to the needs of the individuals and ensuring everyone was involved. She was inclusive and flexible throughout and made everyone feel welcome and comfortable. We will definitely have her back in to deliver some of her other workshops and programmes.

I joined the North Star Saturday morning walking group with the very kind, inspirational Nuala. Best decision ever. Nuala's excellent choice of guided walks introduced me to laughter yoga , mindfulness and most of all great craic and company. We walked along the Causeway coast with breathtaking scenery and views.Taking into consideration your level of fitness she motivated us to explore hill and mountain climbing which was a great experience. I highly recommend contacting Nuala at the North Star wellbeing center to find out more about the program s on offer I promise you won't be disappointed

Nuala delivered self care sessions with various community groups focusing on the importance of practising self care for Impact Network NI. Nuala is a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She makes organising workshops a very simple and straightforward process from start to finish. Nuala delivers workshops to a very high standard with great content and professionalism. We look forward to working with her in the future with further programmes and workshops.

I work as a Suicide Prevention Development Officer for a community organisation. We have used North Star Well-being for various projects and could not recommend Nuala enough. Most recently, she has facilitated an 8-week self-care workshop with a wonderful group of ladies. The sessions were perfectly paced, and Nuala has a real skill of making everyone feel at ease. You can tell Nuala has real passion for empowering others. Her sessions focused on Self-care, Stress Management, Relaxation, Resilience and Connecting to ourselves and others. If you are a group or organisation looking for a new facilitator, I would encourage you to get in touch with Nuala.

Love my days out walking, with nuala and the great girls you meet along the way! Seein the lovely places we have on our doorstep. Nuala makes you feel very welcome, and we all go at our own pace. Great way to get out and about and meet new people!

Nuala is one of the most sincere, empathetic and compassionate souls on this earth with great professionalism in her work yet lets her authentic self shine through all her work.
I have had the pleasure over the last few years to have experienced Nuala's fantastic work from online meditation to well organised walks.
Only this weekend, I signed up to Nuala's 30 Day Journalling for Well Being Workshop. Nuala made the space safe for us and brought in beautiful poetry, meditation, journalling prompts and so much more. The 3 hours passed without notice, that I could have easily spent another 3 hours.
Nuala has incredible strength and passion in her work and I would without any hesitance recommend ALL of Nuala's work. Thank you Nuala for being you and bringing everyone together in your work x

I have enjoyed 2 North Star walks to date. (Hope to participate in more) - one daytime, and my first ever nocturnal jaunt! The most striking initial impression is the attention to safety - details outlined by Nuala prior to departure. There is a range of walks available - length, intensity, terrain etc - to suit all levels. The pace is steady but unhurried. The experience is multi-faceted - the joy of being out in the open, learning about nature, history, the social interaction with other walkers, and Nuala’s treats!
North Star walks and climbs are about so much more than walking - they are about connecting to people and to nature. An enterprise for its time.

I have been on a few amazing walks with Nuala from North Star. Nuala is a fantastic and very knowledgeable guide with a great sense of fun. I would recommend these walks to everyone.

What a fantastic experience walking with Nuala.. it is great for the mind and body..I met so many lovely and kind people I would recommend this to everybody I really enjoy walking so many memories to keep 💞💞💞

I have attended several evening walks with Nuala. She is a fantastic guide who always has health and safety as a priority, but with her expertise and experience, she still plans exciting and adventurous routes. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the walks I have done with Nuala, and have recommended her to many others.