October 2025
Stepping Into the Stillness of Autumn
October has arrived with its familiar rhythm, rain returning, clouds sweeping low across the hills, and the land drinking deeply after months of summer dryness. Though the wet days bring their own challenges for working outside, the soil has been in need of this long, gentle soak. The heavy rains have begun to replenish what the sun drew out, softening the hardened earth and awakening the mosses, fungi, and plants that thrive in these cooler, wetter days. The landscape is once again vibrant with life, glistening leaves, rich scents of damp soil, and the hum of quiet renewal.
Across the fields, signs of the changing season are everywhere. Insects have slowed, bumblebees taking lazy naps on late-blooming flowers while wasps and dragonflies have all but disappeared. The land itself feels as though it’s taking a long breath, preparing to rest. Birds call less urgently now; their songs give way to the hush of rustling leaves and distant owls as autumn settles in.
We began the month by hosting our annual Apple Harvest, always one of our favourite gatherings. Around twenty to thirty friends of Plas Y Maes joined us for a day of connection, laughter, and community. The morning started quietly with tea and snacks as everyone caught up, children listening eagerly as Stuart shared how to spot the difference between perfect apples and those that had passed their best. Afterward, we all made our way into the orchard, baskets and bags in hand, to collect this year’s bounty. Many of the apples had already fallen, the gift of recent winds and a passing storm, but the harvest was plentiful. By the end of the afternoon, three large tonne bags were filled, ready to be transformed into juice.
As the day came to a close, we gathered around the fire circle at Iachusol Enaid (Healing Soul), the perfect way to end a day rooted in nature and gratitude. Flames flickered, stories were shared, and there was a quiet sense of unity in the crisp autumn air.
A couple of weeks later, we took the apples to Dinefwr Orchardeers in Llandeilo, where the pressing and bottling began. This year, we were able to take part in the full process, sorting the apples, removing any that were too bruised for juice, and saving those for cider making. The rest were washed, crushed, and pressed using a traditional water-filled lung that squeezed the juice from the pulp. Watching the deep red liquid pour out was a sight to behold. Once pasteurised, the colour shifted to a beautiful golden hue, pure apple juice, nothing added, nothing taken away. The result is 100% natural, capturing the flavour of autumn in every sip.
You can now find Plas Y Maes Apple Juice available in our shop, and if you’d like to see the pressing journey, you can watch our short video here
We’re also honoured to announce an upcoming retreat for March 2026, The Buffalo’s Journey: Stepping Back In.
This powerful retreat takes inspiration from the buffalo, the only animal that runs into the storm rather than away from it, knowing that facing the challenge head-on is the quickest way through. Moving together in formation, the strong protect the vulnerable, but all take turns, even the strongest know when to step back in and rest.
This retreat is designed for space holders, counsellors, therapists, teachers, facilitators, and all those who spend their lives supporting others. It offers a chance to reconnect, recharge, and remember the importance of tending to one’s own wellbeing. Through grounding practices, nervous system regulation, energy clearing, and rest, participants will rediscover their strength and leave with a renewed sense of balance and peace. More information can be found here.
As we move further into the stillness of winter, we’re reminded that this season invites us to do the same, to turn inward, reflect, and rest. Just as the land takes its pause, so too must we take moments to nourish ourselves, to find light in the dark, and to carry forward the quiet hope that winter brings.
Until next time,
From all of us at Plas Y Maes