Heartspace House is a newly renovated farmhouse in the heart of the Haute-Vienne. Set within the tranquility of the rural French countryside and with full vegan catering, this is the perfect setting for a peaceful escape.
We spoke to Heartspace House founder Gemma Taylor to learn more about why she created this space.
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Tell us a bit about your background and your yoga and wellness journey…
I’ve been catering yoga retreats since 2017 with my business That Vegan Chef all over the UK and several retreats in Ibiza! As a vegan chef who also specialises in gluten free baking, retreat work seemed like a natural fit and I loved meeting like-minded yogis from all paths of life.
I was attuned in angelic reiki last March and am set to begin a Kundalini yoga teacher training course this year so I can start teaching locally here in the Haute-Vienne. I can’t wait!
What inspired you to open Heartspace House and when did you open the space?
I’ve met some amazing teachers and stayed at some beautiful centres but constantly travelling and being away from home was difficult. So my husband Jamie and I decided to open our own space where I can nourish our guests from the comfort of our own home!
As well as not wanting to travel so much for work, my husband and I had dreamed for many years of having our own business together – we’ve both had years of experience in hospitality and love providing top quality service and meeting new people!
We opened for business September 2024 as a retreat venue for hire for residential retreats – we also hold monthly yoga events with local teachers.
What is your mission with Heartspace House?
To create a space that is open to all, affordable and yet luxurious – away from the hustle and bustle of ‘real life’. Somewhere calming and in nature for people to join together and be nourished.
How is Heartspace House different from other wellness spaces?
I have the unique benefit of having visited over 50 retreat venues over my years of working as a retreat chef so I have seen what works and what doesn’t!
We are fully equipped with amazing yoga mats and props all from you at Yogamatters, the quality and design are second to none!
Also I have to say because it’s my life’s passion, the food offering here at HeartSpace House is on another level. I love to feed people, it’s my love language and I adore using Ayurvedic techniques to make food more than just fuel!
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of opening their own wellness space or studio?
Make sure you are a part of the community! Make connections with everyone you can in the industry but always in a genuine way.
Also, if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut!
Do you have a quote or mantra that you live by?
Everything happens for a reason.
Simple yet ALWAYS seemingly right even when it’s a hard truth. Whatever is meant to happen will find its way of coming to fruition, don’t fight the tide.
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