Retreat with Theresa Polley – Retreat with Theresa Polley

Since launching Retreat in the Pines in 2004, Theresa Polley has built a life around doing what she loves most. The path has included difficult seasons, but the gratitude and connection she receives from women from all walks of life continue to inspire her. Over the years, she has heard countless versions of the same heartfelt message: “Thank you for creating this place — I needed this.” Women’s wellness remains her passion, and she is deeply committed to offering every woman a safe space to share her story and connect with others. What began with a pink slip from a job she loved became the catalyst for her entrepreneurial journey.

When Theresa first began Retreat in the Pines, her focus was on the healing power of yoga. She has been teaching since 2004 and currently leads classes in the Dallas area, along with private lessons. While she still sees yoga as a powerful path of transformation, she believes the deepest healing happens when women sit beside one another and realize they are not alone in their struggles. Though women may come from different backgrounds and places, they share something essential: the experience of navigating this complex world together.

Each time she hosts a retreat, Theresa is reminded how important it is to create a safe environment dedicated to women. Community and connection are what make these retreats feel truly magical and what set them apart. There is something especially meaningful about women arriving as strangers and leaving as friends.

Theresa also knows that life is too short not to be fully present. For the sake of her well-being and peace of mind, she prioritizes fitness classes and community, both of which she finds at her local Y. The Dallas YMCA has been part of her life for more than 30 years.

Her family brings her immense joy. She has three adult children and one still at home. Her oldest daughter, Nina, loves to travel with her, and one of their favorite activities is hiking followed by a delicious meal — ideally something breakfast-related. Nina is married to her wife Spencer, and they are proud dog moms to three adorable dogs. Theresa is also grateful to have her daughter Eden back in her life after years of struggles. Eden is married to her husband Randy, and they have three special children. Her son Landry recently moved back from Colorado and now lives close by with his girlfriend and their one-year-old daughter, Daisy.

Theresa’s youngest, Mason, is in third grade and loves soccer. As a single mother, he keeps her on her toes, but she wouldn’t change a thing.

These days, Theresa fully appreciates the value of downtime and self-care. Whenever possible, she begins her morning with coffee, a guided meditation, and journaling. This quiet ritual helps her gain perspective and move through the day with intention. When the weather allows, she enjoys it from her front porch. Along with staying active, time in nature, reading, and streaming comforting shows give her the reset she needs to keep going.