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Bodlondeb Studio & Retreat North Wales together

Transformative Retreats in North Wales

Science-based, no bullshit

Steph and Jane

If Steph was an animal, what would she be?

"Albatross Steph is loyal, committed, resilient and has miles in the tank! She is an advocate of freedom and exploration, but also helps other to navigate the unknown."

Hi, I'm Steph

I love my job, deeply. I'm not fluffy, I like to know how things work. I swear a lot, I pull a lot of faces and, I will not fix you - we are not broken. I am on my own journey, I will be there right there with you not watching or poking from afar because together we become stronger. 

​

I've spent most of my life feeling detached from my body, like it was just a thing that carried my head around. I've also spent most of my life hating on myself and my body. So everything I do with you is about reuniting, realigning, listening and kindness. 

​

The fancy stuff: Meisner Technique specialist, INLPTA certified Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner, mBIT (Multiple Brain Integration Techniques) Master Coach & HeartMath Coach. 

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My unique approach to retreats

You can break down any of the retreats into 2 categories:

01.

Coaching-Based
Steph will share with you a huge amount of tools and techniques she's gained over the years.

02.

A space held by Steph for rest, reflection, planning and a touch of coaching.
Rest-based

Words from previous guests

It's deeply important to me that coming to a Bodlondeb Retreat is more than just a lovely time, that it offers you a space to reflect, challenge who you think you are and grow.

Here's a snapshot of things people have said after being here...

1

Connections and friends

3

A support system I didn’t even know I needed

5

I actually like who I am! 

9

Grounding was always a concept before, now I actually know what it feels like!

13

A tangible understanding of what stress is and how it’s impacting my body

7

I feel more confident - my voice even sounds different

11

Deepened connection with nature

Moors laughing

2

A sense of peace and ease

4

I’ve done more than I ever thought I was capable of

6

More connected with my body

10

I’ve got a whole new language and way of looking at myself and the world

14

A renewed sense of who I am and purpose - I don't feel lost any more!

8

Really bloody useful and easy tools and techniques!!

12

Deepened connection with nature

There is a reason I keep coming back to this place and a reason I keep coming back to work with Steph. It feels like home. It's somewhere to breathe, to be myself without fear. Steph allows so much space for me to explore the person I am and provides so much kindness and love that it's impossible not to reciprocate.

How we build community & connection

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Shared Experiences:

Wild swims in North Wales, beautiful walks and outdoor adventures that bond us together.

In bed

Shared Rooms:

Enjoy cosy accommodation that sparks open conversations, laughter and friendship (1 private room)

Cooking in the kitchen

Collaborative Cooking:

Nothing brings people together quite like preparing and sharing meals. 

Steph and Jane

Coaching Time:

Space for non-judgemental and supportive expansion, reflection and connection with both ourselves and others.

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Silence:

Embrace quiet reflection and connection during moments of stillness. It's a beautiful way to connect.

Moors laughing

Celebration of Diversity:

By embracing and honouring our differences, we create a rich tapestry of connections that enriches the fabric of our community.

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Our commitment to community doesn't end when the retreat does. We offer ongoing support and resources to help our guests stay connected and continue their personal growth journeys long after they've returned home.

Continued Support:

Wellness Retreat Dates for your Diary

  • Membership Offer
    Mon, 23 Dec
    Corwen
    23 Dec 2024, 14:00 – 27 Dec 2024, 11:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    23 Dec 2024, 14:00 – 27 Dec 2024, 11:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    A 4 day residential retreat in North Wales, UK, 23-27th Dec ​"A Home from Home"
  • Membership Offer
    Sun, 29 Dec
    Corwen
    29 Dec 2024, 14:00 – 02 Jan 2025, 11:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    29 Dec 2024, 14:00 – 02 Jan 2025, 11:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    A retreat, just for you. End this year, and start the next, with connection & purpose.
  • Membership Offer
    Thu, 23 Jan
    Corwen
    23 Jan 2025, 14:00 – 26 Jan 2025, 18:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    23 Jan 2025, 14:00 – 26 Jan 2025, 18:00
    Corwen, Bodlondeb, Corwen LL21 0NY, UK
    We celebrate love in all its forms and invite all couples, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Are you needing a safe space to be held together? Do you need to be heard? Scroll down.
  • Membership Offer
    Thu, 05 Jun
    Corwen
    05 Jun 2025, 16:00 – 08 Jun 2025, 16:00
    Corwen, Cae einion, Corwen LL21 9BY, UK
    05 Jun 2025, 16:00 – 08 Jun 2025, 16:00
    Corwen, Cae einion, Corwen LL21 9BY, UK
    Designed exclusively for those who have worked with me (Steph) as a coach - This isn’t just another retreat. It’s a celebration of everything you’ve become, shared, and dreamt of. Together, we’ll create new memories, deepen our connections, and explore who we are and the life we deserve to have.

Our Retreat Activities in North Wales

From wild swimming, stand up paddleboarding, canyoning and axe throwing to felting, horse care and qi gong - I choose the activities for each retreat for very specific reasons. They are an excellent teacher in your healing journey. Some of them are about space, perspective and compassion, others are about learning to jump, expanding your boundaries and moving through fear.
The way Steph works is beautiful and free, intimate, kind, raw, valuable, honest, imperfect, flexibility in trust, in faith, in hope - and I say imperfect in the most amazing and real way - in a way that allows us to really and truly "do the work" and celebrate the imperfect and wonder in us all, as messy, brilliant, brilliantly messy human beings.
  • What do I bring if I'm in the No Frills bell tent?
    A mat / blow up bed, sleeping bag and pillow. Whatever will help you be comfy.
  • How will you manage sleeping arrangements?
    I've made a floor plan you can use at point of booking so I'm hoping it'll be fairly simple. If you know who you want to share a tent with choose a tent and then make sure you all choose the same tent. Otherwise I'll be figuring it out as we go along. Let me know at booking if you are happy in a mixed sex tent or if you want to be in one with the same sex as you (as you identify with).
  • Will you feed us?
    You know us, we believe food has the power to bring people together so we'll be providing all the delicious ingredients and you guys will be split into teams to get prepare it!
  • Who are your activity providers?
    Each course is designed carefully to ensure the coaching and activities are fused together, each enhancing the other to provide you with an experience that will stay with you for your lifetime. Everyone associated with Bodlondeb Studio & Retreat is qualified, certified and insured so you can be sure you're in good hands. Not only that but we're all coaches too which means you'll be supported physically, mentally and emotionally. See our friends page here.
  • Will equipment be provided?
    Standard equipment you need for the activities will be provided including wetsuits where relevant but you will need your own footwear.
  • How do I get to and from activities?
    You are responsible for getting yourselves to and from any off site activities. Once you’re all together you can decide between you about car sharing.
  • Do I have to swim / walk?
    Everything here is optional - we want you to have autonomy and agency over yourself. We’ll always check in if it’s fear stopping you and if it is we can help you through if you would like but if it's something else you absolutely do what you need to do. If you are a non or not a confident swimmer, that is ok. You can still take part in the activities and wild swimming. Many non-swimmers who have attended have come to the wild swimming and walked into the water to a height of comfort for them. If you have any concerns or fears, speak to Steph in advance or upon arrival and you can fully discuss your level of comfort in the water.
  • I’m older / younger, is that ok?
    Absolutely. We get all sorts of ages here and it’s that mix that makes it so special.
  • I’m terrified.
    I actually don’t know many who aren’t when they’re thinking about booking something like this. It’s a beautiful thing, doing something that terrifies you - it takes a vast amount of courage to feel the fear and jump any way. And it'll be worth it, I promise. "If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one." - Dolly Parton
  • Is there an alternative to room sharing?
    We highly recommend digging deep and jumping in with the room sharing, it’s easier than you may think, especially with the curtains for that extra privacy. However, we do understand that it’s just not an option for some so we’ve partnered up with our friend Sioned who has a spare room on the farm opposite. It has its own entrance, double bed and en-suite. Get in touch if you’d like to find out if it’s available. £35/night
  • Am I fit enough?
    It will depend on the retreat. Some of the retreats are gentle and others like Mastering Me are a little more vigorous with activities like Canyoning. We can adapt the morning walks and swims to cater for different fitness and mobility levels. Definitely talk to us, you’re probably more capable than you think.
  • How do I book a course?
    Do get in touch before you book either by email stephanie@bodlondebretreat.co.uk or arrange a Zoom chat here. It gives us a chance to get to know each other to ensure we’re a good fit.
  • What if I can no longer attend the retreat?
    Please see our Ts&Cs
  • Why are the prices to your retreats so low?
    Being affordable is deeply important to us. We don't want your visit to Bodlondeb to be a one off, we want you to come back! We also offer scholarships to many of our retreats so get in touch if money really is keeping you away.
  • Can I bagsy the bottom bunk?
    You are welcome to request a certain bunk or room. We’ll always do our best to get you where you want to be.
  • What’s a typical day like on the course?
    It depends if it’s a coaching retreat or a rest retreat! On a coaching retreat days with Steph will start at 9.30 and finish at 5.30pm with an hour's lunch break and small breaks mid morning / mid afternoon. You may have some outdoor activities built into those hours and you may have a couple of evening activities planned too, you’ll be given a schedule upon arrival. You’ll be invited to come for a walk and/or a swim, often at 6am (lighter days) and 8am (darker days). These are optional. On a rest-based retreat you will have much more space. Some of which you’ll be invited to be in silence.
  • I have specific requirements, what do I do?
    Whatever your needs are, talk to us and we'll work out how we can help. When it comes to food, we'll cater for any non-flexible dietary requirements in the welcome package (coeliac, allergies, etc.). However, any other requirements will be your responsibility. So, make sure you bring whatever you need with you.
  • What are the arrival and departure times?
    Arrival: 4-5pm so you can arrange food and share your first meal. NB Some courses require an earlier arrival time if there’s an activity planned on the first night, check the course specific information. Departure: varies between 10am and noon.
  • Is there anything I need to do before I head home?
    It would be brilliant if you could strip your beds please and put all bedding in the hallway laundry baskets (whites, towels etc and rest of bedding). Ensure keys are left where you found them - usually in the hallway. Oh and please write in the visitor book, we love reading your notes!
  • What do I need to bring?
    If you’re anything like me you’ll love a check list so I thought I’d make you one!
  • Do you provide food?
    Check the details for individual retreats but generally if you're doing a retreat with us we provide a parcel with the ingredients and recipe for your first evening meal plus the following morning. On your first evening as a group you’ll need to arrange a delivery slot from a supermarket, most deliver here. You can then organise what you want to stock the kitchen with for the rest of your stay. People tend to love the group cooking, it’s a beautiful way to connect and bond. NB we provide the food for the Christmas & New Year Retreats.
  • Will I get a day off?
    On the longer retreats you will get a day off to explore the area without Steph. Depending on the course you will either have activities specially organised for you or it’ll be up to you to what you do with it - see your course description. Often that day off is just as essential as the coaching days.
  • How do I get to Bodlondeb?
    You have 4 main options: 1. Drive 2. Get picked up by another attendee from a station Chester (if driving from the North) or Ruabon (if driving from the south). 3. Get the bus T3 - Wrexham or Ruabon to Corwen OR T8 - Chester to Corwen T10 - Corwen to our doorstep 4. Get a taxi (must book in advance!) Chester Taxi Services, 01244 421024, 4 seater £70 from Chester Crown Cars (Wrexham based), 01978 842000, 4 seater £30 from Ruabon
  • Can I bring my dog?
    We do it on a case by case basis as it will depend on the dog and the group size. Please get in touch.
  • Do you have yoga mats?
    To save bringing your own, you’re welcome to hire them for £15 per stay, simply add them on when booking.
  • I heard you have Shakti mats, can we use them?
    Release mind & body stress with the highest rated acupressure mat on the planet. We adore these mats so have invested in having them at the studio too. You’re welcome to hire them for £30 / stay And we also sell them if anyone would like to invest at a slightly cheaper rate than on the Shakti Mat website: £85 for the mat and pillow (instead of £118)
  • Are children allowed?
    Children over 5 are welcome but please know it is at your own risk as there are no balustrades around the roof of the studio.
  • What are your terms and conditions?
    You find them here.
  • Can you provide food for us?
    Iain was a chef before he gave it up to look after the boys. We are able to create you a bespoke food plan/menu depending on your needs and our availability. Please get in touch with what you're thinking and we’ll give you some options, ideas and prices. If we are unavailable on your dates we have some trusted retreat caterers we can highly recommend.
  • How do I find you?
    Simply Google Bodlondeb Studio & Retreat and it’ll bring you to the door. The address: Bodlondeb, Dinmael, Corwen, LL21 0NY NB: The postcode will take you OFF the A5. We are on it. Extra details: You’ll go past the Maerdy & Dinmael sign, and past The Goat pub. Keep going until you come to the Dinmael sign. We are second house on the right (blue door). You should see our sign hanging on the fence. Welcome! Head up the drive and get the kettle on!
  • Where do you recommend we eat?
    If you're considering eating out, you 100% should go to The Old Wives Tale in Bala - Rui is incredible. It's all made fresh so he caters for every food request - trust me, we've been with various groups with various needs and he's smashed it! You need to book: +447428473129 or message them on Facebook. We are also lucky enough to have The Goat Inn (01490 460536), a lovely pub in walking distance which serves great food. For both it is always wise to call in advance and tell them you’re staying with us!
  • The Kitchen
    The kitchen is well stocked with essential utensils and equipment. We also provide basics such as oil and basic seasonings. Feel free to use anything that is there and leave anything you're happy for the next group to use. The fridge is ¾ size and does not have a freezer but you’re welcome to use the one outside the back of our house. Let us know if you need it and we’ll make some space. The kitchen also comes with a bluetooth speaker.
  • Is there a BBQ?
    There is a coal BBQ on the patio you’re welcome to use during your stay.
  • Do you know any taxis?
    We recommend Goddards - 01490 420458 - make sure you book in advance
  • Where are your closest towns for shops?
    Nearest shops are in Corwen less than 10mins away or larger supermarkets include Aldi in Llangollen, Tesco Superstore in Ruthin or Morrisons, Lidl, Aldi in Denbigh - all around 25 minutes drive away. Plus Spar and Coop in Bala (15mins) There are many places that deliver here too.
  • Do you provide bedding / towels?
    All bedding is provided. There’ll be hand towels in the en-suites but you’ll need to bring your own bath / swim towels.
  • The Pub
    Some of you will be pleased to know there is a pub in walking distance. The Goat Inn is only a 10minute walk you could always head up there and have your evening meal. Support local. Karen deserves it. Facebook: The Goat Inn
  • Is there onsite parking?
    We are able to park around 7 cars stacked up the drive. If there are more cars you can park a couple of minutes walk away. There's not many houses here in Dinmael but there are some so we do ask that you're mindful and respectful of their space by parking in the bays away from people’s homes.
  • Is there signal & wifi?
    We'll warn you now - the signal around here isn't great - both a blessing and a curse! We ummed and ahhed about whether to get internet installed because really you’ve come here to connect with each other and we all know phones can restrict how we connect, but we respect it's important to check in with home. So, we have installed it, and it'll be up to you whether you use it. NB The Chaplin bedroom doesn't have wifi or phone signal (it's glorious!)
  • Can I change or cancel my subscription at anytime?
    Of course, follow this link to your customer portal, sign in with the email address you joined with and you'll be able to update your plan however is best for you.
  • Do we still run sessions on Bank Holiday Mondays?
    Most Bank Holidays won't have a session but Steph loves to stay connected with you so it's likely she'll run one of the sessions. She'll let you know in the Whatsapp Group.
  • Will you renew my subscription automatically?
    You will get an email so you won't be taken by surprise.
  • What if Steph can't make it?
    We have a variety of excellent women to cover Steph if she's unavailable. Sometimes there will be times when Steph can't get support for one reason or another. She'll let you know so you can get to the other session. If she can't do either session, she'll do another date that week where possible.
  • What will we do for an hour?
    Our hour could include (and certainly not limited to)… 🔥Values work 🔥Intention setting 🔥Balanced Breathing 🔥Space for reflection, intention setting, talking & listening 🔥Guided enquiries 🔥Free writing 🔥mBIT - head, heart, gut alignment 🔥Connecting with sense of purpose 🔥Guided plan making 🔥Movement / 5 Rhythms ​🔥Meditation / mindful guide throughs
  • Why group rather than 1:1s?
    We're better together, aren't we? People are deeply inspiring if you let them be. Hearing their stories, sensing into difference and similarities. Simply showing up and being together is power in itself. We can get through anything if we return to connection. It's also a much more affordable way to continue to work with Steph.
  • Who is the programme for?
    Perhaps you've been on a retreat, a class or done 1:1s - it's about trust and a common language, so if you already trust Steph to hold a safe space for you to connect and explore, this is for you.
  • What if I have questions before booking?
    Your questions are very much welcome here. Drop Kimberley Rose a message to arrange a chat 07818391610 or email her on misskymhall@gmail.com.
  • How do I get to Bodlondeb?
    You have 4 main options: 1. Drive 2. Get picked up by another attendee from a station Chester (if driving from the North) or Ruabon (if driving from the south). 3. Get the bus T3 - Wrexham or Ruabon to Corwen OR T8 - Chester to Corwen T10 - Corwen to our doorstep 4. Get a taxi (must book in advance!) Chester Taxi Services, 01244 421024, 4 seater £70 from Chester Crown Cars (Wrexham based), 01978 842000, 4 seater £30 from Ruabon
  • What do I need to bring?
    The main things to remember are: Journal Pen Drinks container with a lid Towel Swim stuff Walking shoes/boots Comfy clothes Anything extra you'd like to have with you on your journey to help you be comfy, a special pillow perhaps. We provide bedding and food. We also have yoga mats. hottie botties and blankets.
  • How do I arrange a payment plan?
    We've done everything we can to ease the financial burden to make it possible for you to join us. Booking with a payment plan is simple: Book on using the relevant payment plan option and we will send you the invoice to make your first payment. If you need a personalised plan, choose that option and email us immediately with the requested plan (Dates and amounts), if accepted you will receive the invoices for the amounts on the dates we've agreed on. If payment is not received within 48 hours your place will be automatically released.
  • I have a diagnosis and/or I'm on medication, is that ok?
    It very much depends on the diagnosis and the medication. Please read through the contra indications document below and then if you're still unsure, get in touch with Kimberley Rose: 07818391610 or email her on misskymhall@gmail.com for a chat.
  • How do I find you?
    Simply Google Bodlondeb Studio & Retreat and it’ll bring you to the door. The address: Bodlondeb, Dinmael, Corwen, LL21 0NY NB: The postcode will take you OFF the A5. We are on it. Extra details: You’ll go past the Maerdy & Dinmael sign, and past The Goat pub. Keep going until you come to the Dinmael sign. We are second house on the right (blue door). You should see our sign hanging on the fence. Welcome! Head up the drive and get the kettle on!
  • Where have you sourced your mushrooms from?
    The mushrooms we will be working with are called Golden Teachers. They are sourced from an independent seller who Kimberley Rose trusts very much. She works personally with these medicines and they are harvested organically and grown in sacred ceremony.
  • Do I have to walk / swim?
    Everything here is optional - we want you to have autonomy and agency over yourself. We’ll always check in if it’s fear stopping you and if it is we can help you through if you would like but if it's something else you absolutely do what you need to do. Bring your swim stuff just in case ;-)
  • Can I stay an extra day or two?
    Depending on bookings and turn around times it may well be possible, so do contact us to find out.
  • How do I get to Bodlondeb?
    You have 4 main options: 1. Drive 2. Get picked up by another attendee from a station Chester (if driving from the North) or Ruabon (if driving from the south). 3. Get the bus T3 - Wrexham or Ruabon to Corwen OR T8 - Chester to Corwen T10 - Corwen to our doorstep 4. Get a taxi (must book in advance!) Chester Taxi Services, 01244 421024, 4 seater £70 from Chester Crown Cars (Wrexham based), 01978 842000, 4 seater £30 from Ruabon
  • How do I find you?
    Simply Google Bodlondeb Studio & Retreat and it’ll bring you to the door. The address: Bodlondeb, Dinmael, Corwen, LL21 0NY NB: The postcode will take you OFF the A5. We are on it. Extra details: You’ll go past the Maerdy & Dinmael sign, and past The Goat pub. Keep going until you come to the Dinmael sign. We are second house on the right (blue door). You should see our sign hanging on the fence. Welcome! Head up the drive and get the kettle on!
  • Do you provide bedding / towels?
    All bedding is provided. There’ll be hand towels in the en-suites but you’ll need to bring your own bath / swim towels.
  • What does "Dry Space" mean?
    Alcohol or drugs aren’t to be consumed on the premises during a retreat. We often use them as ways of escaping connection and the present moment and we want you to explore what it is to take these social crutches away and simply be you.
  • Is there access to a washing machine?
    Let us know if you need some washing doing, absolutely no problem. It’s £4.50 for it to be washed and dried and handed back to you smelly lovely! Payment by cash is preferred or you can bank transfer or pay by card.
  • Is there onsite parking?
    We are able to park around 7 cars stacked up the drive. If there are more cars you can park a couple of minutes walk away. There's not many houses here in Dinmael but there are some so we do ask that you're mindful and respectful of their space by parking in the bays away from people’s homes.
  • Is there signal & wifi?
    We'll warn you now - the signal around here isn't great - both a blessing and a curse! We ummed and ahhed about whether to get internet installed because really you’ve come here to connect with each other and we all know phones can restrict how we connect, but we respect it's important to check in with home. So, we have installed it, and it'll be up to you whether you use it. NB The Chaplin bedroom doesn't have wifi or phone signal (it's glorious!)
  • Is this instead of therapy?
    I am not a therapist, I am a coach. We’ll be working with your present and where you want to go and not focussing on your past. It’s likely your past has already had a lot of attention, be it in your head and/or in a therapist's room. This tends to give your past more power than it needs. ​I am not here to undermine your story, you are you because of your past and we certainly won't be shoving it under the carpet either - but it is time to take the reins and determine where we go from here. Please bear in mind that our retreats can open up some big questions and the challenge of engaging with our minds, our habits and how we show up in the world. Although it is a very supportive environment, we cannot offer any therapeutic help, so if you’re currently experiencing mental health difficulties or any other strong or upsetting states of mind, please consider if a retreat is right for you at present and whether there are other supports you need in your life. If you’re unsure, please email or call us directly before booking.
  • Why Group coaching?
    Firstly, people are inspirational if you let them be and secondly holding space with and for others gives us the space to reflect on ourselves. The more we listen, the better we get at listening. The more we reflect, the deeper our learning and richer the change. I'm also very collaborative, I don't believe I have all the answers. Sure I have a wealth of tools to share with you but we are better together and X amount of heads are definitely better than one!
  • Does Steph coach on all her retreats?
    Tough question! There are two types of retreats that Steph runs - 1) rest-based 2) coaching-based. Steph's experience as a coach will always infuse everything she does but the rest-based retreats she sees herself as someone holding the space and posing questions rather than coaching you. There is no doubt that little nuggets of wisdom and tools will make it's way through to you though. The coaching-based retreats are much more about tools and techniques and Steph actively being involved in your journey, what's stucking you and what moving forward looks/feels like.
  • Who will be guiding me?
    Hi, I’m Steph, I work with humans, and I love it deeply. I’m a Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner, a HeartMath Coach and a mBIT master coach (where neuroscience backs up ancient wisdoms). I’m also an acting coach who specialises in The Meisner Technique, a training tool which is specifically about getting out of your head and becoming less self conscious. However, it’s not just relevant to actors. At the heart of what I do is create a space for you as a human to explore what makes you human, what makes you, you. Many of us go through each day not fully knowing why we do what we do or even what it is that we do and therefore not realising the importance of that knowing. I would love to spend some intensive and immersive time with you so I can share a plethora of really powerful tools and guide you through the process thoroughly enough so they are a part of you once you leave.
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