The Joy Of Retreating - Health & Wellbeing Magazine by Foyht

Wellness retreats, yoga retreats, silence retreats, sound retreats, cooking retreats, hiking retreats, wild swimming retreats, knitting retreats, enlightenment retreats…. The choice is vast. They come in all shapes and sizes to suit different needs, wants, and wallets.

Today, I want to explore why retreats have become so popular and the benefits of attending one.

The world is a difficult place to navigate these days. After the pandemic, we all wanted to maintain what we learned when we were forced to live simpler lives, find joy in the small things, and embrace the peace of a slower pace of life. Sadly, it did not last long, and because we had a break from living at 100 miles an hour, the pace of life now feels even more frenetic and pressing than before, when we did not know a different way of living.

Don’t get me wrong, I do appreciate the toll that the pandemic took on all of us, and for some, this return to “normal” feels like a blessing – the known quantity. However, the never-ending demands on our time can be exhausting and debilitating, leaving us running on empty most of the time and wondering how we managed before we were forced to stop and literally had the time to smell the flowers on our daily walk.

And it is not just the fast pace of living.

There is huge polarisation out there, dividing us, making it harder to connect with our fellow humans in an authentic and honest way, and feel that our voices are heard and our contributions valued. It is increasingly difficult to be who we truly are, as we are generally expected to conform to fit in and be accepted. This can take a huge toll, leaving us feeling as though we do not belong anywhere, leading to feelings of isolation, increased stress, anxiety, and depression.

Enter the retreat…

The safe space where we can withdraw when it all becomes too much and find ourselves again. And breathe!

Just the word itself has a kind of magic to it. Say it out loud and listen…

Can you hear the magic?

Can you feel the lightness and softness that arise within you as you roll the letters on your tongue?

The Origins of the Retreat

Where does the concept of the retreat originate?

Who initiated this glorious process of withdrawal and personal expansion?

The word “retreat” derives from the French word “retrait,” the past participle of the verb “retraire,” which means to draw back, first recorded in English in the 1300s. The word itself can mean different things to different people, for example:

A place of seclusion and privacy
A period of retirement for spiritual or religious exercises and meditation
To move away from situations that make us feel unsafe and seek a place of safety

A simple Google search defines a retreat as “a purposeful getaway where the primary focus is on relaxation, self-reflection, and rejuvenation, often involving activities like meditation, yoga, or nature immersion, rather than just sightseeing or leisure activities typically associated with a standard vacation; essentially, it’s a time to ‘retreat’ from your daily life to recharge and reconnect with yourself in a peaceful setting.”

For me, going on a retreat means finding my joy, leaving everything behind, and doing something so completely different that it disconnects my brain from my daily normal. It means stepping out of my comfort zone to fully embrace and learn something new. It also means letting go of expectations, of the need to be somewhere or do something, and simply breathing—joyfully breathing and being.

Benefits of Attending a Retreat

If you have been on a retreat before, you will know what works for you and what does not. If you have never been on one but would like to try, here are some key benefits and things to consider when choosing the right retreat for you.

Main Benefits:

Improved Mental Well-being: A break from daily routines can significantly improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and provide space for introspection.
Emotional Healing: Retreats can facilitate emotional processing and healing through guided practices and reflection.
Spiritual Growth: Depending on the retreat type, there may be opportunities to deepen your spiritual connection through meditation, prayer, or connecting with nature.
Improved Physical Health: Many retreats incorporate physical activities like yoga, hiking, or swimming, which can improve fitness and overall health.
Creativity Boost: Disconnecting from daily distractions can spark creativity and new perspectives.
Social Connection: Group retreats can provide opportunities to build relationships and connect with others who share similar interests.
Learning New Skills: Some retreats focus on teaching specific skills such as meditation, mindfulness practices, or artistic techniques.

Above all, attending a retreat is about taking time for yourself, stepping away from the daily hubbub of life, to rest, reset, and recharge, and perhaps start thinking about making long-term changes that will improve your everyday life.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Retreat

Retreat Purpose: Pinpoint what you want to achieve, whether it’s relaxation, personal growth, stress relief, creative inspiration, spiritual development, great naps, or learning a new skill.
Location: Consider scenery, climate, accessibility, and proximity to activities.
Activities on Offer: Check the planned activities to ensure they match your interests, goals, and energy levels. Most retreats offer flexibility in participation.
Accommodation: Decide whether you prefer your own space or are happy to share. Consider ensuite vs shared bathrooms and overall comfort.
Retreat Leader/Team: Research the facilitators’ experience and expertise to ensure they align with your needs.
Cost and Value: Compare the retreat price to the experience and amenities offered. Expensive does not necessarily mean better, but be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Group Size and Dynamic: Consider whether you prefer small, intimate groups or larger, more diverse gatherings.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read feedback from past participants and speak to organisers to gauge compatibility.
Flexibility and Cancellation Policy: Ensure you understand the terms and conditions regarding potential changes and refunds.

Final Thoughts

When I host a retreat, whether alone or in collaboration with other practitioners, my aim is to provide an experience that is safe, liberating, fun, and joyful for all participants. It is your time to do what you need and want, at your own pace, so you leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, informed, and at peace.