Are you feeling stuck in the mud? Disconnected? Like you can’t remember who you are or the last time you felt excited about anything? When you’re stuck in the never-ending humdrum of life post Covid, it can be all too easy to feel this way. This means it’s time for a major reset! One absolutely amazing way of doing this – as I’ve experienced myself before – is to clear the decks, and get everything set up and taken care of so that you can go on our retreat. In this article, I want to tell you how a retreat can change your life for the better and the benefit of retreats.
It all starts with giving yourself permission
Giving yourself permission to do the things you love, that are out of the ordinary and that push you out of your everyday comfort zone is essential for self-care and personal growth. It involves allowing yourself to do or feel things without judgment, criticism or guilt. Booking a few days off and going on a retreat is in my view the ultimate form of giving yourself permission, of self-care, of overcoming your fear and doubt about what will happen if you delegate EVERYTHING for a few days and ultimately the thing that we all crave the most as mums – FREEDOM.
How a retreat can change your life
In today’s fast-paced world, we so desperately crave ways to disconnect from the chaos and find inner peace. Retreats, which offer a temporary escape from the routine and provide a space to reflect, recharge and rejuvenate are an incredible way of achieving this.
Retreats come in various forms, ranging from meditation and yoga retreats to nature and wellness retreats. They can be conducted in different locations such as remote mountains, forests, beaches or even urban areas. They can last different durations from half a day to a whole week. Regardless of the type and location, retreats offer an opportunity to disconnect from the world and connect with oneself with something for everyone.
Stepping away
One of the primary benefits of a retreat is the chance to take a break from the constant stimulation of everyday life. This includes stepping away from partners, children, other members of the family, technology, social media, work, and other daily distractions. Without these constant distractions, you can focus on yourself and your inner thoughts. This break can help you relax and clear your mind, leading to a sense of calmness and inner peace.
Reconnecting with yourself and others
Retreats often offer structured programs, with a set schedule of activities such as yoga, meditation, mindfulness sessions, and workshops. These activities can help you connect with your body, mind and soul, and develop a sense of mindfulness. The goal is to be present in the moment and not let the past or future overwhelm you. This sense of mindfulness can carry over into daily life, helping you stay grounded and focused even when faced with stress and anxiety.
Retreats also provide a sense of community and connection with others. Participants come together with a shared purpose and mindset, creating an environment of support and encouragement. The connections formed during retreats can be long-lasting and lead to new friendships and networks. These connections can also provide a sense of accountability and motivation to continue the work started during the retreat once it is over.
Perspectives and insights
Another benefit of retreats is the opportunity to gain new perspectives and insights. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone (wild swimming anyone?) and into a new environment can provide a fresh perspective on life. This can lead to new ideas, perspectives, and a sense of clarity. Participants often leave retreats with a newfound sense of purpose and direction, as well as the tools to implement positive changes in their lives.
Retreats can also provide a much-needed break from daily responsibilities and obligations. This break can help people reconnect with their passions and interests, and rediscover what brings them joy. Many retreats offer creative or artistic activities, such as writing, painting, or photography, allowing participants to tap into their creativity and explore new hobbies or interests.
Physical health benefits
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, retreats can also have physical health benefits. Activities such as yoga, hiking, wild swimming and other physical exercises can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility. Eating nutritious meals and getting adequate rest can also contribute to better physical health.
Finding the right retreat for you
Retreats can be life-changing experiences, providing an opportunity to reflect, recharge, and rejuvenate. However, it is important to approach retreats with an open mind and be willing to step out of one’s comfort zone. It is also essential to research and select a retreat that aligns with one’s goals and values. For example, a nature retreat may be better suited for those seeking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, while a yoga retreat may be better for those seeking to improve their physical and mental health.
The retreat I’m eyeing right now is this Immersive Cold Water Retreat from Travel Matters. I’ve heard so much of the benefits of wild swimming and love the idea of a daily sunrise cold water immersion, being up in the peace and quiet of Scotland on a grand estate, practicing breathwork, yoga, and mindfulness and a chance to explore my creativity which are all key parts of the programme offered.
A Travel Matters well-being retreat aims to help women improve their mental and physical health through cold water immersion and other activities such as creative writing, hiking and painting, all whilst taking place in a remote and beautiful natural setting, surrounded by other like-minded and supportive women. These experiences are hosted by the likes of qualified open-water swimmers, published writers, actors, artists and other professionals so truly inspiring.
Their two four and five-day retreats in Scotland take place in September & October 2023 at the stunning location of Loch Tay. With luxury accommodation, fine dining and an exquisite location this is a unique opportunity for any woman wanting to invest in some “Me Time”.
You can find out more about what is being offered on the retreats and costs here: Immersive Cold Water Retreat in Loch Tay, Scotland
Summing up
In conclusion, a retreat can change your life is that it is a transformative experience that offers many benefits, including the chance to disconnect from the chaos of daily life, connect with oneself and others, gain new perspectives and insights, and improve physical health. It is important to approach retreats with an open mind, research and select a retreat that aligns with one’s goals and values, and be willing to step out of one’s comfort zone. A retreat can provide the much-needed break and perspective to live a more mindful, purposeful.
Have you ever considered going on a retreat? Or perhaps you have already had first hand experience of how a retreat can change your life? Let us know in a comment below.
