A retreat is a perfect way to support your wellness goals. But you don’t need to wait until you can book a three-week stay on a deserted island. With planning and creativity, you can design a retreat to fit any schedule or budget.
Redefining “Retreat”
Use the time and space you’ve got. Can you sneak away for one night to house-sit for a friend? What about an afternoon at a nature park or 30 minutes relaxing with your journal in your backyard?
Even short retreats can go a long way to increase your mental and physical wellness.
Day Retreats and Min-Retreats
Enjoy restful public spaces like parks, lakes, and libraries. Some areas offer prayer chapels, meditation spaces, shrines, or labyrinths.
If you’re iron-willed enough to ignore dust bunnies, you can retreat in your own home. First chase out anyone who shares your living space.
When you’re extra-busy, grab two hours, an hour, or whatever time you can. Even five minutes of intentional quiet can reset your day and increase your sense of well-being.
Multi-Day Retreats
Time away from home doesn’t have to break the bank. Borrow a friend’s vacant RV or lake house, go camping, book a midweek room at a budget motel, or stay in a college dorm during school breaks.
Don’t overlook the obvious—retreat centers. Many offer affordable rates.
Getting the Most from Your Getaway
There’s no point in retreating if you’re frazzled the whole time. Follow these tips to make sure your break leads to greater wellness, not greater stress:
Plan ahead. You may not want a formal agenda, but it helps to have some idea of what you’ll do and eat.
Reduce distractions. Protect yourself from anything that doesn’t enhance your well-being. Turn off electronics or limit their use.
Choose retreat partners carefully. Multi-person retreats only work when you respect each other’s space.
Stay safe. If you’re anxious, you can’t fully enter into the retreat.
Be flexible. Have a back-up plan, and keep your sense of humor.
Like any adventure, your retreat likely won’t go the way you expect. But it may turn out even better.
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