Why you should go on a retreat?
- Elina Rangelova
- Oct 16, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Oct 22, 2024
Content
Introduction
Retreats have become very popular and much more accessible in the recent years. If you still haven't join a retreat yourself chances are you know people who have. And even tough the concept of retreats has become better known lately, you might still find yourself wondering what are the benefits of a retreat and should you give it a try.
Truth is there are many different types of retreats, but they all have few things in common. Immersion with nature, connection with yourself and others, deep relaxation, physical and mental benefits, empowerment and self improvement are some of the reasons why you should go on a retreat and try it for yourself!
Retreats can also be life-changing and truly magical!
We all know as daily life takes over with its many to do lists and responsibilities it’s very rare to find the time to connect with our inner voice. Moments of peace never enough and often neglected, just like a proper stretching after a workout. That’s because there is aways just so much to do! Family, job, pets, social obligations, events and the list keeps on going…
Just be honest with yourself- when was the last time you were able to take a weekend for yourself? I’m not talking about a day of cleaning the house, a work trip or taking care your kids during a family vacation. I mean an actual quality time for you to relax, laugh, read a book, get inspired and meet your inner needs.
Unfortunately many of us haven’t had the chance to do that in a while. We either feel guilty about leaving the kids, spouse and pets, or we feel like we shouldn’t spend the money, or we don’t ever seem to have the time.
If you think of retreats as an investment in your wellbeing though, the picture looks very different. Because if we don’t ever find the way to properly relax and get in touch with who we really are, that can backfire on many aspects of our lives.
We just can’t be our best to those who we love the most. A person dealing with constant stress can’t show their full potential at work. A mom who is tired and overwhelmed can’t be present and patient with her kids. It’s just like when you keep on driving your car and you don’t stop to refill the gas - it will eventually runs out of power.
One way or another we need to find time and ways to relax and fulfill our higher needs. Retreats are not the only way, but joining one that is specifically designed to give you all that you need is making things easier.
My First Retreat
When I went on my first yoga retreat it was a warm autumn weekend in Maryland’s mountains. The drive was lovely and even before arriving to the place I was absolutely consumed by the gorgeous red, yellow and orange colors surrounding me from above and beneath. The view and the feeling of being there was freeing and refreshing.
We were staying in a cottage in the middle of a beautiful forest. I settled into my room which I shared with a friend and another woman and later on we went out to meet the rest of the women. The atmosphere was light and positive. Everyone was friendly and chatty, sharing their story of how they came to the retreat. It certainly was very nice to step out of my comfort zone and meet different people with the same intention for the weekend- relax, sleep and enjoy the surroundings!
After a while it was time to gather for an evening yoga practice. I just couldn’t believe how many of us fell asleep in the middle of the class straight on the yoga mat. I guess that’s how deeply relaxing can a yoga class feel when you don’t have to rush for anything and there is no other place you have to go to afterwords. You can just let go and rest!
The weekend continued as it has started- relaxing, easy and enjoyable. I left the retreat feeling lighter, feeling great in my body, having more clarity on what I want from life and being empowered to follow my path.
This is how I actually started my journey of leading yoga and wellness retreats myself and helping people feel restored and rejuvenated.
Here are some of the top reasons why you should go on a retreat that fits your needs. ( Remember- there are many kinds of retreats, so look for the one that resonates with you at the moment).
Physical Benefits are the first reason why you should go on a retreat
Many retreats include yoga, pilates, dance, stretching or another physical component to get you moving and feeling great in your body. From improving blood circulation and increasing flexibility to reducing body pain and enchased sleep, even the most gentle stretching classes can have a profound effect on your wellbeing during and even after the retreat. On top of that you have the time and opportunity to give your body a nice break from all of the usual daily activities (think of prolonged sitting behind the desk, cooking, driving, cleaning, ect.) and you get to restore physically and relax.
The healthy and fresh food is also a big part of the retreat experience and it's meant to fuel, nourish and detox your body.
2. Stress Relief and Mental Clarity
During a retreat you can compleatly disconnect from your environment and immerse yourself in peaceful and beautiful surroundings. In addition meditation, journaling, spa, massage, self-reflexion, creating art, reading and other forms of relaxation are often included in the whole experience. You can just lay-back, enjoy and rejuvenate your nervous system.
Rejuvinate in Nature
Spending time in nature is proven and powerful way to enhance your immune system, lower stress hormon levels, reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Just picture yourself surrounded by a gorgeous landscape with a fresh, clean air filling your lungs. I bet event the thought of it makes you feel better.
Immersion in nature can also help with your memory, concentration, life appreciation, connection with yourself and overall happiness.
Get Empowered
From the moment you head out to your retreat you leave your comfort zone you open yourself to growth and new ideas. Everyday-life can be so busy that we don't have the chance to stop and think about our true nature. Retreats provide a peaceful escape from all of the noice and hustle, and open the door to introspection and clarity. You can focus on your personal growth, reconnect with your values and get empowered to be your best self. Joining a retreat gives you opportunities to deeply reflect on your life, find insparation, and helps you overcome your fears.
Building New Connections is another reason why you
should go on a retreat
Retreats create a friendly environment where making new friends and authentic connections is easy. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people, fostering sense of community, sharing and exchanging ideas can help you feel understood and supported. Many of those connections continue way after the retreat leading to a long-time friendships.
Break Away Unhealthy Habits
Providing you with a space to reflect on your life, retreats can help you break away from unhealthy habits. The nutritious food, collaboration with others, journaling, yoga and movement classes can positively influence your decisions regarding your wellbeing.
Gain Different Perspective
Being outside of your comfort zone during a retreat can shine a new light into many aspects of your life. Mindfulness, community and participation in different classes and workshops can help you gain understanding and fresh perspective. Often that leads to comfort, builds empathy and helps you better understand yourself.
Summary
To summarize everything up - going on a retreat can be a very positive experience improving your physical and mental health, leading to empowerment, enhanced sense of community, feeling happier and rejuvenated. There are many kids of retreats and it's important to choose the one that fits your needs in order to fully bennefit from it. Don't hesitate to ask questions and be specific with what you want!
About the Author
Elina Rangelova is a fitness professional, yoga teacher and a behavioral change specialist. She is a mother of a 6 year old boy and loves spending time with her family. Besides home, her happy places and the yoga studio and the forest where she can experience the joy of movement and hearing her inner voice.
Elina has a degree in Education and loves to work with children and adults in playful and relaxed enviroment. She grew up in Bulgaria and still tries to go back every summer to enjoy her time with relatives and friends.
Her yoga and wellness retreats focus on positive atmosphere, relaxation and immersion with nature.
Thank you reading! I hope this article was helpful to you.
If you loved it or have any questions, please leave me a comment below!
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