Retreating

I just returned from beautiful Costa Rica with 27 other women who were part of a healing retreat in one of the world’s blue zones. There are lots of definitions for the word “retreat”.  Some say it’s “Giving Up and Withdrawing” or “Time away in a quiet secluded place”.  Personally, my favorite definition is “When members of a group take time to form bonds with one another, contemplate their purpose and motives, and work on one or more specific goals.”

Working as a coach with the retreat participants, I was struck this time just how much we all have in common. Whether it was stress levels, common traumas, stages of life or making the conscious decision to be on a healing journey, there was a connection.  Doing our healing work in the company of others who are on a quest to do the same, can accelerate the work and make one feel less alone.

In today’s busy world, the power of “retreating” has never been greater or more necessary.  Taking a “pause” can create space and lead to a true re-set.  However, I don’t believe you need to go around the world to make that happen.  You can intentionally take pause at any time, and anywhere.  Schedule a girls night where you catch up on each other’s dreams and challenges, plan a weekend where you clear your schedule and spend time with yourself.  Take a walk over lunch and allow yourself to reset with your favorite music.

Retreating is a gift to yourself. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed or burnt out, consider making space for an intentional retreat. Whether it is an hour, a weekend or a week you can create a shift in your thinking and your nervous system.  It’s in the stillness that the answers come- we just need to get quiet enough to listen.