Why Go On Retreat ?

For me, 2019 is off to a heck of a start! In Canada, we start the calendar year during the winter season, which with all the snow, shoveling and ice, can be challenging and even feel oppressive. In mid-January we had the ‘Celebration of Life’ for my father-in-law. And a few weeks ago I released my first book, Ayurvedic Yoga. All of this happened while the rest of my life was happening too – working, teaching, running the school, being a wife/daughter/sister/aunt/friend… Life is busy sometimes.

The other day I paused long enough to notice just how busy I’ve been, and realized that I would benefit greatly (and therefore everyone around me) from taking some time to slow down and step back. So I booked myself on a 5-day retreat.

Why go on retreat? I go for a few reasons:

1. Rest, rejuvenation, and a focus on self-care: When we are busy and on the go all the time, we use up our precious inner resources – our energy and our nourishment. Taking time to focus on rest, rejuvenation and self-care practices allows me to re-fill my well of inner resources.

2. Perspective: When I’m knee deep in something, I cannot see the forest for the trees. Stepping outside of my day-to-day routine, and even outside of my regular life patterns, gives me a chance to put things in perspective. It’s interesting to look at ourselves and our lives from a big picture perspective instead of a zoomed in one (which I tend to do!).

3. Space: On retreat we tend to have a lighter schedule which creates space for other things – like naps, walks outside, reading books, getting to yoga class, time with friends or family – whatever other things are available and interesting. This space helps me respond to the needs that are arising in the moments, without the added pressures of the never ending to do list. I love this sense of spaciousness.

4. Bringing it back with me: The space of retreat gives me time to get back to myself, and from this place there are often things I know I need and want to change in my life so I can stay centered and feeling well longer. Now I have the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned is important to my well-being in my daily life.

I am interested in why you would go on retreat… Please leave your reasons and ideas in the comments below.

For those of you who are interested in a retreat experience, we have you covered!

Ayurveda, Yoga & Self-Care Weekend for Women: May 10^th to 12^th, 2019 @ Shanti retreat on Wolfe Island with Mona. For further information please Click here.

Step into Summer – 1-day retreat: June 2^nd, 2019 @ Janati Yoga with Mona and Dallas.  To know more, visit us at janatiyoga.com

Yoga Retreat: June 13^th to 16^th, 2019 @ Patterson Kaye Resort, with Dallas.  Click here to know more about this blissful summer retreat.

Enjoy!

m xo