Why Go On a Yoga Retreat?
Yoga Retreats. What are they? Why would anyone go on one? And are they just a fad?
Like anything else, yoga and wellness retreats are about as varied and versatile as you can imagine. Almost every yoga studio on the planet has their own version of these offerings. From in-house day retreats, silent meditation weekends, to international holidays in Italy or Spain and even month long teacher training intensives in Bali.
So What are they & Why would anyone go? These are almost the same question. It depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want to go on a deep introspective journey and challenge your limiting core beliefs? Or do you want to do a gentle yoga class in the morning and then sip wine by the pool all day? There is literally something for everyone… But this just means choosing your retreat carefully.
Most retreats include the following in their starting package: accommodation, meals, some form of daily yoga and/or meditation and (often optional) group activities.
Across the board, you have a set time out of your daily routine. From my perspective, this alone is one of the best features of a retreat. In my opinion, makes any yoga retreat worthwhile.
But isn’t that the same as a holiday? Well.. yes and no. For a start - holidays still require an amount of planning - whether it’s in advance or on the fly. So taking that away adds an element of freedom. It’s one less thing on your mind. There is freedom in having everything planned out for you in advance. And knowing that those doing the planning know how to give you the best experience possible. It can also be a wonderful opportunity to practice with and learn from your favourite teachers.
IMO, the true benefit of a retreat comes from the time and space to connect with yourself. You’re away long enough to forget about work and your normal responsibilities. You’re given a schedule. You’re given a reason to get up early and watch the sun rise. You are obligated to participate in the yoga and the meditation - which means you’ll most likely show up and do it - especially when you really can’t be bothered. You’re not on your phone or watching Netflix. The food is healthy and plentiful. Because of these things, you always arrive back at home feeling refreshed - like you’ve hit a little reset button. I find retreats to be inspiring and self motivating. Spending time with yourself is something that can be hard to make time for.
So what’s my ideal retreat?
For me? Morning meditation. Daily, strong vinyasa practice that gives me an opportunity to learn and to work hard. Good, fresh and healthy food. Time off for a dip in the ocean and a nap. Cool group activities. And an evening sound bath or yin. Which is exactly what I have compiled for the November Retreat.
It’s everything I love about yoga and retreats in general is included. Everything I’ve always wished was in a yoga retreat has been added. All the things that don’t suit me - like led group personal discussions, have been left aside.
Whatever it is you’re looking for - it should be easy enough to find - they’re out there! And if you really need a life-break they are well worth your time. As a general rule, just getting away from it all and doing some yoga makes (almost) any retreat worthwhile in my book.
photo by Sonennmasse
