Create Your Own Mini-Retreat

Who doesn’t love the idea of jetting off to an exotic location for a week of rest, relaxation and meditation? Wouldn’t it be nice to have time to read or listen to music or maybe do nothing at all?

Getting away isn’t always possible and travel can be wonderful, but, for many, getting away adds additional stress and that’s before finances are considered. If a break from the day to day feels like something that’s out of reach, consider these ideas and see if one of them might work for you.

Motivation Matters 

Is getting away a reward for accomplishing a big goal? Are you celebrating with some down time to renew your creative energy?

Perhaps you are getting away from something instead. Does peace and quiet sound like heaven from your normal, lovable, but boisterous family and friends? Is work stress piling up? Maybe it’s a health issue that has you looking for some time to soothe your tired muscles. Could it be that spending most days alone writing, or working in solitude has you craving interactions with others who share your interests?

No judgement here. When you know what you need a break from, it’s easier to figure out what sort of mini-retreat will work best for you. Be honest with yourself about what you need. It’s a big step in self-care to recognize and honor that it’s okay to need anything at all!

Make It Real

Wishing doesn’t make it happen. Pick a date and commit to making your mini-retreat happen. Even if it’s a few weeks away, knowing that you’ve got some me-time coming up is a boost. Once you’ve planned it, be sure to treat that time like you would a business appointment or family commitment. Don’t cancel or reschedule!

Inspiration and Ideas

Here are a few ideas to get you started. Anything that works for you is what is right for you. No one else needs to know, approve, or be involved; unless a group retreat is what you need most.

• Technology-free. Step away from the phone, the tablet and the laptop.
• Journal an intention for your retreat day. How do you want to feel? What will you do to make it part of a practice?
• What fuels you? Try a new tea or herb-infused drink. Use essential oils to create a relaxing atmosphere.
• Take time to meditate, journal or read past journals for insights to issues that are on your mind.
• Create a way to acknowledge things you are grateful for.
• Take a yoga class or find a good yoga video that you can do at home. Getting in touch with your breath and stretching is grounding and is wonderful for eliminating stress.
• Do you need some time in nature? If your regular schedule keeps you indoors most days, then quiet time outside can be extremely restorative.
• Plan your meals ahead of time, or order something to be delivered. Maybe it’s time to try a new smoothie or a juice cleanse for part of your retreat time.
• Give yourself the space you need for this day. Taking a nap or sleeping in or allowing yourself to do nothing is okay. No guilt or need to explain.

We know that self-care is important. You have no doubt heard me talk about it more than once! But we still don’t realize that it’s not just ourselves who benefit from taking time to renew. It impacts everyone we know.

You can’t serve others from an empty cup. I heard that years ago, and it’s stayed with me because it’s so true. Fill yourself up so you can continue to be a blessing to others with a cup that runneth over.