Retreats, you see them more and more often. But what exactly is it and what do you actually do there? Maybe you have a certain image of a group that is completely silent for a few days, or maybe it seems a bit blurry. I’d love to tell you all about it!
What is a (yoga) retreat?
The literal meaning of retreat is ‘withdrawing from yourself’. During a retreat you take time for yourself and step out of all the roles you assume in daily life. Just press the pause button to feel how you are really doing. You no longer have distractions to hide behind. You create space and time to feel and be sincere and honest with yourself.
What do you do during a yoga retreat?
During a yoga retreat there are various yoga classes on the program. In addition, there is room for meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), workshops and free time to do what you feel like. The food is provided and you don’t have to worry about anything else. It is often possible to book a massage, a 1-on-1 session or an energetic treatment. Sometimes there are also group activities on the program. You can think of (cocoa) ceremonies, ecstatic dance and a walk in nature. You can choose which activities you want to participate in. Above all, feel free to do what you need. Withdrawing yourself into your own bubble or being in contact with others.
What does a retreat lead to?
Unknowingly we are overloaded with stimuli and thoughts every day. By stepping into a different environment you become aware of your behaviors, patterns and beliefs. Because you take more moments of rest, there is more room to notice your body’s signals and to be in touch with yourself again. You may suddenly notice that you are tired or that you do certain things because they are expected of you. You can receive new insights and get answers to questions that you have been walking around with for a while. You relax, you feel relaxed and you gain new energy. You often gain new knowledge and experience and you are given tools that you can use in your daily life to experience more and more happiness in life.
How do you know which retreat is right for you?
Everyone has their own needs and experiences. That is why it is important that you feel for yourself which yoga retreat suits you. How long do you want to go away? A day, a weekend or a week? Do you want to stay in the Netherlands or go abroad? Do you want to get started with a specific theme? Check out the place, the program and the organizers and feel if this feels right for you. If you are going to a yoga retreat alone for the first time, this can be very exciting. Know that you are always in a safe group of like-minded people and that you are not alone. The most important thing is that you are having fun and that you feel comfortable.
