Taking time for ourselves, to fill up our own love tank, isn’t always easy. In fact, it’s often really hard. It’s a little like savasana; it feels so good and we really want to fully let go, but there is a tiny niggling part of us that feels guilty, that is thinking of all the things we need to be doing, the things we should be doing, rather than just surrendering to the beauty of the moment. Yet the truth is, we need these moments of self-care and indulgence to truly be able to give to others and to show up in our lives. To be the best person we can be for those around us, we need to take care of and nourish ourselves.
A retreat is indeed something you are entirely worthy and deserving of. Going on retreat every year is one of my non negotiables when it comes to my own health and wellbeing. Below are five more reasons why I believe a retreat is one gift you can offer yourself that will surely keep on giving…
Unwind, De-Stress and Let Go
Did you know that 8 in 10 adults admit to feeling stress on a daily basis? A little adrenaline is actually good for you, but living on it 24/7 can lead to serious health implications. Many people find it challenging to find proper down time, yet in a yoga retreat you have absolute permission to simply chill out and do what feels most nurturing for you. Our retreat offers a schedule of classes, lectures and optional activities, but there is also plenty of what I like to call ‘cocoon time,’ where guests can read, relax, enjoy massages or spa treatments, relax by the pool or take a nap. Leave your laptop at home and switch off your mobile (shock horror!), and accept that the world will run quite smoothly without you for several days. You will be amazed at what a few days of deep self-care can do for you (and your adrenals!).
Experience Somewhere New
Travel is so good for our soul and special things happen when we immerse ourselves in a fascinating new land and culture. The best thing about venturing to Bali for a retreat is that the distance and the foreign surroundings really allow you to switch off. All of your senses are experiencing the world anew; what you see, taste, hear, smell and touch. The world that surrounds you is exciting and being drawn out of your everyday surroundings and routines means that your brain begins to rewire itself; we think differently, we dream differently, we can see things in a new light. In a new environment we are more likely to challenge ourselves and to try new things. Bali has so many gifts to offer and you are guaranteed to take a little piece of this island home in your heart.
Journey Deeper Within Yourself
We have many relationships in this lifetime- we are mothers, husbands, sisters, brothers, nephews, aunties, friends, step-parents and more. With all of these external relationships, how much time do we really invest the one relationship that lasts our whole lifetime- the one with our self? Stepping away from the people in our lives that define us allows us to listen to that deeper voice within. See what happens when you exist on your own terms for a little while! See what happens when you nurture your deepest needs and allow your yoga practice to shine a light on new aspects of yourself that may have been hidden. Yoga is a brilliant catalyst for change and self-discovery. A retreat can reawaken your deepest passions and goals and guide you back to the path you really know is yours to walk along.
The Physical Side Of Things
A retreat offers great emotional and spiritual benefits. But let’s face it- a yoga retreat also offers wonderful physical benefits too. If you’re feeling a little sluggish, a retreat can be the perfect wake-up call! Experience the joy of moving through two daily yoga practices surrounded by nature. Feel the lightness that comes with enjoying healthy food, fresh clean air and guided movement. Enjoy a massage or a facial, get a good dose of Vitamin D and allow meditation to fill your body with invigorating breath. Learn the poses and modifications that work best for you in your practice, and gain valuable knowledge that you can take home with you and imbue in your daily life.
Filling Up Your Love Tank
Remember this- the more we give to ourselves, the more we can give to others. When you fill your own cup, you have plenty to share. When you run on empty, you have little to offer and everything feels overwhelming. By taking time to fully rejuvenate and restore your mind, body and soul, you will be astounded at how much more energy you have for everything else in your life. A yoga retreat is often the little push you may need to do something that is long overdue. It is also the perfect way to set new goals and intentions and take the first steps towards manifesting the life you dream of living. Above all, a yoga retreat allows you to gain perspective on what truly matters in your life. Chances are, a retreat will open your eyes to your true calling.
I could probably offer you at least another dozen reasons why joining us in Bali this May could just be the best thing that you can do for yourself! But the next step is in your hands. Only you hold the power to make it happen. If you hear the call, say YES! Yes to life, to self-care, to adventure and to transformation. Yes to magic, yes to bliss, yes to you.
