New to Retreats?

If you've never been on a retreat, you may be wondering what distinguishes a retreat from a day off or a vacation. Reasons for going on a retreat vary. The focus of each women's retreat is up to her. It is a time to dream, slow down, unwind, be nurtured,  to incubate, reconnect to your spirit and purpose. It's a time to share stories and wisdom...and to LAUGH! Jennifer Louden, author of The Women's Retreat Book, writes:

A women's retreat is about stepping out of your ordinary existence to listen and attune     to your truest, most authentic self. It is about being self-referenced to become restored. It is about trusting what you experience as sacred without the need for external sanction. It is setting apart time to tend to the hearth of your inner life, feed your muse, reclaim your dreams.

One of the first things I encourage participants to do is to set an intention. Setting an intention starts the process of slowing down and turning inward that is crucial to retreating.  It is a way to focus and give meaning to experience. I encourage you to keep it simple. Louden writes, "Articulate your inarticulate longing. Listen to your inner knowing. There is absolute magic in naming what you wish to find. Things begin to fall into place, helpers appear, insights shoot down from the night sky."

To set your intention, complete the following statement.

On this retreat, I intend to ask myself…

Examples of  Intentions

What do I need to do next in the area of spiritual growth?

Is this the right relationship for me?

How can I recharge my creativity?

How can I heal from exhaustion?

How can I listen to and honor my own inner wisdom?

How can I love myself more?

Is this the right place for me to live?

How can I create more health and balance in my life?

How can I let go of this relationship?

How can I stop over committing to everyone but me?

Should I commit to this relationship?

What career options would give me joy?

How can I be more me as well as a good mother?

Some intentions may require more than one retreat. Remain open to the mystery, breathe slowly and listen. Let the journey begin...