Transformation through retreats

The pace of modern life is relentless. We can shop during the night, search the internet 24/7 and pay our bills on the move. At work many of us are under increasing pressure, and at home economic and relationship pressures continue. Add to this the expectations we have of ourselves to achieve, look good and be super-parents and we have a toxic stressful entanglement of a life. When we come to do things differently, more authentically, there can be considerable resistance. Resistance from all those who expect us to continue regardless and from those who in- vested in the idea that ‘if you don’t change, I don’t need to either’. We also have the temptation of things we do that help us block out our feelings, like alcohol or over-eating, and distractions that keep our focus scattered. As a result, many find it impossible to make any significant changes to their lives and decide to postpone until they are earning more, have more time, the children are older, they meet the right person etc.

Just as we need to pull back the arrow before shooting, one solution to this problem is to retreat. Having recently returned from holding retreats in rural Tenerife, I have been amazed by the transformations made. Participants achieved significant change in just a few days, releasing old patterns and forming new habits. Time away from day-to-day demands meant time to reflect, to reconnect with their true selves and with nature. This highlighted for me our need to relax in order to do deep work. When the part of ourselves that loves control and fears change is dominant, our intuition has little say. We need to loosen up, tune into our flow & create some space to tap into our creative energy so we can play with what is possible and how life could be. This is why there is a long tradition of artistic groups going on retreat together in order to enhance their creativity. The clarity we find without distractions is enhanced by the different perspectives we gain from changing our environment. Taking a step back enables us to see the bigger picture. If you’re feeling a retreat might be good for you, here are some tips:

We are all individuals. The yoga retreat your best friend loved may not be for you. Follow your heart’s desire, even if this means being unsociable.

Be clear whether you’re having a retreat or going on holiday. To get the most from retreating you need focus, support and structure. You can do this yourself, however experienced sensitive facilitators will be able to help guide you to deal with the things you might otherwise avoid. Often when we are away we resolve to do things differently, on our return though, faced with the same pressures we find little has changed.

The retreats we run at Sea Sky Training combine deep transformation, extensive action planning and practice to make sure when you get back you’ll not only feel different, you’ll also have the approach and skills to do life differently. We are now planning our next retreats and would love your input. Please visit us for details – Debbie Reeds, Facilitator – sea-sky.com