Have you been dreaming of taking the trip of a lifetime on a Yoga and Meditation Retreat? If so, you may be wondering exactly what this type of journey is and why it is so important.

The word retreat comes from the Latin verb to pull back.  In our case, a retreat is a place where we allow ourselves to be totally removed from the distractions of daily life as we venture on our own personal spiritual journey to better overall health and well-being.

Here are our Top 5 Most Important Benefits of a Yoga and Meditation Retreat:

1. Pull the Energy Back

When you let go of the responsibilities of your regular busy life, you will naturally redirect your energy inwards, which would have otherwise been scattered in too many other directions. As you gather your strength back, you can then refocus your energy on your passions in life. From this place, you will find a new sense of creativity, inspiration, and a fresh perspective!

2. Listen

We are used to being surrounded by constant noise: the phone, TV, traffic, and co-workers.  On a retreat we immerse ourselves in peace and stillness. When you are surrounded by nothing but the subtle sounds of nature, you may finally listen to that quiet inside of your own heart. What will it tell you?

3. Detox

On a retreat you may sleep better and dream more vividly than you have in years. Everyone deserves the chance to unload and clean out their mental desktop. Your mind will thank you for being clearer, refreshed, and more present. This new perspective can guide you to finally make those positive changes in your life that you may have been putting off.

4. Remember Who You Are

Society commands you to be the mother, father, sister, wife, husband, friend, co-worker, etc. A retreat is one of the best places to be reminded of this one simple truth: we are human beings, not human doings.  On a retreat you have permission to drop all the roles. You can return to just being…YOU!

5. Establish a Routine/Practice

Have you ever struggled with trying to find the best way to develop a daily self-care routine or a personal yoga practice? On your retreat, you’ll get the chance to establish a fresh start on your healthy routine. Once your mind is clear, it’s easier to soak up the inspiration from the environment and learn from others who are on the retreat with you. When you go back home you will be more likely to continue your routine and re-establish your life in a new way.

These are just a few of the reasons why we love retreats! In addition to reaping all the above benefits, you will also create more space in your life and meet wonderful like-minded people with similar interests. You will leave feeling fitter, rested, happier, clearer, and soon realize that the end of your retreat is really just the beginning of a whole new chapter in your life.

Have you experienced a significant positive change in your life after returning from a yoga retreat? If so, please share your experience in the comments section below!