How many times have you felt like you needed a vacation — right after your vacation?
We get away from our day-to-day busy lives by travelling to warmer climates, indulging in rich foods, having late nights with friends and drinking lots of booze.
Days are filled with fun activities and there is a lot of fun had by all, worries are left behind and everything feels great.
Until, for some, the return home to what is referred to as “the real world.”
Feeling tired when back at work, and having stresses that seem to be worse than when you left them is not so fun.
This, of course, is not the case for everyone but if this is something you have been experiencing after your holidays, it may be time for you to make your next vacation destination a true rejuvenating experience.
One where you actually return with a refreshed perspective, a clearer mind and increased energy.
It may just be time for you to experience a retreat.
There are a variety available in many parts of the world, from Hawaii to Bali, to Europe to the South Africa, or even some a little closer to home — all offering services that range from massages, yoga, cleanses, and meditation and food that is typically vegetarian, vegan or raw, helping your body truly rejuvenate.
Then there’s usually a touch of nature involved. Reconnecting with the elements by surfing in the ocean, hiking through the jungle or just camping under the stars can be truly revitalizing.
It helps give us some perspective on the bigger picture in life — what is it that you truly want and how are you going to get it?
Whether you’ve been struggling with eating habits or just not feeling your best, going through some life changing experience or looking for clarity for your next move in life a weekend or week-long getaway at a retreat centre may be exactly what you need.
Some of the benefits you could gain include the following:
l A rejuvenated/cleansed body.
l De-stress from life’s circumstances.
l Increased energy and vitality.
l Perspective on personal ambitions and goals.
l Clarity on your life’s purpose.
l Inspiration for creative endeavours.
l Newfound insights on business ventures.
Our bodies, minds and hearts all could use a little maintenance from time to time — just like a car needing a bit of a tune up. This is exactly what a retreat can offer.
So don’t wait to start planning. Look into one that suits your needs — and don’t be afraid to try something a little out of your element.
You may be amazed that the results are more than you anticipated.
In fact, you may actually feel the experience to be what I believe is a more accurate representation of “the real world.”
One where we consume fresh local foods that support our health and vitality and live connected with the beauty around us.
So please enjoy. You deserve it.
Kristin Fraser, BSc, is a registered holistic nutritionist and local freelance writer. Her column appears every second Wednesday. She can be reached at kristin_fraser@hotmail.com.