As a taurus and a homebody who has spent literally thousands of hours working on beautifying my house and land, it can sometimes be hard for me to leave these comforts. I’ve got the food I like, my family, my animals, my gardens, my guitars, my books . . . it’s nice here. 

And it’s a double-edged sword. In some ways, having everything accessible and to my liking is very supportive: I stick to my meditation routine, I eat well, I am uplifted by my loving companions and beautiful habitat, etc. In other ways, it can hold me back. Being surrounded by my favorite things means it’s easy to get distracted. Living in an environment that’s relatively unchanging can sometimes make it more difficult for me to make changes and get a fresh perspective. Housemates who are invested in my being a certain way can unintentionally impair my evolution.

For these reasons, it can be useful to leave our usual environment when we want clarity, healing, and growth. The departure aspect is a major factor in why retreats are often more life-changing than, say, reading a book or taking a class online. 

First, we make the choice to step out of our comfort zone. This alone – telling oneself in essence, “I’m willing to be uncomfortable in service of my highest good” – is a powerful act. In doing so, we also consciously or subconsciously set an expectation of what we’re going to get out of this retreat. (I recommend making this expectation – and the whole process – a conscious ritual.)

Next, we travel. Whether it’s a short distance or long, traveling is an important part of preparing ourselves for change. Even if it’s just a matter of walking 50 steps to the “she shed” behind your house, be purposeful about it. The outward journey is part of our inner journey – especially when we consciously intend it to be. 

When we arrive at the retreat location, there may be excitement, relief, unease, and a variety of other feelings. Feel it all; don’t fight it. Remember why you’re carving out this space for yourself. 

For a very earthy person like me, just being away from home can sometimes cause me to feel unsettled or gloomy. I’ve found some useful ways to deal with this, such as: 

• Meditating with an intention of greeting the spirit of the retreat location. I get a feel for the presence of the place, ask for permission to be there, and request support to have a good experience.

• Establishing a sense of home where I’m staying by putting out a few things I’ve brought (a picture of my family, a candle, a flower, a meditation cushion, etc.) 

• Breathing deeply and connecting with the Oneness (or whatever word you prefer) that is with me wherever I go. 

Then the retreat begins. It could be just you in a tent or cabin in the woods. It could be a gathering for mutual support in silent meditation. It could be a structured event meant to teach you something, or to hold space for you to know yourself more deeply, or to support you to make a change. Whatever shape it takes, it’s important not to expect the retreat itself to produce the result you’re looking for. Throughout, remind yourself, “I get to choose my experience and level of participation.” Dive in. 

If you’ve completed the Dragontree Coaching Program, a wonderful opportunity for retreat is our upcoming Illuminator Training. There’s experiential learning, group- and self-exploration, deepening into the concepts you’ve studied, and, of course, being out of your usual environment so you can more readily open yourself to growth. Every one of our Illuminator retreats has been an unforgettable bonding experience for me and Briana with our incredible participants. We look forward to seeing you there!

Be well,

Peter