Why We Retreat—and How to Bring the Benefits Home
There’s something deeply nourishing about stepping away from the noise of everyday life. I was recently blessed to work with Avid Retreats at the breathtaking Casa Fuzetta in Portugal ~ a space designed for rest, healing, and reconnection. Surrounded by sunshine, calm, and the most incredible group of souls, it reminded me just how powerful it is to retreat.
But let’s be honest ~ most of us don’t get to press pause and fly to Portugal every week.
That’s why I believe so strongly in weaving small rituals into daily life that help us retreat in spirit, even when we can’t retreat in location.
What Is a Retreat, Really?
At its heart, a retreat is about stepping away from routine to step back into yourself. It’s about slowing down, tuning in, and giving your mind, body, and soul a moment to catch up with each other. Whether it’s for a weekend or just ten minutes a day, the benefits are the same: clarity, calm, and a deeper connection to your wellbeing.
Why It Matters
In the stillness of retreat, your nervous system can reset. You sleep better. You breathe more deeply. You begin to hear your own thoughts again, without the constant hum of to-do lists or phone notifications. That’s not just nice ~ it’s vital.
Daily Rituals That Bring Retreat Energy Home
You don’t need white robes or a mountain view. These simple, nourishing rituals can create little “retreat moments” in your everyday life:
1. Morning Stillness
Before the world wakes up, make a cup of something warm and sit quietly. No phone. Just you and your breath. Even five minutes of stillness can set the tone for the whole day.
2. Skin as Sanctuary
Treat your skincare routine as a moment of mindfulness. Massaging your face with a botanical balm or oil can be a form of loving self-touch, not just maintenance.
3. Digital Detox Hour
Choose one hour each evening with no screens. Read, journal, walk, bathe ~ anything that doesn’t involve a scroll. It’s amazing how restorative this can be.
4. Breathe With Intention
Close your eyes and inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four. Repeat a few times. This simple breath pattern calms your nervous system in under two minutes.
5. Scent as a Shortcut
Essential oils or botanical mists can anchor you to the present. A spritz on your pillow or a dab on your wrists can instantly shift your state. Lavender is one of the few essential oils which can be used neat and makes for a great emotional rebalance.
You Deserve a Moment
Whether you're standing barefoot in Portugal or barefoot in your kitchen, the power of a retreat is really the same: to feel more like yourself again. And that’s something we can all choose to make space for ~ every single day.