Artwork by Emmy White
Artwork by Emmy White

What does it mean to consciously retreat? For me, it means consciously unplugging from all of the noise, chatter, distractions and demands of my daily life. It means creating a quiet space where I can listen to my inner wisdom, sink into the silence and reconnect to my soul. At the beginning of this year I set an intention to go on a quarterly retreat. When I retreat there are some essential ingredients that I need to make my retreat meaningful: my journal, a colorful pen, candle, soothing cup of tea, blanket, book of poems, inspirational books, crayons and markers.

My retreats are always at least an hour and sometimes as long as 3-4 hours. There are no rules since it’s my personal retreat. I usually retreat in my living room. It’s important to me to choose a space that feels nurturing and comfortable. Typically, I have a theme for my retreat and I set an intention and write it in my journal. It can be anything from forgiveness, compassion, creativity, courage, willingness, faith, abundance, usually a topic that is calling to me in the moment. When I retreat I make a conscious decision to turn off my phone and computer. This is my time to reflect, meditate, read, write, draw, listen to my intuition. It’s my time to reconnect to my spirit, experience the benefits of silence and simply be with myself.

Consciously retreating allows me to connect with my authenticity, my inner wisdom, my voice, my creativity. It enables me to nurture and care for myself. It provides a space to reconnect to all that is most precious and valuable to me. What about you? How can you consciously retreat today, this week or this month?

Consciously Retreating
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4 thoughts on “Consciously Retreating

  • May 7, 2014 at 2:44 pm
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    Conscious retreating–such an important key to a healthy life! This is something I, too coach others on. Your description is like medicine to the wound up souls that don’t have the first clue how to let go and just breathe. My retreats often involve taking a walk somewhere outdoors, but often, I can find that pristine spot if I close my eyes while sitting in my office. Love how you’ve described yours. Really beautiful, Nancy.

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    • May 7, 2014 at 5:32 pm
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      Patty, thanks for your kind words. I, too often retreat in nature.

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  • May 7, 2014 at 9:54 am
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    Ooooohhhh… this is such a VITAL practice, Nancy! I love that your retreats are ‘no rules’ and you set your intention and them your retreat around a topic, or two… 🙂 There is such reward in retreating from the rest of the world to get in touch with your self. Much love to you! 🙂 ♥

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    • May 7, 2014 at 12:32 pm
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      Thanks for your thoughtful comments Jean! Next retreat is Mother’s Day, at least in the morning & then I’ll see what else shows up:)

      Reply

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