One Woman Retreat - At Peace with Self

By Mark Dubler
Executive Director, Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center

Ask any women’s retreat attendee what she liked most from her retreat. She will most likely answer that she enjoyed her time alone in meditation. This answer seems to be what a woman on retreat desires: solitude and spiritual refreshment. Unfortunately most every woman waits to be invited to a group retreat. Very few women will schedule the time for taking a personal, one woman retreat. Though it takes effort and determination to set aside time for this kind of get-away, it is well worth the effort.

A woman must meet the needs of so many others in her life. Quite often she carries the burden of managing the home and children. Many women also work full time or part time outside of the home. The emotional pressure can escalate and cause women to feel anxious and even depressed. However, if a woman retreats to a quiet, peaceful setting, she can take some time to unwind and rejuvenate in body, soul, and spirit.

A one woman retreat can be very simple. Because no one else is involved, she has full control in choosing the place, the time, and the atmosphere or mood. Each woman retreat is as individual as she is. Perhaps the woman retreats to a hotel room with room service. Another option is a cozy bed and breakfast. Still one other option is finding a retreat center that allows single rooms or cottages to be rented by the day.

What does a woman do on a one woman retreat? While one woman may choose to bring books to sit and read, another may choose to bring hiking gear to wander the grounds. The most important aspect to consider in determining the activity she will do is this: Does the activity enhance her feeling of rest and rejuvenation?

The most difficult part of planning a one woman retreat is self scheduling it. The second most difficult part is committing to keeping the date and actually taking the retreat. It is recommended that a woman retreats at least twice a year, no matter the place or time or activity. A retreat is simply essential to a woman’s well-being.

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Mark Dubler is the Executive Director of Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center and a Woman Retreat expert. Check out our great discounts for first-time groups at Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center.