Vacations are supposed to be about the three ‘R’s’: rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation, but a lot of the time they are anything but. We start our vacations with the stress of packing, getting to the airport and waiting at security. The bulk of the holiday is spent managing our itinerary in order to make sure we fit in everything we want to, and we end the trip with a mad dash to the airport to get home. This is hardly relaxing, so it isn’t surprising that a lot of us come back from vacation more frazzled than we were when we left.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. Going on a retreat, rather than a vacation is one way to ensure that you have a relaxing, restful, rejuvenating time with no interruptions. 

Here are just some of the things that make retreats better than vacations:

Retreats are Beneficial in the Long Term

A very good vacation may, if you’re lucky, give you the three ‘R’s’ and leave you feeling calm and happy for a short while, but retreats, whether they are spiritual, physical or relaxation-based, will give you the tools you need to manage your stress levels indefinitely, as well as giving you a couple of weeks breathing space from your problems while you’re there.

Everything’s Organized for You

When you go on a retreat, everything you need will be provided for you from the food you eat to the activities you participate in. Of course, you will usually have some free time to use as you please too, but for the most part, you won’t have to worry about finding things to do, making an itinerary or getting something to eat.

Get in Tune with Nature

Retreats are almost always held in solitary locations in the heart of nature. Not only does this mean that you can enjoy spectacular views, but it also enables you to relax in solitude, commune with nature, in some of the best camping tents, cabins and yurts which are known to help relax and heal humans, and rejuvenate your body and spirit ready to start anew when you return home. Science has proven that spending time in nature can relieve stress, anxiety and depression, so if you’re suffering from any of those, a retreat in nature is a real must!

Meet Like-Minded Individuals

Because retreats are organized around a specific activity, such as Yoga or meditation, you can guarantee that the people you meet there will share some of your interests. This is great because being surrounded by people with similar goals and aspirations will spur you on to be the best you can be. It’ll also ensure there’s never a dull moment and you always have someone to do something with, should you want some company.

You Can Get Professional Advice

Retreats are run by experts in their field, so if you want to know how to improve your oil painting technique, going on an artist’s retreat in the South of France will help you immensely, as well going on a Yoga retreat in India if you want to perfect your downward dog.

So, when you next have some vacation time, why not get away from it all by going on a retreat aimed at relieving stress and indulging your hobbies? Your life is sure to improve as a result.