Modern Day Retreats

How would you describe a retreat?
What does it conjure up in your memory or imagination?

So often when I read the advertised retreats on the internet I wonder why people would choose to go off on retreat where they never stop doing things? Walking, drumming, exercising, hiking or yoga seem to be the favourite activites that attract clients. Of course pictures of sun drenched tropical beaches or yoga on a rock in Crete have a certain pull.

For over 20 years I lived in Greece and was never tempted to retreat on an isolated island. Stressed in an unhappy marriage I was wanting to find a bolt hole where I could find some peace and tranquility to reflect on my life and situation. I searched for years to find some supportive haven but all that I could find was religioius retreats, spiritual classes or the need to rise at dawn to experience yoga and meditation.

I returned to Britain for short periods and snatched time for myself by visiting a counsellor who offered a wonderful thinking space, which sufficed at the time.
Now 10 years on, I have created a modern retreat concept where my clients who do not necessarily know what they want on retreat, can design their own. How often our retreat clients tell us that if they wanted an adventure holiday, they could book one. If their state of angst and burnout could be fixed by a spa retreat, they would throw money at it.
Rest of Your Life offers the chance to " do " as little as possible. We don't arrange walking or hiking trips or encourage our clients to stretch themselves into white water rafting. What we do offer is the chance just to "be."
Now that is a challenge! We all talk about needing peace and quiet or the need to get away but how many of us are confident enough to actually do it?

Our clients all report a certain amount of trepidation but once they arrive at the wonderful venue, meet their retreat coach and know that they will receive private one to one coaching in the hands of very experienced Executive Coaches---- the exploration begins.We offer a list of certain activities which enhance the relaxation and reflection processes; holistic therapies, coaching al fresco, encourage writing, journal keeping or a little time with your hobby. The time slips away and after one day our clients realise that being on retreat needs longer than the two day starter retreat that they are on.

The little worries have gone and the wonder of self discovery opens up fun and laughter, renewed confidence and if they so wish, the chance to practise yoga and meditation, learn new skills and stretch themselves from within.

How would you choose a retreat? What experiences have you had?