OMmygod

This piece is so spot-on. I went on a yoga/cooking retreat up at Good Commons in VT in the fall. I was so nervous to go by myself. I’m an introvert with a moderate case of social anxiety. Also, I was a yoga n00b, and worried I wouldn’t be able to keep up with everyone else.

I’m so glad I went. Being there was such a good experience. So much fun. I learned a lot, including the fact that I have a lot to be grateful for. That’s my intention so much of the time now: to live with gratitude. When I find myself forgetting, I think back to my retreat. Check it:

shmeghan:

By Silvia Mordini

Traveling on your own is a great way to get to know yourself better. Often, so much of our time is spent taking care of other people and looking after their needs that our needs are lost. Combine this with the near constant distraction of listening to the others’ opinions on how we are living our lives and it’s no wonder we get confused about what we want. If we don’t make time for self-reflection, then we can easily sleep-walk through life. 

Therefore, going on retreat by yourself is the yogic antidote.Yoga is the deliberate study of the self, using the self. That’s the beauty of “svadhyaya” (self-study and inquiry). We learn that what we say to ourselves creates our reality. And how we relate to our thoughts become our actions. The more positive your relationship with yourself, the more positive your outlook on life. In other words, self-reflection naturally leads to healthy self-expression. 

Here are 5 Reasons to go solo on a yoga retreat: 

1. To create sacred space for yourself
2. To take a time-out from daily responsibilities
3. To make new friends
4. To gain a fresh perspective
5. To get to know yourself better

As a solo traveller other things you should know: 

Will you be the only one going on retreat alone?

Many people choose to go on retreat solo, either because they have experienced the benefits of doing so in the past or because they are branching out for the first time. Your lodging is up to you: either opt for a single room for more privacy, or choose to be paired in a double room.

What are other solo travelers like?

Typically they range in age between 25-55. And they are most often travelling by themselves for the first time.  They are excited about yoga and open-minded.

We all need a solo break now and again. Going on a yoga retreat is one of the best ways to achieve that.