5 Reasons to Take That Yoga Retreat, Weekend Intensive, or Workshop You’ve Been Eyeing

The purpose of a yoga retreat, workshop, or intensive is to allow yogis to deepen their practice without the pull of everyday distractions and responsibilities. Retreats give participants an experience of connecting to something bigger than themselves and building community. Here are five reasons why a yoga retreat could be just the refresher you need!

1) Release Distraction

A retreat can be so effective at creating personal transformation because it provides relief from the distractions of normal life, especially phones and laptops. By stepping away from these things, as often happens when on retreats or even weekend workshops and intensives, we get the opportunity to be more mindful and present. We are able to gain perspective, release what is no longer serving us in our lives, and move in the direction of our deepest desires.

2) Learn Something New

Most retreats and workshops are immersive, providing the best opportunity to learn in big leaps and bounds instead of the smaller portions we get from drop-in classes. Some intensives focus more on the body, others on the mind, and others on spirituality. No matter what specific teacher or yoga lineage you pick, you’re sure to deepen your understanding of that practice while on a retreat.

3) Build Community and Make New Connections

Some retreats are just a handful of people, while others are dozens or more. Either way, the people there are going to share some of your most precious values making for a great opportunity to create lasting connections. You get to witness their growth and they get to witness yours – all in a space of non-judgmental, open-heartedness, while having some very memorable experiences together.

4) Surround Yourself with Beauty

Though traditionally retreats were set at humble monasteries and ashrams, today’s settings can range from a tropical beach, mountain cabin, or simply your local studio. Experiences in nature are healing for the mind, body, and spirit. They can relieve stress and remind us that the true nature of the universe and ourselves is pure bliss.

5) Retreats May Help You Return Home with a Daily Self-Practice

Many of us, even seasoned yogis, struggle to incorporate yoga and meditation into our daily lives. On retreat, we are able to cultivate practices we can take home. Yoga retreats generally offer one to two yoga asana classes a day plus meditation, journaling, healthy eating and other spiritual practices. The routines we learn on retreat can create the foundation for a home practice. And, even if the price tag may seem like a big investment at the time, the teachings keep paying off even after you’ve returned home.