Have you ever considered taking a retreat instead of a vacation? While on the surface they seem similar, retreats are organized trips focused on a specific topic, like relationships, yoga, or wellness. 

They offer you a chance to learn something new during your time off while also being relaxing and rejuvenating. Here are our top 6 reasons to go on a retreat.

#1: They’re More Restful than a Vacation

Let’s face it—planning a vacation isn’t fun. No matter how much prep work you do ahead of time, you still spend some of your precious time off arguing over where to go to dinner or trying to find parking.

When you go on a retreat, everything is planned for you. It’s a little like summer camp when you were a kid—activities, meals, and accommodations are all scheduled in advance. All you have to do is get there, and then you don’t have to make another decision for the rest of your trip. 

#2: You Gain Long-Term Benefits

Vacations can certainly boost your mood for a week or two, but once they’re over, life quickly returns to normal. Because retreats help you learn something new, they provide a more lasting impact than a vacation. 

Not only do you get those full nights of sleep you’ve been needing (like on any vacation), but you also gain a new skill or self perception.

#3: You Have a Reason to Disconnect

Not all retreats require you to give up your phone or computer for a week, but some do. While at first this may seem impossible, you might find a forced break from technology to be surprisingly beneficial.

Increasing evidence points to smartphones as negatively impacting sleep, creativity, and even our lifespan. A week away can work wonders for your mental health!

#4: You Invest in Yourself

Many of us invest in ourselves by taking continuing education classes or exercising regularly. While investing in yourself professionally or physically is certainly important, we often neglect to invest in our personal development.

Retreats can help you improve your relationship, learn new strategies for self care, or meditate on your life’s purpose. Think about it: you’re going to be in your body much longer than you’re going to be in your career path. Isn’t investing in your own mental health worth it?

#5: You Connect with Others on a Deeper Level

Whether you’re traveling alone or in a group, a change of scenery gives you a unique opportunity to meet new, like-minded individuals. There’s no better way to meet new potential friends than at a retreat. After all, you already have something in common—the topic of the retreat!

#6: They’re Good for Your Mental and Physical Health

A lot of us treat vacations like our time to “let loose.” We drink more, eat unhealthy food, and take a step back from our exercise routines. While this feels good in the moment, after the vacation’s over, we’re left feeling bloated, sluggish, and out of shape. 

Retreats are designed differently—they’re often characterized by healthy food and mental and physical stimulation. Going on a retreat helps you avoid the “vacation hangover” which so often counteracts the benefits of taking a vacation in the first place.

Next time you’re booking a hotel for yet another beach vacation, consider trying out a retreat instead. You’ll be surprised how worthwhile it can be to invest in your wellbeing