Several years ago I went on my first solo spa/yoga retreat to Mii Amo in Sedona, Arizona. The experience had a profound affect on me. Connecting with nature, healthy cuisine, yoga at the base of the red rocks, spa treatments like no others, time alone to get centered in a majestic environment was incredibly healing and I’m due to return.
So much has changed since my first visit; the end of a ten+ year relationship, becoming an empty nester and a blank page to begin the next chapter of my life.
Is this something I can afford right now? No. With two college tuitions, a reduction in support from my ex, mounting bills, etc. But having been there and knowing how therapeutic the experience was, I know the end result is worth it.
So now it’s just a matter of booking it, getting it on my calendar, and taking care of my soul. 7 months ago
Greysen
completed this goal
How I did it: I heard about the Vipassana center from another 43Things-er. When I went to the website I found a lot of options as far as the locations were concerned. I selected the Dhamma Siri Center, in Texas.
Once I filled out the application it was only a matter of days before I recieved an acceptance letter and detailed instructions on the code of discipline, what I needed to bring, and directions to the center. It was all very well organized.
The Center was a wonderful facility and the meals, while vegetarian (I'm not) were delicious. There were about 70 people at the retreat, a pretty even split between men and women, of all ages and experience levels. It was a good decision going in the spring while the grounds were in full bloom, the songbirds were courting, and the weather was gorgeous.
The course was probably one of the most physically and mentally challenging things I've done. I know you're probably thinking "How is sitting around all day meditating a challenge?" but trust me, it was. Without any outside distraction for 10 days, working the whole time in "Noble Silence", you learn a lot about yourself - sometimes more than you wanted to know.
Overall, it was an incredible experience. It helped me deal with my own issues and develop more kindness and compassion toward myself as well as my fellow human beings. I recommend this retreat for anyone and everyone. Read how I did it… 4 years ago
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I would like to take part in a spiritual retreat before I graduate. I will look into the different events that are taking place during the fall of this year. 20 months ago
There is a retreat on Saturday may 21st – a budhhist meditation 1 day retreat. I think it is in Schofields in Western Sydney. It is run by the santi Forest Monastery. Only a few dollars to go.
www.santifm.org 2 years ago
