Are You Ready for a WILD Retreat?
Two years ago, I hosted my 1st Extreme Self Care Retreat at the Elms in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. I had no idea the defining moments and life-changing events which would start happening at my retreats.
My sorority alumni magazine, The Alpha Phi Quarterly, recently heard about the power of my retreats and reached out to interview me for the Summer edition. Today I’d like to share my interview with you.
What do you think makes “getting away from it all” so life-changing for people?
Getting away from it all is so life changing for people because you see life from a different perspective. Taking time to rest, rest and reflect is very important. So many of us are tethered to our technology. Text, Email, Voicemail, Facebook, Instagram, You name it. How often to you really take time to disconnect and power down?
Many women have the image of being Wonder Woman. Trying to do it all, but rarely taking the much-needed time for themselves to take the best possible care of themselves and think about their life. Taking time to think
Is this the path I really want to be on?
What would my life look like if I did this instead?
What is really important to me?
Getting away from it all allows you to see your life through a different lens.
What makes a “good” life-changing experience? Why is nature so often involved?
I love to be in nature. I enjoy seeing the beauty of a new place. Red rocks, mountains, forests, rolling hills, endless beaches and looking out into the never-ending ocean. Taking a walk on the beach is very nurturing to your soul. Listening to the sound of the ocean. Getting up early to watch the sunrise. Going for a hike. Listening to the sounds of nature. Laying on a blanket and watching the stars.
Take time to power down. Unplug from technology and listen to the sounds of nature is very peaceful and calming. Being in nature also helps to quiet the mind chatter. We have over 80,000 thoughts each day. 80% are the same thoughts we had the day before and 80% of those are negative. What are the things you tell yourself each day? Calming your mind, taking time to listen to your breath helps quiet the mind chatter and helps you to replace the negative thoughts with more nurturing positive thoughts. Taking time to write in your journal. Reflecting on the life you are creating for yourself.
Why would you encourage women to do something like a “WILD” hike?
Giving yourself an experience to push yourself out of your comfort zone can be life changing because you don’t have the security of the familiar to fall back on. Challenging yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually can really impact your life. You can hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Train for & run a marathon. Bike across the state of Iowa during the hottest part of the summer. Go on destination for a wellness retreat. Travel to Europe. What do you need to push yourself out of your comfort zone?
What would you say to women who argue they can’t afford the time or expense of something like this?
First you need to get really clear on how you are spending your money, energy and time. Second, check in with yourself to see how important it is for you to push yourself out of your comfort zone. What shifts or changes do you REALLY want to make in your life? Finally ask yourself on a scale of 1-10, how important is it for you to make this change and have this type of experience? If it is a 9 or a 10, make it happen!
