Holiday: A change of scenery

Imagine lying on a beach with a cocktail in hand, worries melting away with the sound of the waves. That's the classic holiday picture: a chance to unwind, explore new places, and disconnect from daily pressures.

On holiday you may well relax. You’ll certainly be doing something different from your usual routine. Unless you’ve booked a tour with an itinerary, it’s likely to be unstructured so that you set the pace. Hopefully you return feeling refreshed, with new memories and experiences. 

Retreat: Refocus and transform

Retreats offer a more structured and purposeful experience. They often involve specific activities and workshops designed to address personal growth, health, or a particular skill. A retreat may have a theme, or include expert coaches. 

A retreat is something very personal. Often people choose to come alone to a retreat, with the intention of creating lasting change in their lives. The decision to come to a retreat can take a while - choosing the right one involves finding a location, date and retreat leader that suits you. 

Whilst there may be similarities - most retreats are designed to be relaxing for example - you can expect a retreat to be much more than a holiday. 

• There will be an itinerary which may include activities and free time. How much of the schedule you choose to participate in is up to you. 
• There will be a leader, who may be a coach or therapist. They will ensure that each retreat participant gets the most out of the retreat. They will take care of the timetable, meaning that you can just relax and enjoy being taken care of.
• Activities will be planned to lead people at the retreat towards their goals. 
• There will be great food, and you won’t need to think about what to cook or eat.

• You can expect to leave a retreat feeling refreshed, focused and with a renewed sense of direction, depending on what you came for. You will be armed with new strategies for your well-being. 
• You will undoubtedly make some great connections, and perhaps a new set of friends. 
• There may be ways to stay in touch and maintain your wellbeing and new skills after the retreat has ended

 Which One is Right for You?

• Craving a change of scenery? Choose a Holiday: If your main goal is to unwind and escape the daily grind, a holiday might be the perfect fit. Choose a destination that appeals to you, and plan activities at your own pace.
• Seeking transformation and deep relaxation? Choose a Retreat: If you're looking for personal growth, a chance to learn new skills, or a deeper connection with yourself, a retreat could be ideal. Research retreats that align with your goals, whether it's stress management, moving forward after loss, managing major life changes, or improving creativity. 

The Best of Both Worlds!

There's no hard and fast rule! Some retreats, like the Healthy Minds Devon Wellness Retreat, offer beautiful locations and relaxing activities alongside their workshops, blurring the lines between a holiday and a retreat. 

You can also combine a relaxing holiday with some self-reflection or journaling to create your own mini-retreat experience.

Ultimately, the best escape is the one that leaves you feeling refreshed, reconnected, and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way!

Healthy Minds Devon Wellness Retreat

Sally Potter has been running transformative Solution Focused Retreats for just over 4 years. They take place at the beautiful Dartmoor location of the Cottages at Blackadon Farm. Accommodation is in ensuite rooms with 5* beds, either single occupancy or twin.

The theme of the November retreat will be ‘Moving Forward with Loss and Grief’

It will provide a nurturing space for women to reconnect with their authentic selves, particularly during times of major life transitions such as health changes, relationship shifts, career moves, grief, divorce, or the empty nest phase

The retreat will be co-facilitated by Sally Potter, Emma Skilton and Nickie Aven. 

The November Retreat starts on 21st November 2024 for 4 nights. It includes all accommodation, workshops and meals. Prices start at £650 per person 

You can find out more, book your place and contact Sally via the Devon Wellness Retreats website www.devonwellnessretreats.com

There is a maximum of 12 spaces (10 remaining as of 9/7/24)