How to prepare for a retreat

So, you’ve registered for a retreat (like Rooted), and you’re excited but nervous…how do you prepare?!

It can feel intimidating to prepare for a retreat when you’ve never been, or even if you’ve been on one. Every retreat is different; it can be hard to know what to expect, and when it’s hard to know what to expect, it’s hard to know how to prepare. 

If you’re anything like me, this lack of knowing what to expect can feel intimidating and nerve-wracking and send me into a spiral.

This blog is here to help you know how to prepare for a retreat. We’re going to go over what to bring, what to wear, and how to get ready mentally too.

I’ve hosted and attended my fair share of retreats, and I want you to be excited and confident as you anticipate and prepare for your retreat. 

Start with your mindset.

One of the best ways to prepare for a retreat is to start with your mindset. 

A retreat is an intentional vacation, and it’s an opportunity for you to unwind.

This is going to be good.

The retreat will help you step away from your everyday routine, refresh your mind and body, and help you just be.

When you adjust your mindset, you can recognize that even though you might be stepping out of your comfort zone, this is an opportunity to find freedom in who you are.

If you love to journal, you may find it helpful to write down some of your thoughts and feelings. What are you nervous about? What do you want to get out of this retreat? What do you need to do or bring to feel your most confident self?

Adjusting your mindset may help you feel more confident in moving forward. Your mind can cause mental blocks. If you’ve already registered and you’re getting that gnawing feeling of “was this the right choice?” make sure to ask yourself why you registered and to hold tight to that why.

You’re brave for doing something that feels intimidating. You’re brave for committing to something that will benefit your well-being.

Remind yourself that.

What do I pack for a retreat, and what do I wear?

Every retreat will be different, but it’s going to be helpful to understand the role of the retreat to know what to wear.

For example, if you’re attending a business retreat at a conference center (I use the word retreat lightly here), you probably want to bring business wear.

But, if you’re attending a retreat in the desert at a beautiful all-inclusive location, that has a swimming pool and walking trails, you’re going to want to wear clothes that you’re comfortable in. You’ll want to have a swimsuit, some outfits you feel cute in (especially for the professional photos), something to wear on a desert walk, and something to lounge in.

Floppy hats are recommended but not required.

A wellness retreat is a time where you should feel your best, and we all know that it’s easiest to feel your best when you feel good in what you’re wearing.

The people you’re meeting are going to be similar to you. They’ll also be nervous and excited. You don’t need to worry about wearing the wrong thing or packing the wrong shoes.

Pack what you would bring for a vacation that involves lounging by the pool, walking in the desert, and eating delicious foods.

I recognize that the “what will I wear?” question holds a lot of weight. I recognize that people want to fit in and feel confident.

This is a safe space. Wear what you want to wear, and be mindful of the activities that we intend to do. 

In saying all of that….

One important thing to bring is a journal!

I want you to remember this trip. I want you to enjoy the moments. I also want you to take time to journal about how you’re feeling, what you’re experiencing, and to preserve your memories.

The weekend is going to fly by quickly, and journaling what you’re learning will help you retain more information and be better prepared for routine home.

What shouldn’t I bring?

This question is almost as important as the “what should I bring?” question. 

Do not bring your preconceived judgments of what this weekend will hold.

I recognize that we all come from different places and that our lives are going to impact our views.

I just ask that you come with an open mind.

Be willing to learn about sound healing and meditation. Be open to listening to other people’s stories. Remember that Rooted is a safe place, and if you attend, part of your role is to help facilitate the safe space.

Everyone there wants to feel warmly welcomed and that they’re in an environment where they can thrive. If you’re attending Rooted, I ask that you come with an open mind to listen, observe, and learn.

(Please also leave any illegal items at home. This is a given, but I figure I might as well add it in to be safe 😉 ).

Now what?

I am so excited about this retreat, and I hope that all of the participants are too. This is going to be a wonderful weekend of growing and learning together. 

If you haven’t registered for Rooted and you’re interested in connecting with other women while bringing balance back to your life, then I encourage you to register. If you have any questions, you can visit the FAQ section or reach out to me.

If you’ve already registered for Rooted, then I recommend that you take some time to journal about how you’re feeling about the event. Spend time reflecting on your mindset and how you’re feeling about the retreat, and start searching for the perfect floppy hat (though a floppy hat isn’t required).