Time to Retreat

I love the fall season for so many reasons, but mainly because my partner and I get to retreat! For many years in October we have attended Texas Yoga Retreat just outside of Austin. It’s got to be the best regional yoga retreat with small class sizes all taking place in an actual Hindu ashram. But you don’t have to go away to retreat; you can retreat right where you are. Here’s how:

Slow down, my friend. Yes, life seems to be speeding up due to the increasing use of technology. Yes, we are heading back into the school year and sliding into the holidays. But here’s the thing: We each have to make the decision to live our own lives with confidence and courage. Do we really want to be sheep who do what we’re told by the media and advertisers according to the demands of the calendar? Look at your own calendar this week and choose one thing to remove. Don’t you feel better already?

Take a day to be quiet (by yourself, if you can swing it). Turn off all the technology. Put away the computer, the television and the phone. Commune with nature, read inspiring books, write in a journal, make art, sing songs, dance and play. Take a nap! You’ll get more in touch with yourself which is the most important relationship you’ll ever have in life.

Be kind to yourself. This is a wonderful opportunity to cook yourself healthy, nurturing fall foods, like soup, stew or casserole. Massage your body with grounding sesame oil. Mix up an enticing essential oil blend. Wear clean, soft, comfy clothes. Practice restorative yoga, yin yoga or yoga nidra. Not only will you feel great, you’ll give a boost to your immune system which may just prevent illness this fall.

Finally, reflect on these powerful words from the poet Rumi:

Don’t go off sightseeing.
The real journey is right here.
The great excursion starts from exactly where you are.
You are the world.
You have everything you need.
You are the secret.
You are the wide opened.
Don’t look for the remedy for your troubles outside yourself.
You are the medicine.
You are the cure for your own sorrow.
-Rumi