For some time, I have been thinking about going on a retreat for myself. I hadn’t been on one since my yoga teacher training program when we went to Bali for a week. At that time, I didn’t love the retreat experience, but was very glad I had done it.
Since arriving in Italy, I’ve made some amazing friends yet not quite felt fully integrated with them on an intellectual and spiritual level. Thankfully, I’m starting to get to know my weekly yoga classmates more , but these things take time. Also, occasionally, I look at emails received about retreats in the area or see them posted on acquaintances’ social media. However, I struggle to justify paying over a grand – either USD or Euros – for something I’m not sure I will enjoy or with people I don’t know I will like, especially if I could spend that money going on holiday with M or even a personal retreat to somewhere.
So, it was the Universe’s answer to my inquiry on something more reasonable as well as if I can make some like-minded friends on a deeper level, when I received a random email about a yoga writing retreat to be held within 1.5 hours away from home.
Although I was a bit nervous about it, I went with an open mind and heart.
Having returned, I can’t believe how fast the three days went by and how relaxed I felt amongst total strangers. We all came from different places in life, but were united in our interest in yoga and writing.
I’m very proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone, opening up with my writing, and listening to my heart. Through this experience, I have more confidence in my writing ability and feel more motivated to do what I love most – write stories and poetry!
If you’re ever unsure about doing something like this, let me know because I’ll convince you to go for it!
Here’s a poem I wrote for our closing circle:
Before I came, I admit this retreat idea was terrifying
As an introvert, life outside my head is mystifying
However, of like-minded friends l am in need
So, with trust in the Universe, I followed her lead
What could be better than a combination
of yoga, writing and fellow female inspiration?
To Elizabeth with gratitude
Thank you for your beautiful attitude
Toward the forming of our words
And the open spirit of letting us be heard.
To Amity with grace
Namaste for creating a sacred yoga space
For stretching our bodies and minds,
But, dang all those binds!
And Ria, whose next move stands on the brink
I see you in shades of sweet pink
Oh lady in orange, Lauren
A word I’d never use for you is “borin'”
For Eva, there are shades of green
In heart and spirit, we understand even if not knowing what all our words mean
Not just your hair, but red for Mariella
As grounded and sweet, Che bella!
Let’s not forget Martin
After all that delicious food, a diet I have to now be startinโ
So with a warm heart
Iโm sad we will soon be apart
But I wonโt be a sap,
Thank goodness for WhatsApp!
~T ๐ฅ๐โ๏ธ
