Creating Space: Retreats Solo or Shared, Here's How to Begin

Earlier this year, I made a commitment to go on four writing retreats. I kicked things off on Vashon Island, a quiet, short ferry ride from West Seattle. Before I left, I asked my community for advice on solo retreats, as I'd never done one just for myself before. What came back was thoughtful, beautiful, and now tried and true. Here are their suggestions, along with a few of my own learnings along the way.

Solo Retreats: What Helps

• Set your intention. Be clear on why you're going and what you'd like to achieve. Don’t overdo it; keep your goals meaningful and manageable.

• Bring inspiration. A favorite book of poetry, an evening read, a podcast episode saved for just this moment, bring what nourishes you.

• Choose your tools. Whether it's your laptop, a notebook, sticky notes, or a whiteboard, gather the tools that help you think and create.

• Be in nature. This came up again and again. Walk, explore, sit by a window. “Doing nothing” is often where the real work begins.

• Reward yourself. Treats count, or an outdoor café, a great meal, a good movie, or a cozy reading break.

• Allow for spontaneity. Some of the best ideas and moments can’t be scheduled. Let them surprise you.
  

After that first solo retreat was complete, a colleague floated the idea of doing a retreat together, and it got me thinking. What would it be like to retreat with others?

A few years ago, I did something like this - a sort of adult summer camp, equal parts reflection and fun. I left energized and more deeply connected to myself and others.

If you're considering a group retreat, here’s what I recommend:

Retreats with Others: What to Consider

• Know what you're craving. Are you seeking clarity on a creative project? A career pivot? A deeper sense of purpose? Let your need guide your choice.

• Choose your people. Close friends or friend? Strangers who might become kindred spirits? A coach or facilitator who can help guide the experience?

• Pick the right place. Do you want sun on your skin or cool air and cozy fires? Stillness or movement? Rustic or more luxurious?

• Consider the structure. What blend of solitude and shared experience works best for you? Will movement, journaling, silence, or discussion serve your process?

• Set and share your intention. It helps to have someone witness it, even if just one other person.

• Bring what matters. Pack light, but bring what grounds you, both practically and creatively.
  

When I posted about my January retreat, Amanda Kendle, a colleague from the RISE Travel Institute board, shared this:

“My friend and I have done this a couple of times for writing projects and given ourselves very strict rules, essentially a timetable for the day so that everything was focused on our projects but also in getting our brains into the best condition to do well with it—e.g. walk without phone, bring back something from nature for our desk, intensive writing in several blocks, afternoon for inspirational reading and watching (from a list we’d prepared earlier), etc. Has worked brilliantly (actually we must do again!).”

If a retreat with others sounds appealing, here are a few that may speak to you or someone in your circle:

• Women Travel Leaders – Two retreats this fall: one in Chile and one in Wales. Learn more.

• Modern Elder Academy – Founded by Chip Conley. Several colleagues have returned with glowing reviews. I haven’t done one....yet. Learn more.

• Outwild.co – These are the short, adventurous retreats in the western U.S. and happen to be the one I did years ago. Learn more.

• Transformational Travel Council (TTC) – They offer walking retreats that blend nature, reflection, and intentional travel. Again, I don't have personal experience doing one....yet. Learn more.
  

Thinking of Retreating? Here are a few questions people often ask me:

1. How do I know I’m “ready” for a retreat?  You don’t need to be ready. You just need to be willing. Willing to pause, listen, and trust that stepping away can be its own kind of progress.

2. What if I don’t know exactly what I want from it? That’s okay. Sometimes, the clarity comes because you created the space—not before. Go in with curiosity instead of a checklist. Your intention becomes one of openness and discovery.

3. Do I have to go far away? Not at all. A retreat is more about your mindset than your geography. If you can create space, silence, and intention, even in your own backyard, it counts. 

Speaking of, my next retreat will be at a house just down the block from my own. The space will be refreshing, the logistics simple, and the opportunity - endless.

Curious about crafting your own retreat, whether solo or shared? I’d love to hear what you’re imagining. Maybe it’s time. 

Need support, crafting your retreat itinerary? Reach out to me.