04 Aug The importance of time off for reflection
Although we don’t often allow ourselves the time or space to take a step back and pause to reflect, retreating – even for a brief period – can give us perspective, insight and inspirations which the routines and demands of daily life often prevent us from accessing.
Australian based Counsellor and Wellbeing Practitioner, Emma McClarty, believes that taking time out for retreat and reflection allows us the opportunity to step back and clearly observe our lives and create space to examine our emotions, relationships, and past and current events.
“This introspective practice can often allow us to see our world from a new perspective and boost our creativity and productivity at the same time,” Ms McLarty says.
Whether it’s a weekend away, a digital detox, or simply planning an end of year escape, any break from our usual routine can reinvigorate both our personal and professional selves.
Some of the most famous works of art – literature, music, painting or sculpture – were created when the artist stepped away from the grind of daily life, to a different culture, mindset or location.
Did you know that musical legend Dr Stevie Wonder, who has just received an Honorary Doctorate from John Hopkins University in Baltimore, considered leaving the music industry at the height of his career in 1974?
Two years later, Wonder released Songs in the Key of Life which was recently named as number six in the 2024 Apple Music Top Ten albums of all time, cementing his legendary status and perhaps proving that sometimes ‘retreating’ may be a source of rebirth.
So what are some of the benefits we can expect from a retreat?
The opportunity to embrace change
As we become more self-aware, we can recognise patterns in our behaviour and think about how to change, modify, or adapt these patterns to align with our core values, which often get lost in the busyness of life.
Enhance connection
Reflecting also allows us to connect with ourselves on a deeper level, creating a positive ripple effect on those around us, including family, friends, and communities. This practice fosters connection, collaboration, and creativity in our daily lives.
Build better relationships
By reflecting, we not only gain a deeper understanding of who we are but also of our relationships with others, often leading to more fulfilling and lasting connections. This can improve our interactions and contribute to a more harmonious and supportive social environment.
Boost productivity and creativity
When it comes to productivity, stepping back to reflect lets us see what’s working and what needs adjustment, optimizing our efforts and resources. This process helps us prioritize important tasks and cut out unnecessary distractions, boosting our efficiency and also releasing the unimportant or day to day to enhance our creativity at the same time.
Flex Studios Himalayan Retreat with Founder Heather Thomas
Flex Founder Heather Thomas, who will lead Flex’s next retreat to Nepal in November, says regular retreat and reflection can help foster a growth mindset, encourage continuous learning and adaptation and enhance both personal and professional productivity and creativity at the same time.
Heather has led many retreats in different parts of the world and says they are specifically designed to take clients out of the studio and on an adventure, transporting them not only to a different country, but to a different culture, mindset and set of values.
“The choice of destination is incredibly important and considered and reflective of what we are helping those who join us to achieve and embrace.
“Escaping or retreating to locations such as Kathmandu and the Dhulikhel Resort at the foot of the Himalayas allow us to immerse ourselves in nature with morning activities focused on tailored Pilates practice in a stunning location to connect the mind and body followed by a range of unique afternoon activities in the land ‘where heaven meets earth’,” she said.
During your six nights stay, you’ll enjoy an incredible array of activities designed and curated to transport you from the everyday and enjoy a taste of one of the oldest cultures in the world.
Enjoy tantalising meals from a specially curated chef’s menu based on Ayurvedic and Buddhist principles and sourced from the resort’s own organic farm, experience the resort’s traditional Himalayan salt rooms and spa treatments, explore a meditation maze surrounded by 84 Shiva Lingas, Chakra sound therapy gardens, meditation sessions, a private consultation with the onsite Ayurvedic Doctor as well as unlimited access to the resort’s fitness centre and swimming pool and gardens.
“It’s not about weight loss, detoxing or box ticking, the retreat will allow you the opportunity to listen to your body and mind, focus on yourself and take an opportunity to step back, reflect and enjoy a unique experience in a truly unique location that will ensure you return rejuvenated, relaxed and inspired.”
Flex’s life changing Nepal Retreat takes place from November 17 to 23rd starting with two nights in Kathmandu at the historic Dwarika’s Hotel followed by four nights at the stunning Dhulikhel hilltop boutique resort on the steppe of the Himalayas with uninterrupted Mountain View’s.
Places are extremely limited due to intimate retreat size.
For more information or to register please contact [email protected]
