oing on a retreat is the perfect time to let
go of what no longer serves you, so you can
make room for the new. It’s a time to clear
your body of toxins, so you can build it back up in a
cleverer way and make it strong again. It’s a time
to sift through your thoughts and dreams and
understand, with calm attention, that you are not
them – that these things come and go – and that,
instead, you are a grounded witness, a calm core
able to live your life to your highest potential.
Retreating can also be a time to delve deep and
rediscover your spirit, to give it a good shake and an
airing, then bring it closer to the surface, so you can
be more aligned with it. Others will see it too, from
the moment they see your sparkling eyes and the
newly cleansed self that you’ve reclaimed.
The best wellbeing retreats will attend to all yourneeds – physical, emotional and mental – but they will
always have a clear focus, so choose one that suits you
with care. A fi tness-focused holiday or detox week
will help declutter the body, a life-coaching retreat will
help declutter your life, a spiritual yoga or meditation
retreat will help attend to your spirit, whatever ‘spirit’
means to you at this point. Whatever you need,
decluttering of any kind is part of creating a calming,
comfortable environment in which you can function
well and feel good in your daily life.
After a retreat, it’s a good time to declutter physical
objects in your life too, when you’re clear-headed and
have the energy to make changes. It may be your
wardrobe, a room in your house or niggling life admin
you’ve been putting o for too long. ●queenofretreats.com
For help with this process, see my journal post at queenofretreats.com/
queenly-retreating/on-declutteringG
the retreat
PHOTOGRAPH: GETTY IMAGES. ALWAYS CHECK FCO ADVICE BEFORE TRAVELLING
As spring approaches, it’s
time to declutter. Retreating
is, essentially, a decluttering
process for mind, body, spirit and life, says
Retreat Editor Caroline Sylger JonesRetreatsto help youdeclutterVale de Moses, high in the
Serra da Estrela, is one of
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Europe. Retreat at any time
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plant-based food.Enjoy your practice in a
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incredible views; explore
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immerse yourself in nature.
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valedemoses.com; @valedemoses
A soulful, restorative yoga retreat in the stunning
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