Holistic retreats and spa vacations have increased in popularity in recent years, due, in part, to increased awareness of the interconnectedness between mind, body and spirit, but also because of the mounting pressures of work and daily life. These restful retreats are designed to meet a variety of personal needs, so if you’re looking to simply relax in a beautiful setting or to fully revive through an intensive detoxification program, there are an abundance of programs to meet the needs of the world-weary traveler.
How to Select a Holistic Retreat
If you’re new to retreat vacations, it’s important to first determine what you’re hoping to get out of the experience. Begin by making a list of your anticipated outcomes. For example:
- Relax
- Renew
- Beautiful location
- Comfortable accommodations
- Friendly people
- Healthy food
- Massage and spa services
A list like this may mean that you’re looking for a traditional spa vacation. Try doing a search for “spa retreats” or “spa vacations,” followed by your desired location: mountain, beach, or desert, or even the name of the location, like “Brazil.” Before you book your trip, be sure to do a search for some personal reviews from people who have visited there (keywords “name of retreat, reviews”).
Retreat Services and Activities
If you’re looking for a retreat experience that helps you to accomplish a specific goal (weight loss, for example), consider looking for a retreat that specializes in a particular type of service. Consider entering any of the following keywords, followed by “retreat,” when doing an internet search:
- Detoxification/cleansing
- Health and wellness
- Healthy food preparation
- Family friendly
- Fitness (specify horseback riding, hiking, biking, etc.)
- Juice fasting
- Life coaching
- Live/raw food
- LGBT (or “gay friendly”)
- Meditation
- Personal growth/development
- Pet friendly
- Yoga
Rawfood Planet boasts a comprehensive directory of holistic retreats, based in stunning surroundings around the world.
Food
Because most retreats are focused on helping to support a healthy mind and healthy body, food provided at many holistic retreats includes vegan or vegetarian food. Before booking your trip, ask to see a sample daily menu, and share any dietary restrictions with your hosts well in advance of your arrival. Most retreats will happily accommodate any special nutritional needs.
Location and Amenities
While most retreats are intentionally located in tranquil settings, it’s recommended that you do your homework before making plans. Many “spas” are simply massage and facial service providers that have an arrangement with a nearby hotel. If you’re not careful, your spa vacation could find you wrapped in seaweed on the side of a busy highway!
Consider the amenities that are most important to you. Do you want a pool and sauna? Nature trails and sandy strolls along the beach? Or perhaps you’re looking for something with an environmentally conscious spirit. National Geographic and Conde Nast have released special issues on green retreats, which offer low-impact accommodations in comfortable, yet beautiful settings.
Price
Holistic retreats range in price from $1600 per week (typically, the low end prices include a shared room with another guest) to $8,000, depending on the location and accommodations. If you’re operating on a tight budget, book a hotel that offers spa services and create your own retreat. Wherever you choose to go, it’s reasonable to ask for a cost breakdown; be sure to ask whether food and spa services are included. Consider visiting with a friend or loved one who can help to support you in your journey well beyond your week of relaxation and personal growth.
