ReTreat Yourself: Simple Ways to Bring Retreat Vibes Into Everyday Life
Me and some retreat friends on a long hike lunch break
Why Retreats Matter (Especially for Midlife Mamas)
I am a big believer in going on retreat at least once a year. Those times away from the daily grind have helped me reflect, reset, and shed layers of stress I didn’t even realize I was carrying.
Here’s the thing: not all of us can sneak away for a long weekend in Big Sur or a yoga retreat in Hawaii (though I’ve been lucky enough to do both and loved every second). As a midlife mama, there are weeks when I can barely find a moment to breathe, let alone plan some epic getaway. But I’ve learned that retreats aren’t just good for the one who goes — they can actually be healthy for the ones left at home too. A little time apart gives everyone a chance to miss each other, and it gives you space to remember who you are underneath all the roles and responsibilities you juggle every day.
That’s where micro-retreat moments come in — simple, nourishing practices you can weave into your daily life. These little pauses help you reset your nervous system, reconnect with yourself, and keep burnout at bay.
Think of it as bringing retreat vibes into your everyday life.
25 Simple Ways to Retreat at Home (or Anywhere)
Get outside for a 10-minute walk and notice the sky.
Put your phone down for one full hour.
Try a social media fast for a day (or even just an afternoon).
Savor a cup of your favorite tea — no multitasking allowed.
Move your body gently — stretch, sway, or roll your shoulders.
Ride a bike or scooter around the block.
Go to the beach or park alone and read a “just for fun” novel.
Take a stolen nap (bonus points for outdoors in a hammock or blanket).
Practice deep breathing (inhale for 4, exhale for 6).
Meditate for 5–10 minutes (guided apps can help).
Try yin yoga (slow, therapeutic, floor-based poses).
Give yourself a tennis-ball massage for tight shoulders or hips.
Take a luxuriously long shower with your favorite body wash.
Enjoy a meal without rushing or scrolling your phone.
Journal one page on how you’re really doing.
Dance around the living room to a favorite song.
Watch videos of baby animals (seriously, instant serotonin).
Read a chapter of a favorite book.
Slip into your comfiest clothes or robe.
Play ocean sounds or meditation music in your earbuds.
Diffuse lavender or citrus essential oils.
Garden, even if it’s just tending one pot of herbs.
Try mindful movement: walk barefoot in the grass or stretch with eyes closed.
Create a small “sacred corner” at home with a candle, blanket, or flowers.
End your day by writing down 3 things you’re grateful for.
👉 Prompt: Which of these feels most nourishing to you right now? Write it down, schedule it, and notice how you feel afterward.
How to Know You’re Ready for a Retreat Moment
You don’t need to earn rest, but there are signals your body and mind may send:
Snapping or yelling over small things.
Feeling emotionally heavy or stuck.
Body aches that won’t go away with stretching.
Crying easily or feeling exhausted all the time.
👉 Reflection Prompt: How is your body asking you to slow down today?
Build a Rhythm of Retreat
I’m a firm believer in planning weekly, quarterly, and annual self-care retreats — whether that’s a 10-minute walk, a half-day spa session, or a weekend away with friends.
A good retreat often includes:
Food you don’t cook yourself (yes, it tastes better!)
Rest without guilt
Movement that feels good in your body (not punishing)
Healing spaces for the senses — think music, essential oils, nature
Connection with yourself, or with friends who recharge you
Journaling reflection time on what it’s time to let go of and what you’re ready to bring in
👉 Movement Prompt: Next time you’re on a ladies weekend or at home solo, try adding 10 minutes of mindful movement such as a stretching session, group walk, or dance break.
Final Thought
Retreat doesn’t have to mean plane tickets, yoga mats, and three days of silence. It can be as simple as five minutes of breathing, an afternoon nap, or a weekend with women who lift you up.
As long as it feels light, freeing, restorative, and nourishing deep into your soul, it’s right.
So, what’s your next retreat moment going to be?
💜 Roxy