Summary

A mother and her reluctant daughter experience personal growth and a reevaluation of life's priorities during a transformative wellness retreat, despite initial challenges and skepticism.

Abstract

The author, accompanied by her daughter, embarks on a seven-day wellness retreat in a remote seaside location, seeking respite from the demands of daily life. The retreat, which lacks modern conveniences, initially presents unexpected obstacles, including a typhoon and the daughter's disinterest. However, as they adapt to the retreat's routine of yoga, wellness treatments, and a vegetarian diet, both mother and daughter find unexpected benefits. The mother discovers a newfound appreciation for tranquility and patience, while the daughter creatively engages with the retreat's activities. The experience culminates in a renewed sense of vigor and clarity, leading the mother to reflect on the importance of allowing children to enjoy life at their own pace.

Opinions

The author initially doubts the decision to attend the retreat, especially considering her daughter's reluctance.
The retreat's disconnection from modern life, including the absence of internet and fast food, is seen as both a challenge and a benefit.
The retreat offers a culturally diverse environment that fosters meaningful connections beyond language barriers.
The mother appreciates the retreat's emphasis on granting individuals time to pursue personal interests and rejuvenate their spirits.
The daughter's playful and creative approach to the retreat's activities, such as practicing deep breathing and building pillow forts, is viewed with affection and amusement.
The mother acknowledges the importance of patience and silence, which she finds valuable in her everyday life after the retreat.
The experience leads the mother to conclude that wellness experiences should be timed appropriately for children, suggesting that such retreats may not be suitable for all ages.

In Pursuit of Wellness

Feeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of everyday life, in a moment of desperation, I decided to embark on a wellness retreat.

It was a journey into the unknown, with no clear expectations in mind.

Located in a remote seaside spot, far removed from the modern world, the retreat promised solace and serenity in the embrace of nature. Daily yoga sessions, therapeutic treatments, and the calming presence of the sea offered the perfect escape from the mundane.

This seven-day sojourn was a decision made with my reluctant daughter in tow, hoping that it would offer her the same sense of renewal it promised me. And to be entirely honest, I needed company.

Our arrival was met with an unexpected challenge—a typhoon awaited us, delaying our landing by an additional three hours. As the plane touched down, we were greeted by a city that bore the brunt of the typhoon’s fury. It was midnight, and trepidation filled the air, overshadowing our excitement.

Initially, my thoughts oscillated between bewilderment and doubt, questioning the wisdom of my decision. The thought of committing an entire week to this retreat seemed like a monumental task. Moreover, I was very much aware of my little girl’s lack of enthusiasm for the trip. That added to my doubt.

The retreat demanded a complete departure from the comforts of modern life—no internet, no air conditioning, no fast food, no coffee, a strictly vegetarian diet, and simple cottage living.

Bittersweet moments were woven together. It offered a break from constant calls, social obligations, daily chores, and the mental acrobatics of scheduling each day

A typical day begins with soothing yoga, followed by rejuvenating wellness treatments and an indulgent oil massage. The retreat was a melting pot of cultures, allowing for meaningful connections and conversations that transcended the barriers of language.

The purpose of this retreat began to crystallize—to grant individuals the gift of time and to pursue what felt right in their hearts. To rediscover lost energies and revitalize one’s spirit. It allowed for the simple pleasures of reading, writing, and watching a sunset.

Now, let’s not forget about my little daughter. Oh, she was truly squeezing every drop of benefit from the experience, leaving no wellness stone unturned!

I saw her practicing deep breathing every time there was “broccoli on her plate. Developing her own version of mindfulness: ‘Staring at the ceiling and contemplating the universe one ceiling tile at a time”. She honed to perfection the art of ‘inner peace through pillow fort construction’.

It was a sight to behold, truly!

As our retreat came to an end, we were ready to face whatever life had in store with newfound vigor and clarity.

At the airport, the inevitable question from a parent finally arrived: “So, how was it?” I asked.

She shot me a look, clearly struggling to find the words to express the whirlwind of emotions within her. Finally, she quipped, “Well, it’s official; you owe me seven days of my life back!”

My newfound appreciation for the power of silence, peace, and patience proved invaluable in navigating the next few days at home.

My husband’s mischievous grin was certainly putting my resolve to the test.

Lesson Learnt.

Let children savor the joys of life; wellness can wait, for there’s an opportune moment for every experience.

Note to self: Next time, leave the young one at home. Trust me, they’ll never let you forget it!