We all long to escape the hustle and bustle, to find a place where we can recharge our batteries. How does taking a day or two to concentrate on growing, learning, and pampering yourself sound? Hyggelig! We think so too. Well, we have great news for you - you can do this (on a budget) by creating your own staycation retreat - a time when you can let all your troubles fade away and immerse yourself in “me time.” So, if you need some true recharging, what better time than now to plan yourself a staycation retreat? It’s easier than you might think to tap into the transformative power of mindful living - all it takes is a little organization and planning.

Here’s a checklist to help plan your staycation retreat.

• Plan when you are going to set up your staycation retreat. Choose a day or two when you don’t have to work or have any plans.

• Let all the people know that need to know that you will be on a retreat and that once you “resurface,” you will reach out.

• Two weeks before - make a list/plan of what you’ll do during your retreat. You’ll want to keep it simple and flexible. Also make a list of items you'd like to use on your retreat (i.e. books, candles, diy kits, face masks, bath bombs, etc.). Schedule/reserve/purchase anything you'll need.

• Three days before – prepare the space for your retreat. If your focus is on relaxation, you may want a space that will make you feel cozy and warm. 

• Two days before - stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, water, and any foods that might be necessary. Make sure you have enough to see you throughout your retreat. You may want to keep your meals very light (and caffeine-free) if you want to keep a clear mind during this retreat. Also, set aside any items and books you plan to use during your retreat.

• The day before - ensure any outstanding deadlines, chores, and messages are completed. You don’t want to worry about these things during your retreat.

• The evening before – pick out your outfit(s) for the retreat. If anything is stressing you out, take a sheet of paper, write your thoughts, and put it in a drawer. Make a vow not to worry about these things during your retreat.

• Before bedtime – think about how you will spend your day(s) so that you make sure to allow a reasonable amount of time for any scheduled activities, thinking, and relaxation.

Retreat Day

Hopefully, you've woken up feeling refreshed. Begin your retreat with a large glass of warm water. If you don't have any exercises planned for the day, do some light stretching to get your blood flowing. Make yourself a healthy breakfast and prepare any meals you plan on eating later. And don't forget to put away your phone - enjoy this time away from social media and other distractions. Protect this time for yourself to relax, undisturbed. And really relish in it because it's time to hygge.

After the Retreat

How was your retreat? If you journal, write about your experience. How did you feel before and after your retreat? Did you learn anything new about yourself? Then go back to that piece of paper with your thoughts. Do you feel differently about them now that you are more relaxed? Do you have a different perspective on things? Do you see solutions? If you enjoyed your staycation retreat experience, now is a good time to schedule your next retreat. Perhaps you want to make this a monthly or quarterly ritual.

Maintenance

A staycation retreat is a great time to indulge in self-care but only practicing self-care once in a while isn’t enough. Self-care should be an all-the-time thing. Make some time every day to do something good for your overall wellness. Evenings are a great way to unwind after a long work day.

Some daily self-care ideas include:

• Journaling
• Taking walks
• Exercising
• Doing something creative
• Gardening
• Reading 
• Skincare routine
• Taking a long bath

Self-care isn’t one size fits all. Try different things and figure out what works best for you. If you’re new to self-care, be patient when looking for what works best. It may take time, but it’s worth trying different things and experimenting to figure out what your body and soul crave. Just as we charge our phones and laptop, we need to do the same for our mind, body, and soul.