Hi everyone,
I’ve never posted on here before due to a fear of being seen/putting myself out there, which apparently also translates to online contexts 😅 But I'm hoping to get some advice and recommendations for a retreat or program that might be a good fit for where I'm at in life right now, as I’ve been going through a difficult period and just don’t feel well on any level—emotionally, mentally, physically, or spiritually. I apologise for the length of this post but really appreciate any insight, advice, guidance or recommendations :)
What I'm looking for:
- Around 2-3 weeks (minimum 10 days)
- Budget of approximately $3,000 AUD (excluding flights) - not sure if realistic?
- Thinking of sometime October, or November - if not then maybe February next year (all depends when I can take time off work)
- Based in Sydney, Australia but open to travelling anywhere - ideally within about a 10-hour flight
- Preferably somewhere nature based that is warm, tropical, beachy, and relaxing, but I'm open to any climate if it seems like the right fit
- all inclusive or at least easy to budget so there are no surprise extra costs once you’re there
I've been struggling with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, mental fatigue/burnout, feeling stuck in fight-or-flight mode, and what feels like a pretty dysregulated nervous system for a long time now. I'm also currently navigating a stressful/toxic family environment, and I feel like I desperately need a change of scenery, some space to reset and some healing. I’d love to feel more comfortable and confident around people again and reconnect with who I am underneath all the stress and survival mode. I'd also love support in making some lifestyle changes around sleep, eating habits, and letting go of a few unhealthy behaviours/addictions. And to just be able to completely switch off and not have to think about a thing once I arrive (or at least not too much).
I've been in and out of therapy since I was a teenager and am currently seeing a new psychologist. I also have an honours degree in Psychology myself. Therapy and my studies have definitely helped me understand myself better and connect the dots between childhood experiences and how they affect me today, but lately I've been feeling like I need something different alongside traditional talk therapy — a different modality or approach (not to replace the role of therapy but to compliment it). A mind-body-soul approach to healing— not just relaxation, but something deeper and transformative.
Ideally, somewhere that also has access to psychologists or mental health professionals would be helpful/an added benefit, but I'm not looking for a clinical hospital-style environment. I've been a patient in mental health hospitals before, and whilst that was helpful, I don't think that's what I am needing right now. I also have some physical health issues, with symptoms that vary day to day, so would rather not feel pressured to attend lots of activities or back-to-back classes - not looking for a retreat where every minute of the day is scheduled, you're up at dawn every morning, and your days are packed with psychoeducational classes. I still want space and time to rest, reflect, and go at my own pace, especially with some of the unpredictable physical health symptoms and feeling so burnt out mentally.
I did ayahuasca a few years ago and, honestly, it was one of the most helpful experiences I've ever had for my mental health. Unfortunately, due to some cardiac health issues, I don't think plant medicine is something I can safely do anymore, which makes me super sad, as I hoped to work with this medicine again in the future. I'm not specifically seeking that, but I mention it because I think I'm drawn to experiences that facilitate deeper healing, self-connection, and perspective shifts rather than just relaxation. If anyone knows of/has experienced some gentler plant medicines that may not speed up the heart rate as much, I’d be very open to hearing about it.
What would be ideal:
- A change of environment
- Nature
- Time to slow down
- Nervous system support
- Genuine human connection/warm & gentle people
- Opportunities for healing and personal growth
- Potentially spiritual practices or alternative healing modalities
- Spa treatments (esp massage) - not essential/a priority but would be an added bonus
I guess the best way I can describe it is that my heart feels like it needs a hug. If anyone has attended a retreat, wellness program, healing centre, therapeutic community, or anything similar that sounds like it might fit, I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences.
Thank you so much and I apologise again for such a lengthy post ❤️