Why Retreat?

Need a reason to get away? Here are 9 reasons to take a retreat:

1. You need to relax.
It's okay to admit it - doing life is exhausting. Our lives are chaotic, busy, and full. While the "every day" of life is certainly beautiful, every marathon runner needs a break at some point. We were not created to only do, but also to be.

2. You need strength for tomorrow.
We hear you - "no, I'm good, no breaks for me." You're important. We get it. But your responsibilities and passions need you to be ready today and tomorrow and the next day. Taking intentional time to reset your wellbeing will do more for your productivity than burning the candle at both ends ever has.

3. Retreat provides clarity.
A retreat is different from a vacation. Going on a retreat is purposeful (and way less exhausting than waiting in line for roller coasters all day). Whether you retreat in solitude or with others, you are committing to a time that is different and that will give you space to think clearly. Learn something new, make a plan for the future, or just enjoy a chance to process in peace.

4. It's good for your health.
Time away can be physically, mentally, and spiritually beneficial. When we rest our bodies and minds, we give them a chance to heal. Retreat can also be an intense time of introspection or focus on a specific issue, like fear or insecurity. You will leave with renewed hope and tools to continue working on you. Learn more in this study done in February 2017.

5. Connect with Creation.
Retreat centers like Olmsted are located in some of the most beautiful parts of Creation. Here, in the Allegheny National Forest, you can explore forests, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and gardens. You will find stillness and deep connection to the divine. 

6. Connect with other people. 
Retreats are often a chance to meet new people or to connect more deeply with some you already know. Your time away together brings you outside of the normal settings and social interactions. On retreat, you can build authentic connection and open up to more honest relationships.

7. Connect with yourself.
Do you know who I am? It's okay to ask yourself that question on retreat. You don't have to be "boss you" or "parent you" or "president of the community engagement club you" on retreat. You can just be you, and you can spend some time getting to know that person a bit better.

8. You deserve it.
Take our word for it. If anyone questions you, remind them that you are a valuable child of God who is worth of love, acceptance, and nice things (like a retreat or some roses). 

9. Jesus did.
In Luke chapter 5, we learn that Jesus himself withdrew to the wilderness to pray. Jesus also took his disciples away to learn, grow, and teach. Jesus provides us with a great example of taking time in solitude, focus, and communion with God.