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What Is a Meditation Spa Retreat?

A. Pasbjerg
A. Pasbjerg

For those looking to achieve relaxation and relieve stress by finding a balance of body, mind, and spirit, a meditation spa retreat may be a good choice. These trips, which typically last several days to a week, usually involve traveling to a destination spa resort that allows one to get away from normal day-to-day life. Often, the primary focus of the spa is spiritual discovery and meditation using a variety of techniques such as focused breathing, relaxing physical activity, or yoga, with classes to help visitors learn them. It may also offer other services for relaxation such as massages, facials, or body treatments. Some retreats may be best suited for a single person, while others are appropriate for couples, friends, or groups.

Going on a meditation spa retreat usually means traveling to a location designed for the experience. Since it is a retreat, the idea is for a person to get away from his or her normal routine and stress. In order to enjoy the full benefits, it is also important for the person to take at least a few days for the trip; many spas have a two- or three-day minimum visit time.

A sauna at a spa retreat.
A sauna at a spa retreat.

One of the main goals of a meditation spa retreat is to allow one to concentrate on spiritual health, discovery, and growth. This can be achieved in a variety of ways, and some spas focus on a particular type of technique while others offer guidance in many. There may be a focus on silent meditation, enjoyment of inspirational natural surroundings, or practices such as yoga, sculpting, and tai chi. Most resorts will offer classes to teach these techniques, or may even provide a personal instructor to each visitor.

A meditation spa retreat often includes massage treatment.
A meditation spa retreat often includes massage treatment.

In addition to a spiritual focus, many meditation spa retreats offer physical relaxation treatments as well. Massages, body scrubs, or facials are often available to help contribute to overall wellness. These options are often not part of the overall spa package, however, and may cost extra.

The number of people attending a meditation spa retreat can vary depending on personal preferences and the spa itself. Some people may wish to go alone for personal time to relax, while others may wish to go with a partner or group to enjoy each other’s company while getting away. Certain spas may cater more specifically to individuals, while others offer group packages and rates, or both may be available.

Discussion Comments

Lostnfound

This sounds like a dream come true. I would love to be able to get away for a week. That sounds like something I could really get behind.

I'd like to go to one I've seen advertised. It's near the beach and they also have silent days, which sounds great. The place I looked at said you have to leave your cell phone at the desk, and the staff will contact you if you need to call home or something. I could definitely get into that, for sure. It sounds like something guaranteed to lower my blood pressure and my stress levels. If I only had the money to do it.

Grivusangel

I went to a meditation spa retreat, and for the most part, I loved it. I wasn't too crazy about all the meditation having an Eastern flavor, but I just went along with it. My favorite part of the experience was the silent day we had. We were discouraged from speaking unless absolutely necessary. It was wonderful. I'm kind of an introvert anyway, so being silent completely suited me.

The food was great, too. I can't cook like that – you can't find the ingredients unless you have a store that specializes in organic merchandise, and those aren't that plentiful.

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    • A sauna at a spa retreat.
      By: ecobo
      A sauna at a spa retreat.
    • A meditation spa retreat often includes massage treatment.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      A meditation spa retreat often includes massage treatment.
    • Yoga is often used at meditation spa retreats.
      By: Mitarart
      Yoga is often used at meditation spa retreats.
    • Tai Chi is a practice combining breathing exercises with movement and meditation.
      By: simonkr
      Tai Chi is a practice combining breathing exercises with movement and meditation.
    • A mediation spa may offer rock and warm compress treatments to soothe the skin and relax the muscles.
      By: Africa Studio
      A mediation spa may offer rock and warm compress treatments to soothe the skin and relax the muscles.