Need Help Seeing The Forest For The Trees

February 10, 2018 11:14 PM

I'm burnt out. I've come to the end of what I can accomplish at my current job and it's time to find a new one. But because I'm burnt out I'm struggling articulating a bigger picture vision for myself. My therapist suggested going on a retreat to do some self-care and self-discovery. I love this idea, but have no idea where to go. So tell me MeFi, what are some awesome retreats you've been on?

I"m doing a lot of the practical stuff like updating LinkedIn, networking, cataloging my strengths working with a career coach, etc. So I'm really looking for something that will help me explore more existential questions about where I'm headed.

I'm looking for something that is long-weekend to week-long in length.
My goal is to come out the experience with more clarity about where I see myself in the next 3-5 years.
A little yoga is fine, but I want more than stretching.
No crystals, new-age spirituality, or woo.
Not so big into meditation.
Writing or other creative activity is nice.
I'm based in the Pacific Northwest (US) and want to stay on the west coast.
Would love to join something in the next 3-6 weeks

posted by anonymous to Human Relations (6 answers total)

It sounds like you're looking for some organized spa-type retreat; may I ask why? It could be that just getting some place remote and doing that work yourself would do the same thing, and would be easier to "customize" for yourself.

If you know yourself well enough to know that you'd just watch The MIghty Ducks over and over or something, fair enough. But all the "retreats" I've done have just been me and a cheap cabin and that's it.
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 4:38 AM on February 11, 2018

You might find something suitable at Hollyhock on Cotez Island (with some programs in Vancouver). The Cortez Island programs are residential, but don't get started until May. Take a look through their program offerings.

I don't know your line of work, but the Fostering Resilience (May 18 - 23, 2018) aims to reduce overwork and stress.

The food there is excellent. Try the yeast dressing and go on a night kayak!
posted by Sauter Vaguely at 8:11 AM on February 11, 2018

There's a resort at the far north end of Washington State called Semiahmoo. I don't think they have a guided retreat, but you can create your own schedule. I was there once, but only one night.
posted by hydra77 at 9:23 AM on February 11, 2018

Esalen
posted by hortense at 11:22 AM on February 11, 2018

What about Leavenworth? It's a quaint, Bavarian-themed resort town in Washington, a few hours out from Seattle, if you're close to there. I haven't been but my fiance is from that area and has been multiple times and enjoys it. There's a resort called Sleeping Lady that appears to have various accommodation packages including a yoga, spa, and sip and paint package which seems really nice. I can't personally vouch for them though, but they appear to get good reviews. If you want more info about Leavenworth, this site seems helpful, and I think the owners of it could probably give you specific recommendations, too.
posted by Dimes at 2:35 AM on February 12, 2018

I would go on long walks around Tofino and get a massage and haircut or some such.
posted by WeekendJen at 8:27 AM on February 12, 2018