Enjoy a time of rest in an exceptional setting
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What to bring on a spiritual retreat?
Ah, a spiritual retreat! Nothing better to clear your mind and refocus on what matters. But before you leave, it's best to plan ahead with the essential items to avoid any unpleasant surprises that could cast a shadow on the idyllic experience you're about to live!
Here's a list of things not to forget to fully experience this time away!
A Bible
The Bible is the foundation! It's a library containing poems, songs, narratives, letters, and the Gospels that tell the story of Christ's life. Whatever your faith, it's worth having a Bible on hand. It can also help you focus on your prayer and personal reflection. Plus, it's your best asset during group sharing sessions if you don't know what to say…
A notebook or journal
A notebook can help you take notes, write down thoughts, ideas, or prayers. It can also be useful for keeping track of your progress and reflections during the retreat. During free time, it can also serve for sketching the place (its garden… its centuries-old buildings, quite simply of course!)
Walking shoes
For a meditative walk in nature if your chosen location lends itself to it. For a retreat at La Rochette Abbey or Canigou Abbey, you can even break out the snowshoes and snow boots at certain times of the year!
Comfortable clothing
To relax and be in the right frame of mind during your times of listening and prayer. And also for the siesta after lunch.
Indoor shoes
Bring your best slippers or sandals and don't be afraid of looking silly because the important thing is to feel comfortable like at home! Generally, the communities themselves are big fans of the sandal style, German-style in Birkenstocks! And besides, it's coming back into fashion anyway!
Sheets and towels if the place doesn't provide them
Sometimes retreat rhymes with "frugality" and "simplicity," but certainly not with "light sleep"! So to guarantee yourself restorative and comfortable sleep, don't overlook this important detail before leaving for your retreat.
One or more books
These can help you meditate, reflect, or entertain yourself during your free time while being good alternatives to your cell phone. Plus, they can always be a topic of discussion during meals or informal moments with other retreatants or brothers and sisters!
A camera
There are about a hundred magnificent places on RITRIT, so don't forget to capture the beautiful landscapes you'll encounter during this retreat to have memories and share them when you return! Who knows, you might make some people jealous? In that case, direct them to our website, obviously!
A backpack
To carry all these essential items, it's best to plan for a practical and sturdy backpack, especially if you have some walking to do to reach your retreat location at the end of the journey. Plus, its side pockets are perfect for slipping in some treats in case of a somewhat frugal retreat (we see you).
In the end, don't forget that the goal of the retreat is to focus on your relationship with God and to step away from your daily routine. So bring what will help you focus on this objective. We wish you a beautiful retreat!
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