Have you heard of divorce retreats? If you’re going through the painful process of ending a marriage, a divorce retreat could be just what you need.
These guided getaways are designed specifically for people navigating the emotionally turbulent waters of divorce. For a few days, you get away from it all and focus on yourself with the help of counselors and a supportive group of people in the same boat as you.
A divorce retreat gives you the space to process your grief, start to rediscover yourself, and begin healing. You’ll learn coping strategies to help you through this difficult life transition in a peaceful, nurturing environment.
The retreats are run by professionals who understand the pain and practical challenges of divorce. With their guidance, you’ll start to gain a sense of optimism about the future and reconnect with the strong, independent person you are.
Though it may be hard to imagine right now, there is life and happiness after divorce. A retreat could be an important first step to help you start moving in that direction. While the end of your marriage is sad and painful, use this opportunity to care for yourself. You deserve that.
A divorce retreat may be just the way to begin finding yourself again.
What Is a Divorce Retreat?
A divorce retreat is a place where you can go to heal and process the end of your marriage.###
Retreats typically take place over a weekend or up to a week and provide a peaceful setting where you can reflect on the relationship, grieve the loss, and start to move forward. Activities typically include journaling, art therapy, counselling, group discussions, and solo reflection. The goal is to find acceptance and closure so you can start the next chapter.
Some retreats cater to women, men or both. The environment is supportive and judgment-free. In group events you’ll connect with others going through similar life transitions, which can help combat the isolation divorce often brings. Others are solo retreats, and can be more flexible with dates and times that may fit your other commitments better.
Attendees frequently report feeling lighter and more hopeful after a divorce retreat. If you need time and space to work through complex emotions, it may be worth looking into a retreat. Your future happiness is worth the investment.
How long is a Divorce Retreat?
As you might expect durations vary. Many are based around a weekend event lasting two or three days. Many others are based around a weeks commitment typically lasting five or six days, with potentially some travel time to include.
The research data across all retreats (not just divorce) shows the following –
- 4-7 days = 41%
- 1-3 days = 31%
- 8-14 days = 13%
- Longer that 14 days = 15%
Finding the right length
For many, a shorter 2 to 3 day retreat is enough to start the healing process. It gives you a chance to get away, gain perspective, and learn some useful coping strategies to build on at home.
If you want a more in-depth experience, a 5 or 6 day retreat may be better. The additional time allows for deeper self-reflection and the opportunity to work through challenging emotions. The longer duration also means more time to connect with others in similar situations.
In the end, choose a length based on what you need and what you can handle. Don’t feel pressured into a longer retreat if you’re not ready. You can always start with a shorter option and revisit a longer one down the road. The most important thing is taking that first step. A divorce retreat, no matter the duration, can help you move forward in a healthy way.
The Benefits of Attending a Divorce Retreat
Going through a divorce is an incredibly difficult experience, both emotionally and logistically. A divorce retreat can help make the process easier by providing guidance and support. Attending a retreat offers several benefits:
Camaraderie
You’ll find camaraderie. Connecting with others going through similar life transitions can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Sharing stories and experiences in a safe space creates empathy and understanding.
Clarity
You’ll gain clarity. Retreat workshops and discussions are designed to help you work through complex feelings and determine what you want in your new life. This can help reduce stress and anxiety about the unknown.
Strategies
You’ll learn strategies. Retreat leaders and professionals provide useful advice and tips for navigating divorce in a healthy way. You’ll pick up practical strategies for conflict resolution, co-parenting, and moving forward.
Refreshed
You’ll return refreshed. Taking time away to focus on yourself during this difficult transition can be rejuvenating. A retreat getaway allows you to relax, recharge and renew your motivation. You’ll return home feeling stronger and better equipped to handle the challenges ahead.
Accelerated Progress
Attending a divorce retreat is an investment that can pay off through increased peace of mind and accelerated progress. Giving yourself this gift of time and support will help ensure you emerge from your divorce in a place of confidence and hope.
Find a Divorce Expert: Divorce Club Directory
Local or abroad?
You have the option of finding a retreat that is local to you, or somewhere more exotic abroad.
Those that run divorce retreats claim that the process of leaving your natural everyday life is a very important part of the process.
Simply put, going somewhere different physically will allow you to go somewhere different emotionally, enabling a more complete and faster recovery than would otherwise be possible.
With that in-mind you can expect more profound results when you travel abroad for your retreat.
Pros & Cons of a Divorce Retreat
Many characteristics of a divorce retreat can be seen as wither a pro, or a con depending on your current mindset.
Divorce Retreat Cons:
- Greater intensity – could potentially make you feel vulnerable
- Requires greater commitment
- Cost of the retreat
- Associated costs – might include travel, petrol, accommodation, food etc.
- Time away from work/life – can be difficult to organise
- Travel time – might be significant particularly if travelling abroad
- Need to plan ahead
Divorce Retreat Pros:
- Greater intensity – faster healing
- Requires greater commitment
- Time away from work/life – an important part of the healing process
- Faster healing than transitional divorce coaching
- More profound results
- May save money over long drawn out coaching that can last months or years for some
In the end, you must weigh the potential benefits of emotional and practical support against the costs and time required. A divorce retreat could be worthwhile if you go in with a level of commitment to make the most of the experience and therefore get the greatest rewards.
How much does a Divorce Retreat cost?
Prices vary ranging from $500 to $5,000 or more for a weekend. And typically from $2,000 to $7,000 for a 5 or 6 day escape.
You should enquire to get clarity on what exactly the retreat includes and excludes. Be aware that their may be some additional expenses not covered in the retreat that nee to be factored into the total cost of the escape.
- Accommodations:
Shared rooms in a retreat center vs. private villas or cabins. - Meals:
Are meals included or do you need to pay extra?
Are they prepared by a private chef or part of a meal plan? - Therapy sessions:
Some retreats offer all-day therapeutic sessions, others just a couple of hours per day. Enquire for details so you know what you are investing in. - Core Activities:
Yoga, counseling, coaching sessions, childcare, etc.
The more activities, the higher the cost. - Optional Activities:
Some retreats offer additional classes, events, activities. Don’t get caught out, enquire about these in advance. - Location:
Retreats in desirable, relaxing locations like beachfront or mountain settings often charge a premium. - Season:
Summer weekends and holidays usually see higher prices than off-season. - Solo or Group Retreat:
Some retreats are 1-2-1, some are group based.
If group based enquire about the maximum number of people.
While the investment may seem substantial, divorce retreats aim to provide emotional and practical support during this difficult life transition.
The skills and strategies you learn can help reduce conflict, lower legal fees, and ease the process of untangling a marriage. For many, the long-term benefits make the cost worthwhile.
Some retreat centers offer scholarships or payment plans to make their services more accessible. It’s also worth checking if your health insurance provides any coverage for divorce support groups or counseling.
With some research, you can find an affordable option to meet your needs.
Where to find a Divorce Retreat?
So you’ve decided a divorce retreat could help you work through the emotional and legal aspects of ending your marriage in a healthy way. Great first step! Here are some options for finding a retreat:
Online Resources
Search online for “divorce retreats” or “divorce wellness retreats”. Websites like DivorceCare and Relationship Coaching Institute offer retreats across the US and Canada. They provide a compassionate space to grieve your loss, learn coping strategies and find closure.
Resorts
Some resorts like Miraval Arizona and Canyon Ranch host divorce wellness retreats, combining counseling and legal advice with spa amenities. While pricier, the pampering may be just what you need during this difficult transition.
Non-Profits
Check with local non-profits, divorce support groups or women’s shelters in your area. They may run or know of low-cost divorce retreats or workshops. These grassroots organizations can be an empathetic source of recommendations and resources.
Create Your Own
If you have close friends or family going through a divorce, consider organizing your own DIY divorce retreat. Rent a house together, hire counselors or lawyers for a few group sessions, lean on each other for support and find healing through shared experience.
Keep costs down by cooking meals at home and limiting structured activities.
A divorce retreat can help you find the strength, clarity and optimism to start the next chapter of your life. Make self-care a priority and reach out for help—you deserve to heal and be happy.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a high-level overview of what divorce retreats are all about.
While the concept may seem a bit unconventional, many people have found them helpful during this difficult life transition. Some days away in a peaceful setting can provide clarity and help you work through complex emotions. The guidance from professionals also allows you to better understand your situation and next steps.
If you’re recently separated or divorced, consider looking into a retreat. It may just be the self-care you need to start rebuilding your life. Though the road ahead isn’t easy, you don’t have to walk it alone.