Spiritual Retreats – Coming back to yourself
Vocabulary
Spirituality is the vibe of the soul. It is the praxis of an attempt to a personal transformation, either in accordance to a religious custom or most likely in line with subjective growth and psychological evaluation of the self and the surrounding. It is essentially the movement of a human being from the clutches of the physics to the metaphysics. The word "retreat" essentially means the act of coming back.
Hence, as defined by vocabulary, we can safely assume that Spiritual Retreats would somehow compliment the process of an individual to come back to his or her "self" and build a sense of consciousness of a person with the cosmic-surrounding.
Religion or Not
Spiritual retreats do not effectively fall under the strict jurisdiction of any particular religion. Since it is the exfoliating process of the human soul, so the meaning of spiritual retreats varies from one religion to another and so does its application.
But, as to speak, spiritual retreats have been an integral part of several religion and religious practices. We find the reference of spiritual retreats and its ideas in Hinduism, Buddhist, Christian and Sufi communities and practices. If you are looking for Christian Spiritual retreats click here.
History
For over 2,500 years, meditation retreats have been a central part of the Buddhist path of awakening. There are mostly two kind of retreats practiced in Buddhism - one that is done in solitude and another done as a community practice. There are several monasteries where the practitioners remain in silence and solitude for several days, trying to delve into the depths of their own self.
There is a clear path laid for spiritual retreat in Christianity too. In Christianity however, it is a much simpler version. Allowing some time every day, at the minimum, to keep aside regular work and trying to reconnect with methods of meditation, prayers and introspection – retreat pretty much is thus advocated.
Sufism also has a major chapter for spiritual retreats. They preach for forty days of penance and self-ratification.
What is a Spiritual Retreat?
Though the concept is varied but the idea remains the same – a spiritual retreat is the process that one allows himself or herself to take a break from the everyday chores of life and give some time for the heart, body, mind and soul to rest and rejuvenate.
The modern day society of too many complications slowly tires out our heart and our mind. We go farther away from our soul. Spiritual retreats are ways of giving life back to our soul.
Nowadays such retreat programs have encompassed holidays and health travels. More and more people are realizing and opting for a vacation that allows them a spiritual break-free.
Countries like the U.S. and several parts of Asia are considered to be having the best spiritual retreat locations. Generally serene secluded places with flora and fauna serve as the best locations.
The desire for a more meaningful travel experience inspires a lot of travelers all around the globe to fall into the arms of spiritual retreats.
Visit one of the best California retreat centers – Old Mission San Luis Rey Retreat Center and join this historic place attending educational programs and events.
Contact :
Contact Person: Maureen Sullivan
E-mail: info@sanluisrey.org
Old Mission San Luis Rey de Francia
Address: 4050 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92057-6402
Tel/Fax: (760) 757-3651
Website: https://www.sanluisrey.org/