The Anti-Burnout Retreat

Learn to pause so you can catch your breath, and be ready for what’s next.

It wasn’t easy before the pandemic. We aren’t saying that at all. Only that the pandemic brought things to light, just like the rain washes away the top layer of soil and the jagged edges are suddenly visible.

You did so much. Every day. In about 60 ways each day that no one really saw. The times you took a deep breath in the bathroom mirror before you went to face the next fresh hard task.

And it truly, deeply, down to the bones, was impossible to even tell people about it if they weren’t there. Which made it feel lonely. Which made you angry. Which made you feel guilty.

Let’s take some time for you to recalibrate, to breathe and grieve. Pause and recenter. We need you to. You need you to.

Let’s make time to take time. Call it burnout prevention. Call it a sanity tactic. Call a timeout.

What Happens at the Anti-Burnout Retreat?

Actually, what doesn’t happen maybe more of the point.

The goal of this retreat will be to engage in self-care, with some positive peer pressure to relax!

Expectations will be set that the participants are not available during the retreat and that boundary will be upheld except for emergencies (where someone is designated to be contacted so that participants can truly relax and be present.) There will be a digital blackout, returning to our bodies, our environment and meeting simple needs at a slow place.

The bubble will be created with an opening ceremony, and reflection on what might be needed for individuals. Requirements will simply be to set a personal intention, stay healthy, eat, sleep, sit and walk. Everyone will be encouraged to pause for reflection and do some guided writing prompts. Activities will include creativity and play, including (all optional) doodling, yoga, puzzles, dance party, board games, social games, hikes, and rituals for release (including screaming or breaking things safely as needed.)

There will be no photos, no need to dress up for social time, no artifice that you’re “fine.” There’s no intense work to be performed during the span of the retreat, only to follow what it is that you need — a nap, a shower, to sit and look at nature. To read a book, of any kind, without obligation or judgment (including a beach read, smutty fantasy or a childhood favorite!) To stretch as the sunrises or howl at the moon.

It ends with a closing ceremony, releasing the bubble time, and to leave with only a renewed sense of being centered.

Ready to Relax?