Of course, breaking away into nature and solitude to tap into a deeper consciousness is no new concept. It’s been a fundamental part of meditative practices for centuries. There’s a reason why hermitages are usually located in remote locations, away from ceaseless everyday chatter. But it’s not the only way to recuperate.
Another kind of wellness getaway that’s been gaining traction lately is summer camp for adults, which is exactly what it sounds like. Retreats like SOMMERJUNG and Camp Breakout in Germany, are about (stressed out) adults reliving their childhood experiences in the woods for a couple of days. Usually these camps involve outdoor activities, DIY workshops, and socializing in groups—far away from any digital devices. The idea is to briefly retire from adult responsibilities, release your inner child, and rekindle a dewy-eyed eagerness to make new friends. It’s a good opportunity to dabble in activities like canoeing, drawing, windsurfing, yogilates, archery, and face painting.
Underlying the latest plethora of wellness retreats and experiences is our desire to escape from our hyperconnected world to find rare moments of peace. Our culture’s ever-increasing obsession with visible progress and wanting more and more and more means there’s little time and space left for being, a mode of non-doing that acknowledges the richness of the present moment. Now more than ever, travelers are intent on maintaining a mindful outlook even after they’ve returned to the hubbub of daily life. Whether it’s a spa resort in Portugal or a guided meditation session with an app, the crucial thing is to carve out time to slow down, restore your spirit, and cultivate a sense of oneness with the universe.
Text: Charmaine Li
Images: Courtesy of Good Travel
This article can also be found in The New Traveler magazine, published on the occasion on the first Berlin Travel Festival, March 9–11, 2018 at Arena Berlin. The Good Travel platform offers a selection of sustainable, inspiring, and authentic destinations, which have been carefully selected for these qualities and can be booked via their website.
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