Journey Within: Preparing Heart and Mind for the Croatia Retreat 2023
Greetings from Croatia!
As the sun sets on today, on the verge of new adventures—the much-awaited Croatia Retreat 2023 officially begins tomorrow. A one-week retreat for women who bravely and courageously said yes to an adventure across the pond in a small coastal town in Dalmatia.
As per usual…I have some thoughts to share. I’ve been here a week doing my best not to melt in the sun while preparing and staying in awareness before everyone’s arrival.
In contemplating the lessons that this occasion offers, I believe we can find insights that resonate with us all, whether you’re preparing to embark on this retreat or observing from afar. (And thank you to those of you who have encouraged me to share!) Here are my thoughts this week about emotions I’ve encountered:
Anticipation: The Spark of ExcitementAnticipation isn't reserved solely for those attending this Retreat. Anticipation is a complex emotional state characterized by a mixture of excitement, curiosity, and even a hint of nervousness or tension. Excitement and anticipation are closely connected emotions (I call them cousins) that often go hand in hand. While they are distinct feelings, they often overlap and influence each other in various ways. In addition, both can trigger similar physiological responses, such as increased heart rate, energy and restlessness.
Preparation: Ready for the UnforeseenPreparation isn't just about the practicalities of packing bags. It's a metaphor for the emotional and mental readiness to embrace the unknown. We're all preparing for something—whether it's a new endeavor, a personal goal, or simply facing the uncertainties of life. The body’s reaction will vary based on personality, past experiences, and the nature of the unforeseen event. These physical reactions are often part of the body's automatic response to unexpected stimuli and are intended to help you quickly assess the situation and respond as needed.
The Unknown: Where Magic Unfolds Even if you’re not physically present at the Retreat, the unknown is a shared aspect of our journeys. Life's most transformative moments often happen outside the script. When we approach the unknown with open hearts, we might discover that our paths are woven with surprises. This is where control and surrender intersect—a somewhat uncomfortable and not pleasant place to “marinate…”
Feelings: A Universal Tapestry Emotions are a common thread that connects us all. The array of emotions felt at the Retreat—excitement, curiosity, perhaps even a touch of apprehension—is a reflection of the emotional landscape we navigate in various contexts. Embrace your feelings; they guide us on our paths. By tuning into bodily sensations, you become more attuned to how your body responds to various situations and emotions. This heightened self-awareness allows you to better understand your emotional states and triggers.
These are feelings that I’ve noticed…I’ll be curious to ask the participants as they begin to arrive. The theme of our retreat is Polako…the Croatian word for relaxing, taking it easy, slowing down…Another big part of the theme is to “lose our head and come to our senses” as per Gestalt philosophy, meaning feeling more, thinking less.
Another thing I’m noticing is how culture plays a huge role on how emotions are viewed, expressed and processed…Maybe I’ll explore this topic next. In the meantime, go Polako friend and enjoy.
To Powerful, Positive Change…Cheers!
Adela