Retreats - Does It Make A Difference?

In this podcast episode, I interview Dr. Kate Mason, founder of Women and Wild Retreats, about the transformative impact of women's retreats on mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Mason and I discuss the stress and pressures women face, particularly in balancing work and family life, and the importance of self-care. She highlights the variety of activities offered at her retreats, such as breathwork, mindset workshops, and fire walking, designed to empower participants and foster personal growth. The episode underscores the value of taking time to reset and reflect, and provides guidance on choosing the right retreat.
Retreats and their impact (00:00:11)
Dr. Kate Mason discusses the powerful impact of retreats and the importance of researching different types of retreats.
Reasons for retreats (00:01:25)
Dr. Kate Mason explains the reasons for the increasing stress and overwhelm in modern life and the need for retreats to take a break from daily pressures.
Challenges faced by women (00:04:46)
The mental load and societal pressures faced by women, particularly mothers, leading to burnout and loss of identity.
Importance of values (00:06:24)
The focus on values in retreats, the impact of aligning with one's values, and the need for personal time and self-discovery.
Transformational experiences (00:09:20)
The transformative experiences and empowerment gained from pushing oneself out of the comfort zone during the retreats.
Follow-up process (00:10:02)
The post-retreat support, including group communication and accountability to maintain the benefits of the retreat.
Individual success stories (00:10:38)
Notable success stories of women who found their voice and pursued new paths after the retreat.
Impact of social media (00:12:21)
The influence of social media on expectations and comparison, contributing to burnout and loss of identity.
Retreat activities and experiences (00:14:18)
Description of the activities and experiences offered during the retreat, including breathwork, mindset workshops, glass walking, and fire walking.
Balancing adventure and relaxation (00:17:15)
The balance of adventurous activities and relaxation during the retreat, culminating in a celebratory party and a sound bath on the final day.
Breathwork and Mindfulness (00:19:50)
Dr. Mason discusses the challenges of calming the mind and the importance of breathwork and mindfulness in retreats.
Time Needed for Relaxation (00:20:53)
The difficulty for some individuals to relax and the importance of taking time to unwind during retreats.
The Impact of Retreats (00:22:30)
Dr. Mason emphasises the positive impact of retreats in providing a reset and enabling individuals to reflect on their needs.
Choosing the Right Retreat (00:24:26)
Considerations for selecting the right retreat, including aligning with personal needs and researching the credentials of the retreat host.