The Joy of Solo Retreating: Why Going Alone Isn't Lonely

"I'd love to come, but I won't know anyone."

It's one of the most common things I hear when I talk about my yoga retreats. Often followed by, "I'd be nervous going on my own."

If you've ever had those thoughts, I'd love to gently reassure you that going on retreat alone doesn't mean you'll be lonely. In fact, it can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do for yourself.

The retreat that changed everything

The most life-changing yoga retreat I've ever attended was one I went on completely by myself.

I didn't know the teacher. I didn't know another guest. My marriage had recently ended, I was exhausted emotionally and physically and I needed somewhere safe to simply stop.

Everything was taken care of – the accommodation, delicious food, yoga, wellbeing classes and even the airport transfer. All I had to do was arrive.

I remember meeting another guest at the airport. We were both travelling alone and both feeling a little nervous. By the time we reached the retreat, those nerves had already begun to disappear.

The beautiful gardens at Vericoco - home for our upcoming retreat in October

Alone, but never lonely

Many of the guests had come on their own, while others were travelling with friends or family.

I loved having my own room where I could enjoy quiet time whenever I needed it, but there were also plenty of opportunities to connect over meals, during classes or simply relaxing by the pool.

There was never any pressure to join in.

Some days I happily read my book in a hammock. Other days I found myself sharing conversations with people who quickly became friends.

Most importantly, I didn't have to pretend I was okay. I didn't need to explain my circumstances or be anything other than myself.

That week became the beginning of my healing.

9 years ago - That’s me! solo retreating for the first time

Why so many women choose to retreat alone

Since becoming a retreat host myself, I've noticed more and more women choosing to travel solo.

Not because they're escaping life, but because they want to reconnect with themselves.

Many spend their days caring for partners, children, ageing parents, clients or colleagues. They're constantly giving their time and energy to everyone else.

A retreat offers something beautifully simple: permission to pause.

To rest.

To breathe.

To remember who you are when no one needs anything from you.

A retreat guest of mine last year in Kefalonia………… dropping into some alone time

Giving yourself permission

For many women, the biggest hurdle isn't travelling alone – it's giving themselves permission.

We wonder whether we should spend the money. Whether we should use our annual leave differently. Whether taking time just for ourselves is somehow selfish.

But sometimes I wonder...

Is a retreat really an escape from reality? Or are we so busy meeting everyone else's needs that we've lost touch with our own?

Giving yourself permission to pause isn't selfish. It's an investment in your wellbeing, allowing you to return home calmer, healthier and more present for the people you love.

Could a solo retreat be right for you?

If you're longing for some peace, feeling emotionally drained, or simply hearing a quiet voice inside saying, "I need this," it might be worth listening.

Almost everyone who joins one of my retreats on their own tells me they felt nervous beforehand. Yet time and again, they leave saying they're so glad they came.

You may arrive on your own, but you certainly won't stay a stranger for long.

If you've been wondering whether a solo retreat could be for you, perhaps this is your gentle invitation to explore the possibility.

My next Empowering Yoga retreat takes place from 3–10 October 2026 on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. If you'd like to know more or simply have a chat about what to expect, I'd love to hear from you.

Stunning sunsets from Lourdata beach, Kefalonia