10/08/2025

ON SUNDAY August 10, 2025 theSunday Special V

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A retreat is a deep breath for the soul, a pause to recalibrate before returning to real life.

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A retreat may spark change, but lasting growth depends on applying its lessons in everyday life.

When and why to consider one

Malaysians and mental health

GIVEN the emotional and financial invest ment, it’s essential to assess whether a retreat is right for you and, if so, what type of retreat is best suited. Here are a few signs it may be worth considering: • You feel burned out or emotionally disconnected • You’re navigating a life transition (grief, divorce, career change) • You want to develop mindfulness, cre ativity or healthier habits • You need space away from your usual environment to reflect Notably, you don’t have to be “broken” to attend a retreat. Some of the most profound insights come from a place of curiosity rather than crisis. If you do go, experts recommend setting realistic expectations. A retreat

won’t solve all your problems, but it might offer clarity, connection and a renewed sense of direction. A pause, not a panacea Ultimately, wellness retreats are not magic bullets. They don’t erase pain, nor do they replace medical or psychiatric care. But for some, they provide a moment of stillness in a noisy world, a rare chance to listen inward. Think of it as a deep breath for the soul. It’s a pause that allows you to recalibrate. But then you return to life and the integra tion begins, as Neff claimed. In a world where the pace of life leaves little room for reflection, even a temporary pause may hold value. Whether life changing or not, it’s in the intentional choosing of that pause where transforma tion quietly begins.

• According to the Ministry of Health, one in three Malaysians experiences mental health challenges in their lifetime. • A study published in the Asian Journal of Psychiatry found that urban Malaysians are more susceptible to burnout and emotional fatigue due to work-related stress. • While public mental health services exist, there remains a gap in affordable, accessible support, fueling interest in alternative healing methods. • Research the facilitators’ credentials • Check if the retreat is trauma-informed • Ask about the schedule and what’s included • Clarify post-retreat support (e.g. integration calls or community check-ins) • Read reviews or testimonials from past participants A retreat may not fix your life, but it might help you remember what it feels like to be truly present in it. For some, that alone is life-changing enough. Tips before booking a retreat: