The days leading up to a retreat can be full of anticipation, excitement, and sometimes even anxiety or nervousness. Perhaps you’ll be visiting a new city or attending a retreat with people you don’t know. Maybe you signed up for a tried-and-true retreat that you’ve attended many times before with friends. Whatever your situation, it’s valuable to prepare your mind and heart before packing your bags. Here are some practical ways to do just that.

Prayer

Days and even weeks before your retreat you can begin preparing through prayer. Pray that God will move in your life during the retreat, but also in the lives of the other attendees. Pray for the speakers, leaders, and worship team, that God uses them for His glory during the retreat. Ask God to reveal any areas in your life that you may need healing, direction, or encouragement. 

Packing

Of course, you’ll need to pack all the essentials like clothes, shoes, and toothpaste. But consider what NOT to pack as well. Don’t bring anything that could be a distraction–things like work emails, incomplete projects, or that unfinished TV series you’ve been marathoning. Whatever could stand in the way of you connecting with God or the other event attendees, leave it at home. 

Unplug

Before the retreat begins, let your friends and family know that you will be “off-grid” while you’re away. Consider turning off all non-essential notifications to cut down on unnecessary distractions. Delete your social media apps and choose to fast from social media while on retreat. If you have any thoughts you need to process, consider journaling about them instead of posting. 

Intentions

Instead of just hoping for certain things to happen during the retreat, set intentions for how you want to show up. Be open to God’s leading even if it’s different than you expected. Commit to being present with God spiritually, but also mentally and socially with the other attendees. Let go of the expectation to be constantly doing and be intentional about being still. 

Community

Whether you are coming to the retreat alone or with a group, be open to forming new relationships. If you can, connect with fellow retreat attendees before the event and get to know them. Be praying for those who you will meet during the retreat. Practice hospitality and vulnerability– you’re not the only one who will have questions or burdens. Prepare to be a listening ear and maybe make a new friend along the way.

A retreat can be a sweet gift of rest, renewal, and revival, and preparing your heart and mind before you leave can make all the difference. Preparing now will set the stage for a distraction-free time and allow you to be fully tuned into what God has to teach you. 

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