Yoga retreats remove us from our daily hectic schedule and help us de-stress from our everyday routine. Being with like-minded people, each on their own path, helps us grow and reminds us what’s really important in life. Because most participants attend retreats alone, it is a great time to set goals and reflect upon life—after a few days we might find that we have resolved some inner conflicts or challenges. Retreats also provide a chance to deepen our practice and maybe even improve that Warrior 3, headstand or handstand.

Attending a yoga retreat is a unique way to go to places we’ve always wanted to visit and get a bit adventurous in the safety of a group setting. There are many reputable teachers and yoga travel companies to make our next get away an easy decision. The best yoga retreats are those where everything is planned ahead and most or all meals are included. Depending on the location, the most interesting retreats include a bit of the local culture and adventure in the forms of excursions and activities, such wine tasting in Italy or visiting the Alhambra in Granada.

Daily yoga in a beautiful environment with fresh, organic lovingly cooked local cuisine might just be what we have been missing in our vacations. Open to those of all ages and walks of life with one common theme: health and happiness in all areas of life.

Remember, we can always start small. Local weekend yoga retreats give the perfect taste of the benefits of a retreat; just the opportunity for a digital detox alone is worth every second. Check in with a favorite yoga teacher or studio to see if they are hosting any upcoming retreats. If not, suggest they plan one.

Sarah Bond and Liza Bertini are co-founders of One Hundred Skies Yoga Adventures, LLC, planning and hosting retreats since 2006. For more information, email [email protected] or visit OnehundredSkies.com.