So, here’s a thing. I, a 48-year-old self-proclaimed champion of creature comforts, had this genius idea to become a backpacking volunteer at a Yoga retreat. Yes, you read that right. Me, someone who has never done yoga, never backpacked, and never willingly ventured too far from life’s niceties, left behind my hubby and my precious kitties to go on this “spiritual adventure.”

You see, I have this brilliant plan to present my very own retreat later in the year, and I thought, “What better way to learn about retreats than to dive headfirst into the wilderness and the mountains of the Costa del Sol, right?” So, I bravely waved goodbye to my cosy bed, air conditioning, and well-stocked fridge, and ventured into the great unknown to learn about all things retreat-y.

Let me tell you, the irony of a comfort-loving, yoga-ignorant woman attempting to find her zen in the wilderness is not lost on me. Picture me, navigating through this adventure with a backpack that’s probably way too heavy for someone who’s used to having everything within arm’s reach. Oh, did I mention the lack of proper hiking shoes? It’s safe to say that my comfy slippers are sorely missed.

As for the yoga part, well, let’s just say that Downward-facing Dog feels more like a “insert curse words here” position for me right now. I never knew my body could contort – and then ache so much.. Lol

But I’m determined to make the most of this adventure. Yes, I am missing my nightly Netflix binge and my favourite spot on the sofa, but what’s life without a little (or a lot) of discomfort? They say ‘Learning starts when you move outside of your comfort zone..’

So, here’s to embracing the discomfort. Maybe this experience will inspire my future retreat attendees to make big bold, brave moves.  At the very least, it should make for a good story to tell around the campfire.

Cheers to stepping out of my comfort zone and into the great unknown!