Why go on retreat while pregnant?
This post is authored by wonderful guest poster Katie. Find her at @thepregnancyyogateacher or via her website here.
Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation, and amidst the changes, taking the opportunity to go on retreat can offer a unique and powerful experience. Whether you’re surrounded by other pregnant women or a diverse group of individuals, a retreat provides the perfect setting to step back from daily life, reconnect with yourself, and prepare for the journey ahead.
Detaching to Reconnect
At its core, a retreat is about stepping away from the routine and creating space to focus inward. For pregnant women, this means carving out time to connect with your baby, your body, and your inner wisdom. Even in a mixed group, the retreat environment fosters a shared sense of stillness, mindfulness, and personal growth that supports everyone in their unique journey—pregnant or not.
By temporarily detaching from your everyday life, you open up the possibility to rediscover parts of yourself that are often overshadowed by the busyness of daily responsibilities. For expectant mothers, this can be especially meaningful as you prepare for one of life’s most transformative experiences.
The Liminal State of Labour and Life
In labour, a fascinating phenomenon occurs: the brain’s neocortex—the thinking, analytical part—quiets down, allowing the instinct-driven limbic system to take over. This creates a liminal, or in-between, state where a woman becomes deeply attuned to her body and instincts, almost as if she’s journeying inward to meet her baby.
This idea of “going inward” isn’t limited to pregnancy or labour; it’s a universal experience that retreats can help facilitate. Whether pregnant or not, attendees often describe a retreat as a chance to step into a similar liminal space—a state of introspection, calm, and self-discovery.
For pregnant women, this practice can be a beautiful preparation for birth, teaching you how to quiet your mind, trust your instincts, and connect with your body. For others, it’s an opportunity to explore their own paths of self-awareness and growth.
Why a Mixed Retreat Can Be Meaningful
Attending a retreat alongside people from diverse backgrounds offers unique benefits. Here’s why a mixed-group retreat can still be an enriching experience for pregnant women:
A Shared Sense of Presence: Everyone on retreat, pregnant or not, is there to step away from their routine and connect with themselves. This shared intention creates a supportive, collective energy.
Learning from Each Other: Mixed retreats allow pregnant women to gain insights from others’ experiences while also sharing the unique perspective of pregnancy.
Safe and Inclusive Spaces: Retreats are designed to accommodate a range of needs, ensuring that pregnant participants can enjoy practices tailored to their stage of life while still participating in the broader group experience.
Personal Growth: Regardless of life stage, the tools learned on retreat—mindfulness, breathwork, self-reflection—benefit everyone and can be applied to various aspects of life, including pregnancy and parenting.
Preparing for Birth and Beyond
For pregnant women, a retreat isn’t just a pause; it’s a preparation. The space and practices provided help you:
Connect with Your Baby: Use the quiet moments to bond deeply with your little one.
Calm the Mind: Learn tools like meditation and breathwork that can quiet your neocortex and empower your instincts—skills that are invaluable during labour.
Build Confidence: Gain clarity and assurance about your journey into motherhood through reflective practices and workshops.
Nurture Yourself: Enjoy nourishing meals, restful sleep, and gentle movement designed to support your changing body.
A Journey for Everyone
A retreat is a journey inward, whether you’re preparing to welcome a baby, navigating life’s challenges, or seeking a deeper connection with yourself. For pregnant women, it’s a chance to honour this sacred chapter, practice self-care, and prepare for the birth of not just a baby but a new version of yourself.
Sharing this space with others enhances the experience, reminding us that while our individual journeys may differ, the desire for connection, peace, and self-discovery is universal.
Ready to Retreat?
Charlotte is trained in pregnancy yoga - step on to any of her Aether Yoga day or weekend retreats for to step away from the noise of every day life <3
Whether you’re pregnant or simply seeking a pause, a retreat can provide the transformative experience you’re looking for. Breathe deeply, and reconnect with the wisdom and strength within you.
By, Katie – The Pregnancy Yoga Teacher
