Need a non-gift gift? Try a DIY Health Retreat*
A Step-by-Step Life Hack for a Fun and Relaxing Gift Exchange
You’re stuck in the holiday season, and you want to give your friends or family something special without breaking the bank or feeling like you’re repeating last year’s gifts.
Materials Needed
- A group of willing participants (friends or family)
- A commitment to one evening and one day (minimum)
- YouTube (for guided meditations and activities)
- Some snacks and drinks (optional, but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Schedule Your Retreat: Commit to one evening and one day after Christmas and before New Year’s. Treat it like a real retreat – no slipping out to run errands!
- Assign Activities: Each person is responsible for hosting an hour or more of the schedule. This can be 15 minutes of lecture followed by around 40 minutes of activity.
- Get Creative with Content: Use YouTube, second location field trips (like a forest bathing walk), and other activities to keep things interesting. You can also have people share their expertise (e.g., benefits of plant-based diets).
- Host a Homey Dinner: Two people can cover dinner and lunch as part of their presentation – just like we did with sweet potatoes, beans, and Buddha bowls!
- Rotate Hosts: One person hosts in the evening, and another takes over for the next day.
- Device-Free Zone: Encourage participants to leave their phones in a communal charger (unless needed for an activity).
Troubleshooting
If you’re worried about commitment or participation, remember that everyone can contribute something – even if it’s just hosting dinner! If someone flakes out at the last minute, have a backup plan in place.
Time-Saver Tip
To maximize your retreat experience, consider making one day a silent retreat. It’s a great way to focus on relaxation and rejuvenation without distractions!
