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see this play out with people who attend retreats is in
what they pack. So often, it’s the oversized toiletries, full
makeup kits, and extra outfits that reflect something
deeper. The belief that if they don’t have every product,
every tool, every layer of their curated identity, they’ll be
exposed. There’s an underlying fear of not having access
to what they ‘think’ they need, which often reveals a fear
of fully being seen.
But transformation doesn’t come from holding tighter
to what keeps us masked. It comes from loosening
our grip.
Personally, every time I overpack, I end up feeling
stressed and frustrated. I know I’m carrying more than I
need, and I’ve left no room for the unexpected. I’ve found
that when I pack light, I’m more available to spontaneity,
synchronicity, and surprise. The same is true for inner
transformation: when we’re overloaded with old stories
and limiting beliefs, we block the insights and clarity
trying to reach us.
Why This Matters for Retreats
Whether you’re leading a retreat or attending one, the
energy of packing light offers a powerful metaphor.
The best retreats aren’t just about the itinerary. They’re
about what people release to get there. The old roles,
expectations, distractions, or stories that no longer fit.
Consider inviting participants (and yourself) to reflect
on this before arriving:
• What are you willing to set down or leave behind
so you can fully experience what you’re here to
receive?
That single prompt can change the entire experience.
An Invitation to Lighten Your Load
As you plan your next experience or prepare to step
into one, ask yourself:
• What’s the one thing I can release right now that
would make space for more clarity or joy?
• What am I holding onto out of fear that I could let
go of with love?
• How might my transformation feel easier if I
carried less?
Sometimes, the heaviest thing we bring isn’t what’s in
our bag. It’s what we haven’t unpacked on the inside.
VIEW THEIR FULL PROFILE ON RETREATMATCH.COM ---------
Robin Finney I am a nomad and intuitive
travel coach for Soulo Experiences. I’ve been
living out of a suitcase for 7 years now after
leaving it all behind to follow my dream of
traveling the world. I use my lifestyle and
experience to guide others into taking their own Soulo
journeys and to embrace the unknown.