That means no consumption of these substances, and it also means not bringing them to the centre at all.
A lot of people have asked why, so I’d like to get ahead of the game and take you through the two biggest reasons why so that we’re all on the same page and so that you have an understanding of the purpose.
Before I explain why, I also think it’s important to mention that retreats are not exactly vacations. In another post, I share more about the “why” behind retreats, but one of the biggest ways in which a retreat differs from a regular vacation is that a retreat is almost designed to challenge you for growth. Whereas a vacation doesn’t really take on that shape.
It could be growth and improvement of your yoga practice, or your physical fitness; or it could be growth in communication, introspection, how you connect with others, and so on.
A retreat is something you come to not only to feel rejuvenated on a physical level, but also to be re-energized emotionally. And this type of growth is not usually comfortable. [Otherwise it would be all the rage..].
The rainforest and its bugs, the heat, the retreat content, and even your fellow retreat attendees will likely challenge you while you’re here. Being in community and being in the rainforest both individually tend to do this. But this is also where the beauty lies. If you take this as an opportunity for growth and development, for exploration (both externally and internally), and for reinvigoration of a different kind, you will leave here changed.
That could mean that your fear of bugs might have been challenged to the point where you leave feeling more at ease with them (this actually happens very often). It might mean that any disabling fear you have about trekking through a rainforest is quelled after stepping into that challenge and coming through it, out the other side. Or it might be the alcohol/drugs thing – you might find that actually, a week without it all can be pretty damn amazing.
With that in mind, I’ll take you through the two reasons for our centre being a dry space:
- Many people are recovering from addiction (or actively held in addiction) and creating a safe space to support our brothers, sisters and community in general is a small gesture of camaraderie for those who could use a little extra support.
- We are not a licensed premises and nor are we insured for the service, the consumption and the associated accidents that occur from consumption of alcohol (not to mention drugs). So we simply cannot enter the space outside our insurance coverage, I’m afraid. On top of that, our space is designed to be open, with uninhibited views. If drinking were allowed, we would need to change that entirely, with railings everywhere for safety – and that would really change the vibe we’re working on.
I understand that for a lot of people, this rule is a difficult one to swallow (excuse the pun), and yet this uncomfortable space is where all the introspective gems come from in life – it’s where understanding and change flourishes. So it’s okay to get upset about it. But at least you come knowing and expecting that discomfort.
An added bonus is that you are now choosing to experience this retreat fully, without the clouded lens that these substances create.
That’s a pretty powerful choice.
We’re looking forward to holding the space for you here and exploring with you (both literally and figuratively). And it’s my hope that explaining the purpose behind this rule helps you to understand its importance. To read the rest of the rules (don’t worry, they’re not all this heavy), click here.
If you have questions or concerns, please get in touch with us.