How to Retreat: A Guide to Stepping Away from the Everyday to Find Space for Your Self

by Caroline Sylge

Discover the magic of retreating, wherever you are and however much time you have.

What comes into your mind when you hear the word "retreat"? Meditation at a mountain monastery? A trip to far-flung places? The centuries-old practice of retreating is rooted in a person's inner life and belongs to everyone. This book offers you the wisdom and practical steps to retreat wherever you are, whether it’s for a long weekend, a day—or even an hour.

Using the seasons as an optional guide, each chapter delves into a simple theme to focus your exploration, taking you through a range of enticing activities to help you discover a happier version of yourself.

From decluttering your home to tapping into your creativity, from finding your flow to learning how to say no, this accessible and beautiful collection of retreats will enable you to restore, repair, and rejuvenate yourself.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Psychology

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 10, 2026

Reviews

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really made me see that I don’t have to feel so guilty about taking time out for myself. Whether it’s being creative with art, reading a book, we’re spending time in nature, I can consider it a retreat and it’s a form of self-care. I love how this book motivated me to retreat whether it’s for an hour, a day, or even longer.

[Vicky McAfee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a lovely read.

How to Retreat is gentle, thoughtful, and quietly grounding. It’s clearly structured in a way that helps you reflect, explore, and plan, but never feels overwhelming or prescriptive.

I found myself dipping in and out of it, returning to different sections depending on what I needed. It feels like a book you can come back to over time, rather than something to finish and put down.

There’s a softness to the writing that I really appreciated ; it feels compassionate, spacious, and genuinely supportive. Practical, but in a way that invites rather than instructs.

It also left me feeling inspired creatively. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to sit with your own thoughts a little longer, or even create something of your own.

A really enjoyable, thought-provoking read that I can see myself returning to.

[Hannah Jackson · Rating 2 out of 5]

March 2026 Nonfiction

I found this book at Bobzbay Books in Bloomington, IL. It wasn't on my list before, but it definitely caught my eye enough to purchase it. Initially, I thought it would be heavily based on self-care routines, self-love escapes, etc. Honestly, I'm not sure how I would classify this book. Listening to the audiobook, it seemed as if the author lived a very carefree, flowing way of life. I wouldn't say I hated it. It was very calming and insightful to read. However, many of the subjects didn't seem realistic in my everyday life. I would recommend it, though! Again, a very insightful and calming book. There is something for everyone to take away.

[Aimee Beloved Nerdy Auntie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A huge thank you to Rodale, Penguin Random House, and Goodreads for this giveaway win. All opinions are my own. I went into How to Retreat expecting a cozy collection of self care rituals, homemade body scrubs, and spa day inspiration. Instead, I found a thoughtful guide that focuses more on reconnecting with yourself and figuring out what brings you joy. The book includes practical exercises that encourage you to declutter your space, move your body, and reflect on the life you want to create. It was not the relaxing spa escape I had pictured, but I ended up appreciating the deeper approach. If you are looking for a book that helps you build a stronger relationship with yourself instead of simply pampering yourself, this is well worth picking up.

[Ron Frampton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book on finding time to find space for yourself .