Let’s be honest—we live in a world of constant to-do lists, big goals, and “what’s next?” energy. And while that has its place (hello, ambition), there’s something incredibly powerful about pressing pause and asking:
“What do I actually want to feel right now?”
That, my friend, is where setting an intention comes in.
And when it comes to retreats—whether you’re joining me at the ranch, the beach, or across the globe—setting an intention can be the very thing that transforms your time away from a simple getaway into a soulful reset.
Why Set an Intention Before a Retreat?
Think of an intention like a soft inner compass—not a rigid plan, but a grounded “why” that anchors your experience.
Intentions help you:
- Show up with presence
- Gently release expectations
- Focus on what you need (not what you think you should be doing)
- Allow space for clarity, growth, and peace
I’ve seen it over and over again: women arrive unsure, overwhelmed, or burned out—and the moment they set an intention (even something as simple as “rest” or “clarity”), everything begins to shift.
But What If I Don’t Have an Intention?
Oh love, that’s an intention too.
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is:
“I don’t have a goal. I just want to be present.”
Not everything needs to be processed, planned, or predicted. Showing up to a retreat without a set intention and allowing yourself to just be is one of the most healing decisions you can make. There is so much beauty in presence. Let that be enough.
How We Set Intentions on Retreat
At my retreats, we often open with an intention-setting circle or reflective journaling moment. Some people write down a word. Others share a full paragraph. Some cry. Some smile. It’s all welcome. There’s no “right way” to set an intention—there’s only your way.
Here are a few prompts we use:
What does my soul need from this experience?
How do I want to feel during and after this retreat?
What am I open to releasing or receiving?
If I were to leave with just one thing, what would I want it to be?
You can whisper it to yourself. You can write it down and tuck it under your pillow. You can declare it to the group. Or, again—you can simply say:
“My intention is to show up as I am.”
Carrying Intentions Home with You
The retreat glow doesn’t have to fade when you get home. One of the best ways to keep the magic alive is to bring your intention with you.
Here’s how:
- Write your intention on a sticky note and put it on your mirror.
- Set a daily reminder on your phone with your intention’s word or phrase.
- Create a ritual—like lighting a candle or journaling each week—centered around your intention.
- Reflect monthly: Am I still living this intention? Does it need to evolve?
Remember, intentions are living, breathing things. Let them grow with you.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to do, fix, or prove anything to earn your spot on a retreat—or in your own life.
You just need to be. And whether you set a bold, soul-shaking intention or simply choose to breathe and receive—your presence is powerful.
So when you pack your bags for your next retreat (maybe with me), take a moment. Pause.
Ask yourself what you want—not from others, but from within.
And let that guide you home to yourself.
With love and intention,
Shannon
