This week I went on a little solo retreat. It was only for a few hours but it made all the difference. Instead of staying home to work on all the things on my to-do list I drove to a Korean inspired spa that is about an hour away from my house (King Spa & Sauna in case you’re wondering).

I had been having a hard time accessing my higher guidance about the details of the women’s retreat I am leading this Friday. I had a general plan, but every time I tried to get some specifics, nothing would come. I knew that Spirit was waiting for the right time to give me clarity, so I was trying to be patient. But now, with a few days to go, I was starting to panic.

All of this was on my mind as I debated with myself about going to the spa. Mostly I kept telling myself that I needed to stay home and plan. I also felt selfish contemplating taking this little retreat. There is so much pain the world, I thought so myself, so much angst. Could I really afford to stop, to pause and nurture myself? Wasn’t I being selfish?

But I could feel my heart urging me to go. For whatever reason sometimes you just need to be away from your familiar surroundings in order to hear your inner wisdom.  I’ve learned this lesson many times, so I followed my inner urging, and decided to go to the spa.

Once I was there I found myself.  As I soaked in the different pools, and spent time in the various crystal rooms, I started to feel clearer. As I released the mental chatter I was able to feel compassion for myself and others, not from a place of overwhelm, but a place of genuine kindness and love. I saw how taking this time to nurture myself enhanced my ability to be a healing presence to others and to the world. Read more.

Create a sacred space. Perhaps light a candle, or play some soothing music. Then bring the palms of your hands over your heart center as you breathe into that space. You can then say the prayer below, or use whatever words feel right for you.

Beautiful Soul and Spirit,

I am ready to become a better receiver. Teach me how to receive more of your love and guide me in all of the ways that I am meant to share this love with the world. Thank you!

Now ask your Soul the following questions. Remember, to release the need to receive the answers right now. Trust that the guidance will come at the right time for you.

• What do I need to release in order to become a better receiver of your love?
  
• What do you want me to receive from you right now?
• What do I need to embrace in order to become a better receiver?