I just returned from a Bali retreat and it feels wonderful – I’m re-energised and recuperated. In fact, I’m writing this on my last day here and it’s been kinda relaxing to have this kind of holiday to take my mind off work. Unlike the last couple of holidays where I’ve had to settle work matters during the trip, this vacation has been almost work-free.

Almost, because I still quickly glance through my work emails every night to see if there are any urgent matters to attend to. Thankfully there is none this time, so I’ve been able to live in the now and enjoy the moments as they happen without worrying about problems in the office. And this really made me appreciate the idea of having a work-free holiday and being somewhat disconnected.

This retreat had me up in the mountains to watch the sunrise, practising yoga and meditating by the beach, and getting a full body massage. Of course, there were minor unpleasant experiences like getting charged exorbitantly for a half-day drive in Ubud and my virgin foot reflexology session which I didn’t expect it’d hurt that much. Having it a second time is slightly better though it may have to do more with the strength of the masseuse rather than getting accustomed to the pain.

I think I still have a long way to go before I can truly go on a technology detox where I’m unbridled from any form of modern devices and experience a real retreat. All in all though, this trip emptied my mind, got me recharged and I can’t wait to go on a trip like this again soon!