Your Guide to Planning the Perfect Soulcation

Click here to read Part 1, “It’s OK to Take a Break”

So, you’ve decided to take a Soulcation—a solo getaway focused on combating burnout, embracing self-care, and recharging your mind and body. Now, let’s take a closer look at how to plan the perfect trip to prioritize yourself with minimal guilt or stress.

Where Should You Go on a Soulcation?

The beauty of a Soulcation is that you can go anywhere that feels restorative to you. While some prefer an exotic getaway, others find peace closer to home.

Tip: Travel outside your city.
I recommend taking your Soulcation in a city other than where you live. Being in a new environment minimizes the temptation to run home for something you “forgot” or to check in on things that are perfectly fine without you. This separation creates the mental and physical space needed to truly disconnect and focus on yourself.

If that’s not an option, consider:

Booking a nearby Airbnb or hotel for a “mini retreat.”
House-sitting for a friend or neighbor who’s away.
Spending the day at a local spa or quiet retreat center.

Remember, the destination matters less than the act of stepping away from your daily routine.

Let Go of the Guilt

A common misconception is that the world will fall apart while you’re away. That’s simply not true. Your home, family, or responsibilities will survive without you for a brief hiatus. In fact, your absence can have surprising benefits, like fostering independence in your loved ones.

If you’re worried about being out of touch, here are some guidelines:

Check in briefly for safety. It’s perfectly fine to call home to let your family know you’re okay. But keep the conversations short to avoid getting pulled out of “Soulcation mode.”
For moms of younger children: Taking a Soulcation when you have small kids is tricky, so planning is key. Make a detailed list of responsibilities and share it with trusted caretakers before leaving. If you’re nervous about going overnight, start small—maybe an hour at a park or a few hours at a spa—and gradually work up to longer trips.

The most important thing? Give yourself permission to prioritize your well-being.

How to Spend Your Time on a Soulcation

Once you’ve arrived at your destination and removed distractions, the next question is: What do you do?

The answer is simple—whatever feels right for you. The beauty of a Soulcation is that there’s no pressure to follow a schedule or check items off a to-do list.

However, there are two things every Soulcation should include:

1. Rest

The most valuable part of a Soulcation is rest. Sleep in, take naps, or simply sit and let your mind wander. Avoid filling your time with social media or unnecessary screen time—this is your chance to escape the constant noise of the digital world.

Pro Tip: Log out of social media apps and only use your phone for essential tasks like navigation. If you’re staying in a hotel, lock your phone in the safe to eliminate temptation.

2. Reconnect with Yourself

In the chaos of daily life, it’s easy to lose touch with your inner voice. Use this time to listen to yourself. Journaling, meditating, or simply sitting in silence can help you process your thoughts and rediscover what brings you joy.

What to Pack for a Soulcation

Packing for a Soulcation is about comfort and simplicity. Here’s a quick list of essentials:

Journal and pens. Writing down your thoughts is a powerful way to reflect and decompress.
Earplugs and a sleep mask. These will help you block out distractions and get quality rest.
Comfy clothes. Think cozy robes, fluffy socks, and soft loungewear.
Walking shoes. A short stroll outdoors can do wonders for your mental and physical health.
Aromatherapy. Bring a lavender pillow spray, roll-on essential oil, or your favorite calming scent to create a soothing atmosphere.
Something you love. Whether it’s a book, puzzles, or an adult coloring book, pack items that bring you peace.

10 Reasons to Take a Soulcation

Still need convincing? Here are 10 reasons why a Soulcation is a productive, life-changing choice:

Absence makes the heart grow fonder—for everyone involved.
It fosters independence among your family, proving that you’re not the only one who can manage daily tasks.
It refreshes your body, mind, and spirit.
It helps you recenter and reconnect with the woman you are at your core.
It improves your ability to parent or care for others by giving you time to reflect and reset.
It builds self-confidence as you focus on your needs and desires.
It offers freedom to do whatever you want, whenever you want.
It encourages personal growth by stepping outside your “do-it-all” comfort zone.
It strengthens self-discipline as you resist the urge to check in on everything.
It provides the ultimate gift: uninterrupted time to think and just be.

The Takeaway

A Soulcation is an intentional act of self-care, designed to combat burnout and restore your sense of balance. Whether you’re spending a few hours at a spa, a weekend in a quiet cabin, or an afternoon at a park, the most important thing is making time for you.

So, go ahead. Take that step, plan your escape, and remind yourself of the joy that comes from embracing self-care. The world will still be here when you get back—and you’ll return as the best version of yourself.

Your Turn:
Have you ever taken a Soulcation? What was your experience like? Share your tips and favorite destinations in the comments below.

And as always, stay seasoned!