Relationship Tip What to Take Along on Your Couples Retreat PT 5

Remember to Pack for Being Miles Away from Civilization

Pack Sensual Treats

Since most Retreat Centers are a bit rural and rustic and that is part of their charm, they won’t be having any of the luxury amenities and toiletries of the luxury hotels and spas.  And yet think of bringing along one or two of your favorites to enjoy together.  You may not be able to bring along a romantic room candle.  (Double check the rules of the retreat center.)

However, you can bring along scented bath salts, a skin scrub, or scented lotion.  Just make sure your wife picks out a scent which you’ll enjoy smelling of as well after you rub lotion or massage oil on her shoulders at night.  Avoid her picking the floral scents and instead opt for something like a vegetable or nut scent such as avocado or almond.  You can often purchase such items from your local health food store in the personal care section.

Green Ecofriendly Transport

As Christians, we are called to steward the Planet’s resources thoughtfully.  So, consider and investigate if there is an ecofriendly way for the two of you to get to the Retreat Center.

If your Church is specifically sponsoring the retreat or several couples from your parish are attending, will there be a church bus going to the Retreat Center?

If there’s no church bus or van going,  why not look into what it would cost to rent a van and drive several couples up and back together, with you all splitting the costs?  You’ll likely save money, create a greater bond amongst the couples driving together, and being doing a little some thing extra considerate for the planet. In our modern era, we are often so focused on our efficiency and conveniences from having and driving our own cars, we forget the relationship building and connection fostering which occurs when you simply spend time together and in the close proximity of driving together in a vehicle.

Additionally, because you’ll be few cars on the road, you can use the HOV/Commuter Lane and also reduce the congestion of traffic on what is typically a Friday afternoon commute time drive to the Retreat Center.

Alternatively, is there a bus depot, train station, or ferry service serving the area near the Retreat Center?  Often Retreat Centers themselves have vans and will gladly pick up participants at the local transit hub for a weekend retreat if you phone and schedule things in advance.  They might do a once an hour pick up at the local train station.

Look into it in advance and don’t just think the only way to get there is to drive your car alone.

Rain Gear, Rain Poncho, Rain Coat, Boots, and an Umbrella

Check the weather reports in advance of your leaving.  And then follow the example of any motorcycle rider who knows that if no rain is in the forecast, that’s a sure sign it’ll rain at least a little while you are there.  Just plan to bring a little bit of rain protective gear with you.

Your sneakers or hiking boots will probably be enough to protect your feet.  So think of an umbrella and just a rain jacket or poncho.

Happy Dating and Relationships,

April Braswell