Some people go into the dark for deep experiences, others mainly need a proper rest. This time we bring you the experience of a man who decided on a dark retreat in a single evening, spent three nights in the dark and slept sixteen hours on the very first day.
I came to rest and slept for 16 hours
I feel good. I came mainly to rest and find a bit of peace, and that worked out. On the first day I slept for about sixteen hours, from seven in the evening until they brought me food. With a few short breaks, but it really was a lot of sleep. That’s exactly what I came for and exactly what I got.
Three nights instead of a marathon
I was here for three nights. Not everyone is built for a marathon, and I think that’s a pretty good comparison. I believe I could have lasted seven days too, but for me it probably wouldn’t have been so pleasant any more. This way the three days went by nicely, I got some rest and I’m happy. Will I go for a longer stay next time? We’ll see. It depends on what situation I find myself in. This time it felt like three days.
I decided in one evening
I’m fairly impulsive, so I didn’t really make a decision at all. One evening I told myself I’d give it a go, bought the retreat straight away, and I think I did the right thing. As for comfort and facilities, everything was as I expected. It’s clean, comfortable and in a quiet spot. I was a bit worried it would be tucked away somewhere in the woods, completely isolated, where I wouldn’t feel safe. Here it’s just right.
Food as a pleasant change
I always looked forward to the food, because I like food. And it’s nice to at least exchange a few words when it’s brought. It didn’t disturb me at all. It’s a minute or two, and out of the whole twenty-four hours it’s a pleasant change.
A gradual return to the light
At dawn at the end of the retreat I did get up, but then I went back to sleep for a bit. I lasted half an hour, it was nice, but then tiredness caught up with me. It’s definitely good that you don’t go straight into harsh light. It was only just getting light outside, so it was neither dark nor light. That’s better than a bright light suddenly coming on.
The darkness gives everyone what they come for
To anyone who’s hesitating, I’d say: don’t be afraid of it. Lots of people told me I wouldn’t manage it, because I’m a bit impulsive. And I’m really happy. I think the darkness gives everyone what they want. I mainly wanted rest, and I got it. If someone comes for a deeper experience, I believe they’ll get that too. I definitely wouldn’t be afraid of it.
We have put together the frequently asked questions that people ask before a dark retreat.
Also follow our YouTube channel, where you will find videos about the retreats and people’s experiences of darkness therapy. 🔔
