(Responsibly) Leaving Civilization Behind to Catch Up On Yourself

Recommended by Jess

I go on retreat to the woods a couple of times a year. I bring a notebook, a pile of books, my favorite snacks, and occasionally my cat. I walk, think, read, build fires, and smell trees. It's incredibly good for the soul.

When I'm in the woods, I get a break from being a professor, a parent, and even a partner. I just get to be alone with myself and experience myself as a person.

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Steve M3mo ago

I haven't taken a day off for myself in many, many months and when I did, I finally felt a sense of peace and calm that almost felt foreign. Therapy is a safe space for you and someone you trust, but alone time is a safe space for you and your mind. Go ahead, disappear (again, responsibly) to give yourself some breathing space. Work will be there the next day, and you still have the rest of your life to live.

3 months ago

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Mila Stolk

@milastolkSep 2, 2026

i love this, thank you!! <333

Karen

@karenjlewisSep 9, 2026

I’ve done this as a vacation - but do you do this as a nearby solo excursion? I’m also a professor 👩‍🏫 and I love this reset idea.

Jess

@kleenestarSep 10, 2026

Absolutely! There are a couple of places I go that are within 90 minutes of my house. I can leave on Thursday evening, have three days of glorious solitude, and be back in time to teach on Monday.

(Responsibly) Leaving Civilization Behind to Catch Up On Yourself

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