mihaylovaJPG

I’m home 🏡

Added 2025-05-23 08:34:34 +0000 UTC

Hi friends!

I wanted to share a little story about a mini solo retreat I recently took for myself 🌿

My self-isolation ended a bit earlier than I planned, because suddenly I broke out in a rash all over my stomach and started feeling unwell. The house I rented was deep in the woods, in a summer village where no one really lives during the weekdays. Not even cars come through 🙈

I spent my time walking alone through the forest without seeing a single soul for miles… and at some point, I realized it would be safer and more reasonable to return to Warsaw, just in case.

Still, I had a beautiful time. I practiced a bit of Vipassana, complete disconnection: no phone, no internet, no contact with the outside world. I had brought a remote camera with me, just in case Mark needed to check on me… but of course, no internet = no camera 😅

And honestly… I loved the silence.

When you’re alone with yourself, you start to notice the subtle chaos in your mind- little thoughts sneaking in, ideas you didn’t invite. I’ve been practicing mindfulness and meditation for nearly 10 years, and over time I’ve trained my mind to stay conscious and clear, choosing what I allow to think about.

It’s been years since I had obsessive or intrusive thoughts… and this retreat reminded me that there are still deeper layers to meet within myself.

But overall it was magical ✨

I climbed an old lookout tower, listened to cuckoos, watched the sunlight through the trees… and just felt alive.

I really hope I can give myself this kind of peaceful escape again sometime soon.

And yes, I’m back online now 💌