What happens when a wellness leader—someone who’s always holding space for others—finally takes time to heal herself?

Today we’re sharing a powerful guest story from a retreat leader who journeyed to Bali at a breaking point. What she found wasn’t just rest, but a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and connection.

Whether you’ve been teetering on the edge of burnout, are constantly supporting others in your work, or are simply curious about how retreats create real transformation, this story might be exactly what you need to hear.

The Breaking Point

Like many retreat leaders, Sarah (name changed for privacy) was used to being the one others leaned on. She led workshops, held space, offered guidance—and she was good at it. But over time, something began to shift.

“I knew I was burning out when I started dreading the things I used to love,” she shared. “My body was tired, my creativity was gone, and I didn’t even recognize myself in the mirror. It wasn’t that I didn’t care—I just had nothing left to give.”

She had thought about taking time off for years, but the idea of stepping back from her clients, her schedule, and her sense of responsibility felt too heavy. Still, the whisper that she needed a break eventually became a roar. Something had to change.

Why Bali?

Sarah chose Bali not just because it looked peaceful and beautiful (though the sunrise views and rice fields didn’t hurt). She was drawn to its deep-rooted healing traditions, its spiritual atmosphere, and its reputation as a place where people go to reconnect—with themselves.

“I didn’t go to host a retreat,” she said. “I went to attend one. I needed to remember what it felt like to be on the receiving end of care.”

Bali gave her that space. She had slow mornings. She slept. She ate delicious foods her body craved. She invested in gentle massages and treatments that moved her body with gentleness. She soaked in sacred water and actually giggled under the pressure of one of its water spouts. She gave herself permission to stop performing and start feeling as she absorbed the sacred temples, mosques and markets. Bali showed her sweetness, compassion and joy surrounded by natural beauty. A reintroduction to humanity in all its extremes.

The Breakthrough

“I wasn’t fixed—I was found,” she said.

Somewhere in the quiet, she stopped pushing and started listening. Somewhere in the stillness, she felt something unlock. What she found wasn’t a dramatic overhaul or a picture-perfect moment. It was a steady return to herself.

“I remembered the woman who started this whole journey—the curious, open-hearted version of me who wanted to help others, not because she had to, but because she loved it. I came back home with new boundaries, a softer heart, and a deeper commitment to honoring my own energy.”

The retreat didn’t erase her burnout—but it created the space for her breakthrough.

A Note to Fellow Leaders

If you’re reading this and feeling the familiar signs—fatigue, disconnection, a nagging sense that you’re giving from an empty cup—this is your invitation.

Retreats aren’t just for your clients. They’re for you, too.

And no, it doesn’t have to be Bali. It could be a coastal village in Portugal, the cloud forests of Costa Rica, or even a quiet mountain lodge just a few hours from home. What matters is the space you create for you.

Want to Join a Retreat Like This?

At Bucket List Retreats, we partner with leaders and locations that are ready to hold space for real transformation. If you’re craving rest, reflection, and reconnection, we can help you find the experience that fits.

Join our Retreat Insider list to receive first access to upcoming trips, travel inspiration, and opportunities designed to bring you back to yourself.

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