When hearing I’ve been on silent retreats, people often wonder what I do during my time in the quiet. Following are 50 ideas for things to do on a silent retreat, written while on my last retreat. Not all of these activities fit in a weekend retreat, but many find their way into the rhythm of a week-long retreat. This is not intended as a to-do list, which might increase stress at a time meant for relaxation and reflection. But for those new to the concept of silent retreat, the list is meant to inspire and reassure that time away is time well-spent.
- Walk in nature.
- Talk with a spiritual director.
- Listen to birdsong.
- Take a nap.
- Watch a sunset or sunrise.
- Walk the labyrinth.
- Go to morning prayer.
- Go to Mass.
- Go to Reconciliation.
- People-watch.
- Pray imaginatively.
- Meditate with Scripture.
- Eat cookies. (Shout-out to the Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House bakers!)
- Smile at strangers.
- Go to Adoration.
- Read.
- Write a poem.
- Journal.
- Compose your own psalm.
- Pray for loved ones.
- Pray for the world.
- Compile a gratitude list.
- Work on a puzzle.
- Color.
- Stare at nature.
- Sit. Just sit.
- Draw.
- Enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.
- Visit the chapel at night.
- Pray the Stations of the Cross.
- Pray the Rosary or Divine Mercy Chaplet (especially on a night with a storm watch!).
- Talk to Jesus on the cross.
- Ponder artwork.
- Exercise.
- Get up early.
- Stay up late.
- Explore the retreat house public spaces.
- Make connections to memories, Scripture, or past retreat experiences.
- Pray the Examen.
- Contemplate your faith story.
- Let time be unscheduled.
- Sing to yourself.
- Listen to music (with headphones or earbuds, of course).
- Take pictures of flowers.
- Visit the resource center or bookstore.
- Cry.
- Ask for the grace you desire.
- Make a resolution for after retreat.
- Go deeper.
- Be surprised!
If you’ve been on a silent retreat, what is your favorite thing to do? If you haven’t been on a silent retreat, which of these activities appeal to you?
