A Retreat that Mends Broken Hearts?
Renew, a new weekend retreat in New York, promises to mend broken hearts. Can two days get you ready to love again?
“Would you pay for a weekend getaway to get over your ex?” asks ER Physician Dr. Travis Stork. Amy, the creator of the women-only retreat, describes herself as a “scientific Carrie Bradshaw.” Her inspiration for Renew came about five years ago after a hard break-up of her own. “I spiraled into a pretty bad depression. I stopped eating, I lost about 20 pounds. I started having panic attacks. It was just a terrible, very dark stage in my life.”
Amy explains that “We’re taking a scientific and a spiritual approach to helping heal the heart.” Participants must check in their digital devices “so they can’t stalk their ex!” and meet with a life coach.
They also join in group talks led by a positive psychology consultant who explains the grief and detachment process. The goal is to learn tools that will help them when they return to real life. The women are pampered with nutritious meals, yoga, and free time each day to enjoy the idyllic retreat setting – including alpaca-petting!
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Rosie Mercado loves this idea. She got through her own divorce by ceremonially burning pictures of the past. Dr. Stork adds that of course a weekend is not enough to time to recover, but he loves that this retreat gives participants the tools to cope. It’s certainly better than turning to alcohol, food, rebound relationships, or a wild weekend in Vegas!
