A Restful Retreat
Originally published in Arthritis Today

By Shannon Wilder

If the demands of everyday life have you frazzled, worn out and in need of some time away that's more restorative than the average vacation, you might consider a spiritual retreat. 

Conducted nationwide by abbeys, zen centers and non-denominational lay religious groups, these retreats offer you a chance to be in a positive, caring atmosphere where you can dedicate your time to praying, resting, focusing on solutions to your problems and, of course, deepening your spirituality. And you don't have to do it alone, either. Most retreat centers offer programs for groups, married couples and young people.

Some retreat centers you might try:

• St. John's Abbey, 320/363-3929, www.osb.org
   
• Providence Zen Center, 401/658-1188, www.kwanzumen.com/pzc/index.html
   
• Hersey Retreat, 207/567-3420, www.stocktonspringsme.com/pages/wellness.html
   
• Questhaven Retreat, 760/744-1500, www.questhaven.org