While visiting a friend in Colorado last month, I decided it would be the perfect time to have a silent retreat. It's been a while, (actually 13 years) since I've gone on a silent retreat and it was long overdue. The Sacred Heart Jesuit retreat in Sedalia, CO, checked off all my boxes.

• beautiful setting

• freedom and not a regimented retreat

• freedom to start and end when you like

• lunch included

• rooms for rent, although I didn't use this option

We arrived early Sunday morning, spent several hours at the center, and attended mass. Peaceful perfectly describes the retreat grounds. Several deer roamed around, and the breathtaking mountains bordering the landscape added to its majesty and served as a reminder of God's beauty.

I usually map out how I want to spend my day retreating, but this time I went with the flow. I journaled, walked, sat in peaceful silence, prayed, and breathed in deeply the crisp mountain air while promising myself to do this self-care yearly.