Practical answers about a couples dark retreat, the sauna, time together and preparation before arrival.
The questions we hear most often.
For specific dates, prices or current facilities, always check the main TMA SEMILY website. This page mainly explains how a couples retreat works and the principles behind it.
How long does a couples dark retreat last?
The length depends on the current offer and your agreement with us. Exact options and available dates are listed on the TMA SEMILY website.
If this is your first dark retreat, choose the length according to how both of you feel about it rather than according to what you think you “should be able to handle”.
Do we have to stay together all the time?
No. You share the retreat, but that does not mean you have to talk constantly, stay in close physical contact or do everything together.
It is completely normal for one of you to want more silence or personal space for a while.
What if one of us wants complete silence for a while?
That is natural. Silence does not have to mean a problem or rejection.
You can read more on the page Communication and silence in a relationship.
What if one of us wants to end the retreat?
Both partners’ needs should be respected. The retreat should not be treated as a test of endurance, and neither person should pressure the other to continue at all costs.
What happens in a specific situation depends on the retreat rules and the agreement made with the venue.
Is a couples dark retreat a form of couples therapy?
No. A couples dark retreat is not psychotherapy or a medical service and should not be understood as a substitute for professional care.
Is the retreat suitable if we are having relationship problems?
The retreat is not a quick fix for a relationship. If you are going through a highly conflictual or acutely difficult period, it may be better to address the situation in another way first.
Read more on the page Who a couples retreat is for.
How should we prepare as a couple?
The most important thing is a shared agreement. Talk about why you want to go, what each of you roughly expects and how you would like to communicate during the retreat.
You can find a practical overview on the page How to prepare as a couple.
Can we use the sauna before the retreat?
Yes, by prior arrangement and subject to current availability. TMA SEMILY has an indoor sauna area, a large cooling tub and space to relax afterwards.
Details are available on the page Sauna before a dark retreat.
Is the sauna a compulsory part of the retreat?
No. The sauna is optional. For some couples it is a pleasant transition between the journey and entering the darkness.
How does food work during the retreat?
It is best to confirm the exact food arrangements directly with TMA SEMILY, as they can vary depending on the type of stay and prior agreement.
What should we bring?
Bring comfortable personal items and anything you genuinely need for practical reasons. There is no need to bring entertainment simply to fill the time.
Do we need meditation experience?
No. A dark retreat does not require experience with meditation, yoga or any other practice.
What if we each feel differently in the darkness?
That is common. One person may feel calm while the other needs more time to adapt. There is no need to compare your reactions.
Should we plan a full schedule immediately after the retreat?
If possible, it is more comfortable to leave some free time after returning to the light.
Where does the couples retreat take place?
The retreats described on this website take place at TMA SEMILY in a natural setting near Semily in the Czech Republic.
For specific information, see webu TMA SEMILY.
You do not need to have everything figured out before the retreat.
Both participate voluntarily
The most important thing is that both of you want the retreat and neither person pressures the other into it.
No fixed outcome
There is no need to expect a specific change or dramatic experience.
Respect your differences
You do not have to experience the darkness in the same way. Different paces are normal.
Do you have a question about a specific retreat?
Current prices, dates and specific retreat conditions are available on the main TMA SEMILY website.
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The topics are connected. Start with the basic overview and continue with whatever is most relevant to you.