Holiday Hosting, Being Hosted, and the Need for Space: A Case for Family Retreats

Shanelle Koroma
Nov 19, 2025
4 min read

Updated: Dec 30, 2025

The holiday season carries a familiar rhythm: cooking large meals, navigating travel, spending long hours with extended family, and trying to enjoy it all without becoming overwhelmed. These gatherings can be meaningful, but they can also be demanding. Most families move between excitement and exhaustion — preparing food, coordinating schedules, entertaining guests, and keeping peace in the house.

The reality is straightforward: holidays require energy, and even the most loving families benefit from intentional space.

The Overlooked Need for Respite

When relatives travel in for the holidays, everyone feels the pressure to host well. Homes become crowded, kitchens stay busy, and personal routines disappear. Children become overstimulated, adults become fatigued, and small tensions build quickly.

A neutral space functions as a pressure valve. It allows everyone to engage on their own terms instead of crowding into one home or stretching a host family’s capacity.

Why Space Matters for Creating New Memories

When people are rested, fed, and comfortable, they show up differently. Conversation becomes easier. Activities feel lighter. Even quiet moments feel more valuable. Rest is what makes memorable moments possible — not stress.

This is why the idea of a family retreat during the holidays is practical, not indulgent. It creates room for genuine connection without the strain of “hosting mode” or the discomfort of overstaying in someone’s personal space.

A Family Retreat as the Holiday Middle-Ground

At Ujima Retreat Center, the family retreat option serves as this middle-ground:

A neutral location — no one’s house, no one’s turf, and no pressure to impress.
A restorative setting — nature, quiet, and the ability to slow down.
A space for shared experiences — activities that pull everyone together without forcing constant interaction.

Families visiting from out of town can stay in their own dedicated space, while local relatives can drop in to visit, cook together, or participate in activities. This structure protects everyone’s energy and helps the holidays unfold with fewer conflicts and more ease.

Activities That Support Connection Without Overwhelm

The property offers several low-pressure experiences that support both bonding and recuperation:

Bonfire evenings with s’mores or popcorn
Outdoor hot tub and sauna for calm winter evenings
Fishing on the spring-fed pond
Simple games like Jenga, badminton, or flying drones
Communing under the pavilion for shared meals or quiet conversation

These options give families flexibility — time together when they want it, and space apart when they need it.

Shared Responsibility and Sustainable Holiday Energy

A dedicated retreat space encourages healthier patterns during the holidays:

Shared meal prep instead of one person doing everything
Opportunities for individuals to rest or take a walk
A calmer environment for children
Less crowding and less emotional overload

It shifts the season from obligation to intention.

Choosing Rest as Part of the Tradition

Holidays can still carry warmth, memory-making, and cultural traditions, but they don’t have to rely on burnout. A family retreat setting introduces balance: proximity without pressure, closeness without crowding.

Creating new memories works best when everyone has room to be themselves.

If your family is coming into town this year, consider giving yourself — and them — space to enjoy the season fully. A retreat can function as the pause everyone needs and the environment where the best moments happen naturally.

Fall sunset view at Ujima Retreat Center

Embracing the Spirit of Togetherness

In the heart of the holiday season, the essence of togetherness shines brightly. Families often gather to celebrate traditions, share stories, and create lasting memories. However, amidst the joy, it is crucial to recognize the importance of balance.

A retreat provides a unique opportunity to embrace this spirit of togetherness while allowing for personal space. It encourages families to engage in meaningful interactions without the pressure of constant hosting.

The Healing Power of Nature

Nature has a remarkable ability to heal and rejuvenate. The serene surroundings of Ujima Retreat Center offer a perfect backdrop for families to reconnect. Whether it’s a leisurely walk through the woods or simply sitting by the pond, these moments in nature can foster a sense of peace and tranquility.

As families immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors, they can find solace and rejuvenation. This connection to nature serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of self-care during the bustling holiday season.

Creating Lasting Traditions

Incorporating a family retreat into holiday traditions can be a transformative experience. It allows families to establish new rituals that prioritize well-being and connection. Imagine gathering around a bonfire, sharing stories, and roasting marshmallows under a starlit sky.

These shared experiences can become cherished memories that families carry with them for years to come. By choosing to prioritize rest and connection, families can create a legacy of love and support that transcends the holiday season.

The Gift of Presence

Ultimately, the greatest gift families can give each other during the holidays is their presence. By stepping away from the chaos of daily life and embracing the tranquility of a retreat, families can truly be present with one another.

This intentional focus on connection fosters deeper relationships and creates a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.

If you are seeking a peaceful escape this holiday season, consider the transformative power of a family retreat. It may just be the gift everyone needs to celebrate the season with joy and gratitude.