Top 5 Benefits of Queer Male Body-Positive Retreats
Think about your social life. It’s not often that when we go out into queer or bear spaces can we truly let out guards down.
Like most of life, we tend to want to “fit in” but cannot always find a way. Or we want to feel validated by looking good or getting hit on.
Typical bear spaces are evaluative - as in, you are being evaluated based on your physical appearance or how cool you are perceived. That type of environment doesn’t usually allow you to relax and feel safe.
But these are our “safe spaces” you may be saying. Yes, that’s true. In these spaces we are surrounded by like-minded and similar bodied people.
Why do most of us feel insecure in those spaces then?
Because there’s no intention for supporting each other. The agenda isn’t to create deep connection with others. It’s not like a retreat, where the presuppose is for your to feel safe. To help you reconnect with yourself and others.
That brings us to the benefit of retreats - specially body-positive retreats for bears and queers, like the fun fat summer camp I host with Camp Bear Hug:
Emotional Healing: Such retreats provide a safe space for men to explore their insecurities and societal pressures related to body image. Through workshops, discussions, and support from peers, attendees can address emotional wounds and cultivate self-acceptance.
Make life-long friends Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who share similar struggles can be incredibly empowering. Building a supportive community fosters connections and allows men to feel understood and accepted without judgment. It’s natural to walk away from a retreat with new, deep friendships.
Physical Well-being: These retreats often include activities such as yoga for bigger bodies, swimming in the pool, and slow paced walks promoting physical health and well-being. Engaging in these activities can improve body confidence and overall fitness levels.
Self-Discovery: Retreats provide opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. You can explore your identity beyond societal expectations and learn to appreciate yourself for who you are, rather than how you may look. As one guest said at the end of our 2023 retreat, “I fell in love with myself.”
Travel Experiences Made for YOU: You get to travel and sight-see at what we call a “bear’s pace.” Often time traveling - especially with a group - means an intense itinerary and not much rest. With a body-positive and body-accepting retreat, you can rest when you want. You can indulge however you want. And you rest assure that your needs have been thoroughly thought threw.
