The meaning of a spiritual retreat can be different for different religious communities. Spiritual Retreats are an integral part of many Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Sufi (Islamic) communities. In Hinduism and Buddhism, Meditative Retreats are seen by some as integral for reconnection to one’s self. Retreats are also popular in Christian churches, and were established in today’s form by St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556), in his Spiritual Exercises.
