For years, I’d dreamed of visiting Alaska. With a goal to see all 50 states, Alaska was a big one on my list. The draw wasn’t just about checking it off, though—I’ve always been enchanted by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and I imagined Alaska would take that awe and amplify it.
When my husband and I decided to visit, a cruise felt like the perfect way to experience it all, especially the glaciers. I’ll admit, I was hesitant about cruising at first—what if it wasn’t relaxing or didn’t match my style? But my desire to see Alaska won out, and I’m so glad it did.
An Anxious Start Turned to Serenity
Getting on the ship was nerve-wracking. As an anxious traveler, I worried about the logistics, the crowds, and the unknowns. I was pretty keyed up by the time we made it on board, but lunch changed everything. Once we sat down with a plan, I could feel the stress melt away.
The rest of the trip felt like a deep exhale. I slept better than I have in years—so well, in fact, that I didn’t even crack open a single book, despite bringing a whole stack! Sitting on our balcony, sipping coffee while watching the ocean, glaciers, and even otters, seals, and whales pass by, was pure magic.
The Beauty of Alaska
Alaska didn’t disappoint. The air was crisp, the landscapes were breathtaking, and the rhythm of the cruise was just what I needed. Days alternated between scenic cruising, where the ship glided past glaciers, and excursions, where we explored Alaska’s wonders up close.
One highlight was taking a helicopter ride to stand on a glacier—a moment that was equal parts humbling and exhilarating. Watching bears in their natural habitat was another incredible experience, but honestly, some of my favorite moments were simpler: sitting quietly, wrapped in a blanket on the balcony, just taking it all in.
A Taste of True Rest
What struck me most was how effortless everything felt. Someone else handled the details, from meals to travel logistics. My husband and I could just be. The seated dining gave us uninterrupted time to connect, and the Retreat—a serene space at the bow of the ship—offered peaceful views and even snacks.
For the first time in a long time, I turned off my phone. As doulas, we often talk about the realities of life on call, but this trip taught me how freeing it can be to step away completely. The world didn’t fall apart, and I came back feeling more rested and ready than ever.
Sharing the Gift of Rest
When I came back from Alaska, I felt transformed—not just rested, but inspired. The experience gave me clarity about something I’ve struggled with for years: how to balance the demands of life on call with the deep need for rest and renewal.
As I sat on my balcony, coffee in hand, staring out at the glaciers, I realized how powerful it was to step away. To breathe. To let someone else handle the logistics. For once, I wasn’t constantly anticipating the next call or worrying about what needed to be done. That sense of surrender wasn’t just healing—it was life-changing.
It struck me how much doulas like us could benefit from this kind of experience. Rest doesn’t just replenish us; it lets us come back stronger, more present, and ready to support our clients with fresh energy. That realization planted a seed.
Now, I’m excited to share that I’ve taken that seed and nurtured it into something I hope will inspire you as much as my trip inspired me: Rest & Recharge: Doula Continuing Education at Sea.
This isn’t just a retreat—it’s a chance to combine rest with growth. Imagine yourself sailing through Alaska’s awe-inspiring landscapes while also diving into meaningful conversations about preventing burnout, setting boundaries, and marketing your practice with confidence.
