How to DIY a Reading Retreat at Home
Want the bliss of a reading retreat without having to go away and find someone to feed the cat? I’ve got you. A reading retreat at home can be just as magical, and you already know where the good snacks are.
Whether you’ve got a whole weekend or just a quiet Sunday afternoon, here’s how to create your very own bookish escape, no suitcase required.
Step 1: Set the vibe
First things first: your reading retreat is not just a few hours on the couch scrolling between chapters. You’re creating a little bubble of calm - the kind where your brain finally stops buzzing and your only job is to turn the page.
Here’s how to set the scene:
Choose your retreat space: A comfy chair, your bed, a corner of the garden, or anywhere you won’t be interrupted.
Add cosy touches: Blankets, candles, soft music (or blissful silence).
Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” and put it out of reach - no interruptions, please!
Step 2: Curate your reading stack
Pick 1–3 books that feel like a treat to you. That might be:
A novel you’ve been meaning to read for ages
A comfort re-read
A short story collection for variety
But don’t put pressure on yourself to finish them all. This isn’t a reading challenge. It’s a chance to reconnect with what you love.
Step 3: Plan your snacks
Let’s be honest: snacks are a vital part of the reading retreat experience. You want food that’s easy to eat one-handed and makes you feel looked after.
My go-tos:
Sweet treats or baked goodies (cinnamon rolls would be elite for this!!)
Your favourite drink: tea, coffee, a soft drink, wine or something sparkly
A no-fuss lunch or dinner you’ve prepped ahead (I include monthly recipes in my book club for exactly this reason!)
Step 4: Block off your time
Now comes the hard bit: actually taking the time.
Book it in like a real retreat.
Tell housemates/family you’re “away” (because in a way, you are).
Don’t squeeze in chores or errands “just quickly.”
If you only have a few hours, that’s still enough. The key is treating it with intention. Like it matters. Because it does.
Step 5: Read, rest, repeat
You don’t need a rigid schedule. This isn’t a productivity workshop. Let your retreat unfold naturally. You might:
Start the day with journalling or stretching
Take a walk between chapters
Have a nap (truly elite reading behaviour)
The only rule? No guilt. No rush. No multitasking.
You can read for five hours or twenty minutes. The retreat still counts.
Want the real thing?
If this DIY retreat has you dreaming about taking things a little further, my in-person reading retreats in New Zealand are designed exactly for book lovers like you.
They’re calm, cosy, and created to give you the breathing space you’re craving. Plus: you don’t have to plan a thing or lift a finger — I’ve got the snacks covered too.
P.S. Tag me @busywithbooksnz if you do a DIY retreat — I love seeing your setups, book stacks, and snacks!!