Choosing Solitude for Birthday at Miraval Berkshires
This year, I celebrated my birthday differently. No beaches, no big parties—just me, solitude, and a quiet retreat.
I’ve celebrated every birthday surrounded by friends, family, or a boyfriend. Usually, on a tropical resort, I loved the tradition, but this year, after going through a tough breakup, things felt different.
As much as I craved peace and quiet, the idea of spending my birthday alone made me hesitate. Part of me felt almost... like a loser. I couldn’t remember the last time I hadn't celebrated with someone.
But deep down, I realized that if I could learn to enjoy my own company—on a day as emotionally charged as a birthday—it would be a true act of growth. One thing about life: when you learn to love your own company, you stop settling for bad company.
Choosing solitude for my 28th birthday turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made. I walked away from that weekend feeling more grounded, self-assured, and connected to myself than I had in a long time.
Why I Chose Miraval Berkshires
I decided to book a weekend at Miraval Berkshires, a luxury wellness resort in western Massachusetts focused entirely on mindfulness, self-care, and holistic healing. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Miraval is beloved by many—including Oprah. They also have stunning locations in Arizona and Texas.
Miraval isn’t your typical resort. It’s built for deep rest, reflection, and transformation. The experience is all-inclusive (with a few premium activities at an extra cost), and you get a $175 resort credit per night to use toward spa treatments, private sessions, or fee-based activities.
Here's what’s included:
Rooms: Cozy, luxe accommodations that feel peaceful and intentional.
Culinary: All meals, snacks, coffee, smoothies, and non-alcoholic drinks are included (there’s an extra charge for handcrafted, non-alcoholic cocktails).
Wellness Activities: Access to a full daily schedule of fitness classes, yoga, meditations, workshops, and more.
Arrival Gifts: A Miraval tote and reusable water bottle.
Spa: Unlimited access to their Life in Balance Spa facilities.
Transportation: Free shared shuttle rides from Bradley International Airport (BDL) or Pittsfield Municipal Airport.
Gratuities: No tipping required—everything is included.
My Weekend at Miraval Berkshires
I woke up super early on Friday morning to catch my flight to Bradley Airport in Connecticut. I landed around 8 AM, where a Miraval shuttle was already waiting for me. The drive to the Berkshires took about an hour, winding through sleepy towns and forest-lined roads.
When I arrived at Miraval, the calm energy hit me immediately. One of their rules is a "no phone" policy in public areas—you can only use devices in your room or a few designated spaces. I honestly loved it. It forced me to slow down and be present.
My First Day
After checking in and settling into my beautiful room, I headed to my first scheduled experience:
Illumination Ritual: Release & Restore
This class was the perfect way to start my retreat. It focused on releasing past negativity and welcoming new energy into your life. We wrote down things we wanted to let go of, and ended with a mini oracle card reading. I left feeling lighter, more hopeful, and quietly emotional.
Later that afternoon, I had another class:
Pottery: The Way of the Wheel
Pottery turned out to be one of the most meditative things I’ve ever done. As we worked with the spinning clay, the instructor encouraged us to breathe deeply, release control, and stay present with the process. There’s something symbolic about shaping clay—about trusting that something beautiful can come from letting go.
After my classes, it was time for dinner. I had a filet mignon with broccolini, followed by a buttery, delicious blueberry tart for dessert. The food at Miraval is next level—fresh, seasonal, and incredibly thoughtful.
After dinner, I had a few hours to relax in my room before heading to my evening spa appointment.
I used my daily resort credit to book a Swedish massage, and it was one of the best massages I’ve ever had, just the right mix of firm and gentle.
Back in my room, I pulled out my book, "The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About" by Mel Robbins, and read until I fell asleep.
The next morning, I woke up early, feeling rested and lighter.
I grabbed a delicious breakfast—an omelet with potato hash, then headed to a 9:00 AM class:
Slow Flow Yoga 1
This was the perfect way to move after such a relaxing evening. The instructor led us through gentle postures, encouraging us to sync breath and movement, and I could feel my body opening up in ways I hadn’t realized it needed.
After yoga, I spent the rest of the morning simply soaking in the peaceful energy of the property.
By early afternoon, it was time to pack up and catch my shuttle back to the airport for my flight home.
Would I recommend Miraval Berkshires? yes!
The price tag is steep, yes. But if you’re looking for a way to unplug, recharge, and reconnect with yourself in a deeply meaningful way, it’s worth every penny.
Spending my 28th birthday alone—intentionally, lovingly—was a gift I’ll never forget. It was the beginning of a new relationship with myself: one built on acceptance, peace, and the knowing that my own company is more than enough.