The Retreat and Recollection: A Phenomenological Study on Self-Reflection, Emotional Healing, and Renewed Perspective

This study explored and described the lived experiences of Grade 12 students during retreat and recollection, with particular focus on self-reflection, emotional healing, and renewed perspective. A Husserlian descriptive phenomenological approach was employed to understand the meanings that participants attributed to their experiences. Ten (10) Grade 12 students participated in the study and were identified as P1 to P10 to maintain confidentiality. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed through the identification of significant statements, formulated meanings, thematic groupings, and cross-participant synthesis. The findings revealed four interconnected dimensions of the participants’ lived experiences. First, lived experience during retreat and recollection was characterized by reconnection through community, sharing, spiritual encounter, and opportunities to step away from ordinary routines. Second, self-reflection involved turning inward through personal examination, self-awareness, recognition of strengths and struggles, and self-realization. Third, emotional healing was described through emotional recognition, expression, processing, release, acceptance, relief, and movement toward more positive emotional states. Fourth, renewed perspective emerged through changes in participants’ outlook toward themselves, their relationships, responsibilities, faith, and future direction. The findings further showed that these dimensions were interconnected rather than experienced as a fixed sequence. The overall emerging essence of the participants’ lived experience describes retreat and recollection as a meaningful pause from ordinary life that enables young people to reconnect with themselves, others, and God; confront and process their personal and emotional experiences; and emerge with greater self-awareness, acceptance, hope, and renewed direction. The study highlights the importance of understanding retreat and recollection through the voices and meanings of students themselves rather than relying solely on predetermined measures or outcomes. This contributes to a deeper experiential understanding of retreat and recollection within the personal, emotional, relational, and spiritual lives of Grade 12 students.