In a world where Gen Z faces unprecedented burnout, a unique jungle retreat in Malaysia offers a phone-free sanctuary for young adults seeking genuine rest and a break from the pressures of “adulting.”
Retirement homes used to be for those who spent their lives working and finally achieved rest. Elderly couples who fell in love in high school, worked hard for the next 50 years, and then were finally able to relax in luxury. The paradox here is that by the time they usually arrive at this rest, they’re too old to travel, too tired to stay out late, and too crippled in health to do all the crazy things they once dreamed of. Doesn’t sound much like the American dream, right?
In Perak, Malaysia, a new retirement home is making headlines, but not because it’s for the elderly, but for the young. Gopeng Sanctuary recently opened a remote, phone-free, rest-home for Gen Z burnt out on life. Immersed in the jungle, with intentionally slow downtime and nourishing meals, this home is part of a global wellness movement, not just a trendy travel fad.
According to The Smart Local, youths tired of “adulting” can enjoy a month of gardening activities, meals, lodging, and making friends with nature for $630. Why? Because burnout rates among Gen Z are higher than ever. Even compared to all other generations. Not only are a quarter of 2,000 Americans burnt out before the age of 30, but since COVID-19, young adults were 83% likely to feel burnt out from work.
Our world is more connected than ever, yet we’re increasingly filled with exhaustion, anxiety, and a detachment from ourselves. And this is exactly why retreats like Gopeng Sanctuary are going viral. In an age of digital overload, burnout culture, and productivity as identity, young adults are starving for something work will never be able to give them: rest.
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