Instead of heading to clubs or coastal retreats this summer, many young women are finding peace inside the quiet walls of convents and monasteries.

According to Yahoo Life, A growing number of Gen Z women are choosing to spend their summer months in religious sanctuaries, embracing silence and spiritual reflection as a remedy for modern burnout and overstimulation.

Traditional summer escapades like beach houses and rooftop socials are being swapped for sacred spaces and vows of silence. These religious getaways, often hosted by Catholic convents and monasteries, offer a unique alternative for those seeking peace and spiritual restoration. This movement has gained traction online and now reflects a shift in how some young adults approach rest and self-care.

Embracing a vow of silence—a commitment to refrain from speaking—has become a central feature of many of these spiritual retreats. Participants communicate only through writing or hand gestures during their stay, often lasting several weeks. This silence offers a deep personal reprieve from the noise of daily life and constant digital engagement.

Social Burnout Fuels Monastic Appeal

Much of the appeal stems from mounting stress. Recent data shows that around 250,000 Americans experience burnout by age 30, a concern especially prevalent among younger generations. The convent and monastery trend appears to be a response to these pressures, offering a sanctuary for those feeling emotionally tired and disconnected.

As interest soars, availability at monasteries has become tighter. Some popular locations now have waitlists, and accommodations can be booked out for months in advance. This high demand demonstrates just how committed participants are to exchanging nightlife scenes for quiet chapels and gardens.

On TikTok, one user under the handle @mc667868 documented her experience attending a retreat. “I booked a vow of silence at a Catholic monastery late last year, and the booking process is straightforward — you just email the nuns,” she shared in the video. “Overall, they’re flexible.”

Viral Posts Spark Widespread Curiosity

That post, which has drawn over 700,000 views, propelled the idea into mainstream awareness. In it, the user notes that while her first booking went smoothly, her attempt to return this summer was unsuccessful due to accommodations being fully booked for the next three months. Her experience mirrors what many others have encountered when attempting to secure a spot.

Support flooded the comments section, with many women resonating with the draw toward stillness. One commenter quipped, “brat summer is out, vow of silence summer is IN.” Another added their insight: “i lived with nuns last summer (they’re Episcopalian). Legit the best three months of my life—they are so cool and fun.”

Some users expressed frustration about how competitive the process has become. One declared, “I tried to apply in FEBRUARY to live in an Italian monastery with the nuns this summer, and they were already fully booked.” The clear consensus: the movement is no longer niche.

Rediscovering Peace in Spiritual Living

This trend isn’t just about escaping urban stress. Many participants describe it as a journey toward spiritual fulfillment and inner peace. The routine, structure, and simplicity of daily life within monastic communities offer a stark contrast to the chaotic pace of modern youth culture.

While some women choose to fully immerse themselves in the religious life temporarily, others come simply to observe and rest. One TikTok commenter humorously suggested that even monasteries may soon need an app to manage the surge: “Maybe we can start a resy app for vows of silence.”

Another social media user joked that this shift was inevitable: “The girlies are FED TF UPPPPPPP and this is the proof.” Others spoke more spiritually: “I feel the nuns have been expecting us. They knew our last nerve would disappear at some point.”

Modern Rest Through Ancient Practice

This monastic revival represents a reinterpretation of tradition rather than a religious conversion. Many of these Gen Z women are not necessarily devout Catholics or practicing Christians but are simply seeking space, restoration, and intentional silence during a time of widespread emotional fatigue.

Unlike typical vacations that focus on indulgence or socializing, retreats in convents offer reflection, self-discipline, and purpose-driven living. Residents might spend time working in gardens, attending services, or simply reading and walking in silence.

Interest is only expected to grow as more young adults share their stories and recommend the experience. With clear signs pointing to rising demand, some convents and religious communities may begin to expand availability in response—or develop structured programs for summer seekers.