A religious retreat is a period of time spent away from everyday life for spiritual reflection and contemplation. An ashram is a Hindu MONASTERY or hermitage, typically associated with a particular guru or spiritual leader. A MONASTERY is a building or complex of buildings comprising the domestic quarters and workplaces of monastics, monks or nuns, whether living in communities or alone. An ABBEY is a Catholic MONASTERY or convent, under the authority of an Abbot or Abbess. An asham is a Jewish retreat center, usually located in a rural area, where people can go to study, pray, and meditate.