‘Your next dream vacation’

Holidays – either love them or hate them, we are all in need of them in some form or another.

They are precious weeks, taken out of often hectically busy and frustrating time schedules, which are generally underlined with the wants, needs and obligations of others, whilst the ‘self’ comes somewhat short …

Why not then do something for body, mind and spirit, and ponder a yoga retreat for your next getaway…?

Exercise, intimacy, and peace – are all to be found, usually while taking in breathtaking scenery.

So beyond all expectations the boss has signed off your leave form, a good day then to indeed, share some tips and inspiration as to choosing a yoga retreat as your ultimate ‘escape’ hatch.

Location

The world is your oyster here, as yoga retreats are offered globally. Choose a place you would either like to discover or somewhere you already love.

‘Beach’ places may include somewhere like California or Hawaii, whereas ‘Arts and Culture’ buffs may find places like Tuscany or Greece more to their liking.

You love comfort and Egyptian cotton sheets – then possibly watch out for the word ‘rustic’!

Would you be happy with English not being the spoken medium? (A great time to learn a new language then)!

Is it strictly a yoga retreat or are other activities available such as, surfing, swimming or hiking?

Are you planning on going alone or with friends and family?

These are all points to consider…..

Teacher/Instructor

The most important consideration here would be professional qualifications and some quality experience.

Ask for client testimonials.

What is the predominant style of yoga that will be practiced during the retreat – remember it may not be the style that you are accustomed to.

How many classes are offered per day, are add-on workshops part of the package?

Ask, Ask, Ask!

Pricing & Timing

Plan and make sure what exactly is included or excluded in your package.

If you are able to travel off-season, you could realistically save a considerable amount of your hard earned money, or be in the position to pay the same amount but for a superior location.

Perhaps plan it for a time in which your major work deadlines and/or commitments have already been accomplished for that particular calendar year – then see it as a reward to self – one full of rejuvenation, relaxation and with a bucketful of fun and laughter added to the mix.

Search for the experience, which is ‘calling’ you.

Inspiration

Greece – Silver Island

Deserted, secluded coves and shady olive groves, not to mention decadent Greek cuisine…

60 acres of undulating hills dedicated entirely to the practice of yoga.

Bali – Kura Kura

Resurrection of ‘old school’ yoga is emphasised here, this includes students living with their instructor.

They facilitate an interesting and on-going retreat called

‘Yoga for Life’, which plays with the elements of water, earth and space to connect the body with the heart, a mystic approach.

India – Amrutham

It goes without saying that if your heart is into yoga that you will find your way here, to the origins of where it all began.

Spirituality oozes out from every person, stone and grain of sand, which you will find along your way.

Here, yoga is combined with Ayurvedic medicine in its authentic form, which makes for a truly restorative and interesting venture.

Australia – Queensland

Let’s head ‘down under’ – a lush forest canopy – I can already hear the birdlife…

Your accommodation is to be found in huts, nestled above the forest floor where sleep comes easy with the soundtrack of nature lulling you to sleep.

Or should you want a little more luxury, a canopied cabin awaits you, after your trip to the communal longhouse, for a some socialising after your session in the custom wood-built studio.

The cuisine here is splendid and a little more opulent than strictly vegetarian – a plus for some yogi’s!

 

All in all, a yoga retreat provides you with a conducive environment to de-stress, having found tools through practice and techniques that will help you cope with life..and the curveballs it sometimes presents.

Mostly you will find yourself amongst a homogeneous group of people who have more ‘in-mind’, than emptying out the courtesy bar.

People like yourself, who are enthusiastic about learning more about themselves, each other and the philosophy of yoga.

Since retreats are often found closer to nature you can also truly expect scenery to delight the senses, which paves the way for a truly worthwhile break.

As one can see the possibilities are endless and luring.

 Do it for ‘You’