retreat FAQs

Who goes on your retreats?

Mostly single women, fewer men and some couples between the ages of 20 - 65. The average age is between 35 - 65.

Is it okay if I am a beginner in yoga and meditation?

Yes. We accommodate beginners as well as experienced practitioners. If you are looking for challenging yoga this might not be the retreat for you. If you are looking to immerse in meditation with gentle yoga, this is the retreat for you.

What is the group size?

Our groups are intimate and vary, from 8 - 15 people.

Will I be expected to share a room with someone?

You can request to share a same sex room or you can have your own room if available.

What are the facilities like?

All our venues are in remote, breathtaking nature with spa treatments, swimming pools, lakes or dams.

What if I have a food allergy or intolerance?

With advance notice we can accommodate your dietary needs.

How active is the holiday?

Our retreats are very much about slowing down, connecting to mind, body and breath and being with yourself. There is optional running and walking meditation depending on the group. We encourage our guests to take the time to simplify, slow down and connect with nature through walks.

Is there free time?

There is free time between brunch/lunch and evening practices. We encourage you to relax, read, swim and have treatments.

Is there silence?

We introduce some silence to give you space to reflect. It’s often the favourite part of retreat.

Is there Internet?

Internet is usually available. However, we suggest that you have a digital detox on retreat. If it is absolutely necessary we recommend to check the internet for a maximum of 30 minutes at the same time every day. You are also welcome to give us your devices if you prefer to abstain.

What should I pack for retreat?

Loose comfortable layered clothing for yoga and meditation
Running clothes if you would like to join in the running
Hand washing powder for running clothes. There may be no laundry.
Good walking shoes
Bathing suit, flip flops, sunglasses and sunscreen
Light down vest and jacket for cool evenings
Prescription medicines
Cash (in case credit cards are not accepted)
Books from recommended reading list - focussing on meditation to support your experience.

meditation FAQs

Why learn meditation on retreat?

It’s easier to learn and practice meditation when you are feeling relaxed, supported by a group of like minded people, away from daily responsibility and with good teachers creating the right container.

Is the meditation for beginners?

Yes, as well as for advanced practitioners. We take all your needs and concerns into consideration. There will be a supported environment where you can comfortably discover the practice. We will show you each step of the way.

Who does meditation benefit?

Meditation is for those who are looking for a fresh approach to their lives. We are human beings and we want to feel fully human, alive, peaceful and energised. Meditation helps us to reignite all those inner qualities we may have disconnected from in the course of our lives.

Do I need to commit to a religion or Buddhism?

You don’t have to sign up with an institution or religion to practice meditation. Meditation is for everyone and especially for those looking to reconnect with themselves and find tools for daily life that will enhance their lives.

What about experienced meditators?

More experienced meditators will find a wealth of new instructions on our retreats. Each session is an event and inspiration. The teachings are non-dogmatic and relevant to our situation in the world today. There is no end to exploring the interconnection between meditation and living in this world.

What if I can’t sit on a cushion?

There are several postures we can adopt to practice meditation. For those with leg or back problems, sitting in a chair is comfortable and an excellent posture. There are lying down postures too for more extreme situations and for practicing meditation at bedtime. In short, there are lots of smart ways to feel good in meditation.

Do I need to sit still for long periods of time?

Not at all. We mix meditation in stillness with meditation in movement. There are movement meditations involving walking, random wandering, and other special exercises. Sitting still has lots of special instructions you can use to feel comfortable and relaxed.

Will I get everything I need to practice meditation at home?

Yes. You can feel confident that the knowledge and experience you take away from your retreat will give you a solid base. A meditation retreat makes an imprint. Leaving retreat inspired and energised, you can apply what you learned to daily life.

Is there anything I should read to prepare?

Reading is optional and we recommend it. We will send you a recommended reading list in advance, which you are welcome to use before and we recommend during the retreat.

How do I know if I’m doing it right?

You become your own yardstick. If you begin to feel a little kinder to yourself, then your accomplishment of meditation will be extraordinary. Whatever your experience, it is highly likely you will walk away a different person than when you arrived.

What kind of props do I need to practice meditation?

There are various cushions or even a chair is good. We supply these. We will guide you on how to set up a meditation space at home. We will recommend a good meditation seat, and other materials that help to make a magnetising environment. This will feel like a continuation of your retreat in daily life.

yoga FAQs

Why learn yoga on retreat?

Our gentle approach to yoga takes into account the group needs. We start simply and slowly build on the practice. Our groups are of intimate size so we are able to work with each individual. The practice of meditation also greatly supports your yoga practice.

I am a beginner in yoga. Can I join?

Absolutely. We especially inspire beginners to start the practice of yoga.

Is it okay if I am older, stiff or have injuries?

Yes. We can work with all situations and find the ways for you to fully benefit. Our Yin yoga is specifically excellent for stiffness.

I am an advanced yoga practitioner. Will this level be okay for me?

If you are looking for a very dynamic yoga practice this may not be the retreat for you. However, if you are looking for a soft practice and for meditation to support your yoga path, then this is absolutely the retreat for you.

What kind of yoga do you offer?

We offer a mix of gentle, strengthening, stretching and relaxing yoga in the morning and evening. We offer a balance of Hatha yoga (yang yoga) and Yin yoga. You go as far as your body will allow you under our careful guidance.

What is Hatha Yoga?

Hatha yoga combines correct breathing while performing asanas (bodily postures). Hatha is strengthening and active, and works with the muscles, bones and with balancing and stability. We practice Hatha yoga every morning.

What is Yin Yoga?

Yin yoga is designed to complement more active (yang) yoga. While yang emphasises development of the muscular body, yin works the deeper yin connective tissues of ligaments, joints, fascia and bones. In this way, all of our tissues are exercised. Yin yoga helps us stay mobile in our joints and ligaments, and deeply relaxes the nervous system. We practice Yin Yoga every evening.

Do you supply yoga mats and equipment or shall I bring my own?

In most venues we supply yoga mats and props. You are also welcome to bring your own if you prefer. If you need to bring your own supplies, you will need a mat, 2 blocks and a strap. It will be indicated on the individual retreats.

What should I pack for yoga?

Loose comfortable layered clothing
Fitted leggings, loose trousers or shorts
Sports bra
Vests or short sleeve t-shirts
Long sleeve t-shirt or hoodie to wear during yin yoga or savasana
Warm socks for yin yoga and savasana