The reasons people choose to go on a yoga retreat are many but here are some of the popular reasons:
“And you? When will you begin that long journey into yourself?” ~ Rumi
Developing your practice can be challenging especially when you have a busy life and schedule. Being on retreat gives you the chance to attend 2 classes per day, you will notice the progress and the positive effect this is having. Distractions are limited so you can be sure that you fully focus.
I have had the honour to teach retreat guests who have only ever attended one yoga class before going on retreat choosing a retreat setting to begin to explore their practice, through to the more experienced yogi who seeks the space to focus more intensely.
“The trees, the flowers, the plants grow in silence. The stars, the sun, the moon move in silence. Silence gives us a new perspective” ~ Mother Teresa
We all benefit from going to a new place, seeing the world and ourselves through different eyes. You will have time to contemplate, to review what is out of balance and where you need to action change in your life. This safe space will allow you to grow and learn.
“It’s a good idea always to do something relaxing prior to making an important decision in your life” ~ Paulo Coelho, The Pilgrimage
Life is in constant change, some of which can be challenging. A retreat allows you to step outside of your everyday life, to gain deeper understanding and create clarity.
It may be that you consciously decide to attend a retreat in order to work through change in your life or the outcome of a relaxing retreat may be a new perspective which leads to change.
I know for me personally, attending yoga retreats has enabled me to make big life changing decisions, to feel supported in that space and to know that I had the courage to make the changes I was being called to make.
“In meditation we return to where we already are – this shifting, changing ever-present now.
If you wish to take up meditation, it must be now or never.” ~ Steve Hagen, Meditation Now or Never
You will be away from distractions, feel relaxed and ‘in the moment’ leading to a peaceful space in which to develop your meditation practice. This is a perfect time to develop new habits.
“Spending the majority of our waking lives experiencing reality through a screen, endlessly plugged into our devices, is taking its toll… and we’re realising it’s not the answer. The era of burnout, multi-tasking, tech dependence, fatigue, ‘social media everything’ and information overload is coming to a close” ~ thedigitaldetox.org
By switching off your technology you can find space and balance. You can evaluate your relationship with technology and develop a more balanced approach. Understand that you can press pause, reconnect with yourself and those around you, saviour your life experiences and feel recharged.
“Turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream” ~ John Lennon
On retreat you have the permission to fully relax. You can tune into your body, rest when you need it, allow your body and mind to de-stress. You are free to replenish as you wish, you are free from demands.
“Let food be thy medicine, thy medicine shall be thy food” ~ Hippocrates
All of the hard work is done for you, you will enjoy nutritious and delicious meals. It is an opportunity to review unhealthy habits and to develop new behaviours. Healthy food, yoga and rest will re-energise your batteries and assist the body’s healing process.
“Every person needs a time out, away from stressful jobs, pressures from employers or clients, home responsibilities…. Everyone deserves to enjoy, visit unknown places, try other things, meet a lot of new friends, and feel at the top of the world. Life is full of fun, excitement, and adventure. Thus, vacation is an experience that’s worth remembering for a lifetime. It heals a weary mind and soul” ~ Alon Calinao Dy
You may travel as a group or solo but it is guaranteed that you will meet like minded people on retreat. Retreats are perfect if you are travelling alone, you have the choice to spend time with others or enjoy your own space if you wish.
I have met lifelong friends on retreat including my Aloha Yoga collaborator, Jackie Dorrian.
“Little did we know that 4 years after meeting on a Yoga Retreat in Kerala that our lives would be completely different and we would be working together to deliver “Aloha Yoga Retreats and Workshops”. Whilst we teach different yoga styles and our therapies are from different parts of the world, we have common aims and our work complements each other. We have some exciting plans in the pipeline including a Summer Retreat on Dartmoor, Music Festivals and a Retreat in Spain.” explains Jackie.
- Who needs any more reasons?
Seriously no-one needs to justify going on a yoga retreat. Why not join us for our Aloha Yoga Retreat in Spain and experience the benefits for yourself!
“This is my first yoga retreat experience, and it has been simply wonderful. Super location, fabulous company, great food and beautiful guided meditation and yoga. Opened my eyes to new possibilities and practices. Amazing. Peace and Love” ~ Aloha Yoga Retreat 2013 Guest
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