Is it worth going on a yoga retreat?
If you’ve been daydreaming about having time-out from the daily hustle, surrounding yourself with nature, movement and tranquility, a yoga retreat may be something that has popped into your head. Is it worth it though? Let’s discover what a retreat is, what to anticipate and whether it’s worth the investment for you.
What to expect
Yoga retreats can vary from day trips nearby to multi-day experiences in stunning destinations. A one day getaway is an excellent way to feel rejuvenated without needing to pack an overnight bag, it also saves on accommodation costs. Schedules will obviously vary, but a standard itinerary is likely to include a welcome ceremony, a morning yoga session followed by a morning tea break and a chance to mingle with other participants. This will be followed by another slot for meditation or a workshop on relevant subjects like breathwork, mindfulness or Ayurveda. Lunch at the half way point is likely to be healthy vegetarian/vegan fare. The afternoon could be a restorative yoga practice or workshop, followed by closing reflections such as journaling exercise or grounding meditation and a final farewell.
A multi-day Itinerary creates space for a more profound transformation, usually in a peaceful setting a little further away such as by the sea, in the mountains, or a forest. Day one may begin in the evening to allow people to arrive, then settle in with an evening meditation or restorative yoga practice. Day two may start early with morning meditation, pranayama (breathwork) and dynamic yoga, followed by a nutritious breakfast. Mid morning workshops will follow on topics like sound healing or philosophy, or perhaps a cultural excursion.
Lunch and afternoon free time offer a chance to unwind with a book, enjoy a swim or massage, or take a walk and see the scenery. A late afternoon gentle practice to unwind could be yin or restorative yoga, then spare time before dinner and later social time to mix with other like-minded people, or head to your room for some quiet solitude. Later in the evening before bed, a meditation or soothing sound bath may be offered as a relaxing end to the day.
The benefits
One-day retreats are often on a weekend so (for many) this means no requirement to book time off work. They are usually within a few hours drive so travel time and costs (no plane tickets required) are kept to a minimum. This makes it an affordable way to experience a retreat without breaking the bank and is also an ideal timeframe to see if it’s something you enjoy. It will give you a mini reset – even one day of purposeful movement and silence can bring calm and clarity to busy minds and bodies.
Multi-day retreats offer a deeper transformation, as you have time to explore the topics and teachings free from the distractions of daily life. This more immersive experience enables you to go deeper into yoga, meditation philosophy and related holistic topics. If the social aspect interests you, there’s more opportunities for creating connections and enjoying the community feel. Being around others who share similar interests can be very inspiring. If travelling abroad, there’s a chance for cultural enrichment and learning about local customs, temples and food.
Where should you go?
If you prefer a retreat with fewer travels, Australia offers some amazing choices. Byron Bay, Margaret River or the Sunshine Coast, for example, are beautiful destinations with first-rate instructors and fresh, local food.
International destinations often visited are Bali, a haven for yoga, with retreats set amidst rice fields and beaches. Or India, where yoga was born, with Rishikesh or Kerala perfect for those seeking a traditional experience. Thailand and Sri Lanka with their beautiful tropical havens and cultural excursions can offer a balanced mix of yoga, meditation and sightseeing.
Do I need to be good at yoga?
Not at all! Retreats are for all levels. If you’re a practicing yogi or a total newbie, teachers will provide modifications to accommodate you.
Can I go alone?
Yes, and many people do! Retreats are a good place to meet like-minded others, and many are designed to be solo-traveller friendly.
What’s the food like?
Healthy and sustaining, generally vegetarian and designed to support your practice without overloading the digestive system. Some retreats go as far as Ayurvedic or detox-based menus if that’s something you’d like to experience.
What should I wear?
Comfort is most important. Take layers for possible changing weather conditions and maybe a shawl or blanket to add during meditation. If you’re going to a tropical climate, wear loose, lightweight clothing.
Who are the teachers?
This obviously differs per retreat. Some are taught by world-renowned yoga masters, others by local teachers with experience. Word of mouth feedback, credentials and/or reviews should always be checked to align your expectations with what is on offer.
If you’re looking for a refreshing getaway that nourishes body and soul, a retreat is definitely worth a look. Whether you choose a one-day revival or a week’s sojourn, you’ll hopefully come back feeling lighter, more relaxed and more at ease with yourself. If you would like to chat through your concerns, questions or ideas with an experienced teacher and retreat devotee, reach out to studio owner Emily at Mount Martha Yoga, she’s happy to listen and offer her thoughts. She offers private yoga classes and yoga in Mornington.
