Whether you are a new or experienced yoga practitioner,
and whether you want to broaden your knowledge and experience or simply
take some time out, going to a yoga retreat center for your next
holiday may be one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do.
If you are a first-timer in particular, it's good to have an idea of what to expect when you visit a yoga retreat center.
Setting
To further elicit a sense of peace and tranquility,
most yoga retreat centers are located well and truly "off the beaten
track". Popular locations include in the mountains, in the forest or
woods, near waterfalls, on the beach and in or near rain forests. The
location of a yoga retreat center can really affect the ambiance of
your experience (usually positively), and may influence how classes are
delivered (on the beach, for example) and the types of ancillary
experiences offered.
Many people even travel overseas for a yoga holiday.
There are retreats available in Asia, Mexico, th US, and Australia, as
well as most other places. It can be a great way to combine the exotic
with the relaxing, and means that for a change, you won't come back
from your holiday feeling like you need another one!
How A Typical Day Usually Runs
While each yoga retreat center is different,
they invariably have a daily timetable which tends to be fairly similar
wherever you go. Meditation, pranayama or flow yoga usually form part
of the morning routine. Many retreats offer sufi dance classes,
information sessions on detoxing and yoga practice in the middle of the
day, with free time in the afternoon. Chanting and restorative yoga are
often performed in the evening. Most of these acivities are optional,
unless you're going to a more workshop oriented program.
Ancillary Activities During Your Yoga Holiday
Retreats generally offer free time each day. How you
spend it depends on personal preferences and, to a large extent, the
location of the yoga retreat center. Many people like to spend their
free time resting, relaxing and reflecting. Some yoga retreat centers
have pools or fitness facilities; some are located on the beach, which
is handy for walking and swimming. Many forest or mountain yoga retreat
centers have bushwalking tracks, often with guided bushwalks. Tarot
readings, massage therapy, healings and other ways to pamper yourself
may also be available.
Facilities
Facilities such as bathrooms and toilets are generally
self-contained, but laundry and kitchenette facilities are likely to be
shared. House-style yoga retreat centers also often have communal
recreation and relaxation areas.
What To Bring
It's a good idea to bring the following with you:
- 
Yoga mat (most retreats supply them, but you may prefer to use your own)
- Beach towel (depending on location and season), bath towel and hand towel.
-
Comfortable, season-appropriate clothing - what you usually wear when
you practice yoga, sweater or swimmers if needed, hat, water bottle,
mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Reading and writing materials are optional, but may prove useful if you find yourself in a reflective frame of mind.
Food
Yoga retreats generally provide meals for participants.
These usually comprise healthy, organic vegetarian food, juices and
herbal teas. Depending on the quality of the location, these are
usually delicious!
Yoga Holiday Accommodation
The accommodation options available vary between yoga
retreat centers. These include cabins, cottages, camping facilities and
even large retreat houses. Most accommodation is available single or
twin-share.
Visiting a yoga retreat center can be enlightening,
relaxing, rejuvenating or all of the above! Whether you are new to yoga
or a seasoned practitioner, going on a retreat can really positively
change the way you approach yoga and approach life.
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