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.