What is yoga in real life?
I use the phrase yoga in real life, to describe how the teachings of yoga can guide us in how to live, be and engage in the world.
Yoga is more than a physical practice that begins and ends on an expensive yoga mat.
It is a way of life.
This six night retreat is an opportunity for you to deepen your understanding of yoga and how it relates to you and your place in the world.
Together we will physically practice yoga in accessible and adaptable ways, as well as inquire gently into yoga's philosophical ethical foundations..
You will have time and space to rest in solitude or in the company of others whilst staying with a local Balinese artist and his family.
Santra Putra Guesthouse
Embrace pause and experience Balinese reverence and culture in the lush tropical gardens of Santra Putra Guesthouse. Located on the edge of rice fields in a pedestrian only area of Penestanan, Santra Putra is located on the outskirts of Ubud, away from the hustle and bustle, with easy access to local warungs (restaurants) and a walk or taxi ride into town.
Be surrounded by nature, hosted in comfort and immersed in local custom as you observe daily offerings performed by our Balinese host family and staff. You will have a spacious fan cooled deluxe queen room to yourself, complete with private verandah, kitchenette and seating area for rest and reflection. Your private ensuite bathroom is semi outdoor embracing the natural beauty of tropical Bali.
If you would prefer an alternative style of accomodation, you have the option to stay offsite in a nearby resort, joining us each day for practices, group breakfast and activities. I am happy to assist you with suggestions.
I have been visiting Penestanan for over 14 years and would love to share this beautiful place with you.
About Nicole
I am yoga teacher, Social Worker and parent who has been practicing yoga for over 25 years. I have spent the past 8 years teaching accessible and adaptable practices for populations of people not often represented in mainstream yoga settings. I facilitate integrated welcoming classes that include accessible yoga asana (movement), pranayama (breath), meditation (pause) and rest for emotional resilience and nervous system regulation. Expect to see a chair as a prop and to move in ways that are suitable for you. My approach is to teach people, not poses (to quote my teacher Mary Richards), and to support each person to gradually and gently be in their body through an accessible practice of yoga that is offered by invitation and guided by student choice.
To find out more please visit here.
What's included
6 nights accommodation in a spacious, queen room with ensuite, verandah and kitchenette
Daily complimentary breakfast
Airport arrival transfer
Welcome Purification (Melukat) ceremony
x 2 dinners incl. transport
All teachings - morning and afternoon practices and discussion
Balinese dance performance at Ubud Water Palace incl. transport.
Guest teacher to share Mudra Pranala (Indigenous Balinese healing art focussing on balancing the alignment of energy)
Group Rice Field walk
$1685 all inclusive
What's not included
Airfares
Travel Insurance
Visa (50,000IDR or $50) & Tourism Levy (150,000 IDR or $15)
Airport drop off
Sample Daily Program
subject to adjustment
7.00 am Pause and meditation
7.30 am Asana and embodiment
9.00 am Breakfast
10.30am Discussion
FREE TIME
4.00 pm Restoratives, Yoga Nidra, Pranayama, Discussion
5.30 pm Finish
Is this retreat for me?
This retreat is for anyone interested in yoga and curious in exploring more than physical asana. Whilst it is recommended that you have attended a yoga class before, you don’t need to be able to touch your toes or own expensive yoga pants.
I will work with you, adapting practices to suit your needs. I will also encourage you to know your boundaries, and to be aware of pausing to keep yourself safe.
If you would like to connect and find out more, please reach out, I'm happy to assist in any way I can.
The small (and important) print
If you prefer to stay off site but nearby, the cost to you will be $1415. I can provide you with suggestions but booking will be your responsibility.
Our retreat venue includes some steps and uneven surface areas (paths). Paths can become slippery and to increase your accessibility, footwear with good tread is recommended. Ground floor accomodation is available.
Retreat deposit to secure your place $500
Full balance due by 1 March 2025.
T&Cs: The retreat is refundable (minus $50 admin fee) for cancellation 60+ days before the event start date. The retreat is refundable if cancelled 30-59 days before the start date minus ($500 deposit). It is your responsibility to purchase travel insurance suitable to your needs and it is strongly advised.
Life happens, when booking your flights it is recommended to choose an option that accommodates date changes & flight credit options.
If you have not practiced with me before, lets chat to see if this retreat will suit you.