Sunshine for the Soul Yoga Retreat
11 – 18 November 2023
Essaouira, Morocco
We have just returned from a stunning sunshine-soul yoga retreat at the exotic, exquisite Le Jardin Des Douars, a pocket of paradise just outside the ancient seaside town of Essaouira.
Situated on the north coast of Africa, the blue and white Medina of Essoueira is an ancient maze of winding streets where locals in traditional dress go about their daily life through the markets and mosques. Arabic and French language fills the air along with aromatic spices and perfumes, souks are filled with treasures of jewellery, bags, art and lamps. The many restaurants and rooftop cafes serve mint tea, golden tumeric lattes, rich coffee, traditional taggine and sweet desserts. It was wonderful to be immersed in colourful, peaceful, welcoming Arabic culture that energised my senses and soul. Beyond the medina, the wide, sandy beach and crashing Atlantic waves was mesmerising.
Boutique hotel Le Jardins Des Douars is an oasis amid the desert landscape. Walking through the pink bougainvillea-framed entrance was a bit like stepping into a dream where things appeared more vivid than usual – dragon flies flit around the flower-filled gardens, archways led to secret corners and secluded roof terraces and everything was enveloped in sunshine and serenity. Our picturesque pink-hued villas, Jasmin and Saada, each had a divine green-tiled swimming pool, tropical flower and fruit gardens, al fresco dining area, lounge and fire place, ensuite bedrooms decorated with exquisite Moroccan art work, wood carvings, ornate furniture and colourful textiles.
We also enjoyed access to the hotel spa, indulging in luxurious massages and the traditional Moroccan hammam. The ambient terrace bar, restaurant, two heated swimming pools and four acres of flower gardens offered serene, inspiring spaces to relax.
Our yoga journey was experienced on the rooftop shala at Villa Saada overlooking the expansive desert landscape. We practiced beneath the arc of a deep blue sky in the dreamy hues of sunrise and sunset sunlight ambiance. Our sunrise sadhana was authentic creatively-inspired Vinyasa Flow and Dharma Yoga classes with award-winning teacher, Heidi Pascual followed by a delicious in-villa Moroccan breakfast. There was abundant free time to relax by the pool or explore the local area before surrendering to a Yin Yoga restorative practice in the late afternoon haze.
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Diwali Light Yoga Retreat
20 – 22 October 2023
Tofte Manor, Sharnbrook
An authentic celebration of Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights! Exquisite surroundings, natural beauty, autumn hues, labyrinths, log fires, food, friendship and love!
Tofte Manor is a stunning 17th century Manor House, located in the quintessentially English village of Sharnbrook.
Tofte Manor is an historic building of exceptional beauty, held in stunning, landscaped gardens. The architecture has been exquisitely restored and it is a wonderful place to relax, rejuvenate and be inspired.
The glorious gardens offer nature’s beauty, serenity and space. As you wander, you encounter sweeping lawns, rose arbours, ancient trees, ageless statues, a crystal ball water feature and an enchanting stone labyrinth.
The Manor House offers luxurious bedrooms, created with imagination and attention to detail for your comfort. The old Stables Courtyard has also been carefully restored and converted into beautifully designed contemporary cottages.
We shared a blissful sunrise and sunset sadhana in the beautiful Yoga Yurt, twinkling fairy lights and candles. Moving through beautiful sequencing and creative namaskars, we explored Diwali inspired Vinyasa Flow and Dharma Yoga. These soulful practices embodied the light essence of Lakshmi and Saraswati, leaving yogis feeling lovingly uplifted and alive. In the afternoons, we surrendered to a restorative Yin Yoga practice, nourishing the darkness to illumine the moonlight.
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Tuscan Sun Yoga Retreat
3 – 7 October 2023
Province of Siena, Tuscany, Italy
Locanda Cugnanello Villa is located in the stunning natural beauty of Tuscany in the unspoilt province of Siena. The area is surrounded by rolling green hills, forested valleys, olive groves, lavender and lemon trees. The folds of the Tuscan hills hold historic hamlets, churches and medieval castles.
This country villa has been beautifully renovated, retaining its original authenticity and rustic charm. The architecture is emphatically built in harmony with nature, radiating the golden light of Tuscany. The beautiful bedrooms have been uniquely designed to reflect the colours of the Tuscan landscape.
There is a beautiful pool that overlooks the Tuscan hills and gardens. This Tuscan villa created an idyllic setting for our Italian retreat experience.
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Paradise Rainforest Yoga Retreat
with Heidi Pascual
Dragonfly Beach Retreat, El Caribe de Costa Rica
23 – 29 September 2023
Costa Rica is one the most beautiful and biodiverse countries on the planet, an ecological gem of tropical rainforests, rolling green hills and paradise beaches. Dragonfly Beach Retreat is an exquisite, pristine, peaceful sanctuary set in landscaped gardens, surrounded by rainforest and steps from the Caribbean Sea. This is a wild paradise where the jungle meets the ocean and natural habitat to howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, birds and butterflies. You are held in the power of nature’s healing embrace on this extraordinary yoga journey and retreat experience.
Dragonfly Retreat has been ecologically constructed with tropical simplicity in harmony with the beauty of nature. The luxury casitas are set in tropical gardens of indigenous flora and fauna with rainforest views. Each casita has been lovingly designed with handmade teak wood furniture, splashes of colour and a unique hand-painted mural depicting the animals and wildlife of Costa Rica. Enjoy double, twin or single bedrooms, a luxurious bathroom, lounge, kitchen and terrace. These wildly serene retreat lodgings hold you peacefully in the heart of Mother Nature.
On waking up in this paradise place, we shared a blissful sunrise sadhana on the open-air yoga shala surrounded by rainforest, wildlife, bird song and the sound of the ocean. Moving through beautiful sequencing and creative namaskars, we embodied the beauty and power of nature through elemental inspired Vinyasa Flow and Dharma Yoga. These soulful practices created a sense of connection, openness and vibrancy, leaving yogis feeling lovingly uplifted and alive. In the afternoons, we surrendered to an introspective Yin Yoga and meditation practice to the soothing sound of sunset ocean waves and fire flies flashing in the evening light.
Sunrise to Sunset we immersed in the wild natural beauty of the Caribbean Sea and soft sands where wildlife swings in the rainforest as you walk along the shore. Yogis swam in the serene pool, relaxed in hammocks surrounded by tropical gardens or indulged in a luxurious massage.
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Love to Flow Yoga Retreat
2 – 8 September 2023
Kefalonia, Greece
This exquisite Grecian yoga retreat took place at Vericoco on the idyllic island of Kefalonia. This paradise of pristine white sand beaches lapped by the crystal-clear Ionian Sea is one of the most beautiful Greek Islands.
Vericoco is an oasis of calm amid olive groves with views of mighty Mount Aenos and a short stroll from the soft sand of Spartia Beach. Its large, lush grounds are centred around a pink-terracotta villa, dotted with fruit tree groves, fuchsia flowers and a serene turquoise pool – perfect for diving into after a day spent practising yoga, immersing in nature, exploring the surrounding forests and beaches.
Vericoco accommodation varies from villa suites to beach houses that are dotted around the grounds, each with a combination of double and twin bedrooms and views of the surrounding gardens, forest and sea. Natural Decor’s in keeping with the retreat’s calm vibe, think terracotta walls, white cotton linen and the occasional splash of colour through exquisite art, cushions and and wall-hangings.
On waking in this stunning location, we shared a blissful sunrise sadhana in the Olive Grove Shala. Moving through beautiful sequencing and creative namaskars, we explored inspired Vinyasa Flow and Dharma Yoga. These soulful practices explored the ancient mystic Upanishads, creating a sense of lightness and peace, leaving our yogis feeling lovingly uplifted and inspired. In the afternoon, we we surrendered to a Yin Yoga and meditation practice for rest, renewal and rejuvenation.
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Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat
Neeleshwar Hermitage, Malabar Coast, Kerala
19 – 25 November 2022
Malabar Magic in Gods Own Country
Our exquisite South Indian retreat was set in the shade of a coconut grove on the pristine shores of the Arabian sea in Northern Kerala.
The bare-foot luxury at Neeleshwar Hermitage is a sublime retreat experience, set in beautiful verdant gardens, oriented towards the rising sun and the ocean. The palm-roofed Garden Cottages are of traditional Kerala design, surrounded by lush gardens, palm trees, hibiscus and frangipani flowers. The cottages are built in local stone and embellished with carved woodwork and hand-made furniture. Teak floors, contemporary art and open-air bathrooms create an ambient charm inspired by the yoga tradition.
Tuscan Sun Yoga Retreat
4 – 8 October 2022
Province of Siena, Tuscany, Italy
Locanda Cugnanello Villa is located in the stunning natural beauty of Tuscany in the unspoilt province of Siena. The area is surrounded by rolling green hills, forested valleys, olive groves, lavender and lemon trees. The folds of the Tuscan hills hold historic hamlets, churches and medieval castles.
This country villa has been beautifully renovated, retaining its original authenticity and rustic charm. The architecture is emphatically built in harmony with nature, radiating the golden light of Tuscany. The beautiful bedrooms have been uniquely designed to reflect the colours of the Tuscan landscape.
Love to Flow Yoga Retreat
24 – 30 September 2022
Kefalonia, Greece
This exquisite Grecian yoga retreat took place at Vericoco on the idyllic island of Kefalonia. This paradise of pristine white sand beaches lapped by the crystal-clear Ionian Sea is one of the most beautiful Greek Islands.
Vericoco is an oasis of calm amid olive groves with views of mighty Mount Aenos and a short stroll from the soft sand of Spartia Beach. Its large, lush grounds are centred around a pink-terracotta villa, dotted with fruit tree groves, fuchsia flowers and a serene turquoise pool – perfect for diving into after a day spent practising yoga, immersing in nature, exploring the surrounding forests, caves and beaches.
Autumn Equinox Yoga Retreat
16 – 18 September 2022
Tofte Manor, Sharnbrook
An Autumn Equinox Yoga celebration! Exquisite surroundings, natural beauty, autumn sunshine, labyrinths, log fires, food, friendship and love!
Tofte Manor is a stunning 17th century Manor House, located in the quintessentially English village of Sharnbrook.
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Tuscan Sun Yoga Retreat
Province of Siena, Tuscany, Italy
5 – 9 October 2021
Locanda Cugnanello Villa is located in the stunning natural beauty of Tuscany in the unspoilt province of Siena. The area is surrounded by rolling green hills, forested valleys, olive groves, lavender and lemon trees. The folds of the Tuscan hills hold historic hamlets, churches and medieval castles.
This country villa has been beautifully renovated, retaining its original authenticity and rustic charm. The architecture is emphatically built in harmony with nature, radiating the golden light of Tuscany. The beautiful bedrooms have been uniquely designed to reflect the colours of the Tuscan landscape.
Read more…
Summer Solstice Yoga Retreat
11 – 13 June 2021
Tofte Manor, Sharnbrook
A Summer Solstice Yoga celebration! Exquisite surroundings, natural beauty, labyrinths, live music, creative food and friendship!
Tofte Manor is a stunning 17th century Manor House, located in the quintessentially English village of Sharnbrook.
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Lotus Love Yoga Teacher Training Retreat
Potash Barns, Suffolk
3-6 June 2021
Our Yoga Teacher Training Retreat took in place in the beautiful, natural surroundings of Potash Barns in Suffolk. We shared the love of yoga, nature, sunshine, food and friendship!
Potash Barns is a beautiful 15th century Hall House, located in the quintessentially English village of Brundel, Suffolk.
Potash Barns is an historic building with medieval origins and Victorian architecture. It is a place of peaceful beauty, surrounded by English gardens, colourful flowers, blossom trees, willow trees, countryside and woodland.
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Pura Vida Yoga Retreat
26th January – 1st February 2020
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
I was blessed to share a stunning yoga retreat in the exquisite beauty of Costa Rica. Costa Rica is one the most beautiful and biodiverse countries on the planet, an ecological gem of tropical rainforests, rolling green hills and pristine beaches. Costa Rican culture is defined as pura vida, pure life, where the beauty and power of nature is the temple and sunlight is the soul.
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Bali Bhakti Bliss – Yoga, Mantra & Music Retreat
8 – 14th September 2019
Luxury Boutique Retreat, Ubud Bali
Our beautiful Balinese yoga retreat took place at The Shala Bali. This tropical, peaceful, rice paddy paradise is set amongst magnificent natural beauty. It was founded on ancient Balinese and Indian philosophy, lovingly created as a sanctuary to reconnect with essence and realign with nature. The Shala is cocooned among the lush, green rice paddy fields of Ubud, the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali. Ubud is renowned for abundant natural beauty and a world class yoga destination.
The Shala Bali is built in harmony with its stunning natural and cultural surroundings. The traditional Balinese architecture is set amongst lush, tropical gardens and colourful flowers.
The serene salt water infinity pool is surrounded by nature, immersing you in the pure beauty of Maa Bali.
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Shiva Shakti Yoga, Mantra and Music Retreat
42 Acres, Somerset August 2019
Our Lotus Love summer retreat took place at 42 Acres in Somerset. Seven hundred acres of ancient forest encircle this beautiful, historic Victorian house, set in outstanding, quintessential natural beauty. Through centuries, 42 acres has evolved into this exquisite retreat space. Read more…
Jai Hanuman
Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat, Sri Lanka 23rd February – 8th March 2019
Lotus Love Yoga Retreats took place in the beautiful south of Sri Lanka. We experienced the bliss of yoga, surrounded by the exquisite beauty, pristine beaches and abundant wildlife from sunrise to sunset. Read more…
Diwali Light Yoga Retreat
West Lexham Barn, Norfolk 4 – 7 October 2018
Our autumn yoga retreat took place at a luxury 19th century converted barn, located in the heart of north Norfolk countryside; the stunning beaches of Holkham and Wells-Next-to-the-Sea nearby. Read more…
South Indian Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat
Malabar Magic, Kerala 17 – 24 March 2018
I taught my first international yoga retreat in Kerala this year and our Indian yoga home will stay in my heart forever. The vibrant beauty of nature, the rolling Arabian Sea and the golden Indian sun welcomed our mandala of community.
The vast golden beach and energetic ocean was the backdrop for our morning yoga sadhana and stunning sunlight walks into the horizon. Read more…
Bhagavad Gita Yoga Retreat
West Lexham Barn, Norfolk 21 – 24 April 2017
Our springtime yoga retreat took place at a luxury19th century converted barn, located in the heart of north Norfolk countryside; the stunning beaches of Holkham and Wells-Next-to-the-Sea nearby.
West Lexham is set in 21 acres of rolling lawns, landscaped gardens, wild flowers, woodland glades, rivers, lakes and picturesque countryside walks. Read more…
Scottish Highlands Eco Yoga Retreat
6 – 9 April 2017
Our springtime Scottish Highlands Yoga Retreat took place at a tranquil river-side EcoYoga Centre, dedicated to sharing yoga and sustainable eco living. The retreat is set in magnificent Scottish scenery of hills, lochs, rivers and forests abound. Read more…
Love to Flow Yoga Retreat
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland
22 – 25 September 2016
Our autumn yoga retreat took place at the stunning Cliffs of Moher Retreat. Our beautiful farmhouse was located in ten acres of rolling, green farmland, just a few fields from the world famous Cliffs of Moher. At the light of sunrise and the colour of sunset, the dramatic, rolling ocean waves break upon the rocks and bay. We immersed in the power of nature’s beauty. Read more…
Love to Flow Yoga Retreat
Earth Spirit Centre, Glastonbury
19th – 22nd September 2014
Autumn was a truly magical time on our retreat in Glastonbury, blessed by the Autumn Equinox and a new moon.
Glastonbury is said to be the heart chakra of the world. The depths of ancient history, the rising hills and sacred sites create a magical energy that resonates with both heart and soul. There is a deep earthy energy that resides in the land; water energy flows through the Somerset Levels, where the sea used to roll in and out to the base of the Tor; the Tor reaches majestically to the sky. It is a magical place that is steeped myth, folklore, history and a deep sense of spirituality. Read more…
