Shiva Shakti Yoga Retreat

West Lexham, Norfolk

6 -8 May 2016

Our summer retreat took place in a beautiful location in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside, only a short distance from the stunning, heritage beaches of Holkham and Wells-next-to-Sea. Twenty-five yoginis, one vinyasa flow yoga teacher, one hostess with the mostest, one musician, one raw food vegetarian chef made for a magic yoga weekend away.

West Lexham Manor is set is in 21 acres of rolling lawns, landscaped gardens, wild flowers, woodland glades, rivers, lakes and picturesque countryside walks.

The Yoga Barn was built in 1805 and has been beautifully converted with all its original character, space, light and rustic charm. The living spaces are filled with handmade furnishings and traditional log burners, creating a rustic, homely ambiance. The dining room has large windows, offering picturesque views of our beautiful garden.

Our yoga magic happened in the spacious Harvest Room with its original ceiling and organic, antique charm.There are two full height windows on either side allowing natural light and views of the gardens to enhance and inspire our practice.

The luxury ensuite bedrooms are nestled in a courtyard around the barn, combining rustic charm with contemporary innovations. Reclaimed wood and original farm doors have been used along side the original timber beams to add splashes of colour and authenticity to the rooms. Each bedroom has original artworks and handmade curtains and cushions.

The food was be lovingly prepared by Cashew Catering, offering creative, colourful vegetarian and raw food cuisine. A divine, delicious, gentle detox for total well-being.

On waking up in this stunning location, we did an energising Vinyasa Flow practice. Moving through beautiful sequencing and creative namaskars, we explored elemental vinyasa: the Earth, the ocean, the sun, the sky, the stars, the universe within. Our yoga journey was uniquely inspired by the symbolism, metaphors and iconology of Shiva and Shakti. In the afternoons we surrendered to restorative practice: slow flow, partner back bends and yin yoga; allowing every-body to rest, renew and rejuvenate.

These soulful practices created a sense of connection, openness and vibrancy, leaving yogis feeling lovingly energised, uplifted and alive. The special bonds and friendships formed on these retreats reflect the unifying yogic energy created within our yoga community.

In their free time, yogis relaxed in gardens, walked in the beautiful grounds, amongst the ancient woodlands along the rivers and lakes. Some even took rowing boats out on the lake. In the evenings, we enjoyed a delicious dinner, an outdoor fire circle and restorative yoga nidra.

On our second evening, we were graced with the deep and soulful voice of Gavin Frank, who led a beautiful kirtan practice; chanting the ancient sanskrit mantras of India, with the rhythmic sounds of the African bongo and Indian harmonium.

To bring our beautiful weekend to a close, we visited the stunning heritage beach of Holkham. Brilliant sunshine, blue skies, pine forest, sand dunes, wide sandy beaches and ocean horizon blessed our blissful weekend of yoga, inspiration and friendship.

‘Let the beauty of what you love, be what you do’ ~ Rumi

Sharing the Joys of Yoga

Satisfied Yogis

I had the most wonderful weekend with you all in Norfolk. Yogi community makes my heart so happy and I loved every moment of sharing this Shiva Shakti yoga retreat with you. Love and Blessings.

Heidi Pascual

Fabulous, exhilarating, challenging, professional and wonderfully enjoyable. Great place, great food, great company and a brilliant yoga teacher.

Thank you so much, Heidi, for a truly wonderful experience at the weekend which was perfect in every way.

Sheila Allison

A fabulous, restorative weekend in the beautiful Norfolk countryside. Lots of yoga, good company and good food.

Sue Dunn

One of the best experiences of my life. I loved every minute.

Jo Raby

Heidi is a wonderful, talented yoga teacher who encompasses yoga’s spiritual elements beautifully. Thank you for a well run, amazingly organised, calming retreat.

Gemma Lockyer

Heidi is an amazing yoga teacher – full of life and vitality. She has a wonderful personality, lifting the spiritual aspect of yoga. Thank you for such a relaxing retreat and an amazing weekend away together.

Anna Browns

We are inspired to keep practising; this retreat has enhanced my desire to really focus on my well being. You are such an inspirational teacher.

Dolina O’Neil

We loved the way the classes flowed together, the eclectic mix of music, the beautiful building and the kirtan chanting.

Katrine Bonner

I just wanted to say thank you so much for an amazing retreat. Wow what a location!
Heidi, your work is beyond amazing; you create a fantastic, safe, caring space and loving vibe. I had the best and deepest yoga experiences in my practice over the weekend and am very grateful to have you as my teacher to guide me on my journey.

Gina Vermilio

Words cannot express the level of gratitude to Heidi Marie Pascual and Lotus Love Yoga for the most amazing retreat. Perfect location, venue, menu, yoga, yogis and profound yoga teacher ever. Love and gratitude from the bottom of my heart

Lara L’Esperance

I can’t recommend Lotus Love Yoga Retreats enough. Both relaxing and stimulating, whilst also challenging and expansive.
Katie Kennedy