Attending a yoga retreat is a great way to take your practice to the next level. No matter where you’re at on your yoga journey, a yoga retreat can enhance your experience on the mat and offer learnings about yourself. But with retreats popping up all over the world, choosing a retreat that’s best for you can be challenging.
🧘♀️ Which location is best for you?
Are you a beach person, or do you prefer the mountains? Well, prior to booking a perfect yoga retreat, think about what location feels right for you. You can choose Goa, Rishikesh, or any other international destination that might captivate you! So, don’t rush, take a deep breath and choose the right location to experience the benefits offered by a yoga retreat.
👉 When you picture yourself at a retreat, where do you see yourself?
🧘♀️ What is your budget?
Yoga retreats can range quite a bit in price, so it’s important to look at what’s included before signing up. Be honest with yourself about how much you can afford. The time of the year could make a difference in price. If you attend a retreat during the off-season, like summer, rates may be reduced, and it may also be less crowded. The longer the retreat, the more expensive it will be.
👉 How much do you want to spend on your yoga retreat?
🧘♀️ What’s your type of Yoga?
Ask about the style or tradition of yoga that will be featured. Find out how physically demanding and dynamic it is and how skilled a practitioner should be to benefit from the experience. A clear explanation from the organizer or teacher on what to expect from the yoga program can help you make an informed decision. Vague claims of offering “general yoga“ can provide an undefined experience. Reading testimonials can also help you better understand the retreat.
👉 What are your intentions in a retreat?
🧘♀️ What is your experience level?
Wherever you are, is where you are supposed to be. However, attending an advanced Yoga retreat when you are just beginning may not be the best idea. You will want to find retreats that will match your experience level so that you’re adequately challenged, yet comfortable. All retreats will mention what style and what level of practitioners would benefit the most.
👉 How consistent is your practice?
🧘♀️ The right Yoga Teacher
Choose a retreat where the yoga teacher is clearly announced from the start and you can look them up. You want to make sure that your teacher is experienced, educated, well-informed and capable of guiding you through a safe practice.
👉 Who is the teacher?
🧘♀️ What is the duration of the yoga retreat?
Are you looking for quality or quantity? Thinking about the length of the retreat, you should consider how much yoga you will practice and what you want to achieve. Some retreats will offer only one class a day, while others offer 2 classes daily and mini-workshops. You may be a person who needs time to adjust and adapt to a new routine, or you may be a quick learner who falls right into place. Try to be realistic and choose the right retreat duration for you.
👉 What does your body need?
🧘♀️ What is the size of the yoga retreat?
Think about your comfort levels in small or large groups and which is more supportive of your learning. Some retreat centers don’t accommodate groups larger than 10 or 15. Others comfortably hold up to 38.
👉 Which group size suits your needs and requirements?
🧘♀️ Level of Accommodation
Do your research beforehand, and don’t just hunt a bargain. Even if you are on the lookout for a budget retreat, you want the retreat hotel or center to be clean, well-maintained, and you want to know exactly what you are getting, before you sign up.
👉 What kind of accommodation are you looking for?
🧘♀️ What about the Food?
The majority of yoga retreats serve vegetarian food. If you have special dietary requirements, any food restrictions or allergies, or if for instance, spicy food is unpalatable to you, it is best to check with the organizers of the yoga retreat for any alternatives that they can provide.
👉 What kind of diet will satisfy you?
🧘♀️ Combination Retreat
For me personally, a yoga retreat entails withdrawing and dedicating myself solely to the practice of yoga in its entirety. It provides a distinct perspective for those seeking truth. I disagree with yoga retreats that include both yoga practice and other group activities. I question how one can remain dedicated to their yoga practice while engaging in other activities.
Nevertheless, for those interested in combining yoga with other activities, it may be worth searching for retreats that offer both.
Make sure that your retreat offers a balanced mix of all which soothe your mind, body, and soul.💫
Happy retreating!
Sandra