It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since I returned to Bali, and four years since my last retreat here. In that time, the island has changed in many ways, yet Bali has always felt like home to me. Perhaps it’s because every time I step onto its soil, my inner yogi finds more room to expand, learn, and simply be.
I began my four-week stay in Bali with the being part. After months of preparation to make this retreat happen, I took a few days to myself at a small, traditional hotel, where I caught up with a close friend.
Our days were spent indulging in delicious food, watching mischievous monkeys attempt to steal our meals, swimming, walking along the beach, reading, and soaking in the warm summer vibes. It was especially welcome, as back home in New Zealand, it was the middle of winter. After five days of nurturing rest, I dove into a week of yoga training and immersion in Ubud.
From the outset, it was clear that Bali’s tourism scene was at its peak—particularly in hotspots like Uluwatu and Ubud. Traffic was worse than usual, and the heart of Ubud was buzzing with activity, as were the local markets. A lot of people were exploring. But despite the crowds, the island’s unique vibe remained unchanged, and that was incredibly comforting. This year, we chose a retreat center just a short 10-15 minute walk from the city center, which allowed us to bypass the crowds while still being close to the energy of Ubud and the iconic Monkey Forest Park.
That said, the traffic did affect our schedule, leading to some delays. As a result, we’ve decided to move our 2025 retreats to North Bali. While the journey there takes a bit longer, it’s far less busy, and the experience is much more defined by local highlights and peaceful surroundings.
Some of my personal highlights of the retreat, as always, were the food, the lush Balinese jungle, and the warmth of the people. Bali’s hospitality is unparalleled, there’s truly nothing that feels like a problem here. The locals’ charm, kindness, and generosity make every moment feel more pleasant and connected.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the curiosity and enthusiasm of our participants. Many took part in extra activities like cooking classes, snorkeling, and diving. They also embraced the traditional Balinese temple ceremony we held during the second part of the retreat. There was a genuine thirst for deeper understanding, which made the experience even more rewarding for everyone.
Another surprise came from our yin yoga classes. Initially, some participants were apprehensive, but once they understood the practice and its benefits, it quickly became one of the most popular aspects of the retreat. Yin yoga, with its slow and deliberate pace, offers an opportunity to explore the body in a different way—something so vital in our fast-paced world. It was a reminder that taking time to create space for rest and recovery is an essential form of self-care, particularly in today’s demanding lives.
Each retreat is unique, but one thing always stands out: the glow and refreshed spirit that participants carry with them when they leave. As a retreat coordinator, the work can be challenging, but seeing that transformation makes every bit of effort worthwhile. Sharing the goodness of yoga and helping others reconnect with themselves is an incredibly fulfilling experience that I look forward to again and again.
If you wish to talk more about yoga, or Bali sing out and get hold of me at yoga@bali-retreats.com. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Namaste,
Alicja
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