How I did it: I decided to go for a yoga retreat in my own country first- this way I could figure out whether or not this was something for me without risking being stuck somewhere across the globe. I googled a bit and found a retreat that looked great: combination of yoga and forest walks, great location, good food. And it really was great! In fact I loved it so much that I went 3 times: in summer 2010, late autumn 2010 and early spring 2011. And I might go there again in the future. Although now I'm looking at retreats abroad: definitely want more of this. :D

Lessons & tips:

• decide on the kind of yoga you want to be practicing during the retreat and the level of intensity: hatha yoga or power yoga? Ashtanga or yin? 1-hour classes or longer?
• decide on what the focus of the retreat should be for you: mostly yoga or would you like a bit of free time as well? Is it about relaxation or intense exercise or both? Knowing and managing your own expectations helps you pick the retreat that's right for you. In my case: I decided I didn't want to be following a strict schedule but would be needing some me-time as well.
• think about accommodation: are you the kind of person that can share rooms/bathrooms etc or do you need more privacy? Usually there's a range of options available.
• don't worry about relinquishing control. I'm a bit of a control freak myself. At first I wasn't sure if I wanted to allow someone else (the yoga teacher) to determine my schedule for a couple of days. In the end this was one of the best parts of the weekend: not having to keep an eye on the clock, just following the programme/routine that was established, turned out to be really relaxing and worry-free.
• turn off your phone!
• bring plenty of yoga clothes for all the different classes, especially in summer.
• bring a note book to write down new poses or sequences that you learn and love- this way you can take part of the retreat home with you.
• you usually don't have to bring a mat, they will be provided for you. But it can be a good idea to bring a large towel or a travel mat with you.
• be open/receptive to this new experience
• don't walk on other people's yoga mats! (perhaps an odd tip to provide but especially during a summer retreat it's best avoided)

Resources: For Dutchies like me:

• www.yogaonline.nl
• www.slimslanksterk.nl

Jun 16, 2011, 06:35AM PDT | 0 comments | 4 cheers