Portugal, 11-18 July 2020

“Near noiseless running waters and the like; pleasing to the mind but not offensive to the eye; provided with a cave or a nook sheltered from the wind – in such a spot should one engage in yogic practice.” (Shvetashvatara Upanishad 2.10)

THE NATURE RETREAT

We invite you to join us for a week of immersion in yogic inquiry. In a beautiful setting, away from distractions, we can focus on community and inner connection.

Two experienced teachers will weave together philosophy, postural practice and subtle yoga techniques, showing how they combine to enrich our lives.

These traditional methods have the power to transform us. As ancient texts explain, they dissolve mental clutter, awakening clarity and unveiling inner light.

OUR ECO HOME

Gravito Healing & Retreat Centre is the perfect spot to pause, reflect and discover... Nestled within rolling hills in a magical valley, we will be held in the heart of nature, nurtured by the fertile earth and surrounding forests.

We will sleep outdoors, in comfortable tipis and geodesic domes with hand-built floors. Each is set on an individual terrace with gorgeous views, and the vast clear skies at night are ideal for stargazing.

Upon awakening to the sounds of the birds, a secluded garden beckons us inward for meditation. By day, there are acres of trails to explore on foot, with idyllic spots for swimming close at hand. A river beach, waterfall, restaurants and cafes are all within walking distance.

Further afield, we can organise excursions to mountains, waterfalls and lakes, with activities such as canoeing trips also available.

DELICIOUS FOOD

We will be nourished by homemade vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Our hosts grow their own food as well as sourcing local organic ingredients to offer us inventive and nutritious menus.

Two meals a day are provided – a sumptuous brunch and evening dinner. The retreat is off-grid, producing its own electricity and hot water for showers, which are fed from the river. An on-site spring provides water for drinking.

DAILY SCHEDULE

Silent mornings
Seated meditation
Guided self-practice (Mysore-style)
Brunch
Space for contemplation, relaxation and leisure
Afternoon discussions
Exploring philosophy
Pranayama
Evening meal

Guided self-practice: Students are taught postures one-to-one within a group setting. Depending on numbers, start times may be staggered to ensure that everyone has plenty of attention.

Pranayama: We will explore a range of harmonious rhythms of yogic breathing. For much of the history of yoga, this was the principal method of physical practice.

Meditation: The day begins quietly, sitting with what is. You will be guided in and out of the practice. If you already use a specific technique, you are welcome to do so.

Philosophy: Yoga is the practice of inquiry. We will gather together to share ideas on transformative topics from yogic texts, considering how to apply them in our lives.

BOOKINGS

All prices are exclusive of travel. Please consider the train - it takes less than a day (more details here).

ABOUT US

Corrie and Daniel have each been exploring yoga since the 1990s, supplementing practice with academic study. Both have completed the M.A. in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London. Daniel practises yoga and mainly teaches philosophy. Corrie practises yoga and mainly teaches asana. Combining our offerings, we hope to inspire you with a rich, diverse and very practical self-inquiry.

The Nature Retreat