Yoga in Daily Life Retreat in Bali
From 20-26 July 2024, a Yoga in Daily Life Retreat took place in the serene and spiritually vibrant setting of Ubud, on the island of Bali, Indonesia.
Organised by Gita from Melbourne Ashram in Australia, and co-led with Swami Madhuram Puri from New Zealand, the retreat attracted 19 participants from Australia, New Zealand and Europe, including dedicated students of Yoga in Daily Life, as well as other enthusiastic seekers of health and wellbeing.
This retreat marked the fourth time that Yoga in Daily Life has hosted a retreat in Bali, a destination known for its tropical warmth and lush, green landscapes. For many, Bali provides an ideal escape from the chilly winter months in Australia; and having a predominantly Hindu culture, it offers a unique spiritual atmosphere, particularly in Ubud, a mountainous region renowned for its rich culture and popularity among yogis.
The retreat featured a structured program that included three daily classes encompassing asana, pranayama, and meditation. Participants also experienced yoga nidra sessions, led by Swami Madhuram Puri, accompanied by his divine music on bamboo flutes, and evening Satsangs, which fostered an environment of focused practice, wisdom and reflection.
A highlight of the retreat was the Nada Yoga Workshop, conducted by Swami Madhuram Puri. Through this inspiring session, participants were reminded of the profound teachings of Vishwaguruji − that true happiness is not found in the external world but within ourselves. The workshop encouraged attendees to regularly return to this inner truth, fostering a gradual shift in the mind's focus from the external world to inner contentment.
In addition to the core program, participants enjoyed several enriching activities, including a vegan Balinese Cooking Workshop led by the venue’s chef; an exploration of the local culture; and an encounter with the playful monkeys at the nearby Sacred Monkey Forest. Opportunities were provided for attendees to slow down, connect with like-minded individuals, and explore the natural beauty of Bali.
The retreat concluded with a sublime Meditation Music Concert in a beautiful local Meditation Centre, which is run by a Yoga in Daily Life student formerly living and attending classes in Scotland, leaving participants with a sense of peace and fulfilment.
The Yoga in Daily Life retreat in Bali has become a cherished tradition, with many attendees returning year after year. This retreat offers a valuable sattvic (pure) break from the demands of everyday life, providing rejuvenation through daily practices, nourishment through the company of good yogi friends, and a vital reconnection to the spiritual essence of our being.
Plans are already underway for the next retreat, scheduled for July 2025, promising another enriching experience in the heart of Bali’s spiritual landscape.
