When I found out I was pregnant, I was in two minds about my recent yoga retreat booking. Even sitting cross-legged upright with my eyes closed made me feel nauseous. Early pregnancy symptoms had hit me hard. Luckily as I got to week twelve, a little yoga break was just what I needed to reconnect after weeks of not being able to meditate or do anything physical. What better place than Bali! I’d visited the previous year, fell in love and promised I would be back one day. I was seriously excited when my next trip turned out to be just over a year later.

The retreat was organised by the amazingly inspirational Jivamutki with Dina and every little detail was considered; a luxury villa with huge beautiful rooms (and even bigger bathrooms) a gorgeous pool, delicious veggie food every day, (Balinese are famous for their vegan offerings) optional excursions between yoga practices and the most relaxing Thai Yoga massage you could imagine.

Our mornings began with Jivamutki yoga outside in the peaceful garden. This style has become my favourite yoga practice. I love the background music and the spiritual lessons at the beginning of the class setting the tone and giving food for thought.

Afterwards, a yummy breakfast was followed by chill-time by the pool, or activities and excursions; surfing, temple visits, a day trip to cultural Ubud and Balinese cooking lessons. Late afternoon, we practiced Yin yoga – the perfect pre-dinner unwind, involving holding postures for longer periods at a slower pace.

Being a massive foodie, dinner was a big highlight. Since being pregnant, it had been difficult to get in the kitchen so I inevitably feeling a little deflated. After all, this is my sanctuary and place of haven. In Bali, having delicious, fresh, home-cooked, plant-based food prepared every evening was heavenly – definitely appreciated more after my recent stint away from the kitchen.

On reflection, it’s funny how circumstances often arise at the most appropriate times. My Balinese yoga retreat was just what I needed, at the time when I needed it most. I reconnected with the things I had recently been missing, I meditated for the first time in weeks and got to know some really inspiring people.

For more details about the next yoga retreat with Jivamutki with Dina on May 4th- 7th in Jordan, go to www.jivamutkiwithdina.com or email jivamuktiwithdina@gmail.com (there are weekend only and 3 nights options available so flexible for all)

Date posted: March 17th 2017