10 things to know before your first yoga retreat

I had been a stressed-out lawyer. My first yoga retreat helped me to take a break from it. It took me a while to realize that I needed a way to reboot my life. It was then I reached out to Yoga to seek a way of self-acceptance and to gain the balance between my corporate lifestyle and a life that I wish to lead. 

Yoga Retreats are the best possible way to refresh, rejuvenate and rediscover the lost balance of life. It reignites the passion of living and inspires holiday for your body and mind. If you wish to do the same or are planning for a break, let me tell you Yoga Retreats is the kind of vacation you need. 

So, here are a few guidelines, tips on how to plan a yoga retreat. 

Location:

 The perfect location is the key to the perfect vacation and so you must choose it wisely. Yoga Retreats are conducted in all corners of the world. Depending on the kind of location you prefer you may choose. Are you a beach baby or a mountain? If you wish to dwell in culture or like old monuments and art museums you may also consider locations like Italy or India. 

Teacher/Coach:

 When it comes to yoga retreats a good teacher is as important as a good location. As you would be spending ample amount of time with the teacher you must be aware of the expertise of the teacher. Do your research on the teacher and the style of yoga that is taught. Since you will be spending a few days on the retreats also ask for client testimonials. You must feel safe, supported and cared for. Also, consider the facts like how many times the teacher has visited the place as you wouldn’t want to be guided by someone who is not aware of the place. 

Price:

 Retreats that include everything that is your accommodation and food are the best. It makes the budgeting process less tedious and easy. This will give you a fair idea of the total cost of the entire trip. It is easy to overspend on accommodation and food if it is not included in the entire package. So avoid that! 

Time and Duration:

Since we all have busy hectic lives waiting for us. Time is of the essence when it comes to planning a holiday or a retreat. The durations of retreats vary and so you may choose the one convenient for you as per your work schedule. Sometimes all you need is a weekend getaway and sometimes even a year is not enough. So choose a retreat that fits you well. 

Have Basic knowledge of Yoga:

Since this is a guide for yoga retreats. I thought putting this point is important. Yoga is not merely a physical activity but also a way of relaxation. Before you come for a yoga retreat you must acquire the basic knowledge of yoga. The kind of yoga you wish to learn?

Type of Yoga:

 It is important to feel aligned with the style of yoga being taught in the retreat. You must make sure that the level of yoga being taught (beginners, intermediate and advanced) is in line with your yoga skills and knowledge. 

The size of the retreat:

The size matters! If there are 70 students under one teacher the teacher can’t give you the attention you require. You must be sure about the number of students participating in the retreat and the teachers accompanying them. 

Clothes you must carry:

 You must pack clothes as per the destination you are heading to. You do not want to look out of the box and flashy. Clothes must also be as per the weather in that location. Comfortable and breathable clothes are apt for a yoga retreat. 

No intoxication:

Alcohol and drugs are a big NO-NO for yoga retreats. These retreats are designed to detox your body. So say no to intoxication when on a retreat. 

One step at a time:

This is the most important step. Do not feel pressurized. You can take one step at a time. If this is your first time doing yoga try taking one step at a time. Do not compete or compare yourself with anyone else on the retreat. Do this for you and try making this holiday worthwhile. 

The retreats are to give you time off and dwell in the beautiful serene surroundings. These retreats are to reignite your passion. To help you rediscover the lost focus and become a better version of yourself. Your first yoga retreat is going to change your perspective on vacations. Choose wisely!