An early, happy memory is of my mum practicing her morning sun salutations. I was fortunate to have had a green and wholesome upbringing, including vegetarian diet and herbal remedies. Judging by the well-used book of Yoga Voor Kinderen my mum must have practiced a lot with me when I was little, sadly I don’t remember much of that.
As I grew up my interest in yoga and a healthier life grew. I discovered mindfulness and meditation and both became an important part of my daily routine. As I learned about nutrition and experienced alternative therapies, I became aware that yoga is so much more than just a practice on a mat – it truly is a way of life.
Now I’m a yoga teacher I am grateful for sharing this knowledge with my students. I feel privileged to help transform people’s lives. But as much as I love teaching regular and private classes, somehow the hour or 90 minute sessions never seem long enough. There is just not enough time to let students immerse themselves in the yoga experience let alone share other wellbeing knowledge.
I know that there are many amazing retreats on offer. Wonderful yoga holidays to exotic places can no doubt be life-enhancing experiences. However, I am acutely aware that retreats like these are simply not accessible to everyone. What about a retreat for time-poor yogis?
The seed for ONE-DAY Retreats was sown. I was determined to make yoga retreats available to all. To offer an inspirational journey and life-changing experience in ONE DAY. Here in the UK. A day in beautiful surroundings with like-minded people. A chance to discover wellbeing from the inside out and wind up feeling blissfully rested, inspired and energized. All in ONE DAY!
ONE-DAY Retreats launched this autumn and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Our very first venue is just south of Bath, it’s the perfect setting to retreat. Surrounded by glorious countryside, Wick Farm’s barns are inviting and spacious, and with under-heated oak flooring it is the ultimate in relaxation luxury.
Every retreat features a long yoga master class, pranayama practice and mindful meditation. A different wellbeing practitioner is invited to each retreat to talk about their specialist subject or lead a workshop, sharing their valuable knowledge. Lunch is vegetarian, seasonal and delicious. Organic and locally-sourced, where possible, it includes a choice of GF and DF options. There are juices, herbal teas and plenty of healthy snacks too. Plus time for yourself. Quality time for yourself.
Future retreats include different themes, from Indian Head Massage and Reflexology, to Detox and Loosing Weight. More venues will follow. Hopefully all over the UK. This is the beginning of ONE-DAY Retreats journey, I’m looking forward to sharing this journey with as many people as possible.
Maura xx