THE RETREAT
September is a month of reaping what we have sown throughout the whole year. It gives us the opportunity to practice gratitude for what we have created, what we have transformed from seed to flower. It’s about honouring our year of experience. It’s about celebrating our year of achievements. It’s about accepting our year of challenges. But most importantly it is a moment to truly enjoy the fruits of our labour- and we have created the perfect setting to explore and restore with the last of the summer’s rays before autumn sets in!
IN SEVEN DAYS TOGETHER THERE’S AN INVITATION TO CHERISH THE FINAL SUMMERS RAYS, TRULY LET GO, ENJOY, AND USE THE PRACTICE AS A TOOL TO EXPLORE THE ABUNDANCE WITHIN & AROUND US….
Sunrise meditation- Each morning you are invited to start the day with the sun’s return, harnessing the most spiritually potent time of the day to set your intention by.
Daily morning practice- a combination of potent kriya and vinyasa sequences to remind us that challenge is a powerful catalyst for growth!
Afternoon workshops that delve into the science, philosophy and psychology of Eastern traditions for a modern mindset.
Daily evening practice- Asana, mantra, meditation to cultivate the art of letting go, gratitude and self nourishing.
Each day of mat time is well balanced with ‘me’ time- plenty of time for unscheduled naps, sun soaking, exploration and connection. Breakfast and dinner are a family affair but you can choose to bring a prepared lunch with you to wherever the afternoon takes you.
Our days on the Island will look a little like this.. with a group excursion midweek.
6.45am Optional sunrise meditation
7.30am Snacks & tea
8.00-10.00am Yoga @ the Shala
10.15am Breakfast & free time
13.00pm Lunch & lecture
17.00-19.00pm Yoga @ the Shala
20.00pm Dinner family style
THE LOCATION
Koufonisia means “the hollow islands” in Greek – two low little islands of a friable rock have had their coastlines nibbled away by the wind and waves to form wonderful beaches and caves and strange rock formations. Koufonisi, is one of the most untouched islands of the Cyclades and is home to idyllic shorelines, azure seas and breathtaking landscapes. As with all worthwhile endeavours, it takes a little time to get there. Koufonisi has several travel options from UK and Europe. It will require you to fly and ferry.
Option 1: Fly to Athens international & ferry 4-4.5 hrs to Koufonisi
Option 2: Fly to Mykonos & ferry 1.5-2 hrs to Koufonisi
We will be offering suggested flights & ferries to retreat guests at a later date when ferry information becomes available. In the meantime, watch this video to get an idea of our beautiful retreat location.
THE ACCOMMODATION
Koufonisi villas- a yoga and comfort conscious sanctuary located in the most majestic spot of the island. Koufanisi Villas invites you to experience the most relaxing and enjoyable vacation to remember. A newly build, complex of traditional dwellings and houses, typical of the islands unique architecture, welcomes you with state-of-the-art services. The villas stand in a tranquil spot in the northeast of the island, just a few minutes’ walk from Pori, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean.
The rooms are modern, stylish and airy, offering several options for sharing or single use. Queen rooms are ensuite. The twin and small double room on each floor share a bathroom.
The yoga sanctuary offers communal areas in abundance- indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor jacuzzi, lounging areas, sunbathing decks & plunge bath. Holistic amenities include large yoga Shala equipped with mats and yoga props, a massage tent home to resident Thai masseuse offering daily treatments.
THE CUISINE
Our master chef, invites you in a culinary feast! Esco, carefully selects local organic products for their healing qualities and prepares three fresh vegan meals per day. Breakfast and dinner are served in a buffet style while lunch can be carried out at the beach. Esco will captivate your senses, will share with you his recipes and will inspire you to continue a healthy lifestyle after the retreat.
