Bali Retreat

I use the phrase yoga in real life, to describe how the teachings of yoga can guide us in how to live, be and engage in the world.

Yoga is more than a physical practice that begins and ends on an expensive yoga mat. 

It is a way of life.

This six night retreat is an opportunity for you to deepen your understanding of yoga and how it relates to you and your place in the world.

Together we will physically practice yoga in accessible and adaptable ways, as well as inquire gently into yoga's philosophical ethical foundations..

You will have time and space to rest in solitude or in the company of others whilst staying with a local Balinese artist and his family.

"The accommodation was spacious and beautiful, I couldn't ask for anything better. Perfect!"

David, Darwin.

Following the success of previous year's retreats, we return to the lush tropical gardens of Santra Putra Guesthouse. Here, you’ll be welcomed by a local Balinese artist and his family, offering a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the warmth of community, creativity, and cultural reverence.

"I really enjoyed the peaceful nature of the guesthouse. The rooms were really lovely and staff helpful and accommodating"

Bali Retreat 2025 participant.

Be surrounded by nature, hosted in comfort and immersed in local custom as you observe daily offerings performed by our Balinese host family and staff. You will have a spacious fan cooled deluxe queen room to yourself, complete with private veranda, kitchenette and seating area for rest and reflection. Your private ensuite bathroom is semi outdoor embracing the natural beauty of tropical Bali.

Located on the edge of rice fields in a pedestrian only area of Penestanan, Santra Putra is located on the outskirts of Ubud, away from the hustle and bustle, with easy access to local warungs (restaurants) and a walk or taxi ride into town. It’s a place where time slows down, and the spirit of Bali gently invites you to pause and reconnect.

If you’d prefer resort style accommodation, you’re welcome to stay offsite at a nearby resort. You’ll still join us daily for yoga practices, group breakfasts, and scheduled activities—so you’ll be fully part of the retreat experience.

I’ve been visiting Penestanan for over 15 years, and it’s a place close to my heart. I’d love to share its beauty, charm, and gentle rhythm with you.

Meet your facilitator

I’m Nicole—a yoga teacher, social worker, and parent with over 25 years of yoga practice experience. For the past nine years, I’ve been dedicated to teaching accessible and adaptable yoga to communities often underrepresented in mainstream yoga spaces.

My classes are inclusive, trauma-sensitive, and grounded in nervous system care. I offer an accessible blend of:

• Yoga asana (movement)

• Pranayama (breathwork)

• Meditation (pause)

• Restorative practices for emotional resilience and regulation

You’ll often see a chair used as a prop, and you’ll always be invited to move in ways that feel right for your body. My approach is guided by the principle: “Teach people, not poses.” — Mary Richards

• 6 nights accommodation in a spacious, queen room with ensuite, veranda and kitchenette

• Daily complimentary breakfast

• Airport arrival transfer

• Welcome Purification (Melukat) ceremony 

• Two Delicious Indonesian dinners 

• Daily trauma sensitive yoga classes 

• Balinese dance performance at Ubud Water Palace incl. transport.

• Sound Healing

• Group Rice Field walk

• Retreat booklet including readings shared in class, local activity suggestions and location map

• Free flow water in your room and more!

$2250 all inclusive

• Airfares

• Travel Insurance

• Visa (50,000IDR or $50) & Tourism Levy (150,000 IDR or $15)

• Airport drop off

This retreat is for anyone interested in yoga and curious in exploring more than physical asana. Whilst it is recommended that you have attended a yoga class before, you don’t need to be able to touch your toes or own expensive yoga pants. 

I will work with you, adapting practices to suit your needs. I will also encourage you to know your boundaries, and to be aware of pausing to keep yourself safe. 

If you would like to connect and find out more, please reach out, I'm happy to assist in any way I can.

FAQs

I've never practiced yoga before, and I have some physical limitations. Can I attend this retreat?

In almost all cases, yes. Nicole is trained to offer an accessible practice of yoga. Being able to get up and down from the floor is required and there are some steps and uneven surfaces around the guesthouse. Some rooms are also upstairs, however downstairs rooms are available. Please contact Nicole directly to discuss your situation.

What if I don't know anyone else attending? 

Most people don't. Places are limited to 8, so the group stays small enough to connect naturally, with plenty of space to be on your own too.

I'd like a five star resort experience — can I still join? 

Yes. Santra Putra is a traditional Balinese guesthouse, not a resort, and that's intentional. However you're welcome to stay at a nearby resort and join us each day for practices and breakfast — I'm more than happy to help with nearby accommodation suggestions, though you'll take care of the booking yourself. This option is priced at $1,980 (with your chosen accommodation fee on top).

I'm a social worker or counsellor, and I heard you run a retreat specifically for people in my field — should I do that one instead?

You're very welcome here regardless — this retreat is open to anyone curious about yoga as a way of life. If you're specifically looking for an embodiment retreat framed around clinical practice and nervous system regulation, The Therapeutic Body may be a better fit for you.

The small (and important) print

Our retreat venue includes some steps and uneven surface areas (paths). Paths can become slippery, and to increase your accessibility, footwear with good tread is recommended. Ground floor accommodation is available.

Retreat deposit to secure your place: $500. Full balance due by 16 June, 2027

Terms & Conditions: 

Refundable (minus $100 admin fee) for cancellation 60+ days before the event start date. 

Cancellations 30–59 days before the start date receive a 50% refund. 

Cancellations under 30 days before the start date are non refundable. 

Travel insurance suitable to your needs is required to attend this retreat. Proof of your policy must be provided by 16 June 2027.

Life happens — when booking your flights, it is recommended to choose an option that accommodates date changes and flight credit options.

If you have any questions, let's chat to see if this retreat will suit you.