NAVARATRI YOGA RETREAT OCTOBER 2023
10 days of the Goddess
SOUTH INDIA - OCEAN, MOUNTAINS, CITY
Welcome to South India,
October 15 -25, 2023
Together with Lana Clementson from Flow Collective Yoga Bulli we invite you to join us on the retreat of a lifetime to the golden beaches, fresh green mountains, and bustling city scape of Southern India.
Our retreat has been timed to fall over the wonderful festival of Navaratri, one of Hindu India's biggest celebrations of the year. Navaratri is the story of the Goddess. In particular the celebration of the 9 avatars of Goddess Durga and her defeat over the evil demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura, half buffalo and half man, represents our ego driven need for survival over all else. Mahishasura was so powerful and evil he conquered both heaven and earth, however it was the Goddess Durga, who after 9 nights of battle, eventually slayed him on the 10th day.
Navaratri is celebrated with music, dance, ritual, ceremony, food and colour and India comes alive with tradition and festivity.
The retreat starts in the Southern Indian city of Kochi (airport pickup from Kochi airport) with sightseeing and shopping, travels to the mountain town of Kollum where we enjoy tea plantations and a hike up 2000mtrs, we then travel to the backwaters of Kerala on a peaceful river boat, and lastly we stay in Kovalam- enjoying the beach and even more shopping!!
Our retreat will offer plenty of free time and everything is optional.
You can choose to stay in a twin share or in a single room for a little extra. At this stage, all that's required is a deposit of $500 to secure your spot - what are you waiting for??!!!
For more details, reach out to either myself or Lana or follow the booking link below:
I have been wanting to experience Navaratri for many years and it will be even more special to share it with you
xxOm Namah Shivaya
B xx
YOUR HOSTS
Becci Anderson
Becci has taught various styles of yoga. Her foundation training was in Japanese Okido yoga, and she has also trained with Jimmy Barkan, Power Living, Bliss Baby Yoga, FireShaper Hot Yoga, Inferno Hot Pilates, Shiva Rae, and with Barre Body in mat pilates and barre. More recently Becci has qualified as an IREST yoga nidra level 1 teacher, studied tantra yoga with Brad Hay, studied ashtanga vinyasa with Gregor Maehle, and completed 200hrs of instinctive meditation teacher training with Lorin Roche at the Radiance Sutras School of meditation.
"Since yoga became part of my life I have evolved into a more peaceful, content, curious, playful, grateful and happier me, and as a teacher I hope more than anything to help my students do the same. The honesty, intuition, and strength we bring to our mats eventually transpires to fill our lives, and for me there is nothing more beautiful than being true to one’s self. Yoga is my go to place, my island in a busy sea”
As a naturopath, nutritionist, and teacher and student of yoga, Becci believes in bringing her diverse skills into her classes. “I believe a well-rounded yoga practice helps to emulate a well-rounded individual… there is a yoga style for everybody! I hope to share my love and passion for yoga with everyone, see you on your mat very soon!”
Lana Clementson
Lana is an advanced Yoga teacher who has dedicated her adult life to studying, practicing and passing on ancient wisdom in a modern context. She approaches the Yoga practice as a reflection of life off-the-mat and encourages moving, and living, from a place of self awareness, personal growth, truth and integrity.
Lana has been teaching Yoga classes, running retreats and hosting workshops for over a decade. She has trained under multiple incredible teachers and worked within the Yoga and breathwork fields in a variety of contexts including; Asana for Stability and Mobility, Yin Yoga, Accessible Yoga for Healthy Ageing, Private Yoga and Energetic Healing, Guided Meditation and Pranayama, Philosophy and Educational teaching and more recently; Shamanic Meditation and Breathwork.
With much experience and passion, Lana can confidently adapt the practice and teachings of Yoga to suit the individual needs of her students. Above all, Lana is passionate about helping humans to remember their connection to the natural world, and to live with peace, harmony, reciprocity and balance.
RETREAT LOCATION, FACTS & PRICE
Kerala, a state on India's tropical Malabar Coast, has nearly 600km of Arabian Sea Shore line. It's known for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, a network of canals. Inland are the Western Ghats, mountains whose slopes support tea, coffee and spice plantations as well as wildlife. National parks like Eravikulam and Periyar, plus Wayanad and other sanctuaries, are home to elephants, langur monkeys and tigers.
Just setting foot on this swath of soul-quenching, palm-shaded green will slow your sub continental stride to a blissed-out amble. Kerala is the world away from the frenzy of elsewhere as if India had passed through the Looking Glass and become an altogether more laid-back place.
Retreat facts
Location: Kerala - Cochin, Munnar, Alleppey, Kollam & Kovalam
Trip Duration: 10 nights / 11 days
Your investment includes:
- 10 nights accommodation 3- 5 stars
- Daily yoga
- 1-hour Ayurvedic massage
- Boat tour on backwaters
- Walking tour in Cochin
- Tea plantation & spice tour in Munnar
- 2 delicious meals per day
- Soft hike in Munnar
- Visit Hindu temples
- Kerala's famous beaches
Excludes
- Return airfares
- Drinks & alcoholic beverages
- Compulsory travel insurance
- E-tourist visa
Price (AUD)
$4,290 twin share
$5,590 single
Deposit: $400 until June 17, 2023, increases to $500 from June 17, 2023. Early bird price: ends June 17, 2023
If you would like to share a room, it's required that you fill the other spaces. If you’re a solo traveller and would like to share, please get in touch. We will try our best to find you a suitable roommate. Alternatively, the single room rate will apply.
Please Note: All payments made to our business accounts are non-refundable.
RETREAT ITINERARY
Please note, based on the expeditionary nature of our trips; there may be ongoing enhancements to this itinerary.
Below please find the day-by-day itinerary for this trip. Unless otherwise noted, daily excursion options are included in the cost of the trip. We do our best to adhere to the scheduled itinerary, but in the spirit of our expeditionary style of travel, we may deviate slightly to take full advantage of encounters with the destination and its people, culture, weather and wildlife.
Day 1: 15 October
Welcome to Southern India. Arrive at Kochi airport; our driver will be waiting for you with a Create Space sign. You will drive 40 - 60 minutes to the Fragrant Nature Kochi. Relax and unwind, meet/ greet and yoga at 6pm, followed by our group dinner.
Day 2: 16 October
Let our practice begin. Morning Yoga, followed by breakfast. Get ready to hit the streets of Kochi. Walking tour with our Indian guide, visiting The Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church with the first tomb of Vasco de Gama, Paradeshi Jewish Synagogue of Cochin, Jewish town and Dutch Palace. We will stop for lunch along the way and finish our day off with yoga and a group dinner.
Day 3: 17 October
Today we are one with the present moment. Morning Yoga, followed by breakfast, depart Kochi for a scenic 4 hours’ drive to Kollam. On arrival, we check-in to our resort and unwind with a cup of chai overlooking the valley, yoga and group dinner.
Day 4: 18 October
Slow down and pamper yourself. Morning Yoga overlooking the tea plantations, followed by breakfast. Enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic Massage and join the group for an evening stroll through the tea plantations with tea tasting to complete the walk. Group dinner and relaxation.
Day 5: 19 October
A day of adventure. After breakfast we set off bright and early for our half-day hike. Reaching the top, 2000mts. After relaxing we start the hike back down to Munnar. Opportunity to do some shopping and explore the town of Munnar. Later we meet for evening yoga and group dinner with a campfire under the stars.
Day 6: 20 October
Let's explore. After our morning practice and breakfast we checkout and drive roughly 6.5 hours to Kollam, Spice tour and lunch along the way. On arrival we will arrive and check-in at our hotel and enjoy your evening by the pool or walking through the lush gardens with the backwaters in view. Group dinner.
Day 7: 21 October
A new perspective. Morning Yoga overlooking the backwaters and breakfast. Today we will set off on a backwaters cruise, letting the slow place of Kerala guide us. Enjoy the afternoon as you wish. Unwind by the pool, in the garden or indulge with the onsite Ayurvedic spa. Group dinner and relaxation.
Day 8: 22 October
A day to rest. Morning yoga workshop and breakfast. Today is for you to unwind and recharge in the lush tropical setting. Book an additional spa treatment, relax by the pool or read a book by the backwaters. Meet for evening yoga and dinner.
Day 9: 23 October
Embrace all that Southern India has to offer. Morning Yoga and breakfast. Today we check-out and drive roughly 1.5 hours to the famous cliffs of Varkala, a coastal town with pristine beaches, temples and bright-red cliffs. Lunch at your leisure and time to explore the beachside shops. Later that afternoon we will continue our drive to Kovalam, roughly 2 hours. Check in to our 5 star resort, relax and unwind with a group dinner by the ocean.
Day 10: 24 October
Leisure day in Kovalam. Meet for our final yoga session together; we will finish with a closing circle and group breakfast. Spend the day as you wish, collect some last-minute gifts, swim in the ocean or explore the shops of Kovalam. During the evening we will meet for our final group dinner at The Leela fine-dining restaurant.
Day 11: 25 October
Awaken with gratitude and love. Group breakfast and a beach walk. Our drivers will arrange transfer to the airport. Depart to your further destination with the sweet memories and high spirits of Southern India.
ACCOMMODATION
Twin-share room: Is ideal for couples or people who are comfortable sharing with one other. One room with twin or double bed and bathroom are included.
Single room: For those who like the comfort of their own room and or travelling solo. The single room has a double bed and a bathroom.
YOGA
Depending on weather circumstances, yoga may be held inside or outside. Please bring your own yoga mat.
MEALS
We believe a healthy and nutritious diet is most important. All meals will be prepared to support your daily yoga practice. Our specialties include: Indian Cuisine, Raw foods, ayurvedic diet and continental fine dining. Should you have any dietary requirements, please advise, and we will arrange to have this accommodated.
FLIGHTS
● Arrival - Cochin International Airport
● Depart - Trivandrum International airport
VISA
To enter India, a visa is required. Those travelling in India for less than 60 days can apply for an E-tourist visa - £40 . If you intend to stay in India for more than 60 days, you will need to apply for a regular visa - £60. This visa allows you to stay in India for up to 6 months.
Visa Website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
Checklist link: http://www.vfsglobal.com/india/australia/tourist.html
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We require each guest travelling on this retreat to hold active travel insurance with COVID cover. Please purchase your travel Insurance as soon as the retreat is
booked as per our terms and conditions, all payments are non-refundable. This will cover you for any medical care you need, loss/damage of any goods and any
potential disruption or cancellation of your travel.
CURRENCY & MONEY
The Indian rupee is the official currency in India. Functioning ATMS can be difficult to find. To be on the safe side it is advised to stock up on cash before arriving in India.
PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS
A valid passport is required for participation in this retreat. It is necessary that your passport is valid for 6 months from the date you intend to return home.
Visa is required. We suggest that you carry a couple of photocopies of your passport, visa and any other important documents when travelling.
INTERNET & WIFI
Wi-fi is available at all locations.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Please consult a doctor concerning health precautions, immunisations, and prescriptions based on your physical condition and medical history. Please note this
should be done 3 months prior to travelling as some vaccines require several weeks following the injection to become effective.
CLIMATE
Cochin, Kollam & Kovalam - Air temperature is 28-34 ̊C and water temperature is 25 ̊C. Munnar- 10- 22°C
PACKING LIST
Attitude, attitude, attitude!
The first thing to carry of course is a great attitude! Be fully prepared to soak in the sights, and culture of India. The ability to unwind, de-stress and relax, will come in handy.
BE EARTH-FRIENDLY
Please limit kgs, your consumption of disposable plastics and packaging and take the initiative to leave all locations better than you left them. We also recommend that you bring biodegradable and paraben-free toiletry products.
Apparel
● Cotton, breathable t-shirts
● Singlet tops
● Dresses and or skirts
● Sarong
● Shorts
● Evening wear for our dinners
● Sleepwear
● Hat
● Swimwear
● Yoga wear
● Light-rain jacket
● 1 warm jacket
● Walking shoes
● Flip flops/sandals
● All toiletries
Travel items
● Travel adaptor for electronics
● Day bag
● Hand sanitizer
● Insect repellent
● Sunscreen
● Sunglasses
● Water bottle
● Yoga mat
MISC
● Journal
● Good book
● Camera
● Ear plugs
Checklist in order
☐ Read our terms and conditions
☐ Choose/fill your room selection, Twin or Single
☐ Travel Insurance
☐ Flights
☐ Waiver & Release completed and submitted
☐ Online client information form completed
☐ All retreat payments finalised
☐ Passport and visa check
☐ Exchanged currency
☐ Copies of travel documents
☐ Pack
☐ Pack hard copy of waiver
☐ Enjoy your retreat!