ESSENCE OF YOGA

Educational Yoga Experience

Ubud, Bali

1st - 8th March 2025

IMMERSE AND LEARN

Join Nicky for 8 days on retreat in the luscious Ubud jungle as he guides you through a body opening, heart filling and mind expanding yoga experience. This retreat will be a deep dive into experiential learning through a seamless blend of education and yoga embodiment.

Nicky has thoughtfully designed this retreat for lovers of yoga who want to learn more about the finer aspects of yoga philosophy while integrating a heart-felt journey of focused practices. He will share his passion and knowledge in an advanced introduction to non-dual philosophy (Advaita Vedanta), guna yoga, karma yoga, pranayama, meditation and of course, his signature style asana classes with plenty of hands on adjusting.

More information on the subjects below. 

 

WHO'S THIS RETREAT FOR?

Yoga lovers, yoga teachers and eternal students. If you love practicing and learning about yoga while connecting with like-minded people this retreat is for you. You will take a deep dive into the practice and philosophy of yoga, while also having time for integration, relaxation, exploring and enjoying the tropical jungle surrounds.

Nicky will cater to all levels, from beginners through to advanced practitioners. The yoga sessions offer dynamic and gentle asana, pranayama, meditation, nidra and philosophy teachings that are effective, relatable and de-mystified. The focus is on building a fortified yoga practice both physically and mentally that’s suited to each individual. Nicky is always considerate of each student’s level of understanding and experience and approaches with relatability, adaptability and empathy. No sessions are compulsory, so you can also take extra time to yourself to blissfully chill out or explore Bali.

YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE

7.00 – 8.30:  Yoga, pranayama, journalling

8.30 – 9.30:  Breakfast

9.30 – 10.30:  Philosophy teachings & discussion

10.30 – 4.30:  Free time (lunch at 12.30pm)

4.30 – 6.30:  Yoga teachings + practice (nidra/gentle yoga)

6.30:  Dinner then free time

*Private Balinese ceremony at a local water temple included

PRICING & ACCOMODATION

Early Bird

(ends Dec 1st 2024)

$2,100 Shared

2 People Sharing (price per person)

Early Bird

(ends Dec 1st 2024)

$2,600

Private Room

WHAT’S INCLUDED 

    • 7 nights accommodation in Ubud
    • Delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks
      (all dietary requirements catered for inc. meat, fish, vegan, GF, DF etc.)
    • All retreat materials such workbooks
    • Traditional Balinese ceremony + excursion
    • All yoga classes and lectures (blocks & bolsters inc.)

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

    • Massage
    • Scooter rental
    • Private car hire w/ driver
    • Personal excursions

NOT INCLUDED

    • Flights
    • Airport transfer (we can help arrange)
    • Travel insurance
    • Additional meals

Peaceful Jungle Rooms

During your stay in Bali, you’ll stay at luxury villas which are uniquely built in the peaceful jungle surrounding Ubud, atop cascading rice terraces. 

All accommodation has a private bathroom, private outdoor space, a shared pool & communal area.

Secure Your Spot

To reserve your spot we require a $800 AUD deposit ($500 is not refundable at any time).

 The remaining balance to be paid in full before February 1st 2025

Payment plans are available, please request via the contact button above.

Bali dates and times:

Check in 2pm, Saturday 1st March 2025.

Check out 11am, Saturday 8th March 2025.

*Cancellation policy details below

ABOUT THE SUBJECTS

Non-dual philosophy

Nicky has been studying non-dual philosophy (Advaita Vedanta) for the past several years and is excited to share his wealth of knowledge of this profound and fascinating subject that’s rooted in the oldest scriptures of yoga, the Vedas.

Advaita Vedanta, meaning “non-dual knowledge,” offers a revolutionary perspective on life and existence. It teaches that the true nature of the Self (Atman) is identical with the ultimate reality (Brahman), transcending all apparent differences and separations. This philosophy invites you to look beyond the illusions of the material world and recognise the inherent oneness of all things, leading to profound inner peace and liberation.

During this advanced introduction to Advaita Vedanta, you will explore key concepts and practices that guide you towards self-realisation. Through a blend of lectures, discussions, and meditative exercises, you will learn to identify and transcend the illusions (Maya) that obscure your true nature. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to deepen your spiritual journey, foster greater self-awareness, and experience a sense of unity with the universe. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to these ideas, the retreat will provide you with valuable insights and practical tools to integrate the wisdom of Advaita Vedanta into your daily life. The teachings of Advaita Vedanta will enrich your understanding of the essence of yoga philosophy and elevate your practice.

Guna & Karma Yoga

Guna and karma yoga are two essential aspects of yogic philosophy that can transform your life.

Guna Yoga focuses on the three fundamental qualities (gunas) that govern nature and human behavior: Sattva (purity and harmony), Rajas (activity and passion), and Tamas (inertia and darkness). Understanding these forces helps you recognise how they influence your thoughts, emotions, and actions. During our retreat, you will learn to identify and balance these gunas within yourself, leading to greater inner harmony, clarity, and well-being. Through guided practices, insightful lectures, and reflective exercises, you will gain the tools to cultivate a sattvic (balanced and harmonious) state of mind, enhancing your overall life experience.

Karma Yoga, the yoga of selfless action, teaches the path of dedicating one’s work to the greater good without attachment to the outcomes. This practice encourages you to perform your duties with a spirit of service and mindfulness, transforming ordinary actions into a form of spiritual practice. At the retreat, you will explore how to integrate karma yoga into your daily life, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Through engaging discussions, practical workshops, and group activities, you will learn how to align your actions with your values, creating positive change within yourself and your community.

On this transformative retreat you will not only deepen your yoga practice but also gain profound insights into how to live a balanced and purposeful life. This journey into guna yoga and karma yoga will empower you with the knowledge and skills to achieve greater harmony, clarity, and fulfilment in all aspects of your life.

Asana, Pranayama, Meditation

Nicky will guide you through a holistic and transformative journey during an unforgettable week on yoga. Designed to cater to all levels, this retreat offers a perfect blend of dynamic and gentle vinyasa yoga sessions, ensuring that you find the right balance between challenge and relaxation. Nicky’s hands-on adjustments will help you deepen your practice and enhance your overall experience.

In addition to Nicky’s signature style vinyasa flows, he will lead you through effective pranayama (breathing exercises) techniques and meditation practices. These sessions are crafted to empower you with tools that you can integrate into your daily life, helping you manage stress, increase mindfulness, and enhance your overall well-being. You will learn how to harness the power of your breath and mind to cultivate inner peace and clarity.

To further support your journey of relaxation and healing, you will be spoiled with evening sessions of yoga nidra, a guided relaxation practice designed to soothe your nervous system and promote deep rest. This meditative practice will leave you feeling rejuvenated and balanced, providing a perfect end to your day.

Nicky will guide you through a journey of self-discovery, relaxation, and rejuvenation, equipping you with valuable practices that you can carry forward into your everyday life. Embrace this opportunity to deepen your practice, nurture your body, and calm your mind in a supportive and serene environment.

Private Ceremony

Immerse yourself in the transformative experience of Melukat, a traditional Balinese purification ritual, at our upcoming retreat. We are blessed to have access to a local guide and lesser known ceremonial waterfall that’s situated on the adjoining property. Melukat, rooted in ancient spiritual practices, is designed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, removing negative energies and restoring inner balance. This sacred water ceremony invites you to release past burdens and embrace a renewed sense of peace and clarity.

During the Melukat ritual, you will be guided through a serene process that involves the use of blessed water, prayers, and offerings. As the healing waters flow over you, you will feel a profound connection to the natural elements and a deep sense of purification. This powerful experience not only revitalises your spirit but also opens the path to greater self-awareness and spiritual growth.

During the ceremony you will be enveloped in the serenity and sanctity of this ritual, emerging refreshed and renewed, ready to embrace life with a purified heart and a clear mind.

FAQ's

Do I need to be experienced with yoga?

Absolutely not! This retreat caters to all levels of experience. Nicky offers a very welcoming and encouraging atmosphere and with over 20 years of experience teaching, he can tailor the experience to the individual. 

Dietary requirements

Much of the delicious food is sourced locally and prepared by excellent chefs on location with the occasional hand-made gnocci by the Italian owner (if we’re lucky). On this retreat we will be offering fish and meat options also. 

The retreat centre can cater to any dietary requirements such as gluten free, dairy free, FODMAP, pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, carnivore and more. Upon application we will confirm your requirements.

Check in / out and extra stay

The retreat will start at 4pm on Sept 14th. You can check in from 2 pm. The retreat will finish at 11am on Sept 22nd.

If your flight time interferes with the schedule, just let us know and we can work together. If you’d like to stay at the retreat before or after, please be in touch and we can help co-ordinate. 

Can I come solo and share a room?

Yes! We will try and pair you with someone we think you’ll get along with, although we’re sure all the students on the retreat are wonderful humans that you’ll get along with smoothly. We will also match genders. 

 

Which airport to fly into?

Denpasar International Airport, Bali, Indonesia. 

Travel Documents

Please ensure your passport has more than 6 months validity. You will need a visa on arrival and to pay a new tourist tax. The total cost of visa documents and taxes will be around $65AUD. 

We will send through the appropriate links to submit your applications upon your application. 

All documents can be submitted on the day of travel and it’s very easy with online applications.

COVID 19 Vax?

Not needed. 

Cancellation Policy

A $800 deposit is required to secure your spot. $500 is non-refundable at any time. 

Cancel before August 7th 2024 and receive 80% refund. Strictly no refund after 7th August 2024. 

MEET THE TEACHER

Watch Nicky's students talk about his teaching style, personality and what to expect on a retreat.