Warming Women Weekend (27-29 November 2026, Karlsruhe, Germany)

A weekend of sisterhood, feminine embodiment, seasonal wisdom & deep nourishment, womb wisdom, somatic feminine embodiment & the art of deep rest

As the days grow shorter and the world outside invites us to slow down, we gather to remember a wisdom that our modern lives so often ask us to forget: the wisdom of resting, receiving and turning inward.

Warming Women is an invitation to come home to yourself. To soften the places that have been holding it all together. To warm your inner fire, reconnect with your embodied wisdom and rediscover the nourishment of being held in the presence of other women.

So often, we travel through life as solo heroines, carrying our responsibilities, navigating our transitions and finding our own way through the challenges we meet. Yet the feminine journey is not one we have to walk alone. There is a particular kind of medicine in coming together: in sharing our stories, recognising ourselves in one another, allowing our vulnerability to breathe and remembering the dreams we may have put aside along the way.

Over this winter weekend, we will gather in a circle of sisterhood, explore the ancient wisdom of autumn and winter goddesses, move and breathe, rest deeply, and discover rituals that help us feel grounded, warm and nourished through the colder months.

Through feminine yoga, Qigong, mantra, storytelling, cacao, Yoga Nidra, sound and Ayurvedic self-care, we will explore what it means to slow down not as a retreat from life, but as a way of cultivating the energy, wisdom and inner space from which life can grow.

Because winter is not a season in which we have to keep blooming. It is a season in which we are allowed to root, restore and tend the quiet fire within.

FRIDAY EVENING · (19:00–21:30) : A women’s circle to warmly open the weekend

Gathering around the inner flame

We begin by gathering in the intimacy of a women’s circle, creating a space to arrive, exhale and gently leave the busyness of everyday life behind.

Together, we will explore the feminine wisdom of descent through goddesses such as Hecate and Inanna, who accompany us through thresholds, endings and the mysteries of the underworld. We will also meet the archetype of the inner hearth through Hestia and the fierce stillness of Dhumavati, inviting us to discover the quiet power that lives within periods of emptiness, uncertainty and rest.

Through mantra, ritual, guided meditation and intention setting, we will honour the season we are entering and the inner landscape we each bring with us.

A space to be witnessed without needing to perform. To share, or simply to listen. To let our vulnerability soften and our inner light become a little brighter in the warmth of the circle.

SATURDAY MORNING · (09:30 - 13:00) Feminine yoga, Qigong & embodied seasonal wisdom

Rooting into autumn

Autumn invites us to descend: out of the spinning mind and back into the grounding intelligence of the body.

In Ayurveda, the qualities of autumn are associated with Vata — the elements of air and space, bringing movement, dryness and change. When these qualities become excessive, we may feel restless, scattered, ungrounded or disconnected from ourselves.

Our morning practice will invite us to cultivate the opposite qualities: warmth, steadiness, nourishment and belonging. Through feminine yoga, grounding Qigong, breathwork and practices that support our inner fire, or Agni, we will explore how to settle the nervous system, reconnect with the centre of the body and support our digestive vitality.

We will then journey through the stories of autumn and winter goddesses and feminine archetypes, exploring the wisdom of descent, the beauty of endings and the creative potential of deep rest.

In a culture that constantly asks us to do more, produce more and keep moving, what might become possible if we allowed ourselves to slow down?

What if rest were not the opposite of creation, but one of its most fertile beginnings?

SATURDAY AFTERNOON (15:00 -18:30) : Ancient wisdom, cacao & deep replenishment

The art of slowing down

What if slowing down were itself a practice of wisdom?

Our afternoon invites us to explore the relationship between slowness, longevity, presence and the cultivation of inner resources. Through gentle embodiment and contemplative practices inspired by traditions that honour the wisdom of the body and the natural world, we will make space for a different rhythm — one that does not demand anything of us.

We will gather for a cacao ceremony, creating a moment of connection with ourselves and one another, before sinking into the restorative embrace of Yoga Nidra and a sound bath.

The afternoon will close with a practice of receiving in a circle: an opportunity to soften, be supported and experience the nourishment of collective presence.

Less striving. Less holding it all together. More listening, receiving and allowing ourselves to simply be.

SUNDAY MORNING (9:30 - 11: 30) : Yin & restorative yoga for winter

Tending the inner waters

Winter invites us into a deeper kind of listening — a time to turn inward, replenish our energy and reconnect with the quiet wisdom of our bodies.

Our Sunday morning practice draws inspiration from the water element, associated with winter, our vital reserves and the deeper currents of life force, or chi. Water reminds us of the wisdom of softness, adaptability and flow: the ability to nourish ourselves, restore our energy and trust the natural rhythms within us.

Through slow yin and restorative yoga, we will explore the connection between the water element, our reproductive and hormonal well-being, and the sacral chakra — the energetic centre associated with creativity, sensuality, emotional flow and our capacity to receive.

We will draw inspiration from Hestia, guardian of the sacred hearth, and Tara, the compassionate Buddhist goddess who guides us through life’s challenges with wisdom and tenderness.

Together, these practices invite us to soften, replenish our inner reserves and tend the quiet flame of our life force — allowing ourselves to rest deeply, receive nourishment and reconnect with the source of warmth within.

SUNDAY LATE MORNING (11:30 -13: 00) : Ayurvedic wisdom & seasonal self-care

Bringing the warmth home

How can we carry the warmth and nourishment of this weekend into our everyday lives?

Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, we will explore simple, nurturing ways to support body, mind and psyche through the colder months. As autumn gives way to winter, we will discover how to cultivate warmth, grounding and nourishment through the foods we eat, the oils we use and the rituals we weave into our daily lives.

We will explore warming Ayurvedic spices, seasonal cooking and nourishing recipes, alongside the qualities of different oils and how to use them in simple self-care rituals. Through practices such as oil massage of the feet, belly and breasts, gentle abdominal and pelvic movements, and skin brushing, we will reconnect with the body through the healing power of touch and conscious care.

You will receive recipes, inspiration for working with Ayurvedic spices and oils, and practical rituals to take home — simple tools to support digestion, cultivate inner warmth, soothe the nervous system and nourish your feminine vitality throughout the season.

A little seasonal wisdom to take home, a deeper connection with your body, and rituals to keep your inner fire glowing throughout the winter.

WARMING WOMEN

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Location: Karlsruhe, Bogenraum

Dates: Friday 27 November to Sunday 29 November 2026

Investment: €260 per person the whole weekend (meals & accommodation not incl.)

Book separate workshops: Friday’s Women Circle: 55€, Saturday morning: 70€, Saturday afternoon: 75€, Sunday morning: 75€.

Bring a Sister offer: €222 per person when booking together with a sister, a friend, your mother or someone with whom you’d love to share this experience. You are welcome just as you are.

Spaces for the whole weekend are limited, so make sure you reserve your spot in time! Connect with me to book your space: namaste@yogawithveerle.com

Warming Women is an invitation to step out of the busyness of everyday life and into a space of connection, softness and replenishment. A weekend to breathe, move, rest, share stories and rediscover the simple wisdom of living in rhythm with the seasons.

Through feminine yoga, Qigong, women’s circles, goddess stories, ritual, cacao, Yoga Nidra, sound and Ayurvedic self-care, we will explore how to feel more grounded, nourished and connected to ourselves as we transition into winter.

You don’t need any previous experience with yoga, meditation or goddess traditions. Simply come as you are, with a willingness to slow down, explore and share in the warmth of a women’s gathering.

Together, we will create space for the things that often get lost in our busy lives: deep rest, meaningful connection, embodied wisdom and the nourishment of being among women.

Come to soften. Come to reconnect. Come to warm the winter together.

SACRED WOMEN RETREAT- VÉZELAY, FRANCE

Sacred Women Retreat — Vézelay, France

In the late spring, from 2-7 ofJune — we will gather for our annual Sacred Women’s Retreat in “Le Moulin de Merle”, close to Vézelay, a place steeped in mystery and devotion. A mystical place known as one of the ancient pathways of the Camino de Santiago and deeply connected to the lineage of Mary Magdalene.

In this powerful landscape of rolling hills, wild forests, and flowing rivers, we will rejoice together, in each other’s company, to explore the mysteries of the sacred feminine — her cycles of descent and return, her wisdom of embodiment, devotion, and awakening.

Together, we will remember the teachings that live in the body, in the Earth, and in the silence between words.

This next retreat is a co-creative journey - one that begins now, in the dreaming time.  This annal retreat has become a ressource for many women over the last 6 years, a place to regenerate, rest, undo, relax, unplug and fill up your cup with sisterhood, womb yoga & feminine embodiment practices, nature rituals, cacao ceremonies, mantra & sharing circles, self-care practices, art therapy, and most of all a remembrance of our deep interconnectedness with Mother Nature.

We as women as a loving & supporting forest, nourishing & mothering each other, with unconditional love and authenticity and the absence of judgment. And once a year, we meet to strengthen our bonds and roots, laugh, cry, share, create and ‘be’ together on a sacred land.

This year our Sacred Women retreat will unfold at the Moulin de Merle, a beautifully restored watermill nestled in the lush, green heart of Burgundy. The land itself feels alive, pure and untouched - the rushing river around the mill, spacious lands with trees, hidden green corners for quiet reflection -the steady murmur of water reminding us of life’s continuous flow. 

We can enjoy our yoga practice outside next to the river, eat our breakfast on the old porch of this magical watermill, enjoy romantic rooms who take us back to the 18th century, and leave the hustle and bustle of our modern life behind.

This place invites us to slow down, and drop back in rhythm dictated by the songs of the birds who wake us up, the gentle arriving in a day without rushing, feminine embodiment practices, walking meditation, qi qong, cacao circles, yin &yoga nidra, journalling or simply watching the river and trees. It’s exactly in the non-doing that we come back home to ourselves and something greater. And we feel alive and connected again.

Le Moulin de Merle is a place that welcomes both stillness and celebration, retreat and renewal - the perfect sanctuary to gather, remember, and reawaken the sacred feminine together.

The Moulin is located at 23km from Vézelay, and was originally the 1st pilgrims stop after Vézelay. It’s many rooms hosted tired pilgrims after their 1st day of walking from the Basilica Marie Madeleine de Vézelay towards Santiago. The Moulin is a sanctuary of stillness and feels like a pilgrims place.

Vézelay hosts the UNESCO heritage Mary Magdalene Cathedral, a spiritually alive little hilltop village, ancient cobble stone streets walked by 1000’s of pilgrims. As you climb up to the Cathedral you feel yourself being carried towards the luminous Basilica and it’s rose garden. The most powerful part of the Basilica is for me personally the underground crypt where relics of Mary Magdalene are being preserved. The womb of the church where you can feel her spiralling heartbeat. A space that feels for me like a vortex of love which awakens a remembrance of the Divine Feminine mysteries.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Staying in the Moulin de Merle is an unforgettable experience, as the old Villa emanates comfort and old French luxury, embedded in nature. The Villa has 9 rooms, elegant, authentic with high ceilings and floral wallpapers. There is the possibility to have a private room, or share a room with 1 or more women.

Every room has it’s own unique fragrence and magic- a sense of forgotten times, beauty and calmness. We will have the entire the Moulin for ourselves, including a living room, yoga space and fully equipped kitchen. Outside we can enjoy the river, a swimming pond, a fire place, and forest walks all around us.

Here below you can find the different room options plus the according price for the entire retreat:

Private room (limited): 1100€

Shared room with two: 970€

Dormitory (Shared with four): 950€

This price includes your stay during 5 nights, 3 delicious home cooked vegetarian meals a day, fruit, snacks, teas, as well as the teaching program. (vegan/gluten-free is optional)

At the moment we have only 3-4 spaces left!!!

In the company of women, it’s easier for each of us to remember our own truth. We remember that our lives depend on our capacity to drop all facades and pretenses. We remember the bliss of just accepting that we are here to be ourselves. And we remember, together, that the most powerful place for us to be, even if it’s sometimes terrifying, is fully in our body, so that we can move with the vulnerability and compassion of a broken-open heart.
― Meggan Watterson, Mary Magdalene Revealed.

Week-ends yoga et détox à Sainte Vertu en Bourgogne

Le printemps est là ! 

Après une fin d'année et un hiver intense pour nous tous, nous vous proposons pour ce printemps trois week-end exceptionnels de déconnexion, sérénité et remise en forme à Sainte Vertu, dans la jolie vallée du Serein, à moins de 2h de Paris.

Les week-ends seront dédiés au yoga et à la relaxation, déconnection et détox, en partenariat avec Brigitte Neveu-Dérotrie, passionnée de diétique et de cuisine saine et gourmande. Brigitte vit à temps partiel dans une charmante ancienne ferme rénovée à Sainte Vertu, où se déroulera également notre programme. Regardez pour plus d’info sur son site: https://detoxdays.fr

Un programme que nous avons concocté avec soin pour vous offrir la meilleure expérience possible.  Prenez le temps de vous ressourcer, libérer les tensions et éliminer des toxines du corps et recharger ton énergie grace aux des ateliers Yoga & Respiration, de goûter à de nouvelles recettes bio détox et gourmandes, mais également de débrancher et mieux gérer le digital au quotidien.

• Yoga, Respiration et Relaxation (Tous niveaux) avec Veerle

• Cuisine "detox gourmande", partage de recettes (saines et de saison, végétales, parfois ayurvédiques ou orientales), de bonnes pratiques nutritionnelles et gourmandes avec Brigitte

• Ateliers jus détox, l'assurance de faire le plein d'énergie avec Brigitte

• Massage avec Marion de l'Instant Serein (en option et sur réservation)

• Marches en pleine conscience et méditation dans la nature avec Veerle

Les week-ends Yoga & Détox débuteront à 10h avec un atelier Yoga, et se termineront le dimanche à 16h30 avec un atelier Yoga Nidra et un week-end partage. Le samedi, un déjeuner et un dîner végétariens sains et équilibrés sont inclus, et le dimanche, un déjeuner ressourçant. Des collations et des thés/tisanes sains sont proposés.

Prochaines dates:

MAI 2025 :
Samedi 10  au dimanche 11 mai
Samedi 17  au dimanche 18 mai 

JUIN 2025: Samedi 28  au dimanche 29 juin 

Tarif par personne pour le week-end: 260€

Les stages de mai et juin à Sainte Vertu seront accessibles à toutes et tous, même aux débutant.e.s.
Les pratiques (en petit groupe de 6 à 8 personnes maximum) comprendrons du yoga dynamique le matin pour une mise en énergie, des marches en pleine conscience, du yoga doux et de la relaxation pour le soir.  Les menus sont à base de produits bios, locaux et de saison, parfois d'inspiration ayurvédique ou orientale. Ils sont validés par Isabelle Mallet, nutritionniste.

Il ne s'agit pas d'un jeûne, mais d'un programme nutritionnel sain, avec des principes nutritionnels que vous pourrez poursuivre par la suite : pas de gluten, produit laitiers, protéines animales ni aliments acidifiants, priorité aux vitamines, aliments antioxydants et anti-inflammatoires, légumes bios locaux, épices, condiments, kéfir, tisanes...
Nous profitons du week-end pour échanger des bonnes pratiques diététiques.

Vous pourrez également découvrir la vie du dynamique village de Sainte Vertu, ses ateliers d'artistes, mais aussi la jolie campagne alentours, le village médiéval de Noyers s/ Serein ou Chablis.

Vous avez des questions concernant l'hébergement, le programme, d'autres dates en tête ? N'hésitez pas à me contacter à ce sujet.

👉 Les hébergements sont très demandés dans le village, surtout aux beaux jours, ne tardez pas !

A très bientôt à Sainte Vertu ! Veerle & Brigitte

Sacred Women Retreat in France, 10-15th of June 20

The ultimate Self-Date: Join us for our annual Sacred Women Retreat in France (10-15th of June 2025)

There is nothing better than recharging your batteries together, in a loving, natural and feminine space! After all, there is nothing like physically coming together to practice yoga, dance, walk barefoot on spring grass, sip cacao around a fire, hug, cry, laugh together and feel deeply nourished & held in this mandala of women, yogini's, sisters and mama nature. It’s one of the most resourcing gifts we can offer ourselves in this fast and intense world.

This annual retreat has become one of the most nourishing and joyful events for many of us over the last 5 years! An unforgettable gift for your feminine body and soul, which will leave you resourced for a very long time!

Dates: 10-15th of June, 2025

Location: Champs de Mélisey, Bourgogne, France. Easy to reach by trains and TGV’s from Paris and other cities.

Teaching fees: 495€

Accommodation & delicious home made French food: 75€ based on a triple room, 85€ for a double room, 95€ for a single room.

Spring Women Retreat in France

Dearest Sisters,

I am so delighted to welcome you once again at the gorgeous Champs de Mélisey for a nourishing Spring Women Retreat!

Do you feel a desire for authentic connection, being nourished in a loving, natural and feminine space and recharge your batteries after the winter?

Do you long to take time out for yourself, leave daily routines & chores and come home to yourself?

One of the greatest gift of 2023 was our Women Retreat in Mélisey! It nourished many of us so deeply that it became a resource long after we physically met. After all, there is nothing like physically coming together to practice yoga, dance, walk barefoot on spring grass, sip cacao around a fire, hug, cry, laugh together and feel deeply nourished & held in this mandala of women, yogini's, sisters and mama nature. It’s one of the most recharging things we can offer ourselves in this fast and conflictual world.

As women, this is how we thrive and restore ourselves: gathering together, being held, unconditionally seen and loved. 

Dates: 5th -9th of June, 2024

Location: Champs de Mélisey, Bourgogne, France. Easy to reach by trains and TGV’s from Paris and other cities.

Teaching fees: 425€

Accommodation & delicious home made French food: 75€ based on a triple room, 85€ for a double room, 95€ for a single room.

There is no greater power than the sun, the moon & women coming together! 

Italy Yoga Retreat: 4-10th of June 2022

Nourishment for Body & Soul

It's the earthly beauty & abundance that makes Italy so irresistible and attractive! This Yoga Retreat is an invitation to connect with all the goodness of Italy and the fullness of who you are, and what you need the most! 

A soul nurturing opportunity to provide your body, heart, mind & soul with what they are truly hungry for - nature, relaxation, organic home made food, high quality yoga, sweetness, art, community, divine love and the freedom to be entirely you and do what lights you up!

So many of us feel undernourished in one way of the other. We often rush too much to even feel what we truly need on a physical and soul level. This Retreat is a wonderful invitation to slow down, connect with yourself on all levels and give yourself abundantly of that what nourishes you! 

And this magical BEYOU retreat centre in Frasinello in Piemonte is the ultimate location to come home, connect, relax, explore and most of all enjoy 'La Vita Bella"! 
This Italy Yoga Retreat welcomes both Yoginis and Yogis!!!
 

This magical yoga sanctuary lays in the Unesco World Heritage of Italy's Wine Culture, and holds all the ingredients for a revitalising, soulful, healthy Yoga Week with sacred companions. True spirituality should be playful, delicious and joyful and that is exactly what this week is about! 

What to expect?

*Daily Earth Yoga Practices outside
*Guided meditation & pranayama 
*Forest bathing, Qi Qong, Mantra evenings, Bhakti love, yoga nidra... 
*Massage workshop
*Cacao ceremony
*Daily yin/restorative evening yoga class
*Cooking Workshop
*Visit of Sacri Monti del Piemonte
*Visit of local market

There will be plenty of time for relaxation, magical walks in the nearby natural valleys & vineyards, visit of 1 of the 7 listed sacred mountains of Italy (Sacri Monti del Piemonte) and off course time for utterly relaxing a la 'Dolce Far Niente'!

Costs & Accommodation

The retreat prices vary according choice of accommodation & include all delicious brunches, dinners, fruit, tea's and local wine: 
 

*Large Apartments Durga, Sita Rama & Ganesha: 930€ per persoon, based on shared double room
*Small Apartments Buddha & Krishna: 910€, based on a shared double room.
*Single room: 960€ 
*Outdoor space for Caravan, in case you want to come with your own little house on wheels: 720€

Here below you can have a look at the property, environment and beautiful apartments! 

If this Yoga Week in Italy is calling me, then connect with me now to reserve your spot and have the first choice in choosing your accommodation!

Online Women Winter Wellness Retreat (4-6 Feb, 2022)

Equinox Abundance Heart-Womb Retreat: 18-22 of September, 2021

In Ayurveda & Chinese Medicine, the year has not 4 but 5 seasons. Between the summer & autumn, rests ‘Ritu Sandhi’, the Indian summer which is characterized by the sweet abundance of harvest, beautiful orange sunsets, and a sense of goodness in life. 

This Indian summer is perhaps one of the most powerful seasons, as it’s brief and prepares us to move from the height of summer into the darker months of the year. It’s central peak is at the Fall Equinox on the 22nd of September. A magical time to gather for a nourishing & balancing Autmn Equinox Women Retreat here on our land in France, where trees will be heavy with ripe figues, apples, pears and the crops golden. 

I warmly welcome you, dear wild & wise woman, to join & celebrate this sweet & nourishing time (18-22/09) together while practising earth & womb yoga in nature, enjoy mantra evenings around the fire and take time to balance & heal the body, mind & soul. 

The Autumn Equinox is the spiritual energetic apex of the summer. An auspicious time in which the Northern & Southern Hemisphere receive the sun’s rays equally and where day & night are equal in length.

It’s a time centralized around “balance”. To balance the light & dark, to release what’s no longer serving and to fill up and focus on with what’s nourishing for the next months ahead. In Ayurveda it’s a time to balance the pitta of the summer with the cooler winds of vata of autumn.

And that’s what this Equinox Women Retreat is all about: finding balance through grounding in nature, celebrating the sweet abundance of fresh fruits & nourishing home cooked meals, practising earth based yoga & embodiment practices, resting deeply with yoga nidra’s and meditations, and off course the healing medicine of sisterhood, Mama Gaia & the circle.

Practical details Equinox Abundance Women Retreat 

~ 18-22nd of September, 2021
Location: Treigny, about 1.5hr below Paris. (train options)Price: 345€ (sleeping in tents), 365€ (sleeping indoors) 395€ (1 glamping option in our beautiful renovated 54 year old campervan Betty!!)
*A full refund will be made, in case Covid would make this retreat impossible.

What to bring: tent, sleeping bag & mattress, your own yoga mat. (We have some extra tents & sleeping bags if you don't have them) Spaces indoor are limited, so don't wait to long with your booking if you prefer a bed :)

What will be provided: Nutritious, healthy home made vegetarian meals filled with love & fresh ingredients from our garden & environment, herbal teas, fruit and snacks. Eco toilets & shower.

For more info & booking: namaste@yogawithveerle.com

In every indigenous culture women used to come together in ceremony during the Equinox to give thanks for the blessings of the land, to find a new direction, plant seeds & re-energize their intentions.

Yin Yoga Retreat: The power of stillness within 2-9 March 2019

For more info, price and booking, connect with me: namaste@yogawithveerle.com

Testimonials from last year’s Yin Yoga Retreat and watch here why our Inside Yin Yoga Retreat will be such a beautiful and powerful gift for yourself!

I really loved coming to Island Yoga, first time ever on a yoga retreat and I was so happy I chose your course as I found it really fitted and exceeded my expectations.  I found it educational and enlightening on both a physical and mental level.   I left feeling incredibly relaxed and so strong which has directed and helped me through this year. I also felt we were fortunate to have such beautiful souls on the course, I would love to do it again!  There was so much information that I know there is so much I didn’t retain.  I felt that I took away a better perspective on myself and my capabilities, I found the solitary time healing and with the various practices through the day gave you so much to think about. (Tracey, UK)

I really want to go.  I want to go because this is an opportunity to make the time and space for myself to listen and understand why I feel I have no space. This is not about running away, its about running toward, toward myself. My whole body hummed with a spacious energy, the retreat could have been designed specifically for me and this time in my life. I had the sense of being in touch with myself and something larger. About Veerle - Tara Brach talks about resourcing, about taking refuge in a caring presence, something large than ourselves. Many times in many places and lessons I have felt that you had aconnection to this presence and you radiate this caring directly to your students, you hold them and hold this space for them. About Rene - If I believed in past lives I would say you might have been a drill seargent in a past life, but now you are a yogi and your conviction and playfullness encourage us to stretch through what we thougth were our limits, not with gritted teeth but with lightness and compassion.(Maryanne, UK)

Grounding - Peaceful - Nourishing. All aspects of the retreat were rewarding and enjoyable. High class yin yoga with lots of information as well as a great introduction into meditation and Buddhist teachings. Plenty of time for questions and reflection. The Noble Silence was calming and soothing and was a good setting for the insights that came up with the yoga and meditation. It was a „real“ retreat for body, mind and soul, carefully guided with love and special attention. (Rita, Germany)

Himalayan Yoga Retreats with Veerle & Rene

Testimonials from our Himalayan Yoga Retreat 2018

I learned so much. About the Buddhism and all of the monastery’s we saw. About life in the monastery’s and about the different buddha’s, like the Buddha of Compassion, Avalokiteshevara. But also about life in Leh and the village, how people live, work and the importance of Buddhism in their daily life. I learned a lot about the use of mantra’s and the meaning of them. I will never forget OM MANI PADME HUM. I learned also a lot about myself. I really tuned in to myself again and refound the stillness and peace that was right there in my deepest self. I felt what yin and restorative yoga can do for my body and mind. I found the space to connect with myself through the meditations we did and I feel like I opened up so much. Now I can see much more clear again what life is about for me. It’s not about all the stuff, money or goals we need to reach, but it’s about love and compassion and taking care of ourselves, so that we can take care of others around us.

I took a lot of gifts with me from this retreat. All the things I learned and the inspiration I got to take with me in my own yoga and meditation practice. My interest in the Tibetan Buddhism and the mantra’s, which I can apply in my daily life. But also the contacts I made with the people of the retreat, the local people and you. The experience of being in such a special place, feeling so energized and opened again. I will never forget this journey in the holy mountains.

I loved every aspect of the retreat and that I’m so grateful for you, Veerle and Rene, to show me these great places and shared your knowledge about Buddhism, the people, yoga and meditation with me. I still feel so filled with all the things that I learned from you. The yoga classes of Veerle really opened my heart again. They made me look close to and inside myself again and brought me to my inner peace of silence and compassion. I felt so good during these days of two classes a day and the free time in the garden or the silent valley. I felt so much good positive energy that I didn’t feel before for a long time. I also loved the mantra’s we learned, especially the Om Mani Padme Hum, that I use now every day! The meditations and yin yoga classes of Rene really gave me the time and space to surrender to the moment. To really be in the moment with just the focus on the breath. Our morning session on the Shanti Stupa was a really nice experience! Such a special place to do a yoga and meditation session, you could really feel the energy of this special place. Also the morning prayers we attended at Thikse Monastery were so impressive to me. It was such a special experience to see and hear the monks doing their daily morning ritual. I could watch and listen all day. The contact I had with the local people was so nice! All the people I met were super gentle and happy people.

I was quite impressed by the beautiful Ladakh area, the nature was overwhelming, spiritual with the mountains and monasteries. What a lovely welcome in the hotel Togacheepa and village – a very comfy hotel and amazing yoga studio, nice staff, secret garden and great yoga studio. The energy, compassion and dedication of Veerle and Rene is touching, they make all the difference. Yoga classes from Veerle are high-level, practically but also spiritual and she has such a lovely (singing) voice. An experience to keep in my heart!

Island Yoga goes Himalayan in August 2018!!!

We are so excited and proud to announce that Island Yoga is expanding her horizons with us into the Himalayas! Next August, from the 27th till September 5th 2018, we will take you up to Ladakh, "The land of the High Passes" for a 10 day yoga & meditation retreat, combined with a Buddhist cultural tour and luxurious Eco stay in a small and traditional village nested in the heart of the Himalayas. 

““The mountains are calling and I must go!” Join us for this incredible Yoga Retreat on one of the most unique, spectacular and spiritual places on Earth! Ladakh or “The Land of Gods” is mesmerising and practicing yoga and meditation in this holy mountain land will change you forever! ”

Soulful Women Retreat, Island Yoga, Thailand

Inside Yin Yoga Retreat, Island Yoga Thailand

Himalayan Yoga Retreat, Ladakh, 28th of July till 4rd of August 2017!

Himalayan Yoga Retreat, A true spiritual experience in “The Land of the High Passes”. 

8 days of yoga, meditation, pranayama, mantra’s and Tibetan Buddhism practices in the beauty of the Himalayas. A pilgrimage to purify both body and mind and re-align with your spirit, inner strength and wisdom.

Have you always dreamed about wandering over the snowcapped Himalayas?

Are you looking for an authentic yoga retreat with high experienced yoga teachers, in one of the most spiritual places in the world? Do you love to get inspired by the mystery of nature and breathtaking mountain views, ancient Buddhist monasteries where monks have been meditating for 1000’s of years, the sound of Tibetan mantra’s and prayer flags whispering their secrets over the highest passes of the world? Do you love to deepen your connection between body, mind and soul, and find more balance, harmony, strength, silence and peace within yourself? Do you feel it’s time to expand your inner and outer horizons? If the answer is yes, then this Himalayan Yoga Retreat is what you are looking for!

Experience North India’s ancient name “The land of Gods” and breath in the majesty and peace of the stunning snow-capped mountains. Wake up with the sun rising up over the snowcapped mountains and the sound of yak bells in the air. Meditate within the extraordinary sights of the majestic mountains and feel the vibrations of the ancient monasteries. Inhale the crisp mountain air and absorb the beauty of the mountain peaks as you step on your yoga mat in the morning on the rooftop. Take time for yourself to reflect, enjoy silence or explore the local village and harvest time. Get welcomed by the friendly Ladakhi’s and invited into their traditional houses, or take the opportunity to join them on the land to experience the traditional summer harvest of apricots and barley. 

We have on purpose chosen for an 8 days retreat as reference to the Eight-Folded Path, the foundation of the Buddhist teachings. An inner journey to embody your own inner Noble Truths, and re-connect with your seat of joy, wisdom, peace, happiness, compassion and empowerment. 8 days to lose yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas, to take time for yourself and feel balanced, grounded, relaxed, sustained and rejuvenate.

This Yoga retreat includes the exploration of the traditional buddhist cultural heritage of Ladakh and its ancient monasteries, authentic, high quality and ecological accommodation in a remote farmers village,  daily dynamic morning yoga classes, meditation, pranayama, workshops, yin and restorative yoga during the evening, kirtan and Tibetan mantra’s under the stars. 

"The mountains are calling and I must go! "

If reading about our Himalayan Yoga Retreat excites your spirit,  and you hear the call of the mountains, then go to the contact page and connect with us for more information or registration!        

We are looking forward to welcome you in the beauty of the Himalaya's and have us joining this unforgettable experience! 

Namaste,  Veerle and Rene

Island Yoga Retreats on Koh Yai Noi, Thailand, January till end of April 2017

If you need an escape of your busy daily life, if your soul longs for a change and spend time on a beautiful beach on a magical Island. If you want to practice yoga, chill out, relax and eat delicious Thai food. If you feel like exploring and connecting with nature, the ocean and remote Islands, then you are reading this for a reason and most welcome to join me for a Yoga Retreat at Island Yoga on Koh Yai Noi! 

I will be teaching at Island Yoga Retreats from the 1st of February till the end of April 2017!     Island Yoga retreat is located on a small and isolated island between Koh Lanta and Phuket in South Thailand. Island Yoga hosts vacation retreats that are suitable for all levels of students; from beginner Yogis to advanced practitioners. You can tailor your retreat according your time and needs and start a 3, 5 & 7 night programs at any time!

Start your day with the rising of the sun and join for Tai Chi on the beach, followed by a led meditation and dynamic morning yoga class. After a healthy breakfast there is plenty of free time and many options to join yogi adventure outings, afternoon yoga workshops, swim, read, relax and experience our evening family dinners and yogic movie nights!

The retreats allows you plenty of time to relax and reconnect with yourself and to explore this magical island. Our programs are fun and inspiring and will nourish your body, mind and soul. It’s an opportunity to open your heart and move towards a more conscious and empowered life, and start listening to who you really are and what you want in life! 

Island Yoga retreats are also ideal for meeting like-minded people and making new friends, coming together to find new inspiration and to share exciting new adventures. The retreats appeal equally to the dedicated yogi, the nature lover and those looking for a relaxing vacation retreat.

Contact me for more information and have a look at: http://www.thailandyogaretreats.com

Love and light, 

Namaste, Veerle

Brighton Girl Magazine covering my Roll & Release workshop!!

Paying attention to the aches and pains of our bodies day-to-day is a vital first-step in performing self-care. By listening to our bodies, we are able to remedy any issues it highlights for us. Lizzie, one of our Brighton Girls, was invited to pick up some new techniques and exercises to include in her own routine by attending the new Roll & Release workshop instructed by Veerle Geuens at The Float Spa.

Roll and Release teaches the art of fascia unwinding through breathing exercises and some very simple self-massage techniques combined with gentle asanas. Before delving right into the exercises and techniques, however, it’s first important to understand exactly what they aim to remedy:

WHAT IS FASCIA?

Fascia has only been properly researched in the last twenty years, with the research highlighting the fascia’s great importance when looking at the body’s anatomy. Fascia is the connective tissue in the body that covers muscle, bone, nerves and so on from head to toe as one continuous structure. It has an appearance similar to a spider’s web and can be greatly influenced by our mood and physical activity. 

As related to these, it can become stiff and cause pain and/or density in the affected areas. By keeping our fascia happy and healthy throughout our body, however, it is possible to relieve these tensions and enable the body to move freely as it should.

ROLLING AND RELEASING

The techniques themselves are simple and can involve tools such as rollers, myofascial balls, blocks or tennis balls. In this workshop, Veerle taught how to slowly and gently roll different parts of the body using a block and/or tennis balls, targeting tougher spots for longer where possible. 

We worked from our toes all the way to the nape of the neck, always breathing in through our nose and out through our mouth as we worked on each body part, incorporating asanas in between to stretch and ease the areas being worked on.

Something I realised midway through the workshop was that as I rolled the top part of my left leg from side to side on the edge of my block, I hadn’t anticipated hitting such a tense ‘spicy spot’, as Veerle calls it. 

As a yogini and gym-goer, it shouldn’t have been a surprise. Focusing attention on these particular areas were tough, but the floaty feeling felt by the end of the workshop was like having a suit of armour lifted from my body. 

I discovered so many ways to use one or two tennis balls on different parts of the body – including the glutes, the chest and the nape. Applying gentle pressure on these areas is very satisfying. 

Top tip: keep some tennis balls under your office desk to massage your feet – a body part we easily ignore but really shouldn’t! 

The workshop introduced me to the importance of fascia, with the techniques helping me understand my body much better. I left The Float Spa feeling totally and utterly relaxed. Now, I’m off to buy some tennis balls to keep under my office desk. Thanks Veerle!

To read the full article: 

http://brightongirlmag.com/roll-release-yoga-workshop/

GET IN TOUCH WITH VEERLE GEUENS

Veerle’s next workshop at The Float Spa will be the Autumn Restore and Renew Yoga Workshop on 13th November. To find out more about this workshop, Roll & Release or any other workshops/classes that Veerle Geuens teaches, please visit her website: www.namoyoga.be. 

Written by Lizzie P.A.

Lizzie is a Digital Marketer who also writes a lifestyle blog, check it out at www.pereyrey.com. Follow her on Twitter @pereyrey.