In this segment, we usually like to encourage everyone to explore the world outside, but this time we want to encourage you to explore the wonderful world inside of you. 

Yoga is about the balance of the mind and the body, and sometimes it’s exactly what you need when you’re feeling off. It helps you reset your mind if you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or tired. And helps realign the body, in movements that release and counter habitual routine movements, promoting movement and flexibility for your joints and limbs.

But don’t take it from us, try it for yourself! If you’ve tried yoga before and you didn’t like it, honestly, I don’t think you went to a yoga class that was for you. 

It’s like a mate recommending a bar. But the day you went, it was empty, they were understaffed, service was terrible and your parmi was cold. But you go another day and it’s completely different. The same goes for your yoga experience. The more you try different studios, classes, and teachers, you’ll end up finding the yoga that suits you, and the right studio or instructor to help you progress. Give it a chance and have an open mind.

With that in mind, here are some yoga retreats you can try over the weekend.    

• Yogarama, Coogee. They also have yoga retreats that run throughout the month and you only really need to attend one day for about 6 hours. You’ll do some yoga, swim, meditate, do a sound bath, and have a massage.

• Swami’s Yoga Retreat, Kenthurst. Set up by the late Swami Sarasvati, who had her own yoga TV program from the late 1960s to late 80s. Located on 60 acres of bushland, the retreat houses yoga and meditation classes, massage and spa facilities, workshops, and veggie meals with day passes and overnight stays available so you can decide if you want to go for the weekend or just enjoy one day of yoga.

• Billabong Retreat, Maraylya. This eco-certified retreat is a lux option for day or multi-day retreats. Think snazzy waterside cabins surrounded by nature. You can pay for extras on the side, like a lux massage, spa day, or private yoga classes. They provide a range of different retreats, yoga, wellness, meditation, mindfulness, prenatal, and staff wellness retreats for businesses.

• Heart & Soul Yoga and Wellness Retreat, Otford. A volunteer-run yoga retreat. You’ll get a yoga class in the morning and afternoon, a workshop on topics like mindfulness, breathwork, authentic relating, and chakras, followed by an evening community activity such as yin yoga or a sound journey.

Try any of these yoga retreats, they also make a great present for a friend or loved one that you think needs some self-exploration, and self-care. Have an open mind and try something different!