Yoga, beach and sustainability: my perfect detox holiday in India
You want to leave the stress of everyday life behind you? Just put down your mobile phone and say goodbye? Then I have the perfect solution for you: a sustainable yoga retreat. This spiritual journey is not only about the harmony of mind and body. In the most beautiful resorts in India, you can also make an IMPACT and strengthen your relationship with nature. My highlight was a yin yoga session right on the beach during a fantastic sunset. Does this sound like something that would be good for you? Then be sure to read this IMPACKT article. Here I introduce you to the best green retreats and tell you what to expect. On the mat, ready, go.
Ashiyana - my favourite yoga resort
One of my absolute favourites was the Ashiyana Goa - Yoga Retreat Centre. Ashiyana means "home" in Hindi and is your healing sanctuary where you can feel completely at home. As you cross the bamboo bridge, you already begin to exchange your everyday stress for a Zen feeling. Across the river, where the resort is located, you are met by a soothing atmosphere. From the reception, winding paths lead to residential huts and small yoga studios. An overnight stay in accommodation like this starts at €55. This includes the delicious buffets and the courses. So you don't have to worry about anything and can concentrate on yourself.
Creative yoga sessions that surprise
The day begins with a two-hour yoga session. The teachers from all over the world offer creative flows that the typical offerings in Germany can't compete with. I have already participated in a few workshops back home and would have told you before the retreat, "I am advanced." Here in India, however, I have learned countless new exercises and practices. With the slow movements, the classes are incredibly imaginatively designed. Fortunately, the eternal change from one warrior position to another was completely absent. What's special here is that you can join all the classes: From yin yoga, Iyengar yoga to vinyasa yoga on the sandy beach, everything is on offer. You don't have to follow just one course, but are allowed to wander back and forth between the resorts. That's why I also went to the Nalanda Partner Retreat, a few minutes' walk away, which is right by the sea.
My friend Flo and I have chosen, among other things, a session with Arianne De Vos Burchart. She surprises me right at the beginning with an alternative musical instrument: the Indian shrutibox. It looks like a small wooden box. By opening the box - that is, taking a breath - and then pressing the bottom of the box shut again, a sound is produced. It sounds like an exotic bagpipe.
After this meditative musical interlude, the first exercises begin gently. Sometimes you lie with your belly on a square wooden block, then you twist your back in a way you never thought possible. Arianne gently corrects your posture and helps you find your breathing rhythm. In Germany, I always had problems with wandering thoughts. Here I can concentrate fully on the birdsong - with the certainty that I don't need to work on anything today or tomorrow.
Sustainable activities in the surroundings
But it's not just the yoga itself that's sustainable, the whole environment of the resort is geared towards it too. It's not just about the physical practice here, but also the spiritual connection with the surroundings. The sounds of nature, the fresh air and the breathtaking views of the sea fully immerse you in the experience.
During the day you can unwind and enjoy the beach. For example, I spent hours walking by the sea with my partner.
Of course, there are other green ways to explore the region. How about a responsible dolphin watch, a surfing lesson in the sea, a sustainable kayak tour on the rivers or a trip inland. You can also take part in traditional cooking classes and learn how to prepare healthy dishes. Prefer something more pedestrian from the resort? Then be sure to visit Artjuna, a creative café. There you can take part in a clothes swap, read a book and enjoy a coffee during a concert.
On a quiet day, I also recommend an Ayurveda therapy. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian healing art that is closely related to yoga. By choosing these sustainable options, you can not only enrich your experience but also support the local community in India.
Evening yoga with a romantic sunset
Back from your explorations, it's time for the second sporting session in the evening. For this, we meet up with a French group at the Nalanda Retreat. Daphne, the incredibly sympathetic teacher, did not choose this place without reason. From the bamboo roof terrace we can watch the slowly setting sun during our Yin Yoga practice. Here, the sun salutation takes on a whole new meaning. It was magical to practise yoga in this atmosphere as well as to be completely at peace and in harmony in the midst of nature.
After the final relaxation, we all danced to the song "Arambol, I Love You Sunset" and sang along joyfully. What a perfect ending.
So you see, a yoga retreat is the unique mix of relaxation, nature and a touch of self-discovery. You want to experience this too? Then make sure you book a resort for your next getaway. You don't necessarily have to go to India. Daphne also offers holidays in Ibiza, Andalusia and the south of France, for example. "It all depends on the vibe of the place," explains Daphne, "It's always great to see how yoga connects people from all over the world to all over the world. I love it."
I couldn't have said it better myself. On that note, pack your yoga mat in your IMPACKT suitcase and let's go. Namaste.
Best regards,
Yours, Franzi
