Latest news with #Vinyasa
Sydney Morning Herald
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Sydney Morning Herald
Yoga at 5am and no meat: The wellness holiday in hot demand
This story is part of the July 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 14 stories. Outside the idyllic yoga hall, a cool breeze rustles through lush, tropical plants, the gentle sound of birdsong fills my ears, and the sweet smell of essential oils permeates my nostrils. As far as settings for yoga go, you can't really get better. With a greater spiritual awareness sweeping Western society, modern-day travellers are increasingly forgoing their annual beach or city holiday in favour of more meaningful and transformative experiences. And one of the most popular of these 'fit-cations' is a yoga retreat. Ranked as one of the fastest-growing fitness activities in Australia, a raft of retreats has popped up to cater to this demand, including the one I'm on at Krishna Village Eco Yoga Retreat. Retreat guests, volunteers, and spirituality-seekers from all over the world gather to immerse themselves in the retreat's 'love life, live yoga' lifestyle. Set in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, in the foothills of Wollumbin/Mount Warning, (an easy 40-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport), this property of more than 400 hectares comprises a community centred around the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, which also opens its doors to those seeking a yogic immersion. Here, a population of retreat guests, volunteers, and spirituality-seekers from all over the world gather to immerse themselves in the retreat's 'love life, live yoga' lifestyle. Soon after arriving, myself and the 15 or so other retreat attendees quickly fall into a routine – albeit a very much 'choose your own adventure' one. Every day there are three regular yoga classes: a gentle 5am sunrise session, a 6.30am Hatha flow, and a more dynamic afternoon Vinyasa one. Throughout the day there are also workshops and lectures. Propped up on bolsters, we dive into 5000 years' worth of yogic philosophy and learn more about modalities like meditation and Ayurveda. At lunchtime, we participate in Kirtan (communal singing). One evening I join an immersive sound-healing experience by candlelight before floating back to my room under a starlit sky. Loading Krishna Village also houses a small wellness centre. Here, amidst the tranquillity, a small team offers treatments designed to complement the yogic practices, from therapeutic massages to energy healing sessions. There's tech-y wellness treatments, such as the LED light therapy bed, alongside ancient practices like Vedic astrology. Beyond the wellness, yoga and meditation, the village offers a glimpse into a different way of life. Accommodation is simple – small cabins scattered among the lush, green grounds – and meals are buffet-style vegetarian and prepared with fresh produce often sourced from the village's own gardens. Over communal tables conversation flows easily among a diverse group of fellow seekers – city dwellers craving stillness, seasoned yogis deepening their practice, and those simply curious about a different way of being. There's a palpable sense of connection here, a feeling of being part of something larger than oneself – after all, the literal translation of yoga is 'union'.
The Age
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Age
Yoga at 5am and no meat: The wellness holiday in hot demand
This story is part of the July 27 edition of Sunday Life. See all 14 stories. Outside the idyllic yoga hall, a cool breeze rustles through lush, tropical plants, the gentle sound of birdsong fills my ears, and the sweet smell of essential oils permeates my nostrils. As far as settings for yoga go, you can't really get better. With a greater spiritual awareness sweeping Western society, modern-day travellers are increasingly forgoing their annual beach or city holiday in favour of more meaningful and transformative experiences. And one of the most popular of these 'fit-cations' is a yoga retreat. Ranked as one of the fastest-growing fitness activities in Australia, a raft of retreats has popped up to cater to this demand, including the one I'm on at Krishna Village Eco Yoga Retreat. Retreat guests, volunteers, and spirituality-seekers from all over the world gather to immerse themselves in the retreat's 'love life, live yoga' lifestyle. Set in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, in the foothills of Wollumbin/Mount Warning, (an easy 40-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport), this property of more than 400 hectares comprises a community centred around the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, which also opens its doors to those seeking a yogic immersion. Here, a population of retreat guests, volunteers, and spirituality-seekers from all over the world gather to immerse themselves in the retreat's 'love life, live yoga' lifestyle. Soon after arriving, myself and the 15 or so other retreat attendees quickly fall into a routine – albeit a very much 'choose your own adventure' one. Every day there are three regular yoga classes: a gentle 5am sunrise session, a 6.30am Hatha flow, and a more dynamic afternoon Vinyasa one. Throughout the day there are also workshops and lectures. Propped up on bolsters, we dive into 5000 years' worth of yogic philosophy and learn more about modalities like meditation and Ayurveda. At lunchtime, we participate in Kirtan (communal singing). One evening I join an immersive sound-healing experience by candlelight before floating back to my room under a starlit sky. Loading Krishna Village also houses a small wellness centre. Here, amidst the tranquillity, a small team offers treatments designed to complement the yogic practices, from therapeutic massages to energy healing sessions. There's tech-y wellness treatments, such as the LED light therapy bed, alongside ancient practices like Vedic astrology. Beyond the wellness, yoga and meditation, the village offers a glimpse into a different way of life. Accommodation is simple – small cabins scattered among the lush, green grounds – and meals are buffet-style vegetarian and prepared with fresh produce often sourced from the village's own gardens. Over communal tables conversation flows easily among a diverse group of fellow seekers – city dwellers craving stillness, seasoned yogis deepening their practice, and those simply curious about a different way of being. There's a palpable sense of connection here, a feeling of being part of something larger than oneself – after all, the literal translation of yoga is 'union'.
Belfast Telegraph
05-07-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
Travel Review: Finding zen at a Belfast Yoga Quarter retreat in Spain
First-timers discover peace, great food and new friendships in Tarifa, and yes, there's coffee! I'd never been on a yoga retreat before, but it felt like the perfect experience to share with my 27-year-old daughter Tess. With no idea what to expect, my only real question was, 'will there be coffee?' I wasn't looking to detox — I love yoga, but I also love good food and a proper brew. Luckily, Shannon, one of the teachers on the retreat, reassured me there'd be plenty of both, along with uplifting Vinyasa flow yoga sessions. I was just beginning to find my rhythm with Vinyasa thanks to the expert guidance of founder Susan McEwen and her brilliant team at East Belfast's Yoga Quarter, so the timing felt right.
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Debunking 6 common Yoga myths that are holding you back from the mat
It's surprising how many barriers we build in our minds before even stepping onto a yoga mat. Ask around, and chances are you'll hear the same handful of reasons why someone hasn't tried yoga. 'I'm not flexible.' 'It's too slow.' 'It's not for people like me.' These aren't just excuses. They're myths, and like most myths, they're based on half-truths, misunderstandings, or outdated ideas. Yoga isn't about bending into a pretzel or renouncing your lifestyle. It's a practice rooted in awareness and accessibility, one that adapts to the individual, not the other way around. Let's take a closer look at six of the most common myths keeping people off the mat and why they deserve to be left behind. Myth 1: Yoga is just for women While many modern classes might see more women in attendance, yoga wasn't designed with gender in mind. It is true that ancient yoga traditions in India were primarily practised and passed on by male sages. However, in today's context, yoga benefits everyone, including both men and women. From athletes improving mobility and reducing injury risk to professionals managing stress and anxiety, more men are embracing the mat and seeing results that go far beyond flexibility. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like One plan. Total peace of mind. ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo Yoga doesn't care about your gender; it meets you where you are. Even at Habuild while we see more women, around 25-30% of our audience is men. Myth 2: Yoga is too slow to improve fitness If you equate fitness with just heavy sweating, yoga might seem underwhelming at first. But it depends on the style you choose. While restorative yoga focuses on relaxation and deep rest, forms like Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Power Yoga are physically demanding, engaging your core, improving cardiovascular endurance, and building strength. Even slower-paced practices develop balance, mobility, and muscular control. Fitness isn't just about how fast you move; it's about how mindfully and consistently you move. And yoga ticks both boxes. Myth 3: Yoga can't help with weight loss It's true that yoga alone won't burn calories at the same rate as running or spinning. But reducing yoga to a calorie-counting tool misses the point. Regular practice builds lean muscle, enhances digestion, and most importantly, reduces stress, a key factor in weight retention. Chronic stress triggers the release of cortisol, which is linked to fat accumulation, especially around the belly. Yoga's calming effects help lower cortisol levels and cultivate a more mindful approach to food and exercise. Myth 4. Yoga is only about bodily postures The poses (or asanas) are just one limb of yoga. A complete yoga practice includes breath control (pranayama), concentration, meditation, and philosophical teachings. While classes in gyms or studios may focus primarily on physical movement, yoga's benefits go well beyond the physical. Breathwork, for instance, has been shown to regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and even improve sleep quality. Meditation, on the other hand, enhances focus, emotional resilience, and self-awareness. If you've only experienced yoga through its poses, you've only scratched the surface. Myth 5. Yoga means you have to change your entire lifestyle This is a common fear — that starting yoga means giving up your morning coffee, eating raw salads, or, in extreme cases, moving to the mountains. Not true. Yoga encourages awareness, but how that translates into your daily routine is entirely up to you. Some people start with one weekly class and slowly integrate breathwork or mindfulness into their day. Others might explore yogic philosophy. The point is that yoga isn't all or nothing. You don't need to subscribe to a strict lifestyle to benefit from it. You just need to begin. Myth 6. Anyone can teach yoga Technically, anyone can stand in front of a group and guide poses. But teaching yoga responsibly and safely requires more than memorising sequences. A trained yoga teacher understands anatomy, alignment, breath patterns, and how to modify poses for different bodies and abilities. Good teachers also know how to create a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages students rather than intimidates them. If you're new to yoga, it's important to find an instructor with certified training from a reputable school. The difference can be felt in your body and your confidence. Yoga is one of those rare practices that can be customised entirely to your pace, goals, and lifestyle. Yet myths continue to stop people from experiencing it for themselves. Whether it's the idea that yoga is only for women, that it's too gentle to be effective, or that it requires a total life overhaul, the misconceptions do more harm than good. The truth is simple: yoga is for everyone. You don't need to be flexible, fit, spiritual, or disciplined. All you need to do is roll out a mat and see what unfolds. (Saurabh Bothra CoFounder Habuild -India's first habit building wellness platform)
What's On
01-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- What's On
5 of the best yoga classes in Dubai to try this summer
They say movement is medicine, but it comes in many forms, and we're all built differently. What works for one body might not work for another. Some of us need intensity, others find everything they need in a quiet flow. And for many, yoga is where it all comes together – a way to stretch, slow down, reset, and breathe through whatever the week throws at you. Here are some of the best yoga classes in Dubai to check out this summer. Shimis Tucked inside Alserkal Avenue, Shimis is a light-filled studio known for its calming atmosphere and modern take on practice. The space offers Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin and private sessions – suited to anyone looking to stretch, reset, or just move with more intention. It's not just about poses here. Shimis makes space for focus and breath, with a schedule that works whether you're easing in or going all in. Location: Warehouse 42, Alserkal Avenue, Street 8, Dubai Cost: Drop-in classes from Dhs110; packages and memberships available Times: Daily from 7am to 9pm (weekdays) and 8am to 4pm (Saturdays), 8am to 8pm (Sundays) Contact: (0)4 284 2077. @ Karma Yoga Karma Yoga is a peaceful studio high above the city on the 33rd floor of Marina Plaza. The space is Bali-inspired, with natural light, temple carvings, crystals, and soft details that create a calming atmosphere. Alongside Vinyasa, Hatha, and Yin yoga, the studio also offers prenatal classes and meditation sessions. If you're interested in wellness beyond movement, there are workshops on gong baths, chakra alignment, and full-moon meditation. Location: Marina Plaza, 33rd Floor, Dubai Marin Cost: Single class is priced at Dhs250, package of 5 at Dhs525, package of 10 at Dhs990, package of 25 at Dhs2200, package of 50 at Dhs4100, six months unlimited at Dhs6600, and twelve months unlimited at Dhs11600 Times: Daily from 8.30am to 9pm (weekdays); mornings only on weekends Contact: (0)4 399 9301 @karmayogadubai Underwater Yoga at The Lost Chambers For a yoga session that's truly out of the ordinary, try underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis The Palm. Practise your flow surrounded by marine life and gentle water, offering a calm and unusual atmosphere that's both grounding and refreshing. It's a unique way to quiet your mind and move your body. Location: Atlantis, The Palm Cost: 45-minute underwater yoga class, priced at Dhs175 per session. Advance booking required. Maximum 15 participants per class. Times: Wednesdays and Fridays, from 8am to 8:45am Contact: (0)4 426 1000. @atlantisthepalm HWH Studio Burj Al Arab Image: HWH Studio Dubai website HWH Studio brings its calming, minimalist approach to the iconic Burj Al Arab, offering a retreat-style yoga experience that feels worlds away – even in summer. The 50-minute Sunset Flow class here lets you move, breathe, and reset with hotel-backed luxury, all framed by serene interiors. There's also another quiet, zen-like location at Delano, away from the city buzz if you're after a more low-key setting. Location: Burj Al Arab (main studio) Cost: 50-minute Sunset Flow at Burj Al Arab priced at Dhs 250 per session Times: Daily from 9am to 7pm Contact: (0)4 556 6255. @hwhstudiodubai Trident Wellness Centre If you're after a yoga studio that's both versatile and grounded in tradition, Trident Wellness stands out. As Dubai's largest integrated yoga chain, this Marina studio offers a minimalist space and a full spectrum of practices – from power-filled flows to slow, restorative sessions. Location: Trident Bayside, 1st Floor, Dubai Marina Cost: Drop-in (first class) from Dhs75, standard drop-in Dhs120 (60 min) or Dhs100 (90 min), 7‑day unlimited: Dhs300; 1‑month unlimited: Dhs1,250, longer packages available, 36‑class pass Dhs2,150 Times: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm (weekdays) and 9 am to 8 pm (weekends) Contact: (0)4 441 6287. @trident_wellness
