I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a cold Melbourne weekend than an Urban Yoga Retreat and LVY Retreats did not disappoint. Rather than involving an overnight stay, this retreat enabled participants to attend a full day at the retreat, with the freedom of sleeping in your own bed. It was perfect for those that could not commit to a full weekend.
Presented by LVY retreats, in a location only revealed to us a few days before the event, this urban oasis was a sanctuary (pool included!) in a gorgeous four-storey apartment.
We started each day with a tea and bliss balls and a homemade granola bar. The first morning we spent some time getting to know each other and the host shared her story. It was inspiring and set the tone for some deep and meaningful conversations throughout the weekend.
Is there any better way to start the day than with some yoga and meditation? The focus at this retreat was on Yin Yoga, which involves poses held for various amounts of time (we did 5 minutes) which place moderate stress on the body. It increases the flexibility of the body and involves the meridians – liver and gallbladder, look out. We meditated to a smooth yoga album from Moby and some of us even drifted off to sleep.
This was followed by a delicious lunch of make your own rice paper rolls and Buddha bowls and fruit mocktails by the pool.
The afternoon was filled with a different workshop each day – life design for day one and handstands for day two. An afternoon Yin Yoga session was the perfect way to lead into an evening massage.
Lots of laughs and tears were had by all throughout the weekend. It was the perfect way to unwind as you were free to participate in as many or as little activities as you liked. I was able to take time out to have a bath which was heavenly.
The only downside of the weekend was having to go home on Sunday!
– Emily
Emily Coupar is passionate nurse, foodie and author and beginner yogi, you can follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
LVY Retreats run one-day workshops also. You can check upcoming events on their Facebook page.
