Nicky Sudianta
Join Nicky Sudianta in his home village of Balian in the beautiful and remote West Bali over 5 days for a journey into traditional yoga and Balinese culture, at the tropical hideaway that is Desa Cabins. With 20+ years of yoga experience in Bali, Balian local Nicky is your guide for this truly immersive experience that includes traditional Balinese rituals and water ceremonies, hatha yoga, pranayama, meditation, mantra, singing bowl, and yoga nidra practice. This is a restorative wellness retreat and is suitable for those both new to yoga or experienced.
Desa Cabins, Balian Beach
Are you ready for desert island vibes, clean beaches for miles with a view of the sun setting behind Java? Natures playground awaits you at this unique location just 2 kilometres west of Balian Beach. Overlooking an infinity pool to the ricefields, coconut grove and ocean, this restorative 5 day / 4 night journey into nature, and the nature of yoga and Balinese culture is set to be the perfect sojourn for those seeking to nourish their bodies and spirit. See the Desa Cabins space here.
The practice, the rituals
Immersing in nature, we may practice yoga in the joglo, the Balian Spirit Yoga shala, on the grass, in the coconut grove or on the beach! Wherever we practice, we will hear and feel nature all around us - the natural ocean breezes and the gentle sound of the waves in the distance is the perfect setting to relax and let go. This is an opportunity to re-set and invite positive energy into your life and embrace traditional Balinese rituals, such as the Melukat purification ceremony at the local water temple to cleanse your body, soul and spirit. The candle release ritual on the banks of the Balian River is a unique experience you will cherish in readiness to shine your light to the world. These beautiful images tell it all, visit the Retreat Gallery
The village
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If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the more populated areas of Bali, Balian Beach is your haven. Balian (which means 'healer') is reminiscent of the old Bali, and a place where you can delve into the sacred and spiritual. No hectic traffic, one main street, the beautiful Balian River, and a surf beach full of rugged beauty known for its great waves and laid-back hospitality awaits. There is a small mini mart and night market. Small warungs dot the main street and many overlook the Indian ocean where you’ll find it easy to sink in and become mesmerised by the rolling surf, lulled by natures rhythm. You’ve found the right place if you want to step off the tourist traps. Note, this retreat is 2km from the Balian Beach main street, you can access it by a 45 min walk along the beach however be prepared to immerse yourself in nature at the venue, switch off an unwind unless you can drive a scooter, or secure transport to the village. We intend to be in the village for some retreat activities.
Embrace the slow life in Balian.
Shine your light.
Welcome restoration, wellness and healing in nature.
Program – what to expect
The 5-day/4-night program starts 4pm Thursday 8 August, concluding 11am Monday 12 August and includes:
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Welcome gift
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Meals and accommodation
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Twice daily yoga (asana, pranayama, meditation)
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Opening circle and Balinese blessing
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Mandala creation
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Making Balinese offerings with the local village ladies
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Balinese water purification ceremony in local temple
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Intention setting, and letting go (fire + candle) ceremony
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Walking tour of Balian village and/or night markets with Nicky
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Healing singing bowl meditations and yoga nidra
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Introduction to mantra practice
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Use of yoga mats
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Free time to relax, get a massage, journal etc
Sample full day timetable
7.30am: Quiet meditation in shala / morning drink + light snack
8.00am: Morning yoga
10.00am: Brunch / break
12.00pm: Activity (from above) and / or free time
3.00pm: Afternoon tea
4.00pm: Afternoon yoga and / or meditation, singing bowls, yoga nidra
6.30pm: Dinner
The program is an example, and will be subject to some minor variation.
Catering - caring for your body through food
Food is a vital part of any yoga retreat and we aim to provide the highest quality to nourish your body. It is our intention to bring the experience of real nourishment through healthy and energising organic vegetarian 'Indovedic' food, curated by Ayurvedic practitioner Dr Sujatha and her team at Amrtasiddhi and Dapur Usada, both in Ubud. The morning starts off light as not to weigh down asana practice - a nourishing brunch and dinner is provided daily, as well as morning and afternoon snacks/drinks. Dietary needs will be catered for. The food is truly amazing and will get your tastebuds and cells humming.
Accomodation
DESA CABINS are 6 carefully designed stylish A-Frame timber cabins overlooking lush tropical gardens, pool, ricefields, coconut grove and ocean and ocean views towards Java. This is barefoot luxury at it's best with air conditioning, a king size bed, mosquito net, high quality mattress and bedding, kitchenette, open air ensuite bathroom, hair dryer, organic toiletries, yoga mats, a private deck with seating, a room safe and fast wifi.
Please note, all beds are king-size and cannot be split into singles. You are welcome to book and share with a friend as long as you are happy to share the bed.
Inclusions
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Twice daily meals plus morning and afternoon snacks
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4 nights accommodation
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Twice daily yoga / meditation and mats
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Retreat activities outlined in program
Exclusions
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Flights
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Travel insurance (highly encouraged as an act of self-care!)
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Transport to/from airport (please reach out if you need suggestions)
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Additional food/beverage that is not included in the group catering
Investment
REACH OUT TO LEARN ABOUT AVAILABLE SPECIAL OFFERS AND NON RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITY.
Early Bird Rate (until 19 May)
$1,695 AUD per person - Shared Room (twin beds or a king)
$1,995 AUD per person - Private Room
Regular Rate (from 20 May)
$1,795 AUD per person - Shared Room (twin beds or a king)
$2,095 AUD per person - Private Room
*Regular rate applicable after 19 May, booking secured with $500 deposit, remainder to be paid within 21 days of booking or paid in full if booked within 21 days of the retreat.
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A $500 deposit at point of booking secures your place or payment in full.
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Price does not include any booking / bank / conversion fees that may apply.
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Retreat capacity is limited to facilitate a small group.
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Feel free to discuss a payment plan.
'A beautiful life enhancing experience. I felt seen, heard, relaxed and it was wonderful to connect with other like minded people.' - Lavinia
'A beautiful healing experience, the perfect thing at the perfect time for me. It made me feel lighter and more positive than I have for a long time.' - Carol
'Balian Spirit Yoga was one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had, I will forever be grateful for Nicky soothing my soul and for sharing such a wonderful experience with an amazing bunch of women.' - Rebekah
A place for growth, restful awareness, ease and contentment awaits ... are you ready?
For any questions or more information, please reach out to:
Looking forward to welcoming you to the next Balian Spirit Yoga Retreat!