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 exquisite Yama resort. With 20+ years of yoga experience in Bali, Balian local Nicky is your guide for this immersive experience that includes traditional rituals and ceremonies, twice daily hatha yoga, pranayama, meditation, mantra, singing bowl, and yoga nidra – all wrapped in nature on the banks of the healing Balian River and jungle landscape. This offering is suitable for those both new to yoga or experienced.
Yama, Balian Beach
A natural sanctuary facing Bali´s sacred river, covered in palm trees, and tuned to the roar of the Indian ocean, Yama is your nurturing space for 5 days, allowing connection in balance with nature, your home away from home amongst the rugged beauty of West Bali. Yama promotes balance through a connection with the environment, through the activities that promote mental and spiritual steadiness, and supported with the right food to nourish our bodies, enhancing our inner wellbeing. See the Yama space here.
The shala, the rituals
Practice in the open air yoga shala with its natural ocean breezes and the gentle sound of the waves in the distance, a 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 is a unique experience you will cherish to get ready to shine your light to the world. These beautiful images tell it all, visit the Retreat Gallery.
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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. 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.
The village
Embrace the slow life in Balian.
Shine your light.
Program – what to expect
The 5-day/4-night program starts 4pm Monday 14 July, concluding 12pm Friday 18 July 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 Caning Sari Balinese offerings with the local village ladies
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Balinese water purification 'Melukat' 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, use paddle boards, explore the village etc
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An additional surprise activity - if we outlined it here it wouldn't be a surprise!
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Yama offers ice bath and sauna sessions as well as massage at additional charge
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 at Yama Balian it is of upmost importance. Experience the real nourishment of healthy and energising food. Be delighted by balanced meals to support yoga and exercise, that are both visually stimulating and delicious. A nourishing brunch and dinner is provided daily, as well as morning and afternoon snacks/drinks to satiate. If you are still peckish (which is unlikely!) there are local warungs to explore in your free time, and you can also order additonal items booked to your room. The retreat food focus is on a delicious farm to table plant based menu with light proteins to invigorate the body. Dietary needs will be catered for. The food is truly amazing and you will be happily looked after here!
Accomodation
The 10 Rooms are carefully designed with a nod to Mediterranean style and finished with graceful Balinese touches. All rooms are located along a beautiful, central, gently sloping down garden which offers spectacular views over Balian river. Every room opens via sliding glass doors to a lush tropical garden and features coconut and teak wood accents. They all feature an open-air shower and private terrace with daybed, and are intimate hideaways that combine privacy with a connection to the outdoors, as well as provide an authentic Bali adventure experience for spirited travelers seeking rustic refinement.
Shared Room Option
The 4 Suite Bungalow Rooms are located on the left wing along the central garden. They offer a large spacious room combined with an extended wood porch and a comfortable day bed with oversized cushions. It also features a two sink big bathroom with a large open shower, so lend themselves to room sharing.
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1 king bed or 2 twin beds
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1 open shower
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1 or 2 adults
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48 m2
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Balian River view
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Free Wifi
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Private terrace and day bed
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Yama amenities
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Air conditioning
Private Room Option
The 6 Deluxe Bungalow Rooms are located on the right wing along the central garden facing sunrise. They offer a spacious bedroom and embrace a new level of luxury of design and style and feature a relaxing day bed and seating area with views of the tropical garden.
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1 king bed
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1 open shower
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2 adults
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36 m2
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Balian River view
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Free Wifi
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Private terrace and day bed
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Yama amenities
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Air conditioning
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
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Massage, ice bath/sauna facilities
Investment
Early Bird (from 21 October) - ask us about additional offers!
$1,795 AUD per person - Shared Room (twin or king) ... we can match you, or bring a friend!
$2,195 AUD per person - Private Room
Regular Rate (from December 2024)
$2,095 AUD per person - Shared Room (twin or king) ... we can match you, or bring a friend!
$2,395 AUD per person - Private Room
All bookings secured with either payment in full, or a $500 deposit. Remainder to be paid within 21 days of booking or paid in full if booked within 21 days of the retreat. Payment plans available - just ask!
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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 accomodation is limited to facilitate a small group (14 guests).
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Feel free to discuss a payment plan.
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Deposit is non refundable but does allow for some flexibility - see T's & C's in booking form
'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 at Yama, Balian!