Our group sessions sit at the heart of the retreat. Ratheesh gently guides you to build strength and steadiness in your asana practice through dynamic classes and workshop-style Hatha yoga and meets each practitioner at their given level. With more time together, there is space to pause, explore, and explain—free from the constraints of a fixed class ending.

We’ll take a closer look at a selection of postures and movement patterns, breaking them down into manageable elements that can be more fully integrated into flowing, sequenced practice. Rather than focusing on “improvement,” the emphasis is on cultivating deeper awareness within the body.

Through pranayama, you’ll learn to regulate the rhythmic flow of prana and apana (in and outbreath) to reset the nervous system. We’ll also explore the soothing essence and quiet wisdom of mantra chanting, often woven together with guided meditation to calm the mind and invite deeper reflection.

Sadhana is a foundational principle of yogic living and an important part of Ratheesh’s Hatha yoga teaching. The discipline it cultivates creates a ripple effect that extends into daily life. During the retreat, you’ll be encouraged to explore and deepen your own sadhana of pranayama, meditation and mantra practice, whether you already have an established practice or are just beginning.

If you already have a sadhana, you’re invited to consult with Ratheesh to ensure it continues to support you in the most aligned way during your time in the retreat.

The intention is to cultivate a steady sense of discipline and self-reliance—so you leave with the confidence to stand on your own feet in your practice, without feeling dependent on a studio.

A key way yogic knowledge has traditionally been passed from teacher to student is through a seated, conversational format known as ABC. Here, the inquisitive mind is encouraged, and we come together to explore the depth and breadth of yogic philosophy.

These sessions are open and dialogical, inviting questions as we reflect on selected teachings from ancient texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Vedas, and the Upanishads. Through conversation, we begin to unpack their relevance in a modern context.

We’ll also revisit timeless stories that continue to offer insight into the human experience—touching on themes and challenges that transcend time and place.

The intention of these sessions is to cultivate critical thinking, deepen self-inquiry, and encourage thoughtful reflection on both our inner world and the wider human experience.

Meals are thoughtfully planned and freshly prepared to nourish and sustain you throughout the retreat. In line with the traditional ashram setting, we share two meals a day—brunch and dinner—allowing the body time to fully digest and settle between practices. Ayurvedic herbal teas are available at all times.

Set in the lush landscape of Kerala, we are fortunate to draw from an abundant variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Meals are lovingly prepared by a local family who have been cooking for the retreat for many years, bringing both care and deep familiarity to each dish. The menu offers a gentle exploration of regional cuisine, prepared in accordance with Ayurvedic principles to support both vitality and ease in practice. All dishes are vegan and gluten-free, and while Indian cooking often embraces rich spice, flavors are softened to accommodate a range of palates.

If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please include them in your registration form so we can best support you.

Ayurvedic treatments are available as an optional addition to your retreat experience. These therapies are designed to support the body in a variety of ways—from easing muscle soreness and addressing old injuries, to reducing inflammation, restoring balance, and inviting deep relaxation.

Each treatment is performed by two therapists working in synchronized flow, using carefully selected herbal and medicated oils—an essential element of Ayurvedic healing. Sessions last approximately one hour and are tailored to your individual constitution and needs.

The following treatments are available: Abhyanga, Vishesh, Chavitti Thirumu and private health consultations with Ratheesh.

In modern life, silence has become a rare kind of luxury. Just as the body needs space between meals to properly digest, the mind, too, benefits from moments free of constant stimulation.

Drawing on many years of experience leading silent meditation retreats, R gently weaves periods of silence into this retreat.

A few evenings spent in silence create space for deeper rest and renewal, while also inviting a more reflective state—allowing you to more fully absorb and integrate your experiences throughout the retreat.