My First Yoga Retreat in Turkey: A Journey to Inner Balance, Clarity, and Connection

I’ve attended many yoga retreats myself – and while I’ve had wonderful experiences, something was often missing. Something that goes beyond just practicing. I wanted more: an experience that truly moves you.

That’s when the desire was born to create my own retreat – with variety, depth, and lightness. With a clear structure, yet room for real connection, embodied experiences, and a retreat from everyday life. No performance pressure. No constant entertainment. Instead, a space that invites you to slow down – for my participants and for myself.

The Search for the Right Place

A retreat lives and breathes through its location. But finding the right place from afar was a real challenge. It all came together at Yenice Vadi, a small eco-retreat in the hills of Southwest Turkey. What convinced me: the stunning nature, the sense of seclusion – and above all, Merrill, the host, who made everything possible with so much heart and hospitality.

The remote location – no beach, no tourism, no fast Wi-Fi – became a gift: a “forced” pause. For many, including myself, not easy – but deeply rewarding.

A Green Oasis in the Hills of Yenice near Muğla

A Week for You – Each Day with a New Focus

Monday: Arrival

On June 16th, all participants arrived. Our first yoga session and a short welcome circle allowed us to arrive – in our bodies, in the space, and within ourselves. A shared dinner under the open sky rounded off the start.

Tuesday: Building Trust

We began our first full day with gentle Hatha Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises to calm the nervous system. After a lovingly prepared Turkish breakfast, we explored the surroundings with a short walk.

A walk to stretch our legs after the delicious breakfast and explore the surroundings.

Wednesday: Awakening Creativity

Spontaneously, we decided to take a silent walk to the lavender fields before yoga. Our Mandala Vinyasa practice – a circular, flowing sequence – brought movement to body and mind. In the breathwork workshop, many discovered how quickly conscious breathing can unleash energy. The afternoon offered plenty of time for reading, journaling, sunbathing, or simply doing nothing. We ended the day with Yin Yoga before dinner.

Mor-Bahce - Lavendelgarten

Thursday: Building Strength & Recharging Energy

The day began actively with an Ashtanga-inspired practice. Afterwards: a full-day boat tour along the coast – sun, silence, sea. For one participant, this was a breakthrough: she overcame her fear of swimming and became more confident with every stroke. In the evening, Yoga Nidra helped us let go and restore.

Friday: Open your heart

We started with a Slow Flow to gently wake up our muscles after yesterday. Later, we visited the local market – fragrant spices, fresh fruits, and warm-hearted people. In the afternoon, we practiced Karma Yoga by tending the garden: weeding, pruning roses, getting our hands in the soil – a mindful way to find calm in action. The day closed with a heart-opening Yin Yoga session.

Karma Yoga

Saturday: Expression

In a powerful Vinyasa session, participants applied what they had learned. A group coaching session opened space for reflection. In the evening, we celebrated International Yoga Day and the Summer Solstice with a spontaneous cacao ceremony – a wonderful ending.

Sunday: Deepening Trust

The final practice – Yang to Yin – combined activation and surrender. Then came breakfast, hugs, and goodbyes. What remained was a sense of gratitude and inner peace.

What makes a retreat truly special is the connection with other people

What Made This Retreat Special

It wasn’t just the program – it was the atmosphere we created together. Many told me:"I didn’t have to perform. I could just be."

That’s exactly what I wish for. And maybe it was that silence and that self-acceptance, that made it so healing.

Whether during yoga, laughing in the garden, or sharing a conversation after dinner – true connection happened. And that’s what stays with us.

What My Participants Say

Compared to the start of the retreat, how do you feel now?

• “As a yoga beginner, I was curious if I could handle it physically. It’s amazing how quickly you see and feel progress.”

• “More relaxed, with a clear mind.”

• “At first I was nervous, but that quickly faded. I feel good and happy I could do something for my body.”

• “Relaxed, balanced, restored – and my back feels stronger.”

  
  

What did you enjoy most?

• “The loving, mindful atmosphere. Everything was organized with so much heart. I always felt supported.”

• “The compassionate guidance – and that I discovered movements I never thought I could do.”

• “The program! I loved the variety of yoga styles, the interesting workshops, and the delicious food. Nilda is an amazing teacher.”

• “Accommodation, food, rooms – everything was great, but especially the program. Wonderfully done.”

Would you recommend this yoga retreat to your friends? If yes, why?

• “Absolutely! I’ll definitely join your next retreat and bring friends along.”

• “Yes, definitely! It’s perfect for clearing your mind and escaping everyday life.”

• “Absolutely. Nilda explains everything so well and takes away any pressure you put on yourself.”

• “Yes, because everything was perfect and I felt so much better afterwards.”

• “100% yes. This retreat was exactly what I needed, but didn’t know I needed. Many people I know would benefit from this – even those with a totally wrong idea about yoga. My advice: Don’t overthink it – book and enjoy!”

  
  

Find Your Balance – In Summary

Want to join the next retreat?

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I can’t wait to see you – maybe at the next retreat in Turkey. 🌿

With love,

Nilda