Notes from 2011 Retreat

Huge thanks go to everyone who helped with retreat ~ to our hosts, Bridget & John and Crawford & Katy, to James who excelled at providing the meals and refreshments at the hall, and of course, to all those who had faith enough to come to the retreat weekend as participants, not quite knowing what to expect!  

The weekend retreat was held on the last day of September/beginning of October at our base in Kinlochard. The accommodation provided comfortable beds, great food, and magnificent loch views all around.  The newly renovated village hall, which overlooks Loch Ard and was our space for the yoga sessions, is a STUNNING place to practice yoga.

As Autumn started to make itself felt, the focus of slowing down, being creative with our bodies and encouraging the flow of energy was reflected in all the sessions, but particularly the Yin/Yang Yoga and Chakra Yoga. The weekend was a great opportunity to immerse oneself in yoga or just do as little as one's energy allowed. Some folk managed to attend all the sessions from half past 6 in the morning to 7 o'clock at night. Some opted for a wee lie-in, enjoying the luxury of not having to rush, cook, or even think very much before starting their day.

With lovingly prepared breakfasts, snacks and lunches, using fresh and wherever possible, organic produce, the communal daytime meals provided opportunities to sit and look over the loch, spotting wildlife; getting to know each other as well as the ponies, hens and geese from the next door field! 

The yoga enabled everyone to practice and work within their own abilities, offering challenge where appropriate and comfort when needed. Gillian's watchful eye, easy manner and practical advise meant that everyone could take themselves to a safe, but purposeful edge within their own practice.

Afternoon leisure time allowed for an exploration of the area, either on foot or from the loch. Some went for a swim, steam and sauna, others for a lie-down.  The changing light and weather brought us all to the windows at different times to drink in the views.

Our hosts, Bridget and John Lewis from Blairhullichan provided two delightful evening meals (of breathtaking proportions)  in their beautiful home ~ the quincho was a truly extraordinary setting for the traditional Argentinian BBQ on Saturday night.

All in all, breathing, stretching, eating, relaxing, reading, walking, snoozing and eating a bit more is to be heartedly recommended. It was a lovely weekend, and oh, the yoga was great as well! 

Having a change from your normal routine, in quiet countryside with like-minded people, is a lovely way to restore and recharge your energy levels.

The next weekend retreat will be in the Spring, if you would like to register your interest, please contact us. More details will follow, as the heady task of organising starts.

Please click on the photos to enlarge and bring them into focus.  For details of 2012 retreats please click here

Nice things people have said about their experience with the Lochside Yoga 2011 Autumn Retreat: 

"The retreat was a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was relaxed; the yoga practice was great; the location was so beautiful. Gillian is a fantastic teacher and host - so warm, wise, wonderful!"

"Enjoyed it immensely, waiting for next date."

"I'm so glad I went. I thought it was really quite magical and I look forward to the next time."

"The company, great yoga, venue and wonderful food more than made up for the fact the weather wasn't up to much!"

"I would highly recommend Lochside Yoga to everyone no matter what level of yoga ability you have. It was a great retreat."

"Brilliant from start to finish. Well thought out and beautifully taught yoga, amazing venue and outstanding hospitality from both of you"