A yoga retreat is a withdrawal to focus on the practice of yoga. A retreat can be solitary and/or local, but often involves a trip to a location that offers group yoga activities. In the western world, yoga retreats tend to resemble vacations at luxury resorts, but the eastern concept of retreats are more humble in nature, leaning toward more affordable getaways. These can be found in India's ashrams and monasteries.
The purpose of a retreat is to allow yogis to deepen their practice without the distractions of life. Yoga retreats are temporary breaks from daily routine that typically last from weekend to a week or more.
While the purpose of a traditional yoga retreat requires a slower pace, some western-style retreats are recreational vacations that feature five-star accommodations, high-end restaurants and a range of activities that include yoga classes, meditation, massage and even hiking, horseback riding and sightseeing.
Many traditional retreats with a focus on mindful aware:
ess and the spiritual practice of yoga can be found throughout the world, including the west, with price tags that range from high-end to modest. With the guidance of an instructor or guru, the yogis learn to let go of distractions as they immerse themselves in asana, meditation and pranayama practices. The retreat may also focus on eating habits and the practice of ayurveda to improve overall physical and spiritual health, as well as instruction in yogic philosophy.