LAOS AWAKEN RETREAT: A New Year’s Retreat and Celebration

30 DECEMBER – 2 JANUARY 2022

Do something special to usher in the new year. Our New Year’s Retreat brings consciousness and compassion into this celebratory event. Including yoga and meditation in the days leading up to and after the turn of the year is a great way to embrace and to connect to impermanence and change. A more relaxed schedule will allow you to take in the the last days of 2019 and to reflect upon what you have in life that you can offer gratitude towards. 

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language
And next year’s words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.”
~ T.S. Eliot

THE RETREAT

Our intention for this New Year’s Retreat is simple – celebrate in the presence of like-minded people and really take the time to offer gratitude, compassion and hope to a world that needs it. We believe in the power of collective positive intention, that when a group of people get together and channel their wishes and hopes in an act of concentration and connection, together, we can make an impact in the world. On a personal level, this retreat will encourage you to let go of unnecessary holds from the past and worries of the future as you practice the art of being present. Relax, let go and rejuvenate in beautiful Nong Khiaw. Morning and evening yoga classes, meditation, and a traditional Laos baci ceremony will plant the seeds for smooth transitions ahead. Champagne toast included at midnight on the 31st!

ABOUT OUR LAOS RETREATS

Our Laos retreats take place throughout the year from October to July and are immersive, educational experiences designed to increase your knowledge base in yoga philosophy, the technicalities of movement and breath, and most importantly, how to apply these into the modern framework. They are intended for novice students and seasoned practitioners alike, who would like to receive well-rounded instruction on the whole practice of yoga. Our delivery of complex subject matter is approachable and relevant so you can be assured that you will leave with a much stronger foundation in your understanding of yoga. While each retreat uses different philosophical approaches as the learning platform, you will find all of them inspiring and a great catalyst for further learning.

THE YOGA

Each retreat will take a different philosophical subject matter as a platform for practice and learning. The various yoga philosophies are simply different approaches to finding freedom and peace within ourselves, and within the world in which we live. While yoga is often associated with its more physical component (asana), the whole practice is really an amalgamation of various underlying philosophies, breathing techniques, and meditation. With all of these components, yoga becomes a way of seeing reality and a way of navigating the complexities of life. Our teaching methods ensure that you not only understand the theory, but that you get an opportunity to tap into the experience of yoga as a holistic practice.

THE EXPERIENCE

Our Laos retreats are designed as experiences that fill what we strongly believe is a gap between the hour-long studio practice classes and much more intensive teacher trainings. There is a need for an immersive learning space for students who simply want to know more about yoga.

Between morning practices and afternoon workshops, you can expect to be in a learning environment between 5 to 6 hours on each full day. All classes will take place in a beautiful open-air dedicated yoga shala right on the banks of the river, and we incorporate the natural surroundings into our tools for learning. As part of your experience, we encourage you to explore the simplicity of life in this remote fishing village so there’s plenty of free time each afternoon to hike to the viewpoint, take a boat ride upriver, kayak for a few hours, or explore the nearby caves. Sync into the pace of life that this beautiful country is known for and you’ll find that contentment lies in an ability to just be.

THE DESTINATION

Nong Khiaw is a sleepy village, nestled in the highlands of Northern Laos. Located approximately 150 km from Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw is easily accessible by. Travel by road to Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang takes approximately 3 hours, although many travelers opt for the longer, 6-hour boat ride as the views along the river are spectacular (check with travel agencies in town for availability and pricing of boat travel and this has been affected by the recent building of dams along the Nam Ou River).

Life in Nong Khiaw takes place primarily along the banks of the Nam Ou River. A main street and bridge run through the center of town, connecting the two sides. Ultimately, Nong Khiaw’s draw is its impressive landscape. The Nam Ou River is flanked on both sides by rolling hills and stone massifs. The river cuts through the mountains, opening spectacular views into the distance. It’s a destination not to be missed.

The retreats are held at a premier bungalow resort that is situated high on the banks of the scenic and tranquil Nam Ou River, offering spectacular sunset views over the virgin rainforest and karst limestone mountains of Nong Khiaw. The resort offers 10 spacious clean & comfortable detached bungalows, mixing traditional Lao style with all the modern conveniences you can expect from a home away from your home. The custom-built yoga shala sits directly on the banks of the Nam Ou River, harnessing the energy of life. 

THE COST

Shared Room (only two twin rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis):
Fountain Bungalow – SGD 473 per person
Riverside Bungalow – SGD 487 per person

Single Occupancy Room:
Fountain Bungalow – SGD 585 per person
Riverside Bungalow – SGD 612 per person

*We are only taking expressions of interest at this time. No payment will be requested at the moment

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

• • All nights accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner
  • Minivan transfer from Nong Khiaw back to Luang Prabang on the last day of the retreat (you must depart with the group. We are unable to pay for transport back to Luang Prabang at any other time)
  • Daily Yoga & Meditation classes and yoga workshops (full attendance is requested)
  • Exclusive Urban Yogis Goodie Bag
  • Wifi accessibility 

EXCLUSIONS

• • Travel to and from Laos
  • Transportation from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw on the first day of the retreat
  • Lunch and snacks in between meals
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Any activities you choose to do on your own outside of the retreat schedule  e.g biking, trekking, those that are not listed in the itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Your retreat will be led by Antje Leubbe