WELCOME TO A BHAKTI IMMERSION…
We warmly invite you to join us for a unique May Bank Holiday Weekend Retreat. This special event offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhakti Yoga through Yoga Classes, Kirtan, Philosophy, and Meditation sessions. The retreat has been created with care to help you engage in spiritual practices and delve into discovering your purpose and identity.
FRIDAY 23RD MAY - MONDAY 26TH MAY 2025
THE LOCATION
We have discovered the ideal location for our Bhakti Getaway.
Croft Farm Escape is not just a venue; it's a space for like-minded individuals who value nature and embrace a holistic approach to life. The farm offers breathtaking scenery, spacious communal areas, and elegantly designed accommodations in renovated barns. Our package includes private access to the Yoga Shala, Kitchen, Gym, Forest Spa with Sauna and Ice Bath facilities, as well as Fire Pits for a cozy atmosphere.
Great Gaddesden, Hertfordshire, HP1 3BP
THE WORKSHOPS
This weekend, we will delve deep into the practice of Bhakti Yoga. Exploring its essence, significance in our lives, and ways to integrate Bhakti into our daily routines.
> Commencing with an opening ceremony and Kirtan to set the tone.
> Delving into the concept of having an altar and rituals in Bhakti Yoga.
> Evening gatherings around the fire for sharing and connection.
Each day will feature:
> Morning Japa Meditation, and a morning Asana practice.
> A wholesome brunch followed by relaxation time at the spa, sauna, and Icebath.
> Studio sessions on Philosophy, focusing on the Bhagavad Gita and its themes.
> Evening sessions with Yin Yoga and post-dinner Kirtan.
On the final day:
A closing ceremony to conclude our time together, allowing for relaxation and appreciation of the surroundings.
YOUR HOST
EMILY COBIE
Emily, a community yoga instructor based in Buckinghamshire, embarked on her yoga journey during travels in India. She delved into Ashtanga yoga, earning her 200-hour teacher training certificate. Privileged to receive one-on-one instruction in Hatha Yoga from her teacher, Praveen Somu, Emily visits India annually to deepen her Ashtanga studies with her mentor, Guruji Ajay Kumar. Dedicated to expanding her yoga knowledge, Emily has pursued courses in Anatomy, Pregnancy Yoga, Yin Yoga, Mantra, Kirtan, and Hindu Philosophy.
She has shared Mantra and Kirtan, guided by esteemed mentors like Sheela Bringi, a renowned Indian devotional singer, and has learned from leaders such as Sivani Mata, Radhika Das, and Ahisha Dasi. Emily's values revolve around love, kindness, compassion, and community service. Through yoga practices, she aims to foster presence and promote a healthier lifestyle. Yoga has played a pivotal role in her healing journey, providing continuous growth and learning opportunities.
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
BALARAM DAS OF THINK GITA
Jay Subal Balaram das (Balaram for short!) comes from a family that always practiced Bhakti Yoga and therefore is a life-long practitioner. Balaram’s family Guru and personal Guru both requested him to share Kirtan-yoga and Bhakti philosophy for the betterment of society at large. Therefore, Balaram has been giving workshops up and down the country for 20 years in different communities and universities. He participates in kirtan regularly and professionally is an Implant Dentist and University Lecturer. We find that Balaram has an individual & real-world approach that leaves the choice of how to apply Bhakti philosophy with the practitioner. He takes a coaching approach that values dialogue autonomy & authenticity.
FOOD
We take pleasure in preparing nutritious and wholesome meals for our retreats, from morning fruit platters to evening Turmeric Lattes. Your retreat experience will include daily brunch and dinner, along with light refreshments throughout the day. We enjoy creating healthy snacks during your stay and providing unlimited warm beverages to keep you hydrated and comfortable. Any dietary needs will be catered to; just inform us in advance.
ROOMS & PRICING
SINGLE BED IN QUADRUPLE ROOM
£645
SINGLE BED IN TWIN ROOM
£725
All rooms feature an en suite or private bathroom.
All rooms have access to kitchen facilities.
INCLUDED
ACCOMADATION
USE OF ALL SPACES ON SITE
FOOD (DAILY BRUNCH, DINNER AND LIGHT REFRESHMENTS)
ALL WORKSHOPS (15+)
NOT INCLUDED
TRAVEL INSURANCE
TRAVEL
TO BOOK
To book and secure your room we ask for a non-refunable deposit of £200 with the final payment due by 20th March 2025
Email emily@theopenshala.com or WhatsApp 07917644369 to request your room. Once availability is confirmed we will send you payment details.
Please check retreat T’s & C’s at www.theopenshala.com