How My First Yoga Retreat in 2016 Changed My Life

In 2016, I decided to participate in a winter yoga retreat that unknowingly shaped my life most profoundly. It was my 50th birthday, and I lived alone in a rental apartment in Molde, Norway. I had recently broken up with my boyfriend and was still nursing a broken heart, feeling the weight of loneliness far away from my family and friends. However, healthy and independent, I yearned for a more profound sense of fulfillment and healing. I knew I wanted to celebrate this milestone by doing something meaningful, something I’d always dreamed of. And that’s when the idea of a winter escape, a mix of skiing and yoga, crept into my mind.

I’ve always loved the snow. Skiing and snowboarding have been my favorite winter activities, though they were mostly out of reach for me financially, so I’d usually enjoy winter locally. But for my 50th birthday, I was determined to give myself the experience I’d always wanted. So, I started Googling “ski and yoga” and found a retreat in France. I didn't even know what the word retreat meant. You can click here to read more about the meaning of modern retreat.

It looked magical: yoga, skiing, snowboarding, healthy food, community, and the beauty of winter all woven together. But when I saw the price, my heart sank a little. At that time, investing in a retreat was a big stretch. Yet, something deep inside urged me to leap. I started saving, giving up a few small comforts here and there, and eventually, I booked my spot in a shared room.

Despite the excitement, I was nervous. Going on this adventure alone felt daunting, and I couldn’t help but wonder if I’d made the right decision. Besides, I was struggling with back pain at the time, and the thought of keeping up with a yoga practice in the mountains was intimidating. But I reminded myself that this was a gift to myself—a chance to try something new and maybe even learn something I could carry forward. And so, I set off to France, hopeful and a little scared.

The Life-Changing Moments of My First Yoga Retreat

The moment I arrived, I knew the trip would be something special. I was welcomed by the crisp mountain air, towering snow-capped peaks, and a group of like-minded souls who shared my love for winter and my passion for yoga. We started each day with yoga in front of the fireplace, moving our bodies in ways that soothed the aches, awakened muscles I’d long forgotten, and brought an incredible sense of calm.

Days were filled with skiing and snowboarding, and my love for winter sports felt renewed. With each downhill glide, I felt the worries of everyday life fade away. The joy, the freedom, the laughter—everything I’d longed for and more.

In the evenings, the magic continued. After exhilarating days of skiing and snowboarding, we’d gather for a soothing yoga session in front of a crackling fireplace, letting our bodies unwind and melt into relaxation. Then, we’d slip into the warmth of the outdoor jacuzzi, surrounded by snow and stars, letting the hot water ease any last traces of tension.

And then came the dinners—the genuine cherry on top! Each night, our talented chefs crafted healthy, vegetarian three-course meals. The variety was incredible, bursting with flavors that felt both nourishing and indulgent. A glass of wine with new friends was the perfect finish, leaving us all feeling restored and ready for another day of adventure.

Opening Doors to New Possibilities

That retreat wasn’t just a holiday but a spark that lit a fire inside me. I felt a renewed sense of purpose for the first time in years. I saw how impactful this experience had been for me and started dreaming of creating similar experiences for others. I wanted to share the transformative power of yoga and nature, of stepping away from the everyday grind and immersing oneself in the beauty of the present moment.

Since that retreat, I’ve devoted my life to creating these retreats for others. I built my small business around this passion, designing yoga retreats in incredible locations worldwide, from Alaska to the fjords of Norway. Now, I guide people from all walks of life, sharing the magic that sparked something inside me on that snowy retreat.

If You're Unsure, Go for It

My first yoga retreat taught me that taking a chance on yourself is okay, even when it feels uncertain or scary. Usually, the most rewarding experiences come from stepping out of your comfort zone and permitting yourself to embrace something new.

To anyone considering their first retreat or longing for a change, my advice is simple: go for it! You never know what gifts await you on the other side of that decision. As I discovered on my first yoga retreat, it might just be the experience that changes your life forever.

Discover the winter yoga retreat in Italian Dolomites by clicking here.

You can find a variety of summer retreats by clicking here.