Yoga, Culture and Balinese New Year with Chrissy Gonzalez
With Chrissy Gonzalez
March 3 - 10, 2019
Join Chrissy Gonzalez for a weeklong retreat at a beautiful location nestled in the center of Bali, Ubud. Our home for the week is a perfect environment for expanding your practice and classes will be designed in harmony with this auspicious time of year. You will dive deep into the Balinese culture and learn about the significance of their New Year and its unique rituals while embarking on an exploration of asana, pranayama, meditation, and philosophy. Each day will be a mixture of both practice and participation as you experience the distinctive ceremonies done in preparation for the day of silence.
This is truly one of the most incredible weeks of the year to be in Bali as they prepare for the Balinese New Year, called Nyepi or “The Day of Silence.” For the Balinese, it’s a time for self-reflection and cleansing as they observe 24 hours of total silence, preceded by firecrackers, singing, laughter, parades and general excitement everywhere. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness the whole island shutting down (no electricity, no driving on the roads, no one working) and to be a part of this powerful ancient tradition. We, as guests, will also take part in the authentic Nyepi rituals and celebrations, which happen just once a year. It’s truly an experience that will invite you to go inward and stay with you forever.
The Bali Institute, Ubud’s premiere cultural organization, will guide us on exclusive immersion experiences to some of Bali’s most colorful markets and sacred local temples. We will observe ancient spiritual practices and meet community leaders and dignitaries to develop a better understanding of this unique culture
The Venue
Cocooned amongst rice paddies and coconut palms, The Shala Bali is a place of peace, wellness, and connection to nature. Nestled in the spiritual center of the island, rooms are spacious and breezy and decorated in a chic Balinese style.
Highlights`
- Gorgeous accommodations set in the serenity of the verdant rice paddies
- Breathtaking jungle views
- Led by expert local guides and Bali Institute for Global Renewal staff throughout the week
- Witness a traditional Melasti Ceremony, a pre new year purification ritual on the coast
- Receive a blessing and option to wade into the cleansing pools of the water temple Tirta Empul
- Walk through some of Bali’s iconic lush terraced rice fields
- Enjoy the celebratory Ogoh Ogoh Festival on the eve of the new yearr in preparation for the day of silence
- Participate in a traditional Balinese fire ceremony
- Daily yoga and meditation with Chrissy
Menu
3 delicious vegetarian meals are included daily. The Shala Bali Cafe offers tasty, healthy vegetarian food, all with vegan options. They offer a range of organic spelt, sourdough and gluten free breads baked in house as well as an eclectic menu of dishes from around the world. Sourcing the best organic produce, the Shala creates changing menus of scrumptious dishes, savory and sweet, alive with color and flavor.
Accommodations
Each villa boasts its own varying views of lush rice fields, tropical gardens, and jungle vistas. Luxurious bathroom amenities will entice you to refresh and rejuvenate between practices. Sink in to this slice of paradise for the week.
Note: The rooms at The Shala are open-air style and do not have air-conditioning. All rooms are equipped with fans and windows that can be opened for ventilation.
Directions
You will book your international ticket into and out of Denpasar (airport code: DPS). If you wish to arrive a day early to settle in and get acclimated, we can request additional nights at our group hotel. Please contact us directly for rates.
Private airport transfers are included in the price of your trip. Whenever you arrive, day or night you will be met by a private driver and transported to the group hotel. Note if you arrive early and decide to stay at an alternate location other than our group hotel, you will be responsible for coordinating and paying for your own transportation directly with the hotel where you will be staying.