How To Turn Any Holiday Into A Mini Yoga Retreat
Unwind. Disconnect. Recharge.
Being on holiday has always been a time for me to exhale— to slow down, breathe more deeply, and reconnect. Over the years, whether I’ve been by the sea, tucked away in a mountain cabin, or exploring a new city, I’ve found that the real magic happens when I bring a few retreat-style practices into my time away.
You don’t need to book into a formal yoga retreat to feel the deep nourishment that comes from mindful rest and movement. With a little intention, any holiday can become a mini retreat for the soul. I love bringing a journal, a couple of yoga props (even just a strap and a foldable blanket), and carving out some quiet time each morning for a few gentle stretches or a meditation before the day begins. It completely shifts the tone of the day—making it more grounded, spacious, and intentional.
Whether you’re heading to the coast, the countryside, or a city break, here’s how you can create your own yoga retreat vibe, wherever you are. A few small rituals can go a long way in turning your holiday into a time of true restoration.

1. Set an Intention Before You Go
Before you even pack your bag, take a quiet moment to reflect on how you want to feel during your trip and to create mindful travel experiences. Do you crave rest? Renewal? More connection with yourself? Setting a simple intention can subtly shape your whole experience and give your trip deeper meaning. Write your intention on a note and tuck it into your journal or travel bag. Let it guide your choices, from what you pack to how you spend your time.
2. Pack Your Yoga Essentials (Keep it Simple)
You don’t need much—just the basics to help you stay consistent. A yoga mat, comfy clothes, and maybe a few favorite props (like a yoga strap and an eye pillow) can go a long way. A playlist or yoga app can also be great if you like guided sessions. If your space is tight, a folded towel works just fine for gentle stretching and seated meditation.
3. Create Your Daily Rituals
You don’t need to stick to a strict schedule. Instead, carve out mini moments throughout the day that help you reconnect to your breath and body. Here’s a retreat-inspired rhythm you could try:
Morning: Gentle yoga before breakfast; even 10 minutes does wonders for connection and relaxation.
Mid Morning: Enjoy a nature walk, long or short, walking in nature adds so many nutrients to our break.
Midday: Practice a short meditation in nature or use an App for a guided relaxation.
- Afternoon: Bathhouse visit for a relaxing and cleansing steam, sauna and cold plunge. Lots of gyms have these facilities as well.
Evening: A restorative session to wind down. Even 10 minutes lying with the legs resting up a wall or on the seat of the chair can shift your entire energy.
4. Choose Nourishing Foods
One of the gifts of a retreat is eating mindfully. Adding fresh, whole foods to your meals will help you feel vibrant and balanced. Explore local produce, cook simple meals if you’re self-catering, or seek out cafes with wholesome options. And of course—balance is everything. Enjoy the wine, dessert, or local delicacy mindfully.
5. Unplug Intentionally
Try carving out screen-free pockets during your day—or even leave your phone behind for a few hours while you explore. Journal, nap, or just be. Designate a part of your trip as “silent time”—maybe a morning or an afternoon—to reconnect inward, free from notifications or outside noise.
6. Bring Your Journal
Retreats often offer the chance to reflect and process. Journaling can help you tune into your inner world and get clarity on what you want more (or less) of in your life.
Prompt ideas:
What am I grateful for right now?
How am I feeling in my body today?
What do I want to take from this trip back into my daily life?
7. This Is Your Time
This isn’t about doing 90-minute class every day or eating 100% clean. It’s about intentionally creating space to nourish yourself—body, mind, and spirit. A walk in nature can be just as healing as a yoga class. A quiet cup of tea can be meditation. A few conscious breaths can bring you back to yourself.
Final Thought
You don’t need a retreat centre to find stillness or soul nourishment. With a little intention and presence, any trip can become a sacred reset. So next time you travel, try weaving in a bit of yoga and inner connection—and return not just refreshed, but truly renewed.
Ready to go deeper? If you’re craving the full soul nourishing retreat experience, check out our upcoming Radiance Retreats here. We’d love to share a retreat with you…