Testimonials

Body & Soul Escapes

BODY & SOUL ESCAPES published by Footprint Books in March 2007

My Soul Retreat, Ivan Dolac, island of Hvar,

Yoga, personal development, meditation, holistic treatments, body work treatments, My Soul Retreat lies in a small hillside village overlooking the sea on the south side of Hvar. This strip of coast is blissfully isolated, being accessed solely through a narrow, unlit, 1.4km tunnel carved through the rocks. A world apart from the rest of the island, it is backed by sublime, rugged mountains planted with vineyards, and looks onto a stunning seascape punctuated by secluded coves and pebble beaches, with the islands of Scedro, Korcula and Vis rising in the distance.

Simone and Tobias offer individual breaks for those searching to review their life path, and counseling for couples in crisis. In the future, guests on individual retreats will be able to stay in an old stone cottage (complete with a bio-toilet) on the hillside above the sea, which Simone and Tobias are restoring with respect for the environment and traditional Dalmatian building materials.

Guests stay at Spila (www.spila.hr), a modern, seafront villa comprising eight airy apartments (sleeping 2-6) with terra cotta tile floors, wooden furniture and cheerful primary coloured fabrics. Each unit has a living room with basic cooking facilities, a bathroom, and a balcony with a sea view. Downstairs, the Spila restaurant occupies a spacious terrace lined with potted geraniums looking onto the water.

The central activity here is a unique blend of Ashtanga, Hatha and Iyengar yoga, performed under the grueling but entertaining instruction of charismatic, German-born, former-model Simone. Classes take place early-morning and late-afternoon, before breakfast and dinner. Simone is also a Reiki master, and can help enhance one's energy awareness, while skilled masseur Bruce melts knotted muscles and tension points with blissful Thai and Indonesian massage sessions. Apart from yoga, organised hiking, swimming, and boat trips introduce visitors to the island's unspoiled nature. Sundays are free and can be devoted to silence and fasting, while those in search of cultural stimulation might visit the sophisticated, Venetian-style urban centre of Hvar Town (either by boat or minibus).

Regarding meals, Simone's partner, Canadian-born Tobias, conjures up colourful, flavoursome, organic vegetarian ayurvedic dishes, employing plenty of fresh herbs and spices. Alcohol, coffee and cigarettes are prohibited.

Simone also teaches yoga in Glasgow, Scotland (www.myoneonone.com), and My Soul Retreat draws a loyal following of her Scottish clients, most of whom are dedicated yoga enthusiasts. Groups are limited to max eight participants; expect an age range 25-55, predominantly singles, with a 50-50 mix of men and women, post-graduate students and professionals.

Expect to pay from 500 GB pounds per person for an 6-day retreat (based on two people sharing an apartment). Call + 44 (0)7789 813481 or visit www.mysoulretreat.com.

Co-author Jane Foster

Yoga Ashtanga workshop

Yoga Ashtanga workshop 2006 review

My objective for the retreat was too learn more about yoga rather than to have just another “holiday”. Although, it was great for me to meet like minded yogis while discovering the beauty of Croatia.

The location was great, the sea was very calming, you could go for a walk or swim at any time.

The lifestyle projected has changed my whole attitude as to how I eat and what I eat. I now have my biggest meal at lunchtime. I also make every thing from scratch and stick fresh herbs in everything.

I was full of beans and still am since I got back. Mainly because the retreat changed my attitude to food, diet and the yoga discipline.

I had a regular practice to begin with, but the week showed me that it could also benefit from a softer evening practice. I now implement practice poses in the evening.

The Ashtanga morning class evolved my focus and breathing. The evening class was more like a workshop - breaking down poses which helped me achieve the final pose - An invaluable tool for an experienced yogi.

The group size was perfect and well matched which enabled us to work at the same level without the frustration of hanging behind or being bored.

I think you had a dream team in terms of your staffing.

Anna, the co-teacher was so helpful in the practice as well as providing a grounded view of the world.

Bruce is the god of massage, but so normal and so approachable. A real joy to have met him.

Tobias was as ever a generous host, with great cooking skills, and a smile for any ‘downpour’ that came our way,

Simone, the inspiration, excellent teaching, guidance and counseling all matters yogi. I continue to marvel at your understanding of asana and our mere mortal relationship with asana.

Count me in for 2007!

Loretta Brodie

The Highlights for us

Hilary & Bob

The highlights for us were the various outings and trips included in the stay. Yoga by the sea just felt different and doing yoga in a cave is an experience in itself. Boat trips to Hvar Town and secluded Islands, excursions with Antun Caric, the hotelier, gave us an appreciation of Croatia's beauty. Walking through the fields and vineyards and picnicking on the shore were so calming.

We both improved Yoga practice, and found great help in the adjustments and little workshops explaining the little things to work on. A proper yoga practice twice daily makes a big difference in your flexibility and strength - maybe lost a few inches? Group was great - size just right. Our common interest was yoga and healthy lifestyle so plenty to talk about and share.

Croatia is a stunning Location and our accommodation was right beside the sea, wonderful. Regular yoga discipline was excellent and we both gained a great deal from the week.

Our energy levels definitely rose on return home and we have the best intensions of keeping up the good work. All team members did a great job.

Many Thanks Hilary & Bob

Personal Retreat

1 week personal retreat in summer 2005

My soul retreat was a real treat for my soul.

I have had a tough few years, working in my freshly started accountant office, building my client base from scratch. I also had troubles in my relation ship and had severe health issues. Just a very productive but draining time for myself and my family – but I lost the ability to take a breath and to chill out.

“Me-time” was taking out of my schedule and I was in a downward spiral. Meeting Simone and Tobias at my worst was a blessing to me. Simone taught me relaxation techniques, removed my shoulders from my neck and did wonders to my insomnia.

With my batteries recharged, I went back to Germany and re-evaluated my life, set priorities and a set aside time for my Yoga practise. My life has changed in many ways and I thank whoever is up there every day for the opportunity of finding this little cottage in the hills of one of the most magical places on earth. I have been back for a top up this year and I am sure it’s not my last time.