JAPAN
Embark on a transformative journey with us at our Silent Mindfulness Meditation & Yoga Retreat on Ishigaki Island, Japan. Nestled between turquoise waters and emerald jungles, this serene sanctuary offers the perfect backdrop for profound self-discovery and inner peace.
Throughout this retreat, we will guide you through moments of introspection, allowing you to delve into the realms of your inner self. Surrounded by the captivating beauty of Ishigaki’s coral-fringed coastlines and peaceful subtropical forests, your experience will be deepened by the soothing sounds of the ocean and the gentle rhythm of island life.
Engage in the enriching practices of mindfulness meditation and Yoga Nidra, while deepening your connection with both the physical and spiritual aspects of yoga. As you cultivate stillness and presence, you’ll find a harmonious blend of mental clarity, physical rejuvenation, and spiritual awakening.
By the end of the retreat, you will carry with you not only a heightened sense of meditation and yoga proficiency but also a profound growth in both mind and spirit. Gain newfound clarity and vision for your life, empowering you to pursue your dreams and embrace a fulfilling existence.
Our retreat welcomes practitioners of all levels, offering a personalised approach to cater to your unique needs and aspirations. Join us on this soul-nurturing journey, and leave with a refreshed spirit, prepared to embrace life’s limitless possibilities.
“The loudest transformation happens in silence.”
Energy-Balancing Practices
Experience the extraordinary power of our distinct and powerful energy-balancing practices, exclusively available at our retreat, to enhance your wellbeing and transformation.
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) tapping is a therapeutic method that combines acupressure with cognitive processing. By gently tapping on specific meridian points, practitioners aim to address unresolved emotions and alleviate psychological distress. This technique, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and modern psychology, is believed to facilitate the release of emotional blockages and restore balance to the body’s energy system. EFT tapping is often used as a self-help tool for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
Sound Therapy with Tibetan Sound bowls is a holistic approach to healing and relaxation that draws upon ancient traditions to promote well-being and inner harmony. Rooted in Tibetan and Himalayan cultures, these unique instruments are more than just musical tools—they are believed to have profound effects on the mind, body, and spirit. The practice involves the use of Tibetan singing bowls, which are made from a combination of metals and produce resonant tones when struck or played in a specific manner. The fundamental idea behind sound therapy is that sound vibrations can influence our physical and energetic states. The resonating tones emitted by the bowls are thought to synchronize brainwaves, induce relaxation, and facilitate meditation.
Reiki Energy Healing is a holistic technique that traces its origins to Japan in the early 20th century. This practice revolves around the concept that a vital life force energy flows through all living things, and when this energy is balanced and harmonious, health and well-being are maintained. Reiki practitioners can tap into and channel this universal energy through their hands, which they then direct toward the recipient’s body. The process involves placing hands on or near specific energy centers, known as chakras, along the body’s energy pathways. By doing so, practitioners aim to promote relaxation, reduce stress, alleviate pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Each of these practices present distinct opportunities for forging spiritual connections and fostering personal growth. When approached within the appropriate context and with expert guidance, they can lead to profoundly transformative experiences. Our retreat is designed to provide potent and life-altering guidance, catering to individuals in search of a more profound comprehension of both themselves and the encompassing world.
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
4 nights, 5 days stay at a private traditional villa
Daily yoga classes
Daily meditation and Yoga Nidra
Daily guided mindfulness sessions
Sound healing sessions
Reiki Sessions
EFT Tapping Sessions
Sacred Cacao Ceremony
3 vegetarian nourishing meals daily
Transportation from and to Ishigaki airport
Meet The Retreat Leader
Marta Diaz
We are delighted to introduce you to Marta, an esteemed yoga professional with nine years of teaching experience. Marta is a Yoga Alliance registered E-RYT500 teacher, as well as a Yoga Nidra facilitator, Reiki master, and Tibetan singing bowl sound therapist. With a wealth of experience gained from teaching diverse yoga styles across the globe, Marta eagerly extends her warm invitation to join her amidst the breathtaking beauty of Ishigaki Island.
Hailing from Estonia and having cultivated her craft during extensive stays in Japan and Thailand, Marta’s worldly adventures spanning over a decade have culminated in her role as the visionary behind Om & Flow Yoga. Marta’s enthusiasm for holistic well-being and personal development is both inspiring and infectious.
Throughout the retreat, Marta will expertly lead you on a personalized journey towards wellness, fostering growth and self-assurance along the way. Her nurturing approach and mastery of a wide range of practices promise to create an indelible and cherished retreat experience.
The Venue
Tucked within the peaceful village of Shiraho on Ishigaki Island, Le Lotus Bleu is a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese villa offering an immersive retreat experience. This 19th-century wooden merchant house, lovingly restored, invites you to slow down and reconnect in an atmosphere of authenticity and calm.
Surrounded by red-tiled rooftops and vibrant Fukugi trees, the villa blends timeless architecture with thoughtful modern comforts. With serene gardens, wooden decks, and five tranquil guest rooms—each with private facilities—Le Lotus Bleu provides a warm, intimate setting for reflection, yoga, and inner stillness.
Just a short drive away from Ishigaki Airport yet far from the rush of daily life, it’s a haven for those seeking deep rest, cultural connection, and quiet inspiration in a truly unique setting.
SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE:
8:00 Morning Yoga & Meditation
9:30 Breakfast
11:00 Guided Mindfulness Practice/Metta Meditation
13:00 Lunch
15:00 Guided Mindfulness Practice/Metta Meditation
16:30 EFT Tapping/Reiki/Healing Sound Meditation
19:00 Dinner
20:00 Yoga Nidra
Your retreat begins with a warm welcome at Ishigaki Airport, where you’ll be picked up upon arrival. On the final day, we’ll ensure your smooth departure with an afternoon drop-off at the airport.
The silence begins on the first evening following the opening ceremony and shared dinner, and gently concludes on the final day just before our last brunch together.
During the retreat you will receive a wealth of knowledge about mental health, mindfulness, the spiritual and physical practice of yoga, meditation and Yoga Nidra. You will be taught how to incorporate that knowledge into your everyday life and how to live your life more mindfully, in peace and contentment.
We will be focusing on the training of the mind and on deep relaxation. With the help of guided meditations, yoga and mindfulness exercises you will gain a fresh perspective of life and a new awareness of yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need previous experience with meditation or silent retreats?
Not at all. Many of our guests are experiencing a silent retreat for the first time, while others already have an established meditation or mindfulness practice. The retreat is designed to be accessible to different levels of experience, and you will be gently guided through the practices throughout your stay.
Do I need to be experienced in yoga?
No. Our yoga practices are suitable for different levels of experience and you are always encouraged to listen to your own body. More experienced practitioners are equally welcome and can adapt their practice accordingly.
How long will we actually be in silence?
The retreat takes place over five days. On the first day, you’ll have time to arrive, settle in and meet the other guests before our orientation and shared dinner. Your personal journey into silence begins that evening. You’ll then spend three full days in silence before we gently transition out of silence on the final day, just before our last brunch together, allowing time to reconnect and share before departure.
What does being in silence actually mean?
During the silent portion of the retreat, we ask guests to refrain from speaking and unnecessary communication with one another. The intention is to temporarily step away from the external noise and social expectations of everyday life and turn your attention inward. You’ll still participate in guided practices such as meditation, yoga, Yoga Nidra, mindfulness, Reiki and sound healing, so your days have a gentle structure even while you’re in silence. Your teacher will speak when needed to guide the practices and provide any necessary instructions, but verbal guidance is intentionally kept to a minimum to preserve the quiet atmosphere of the retreat.
What if I find the silence difficult?
That’s completely normal. Silence can bring different experiences at different moments — peacefulness, restlessness, emotion, boredom, clarity or simply the realization of how busy your mind normally is. There is no “right” way to experience the retreat and nothing you need to achieve. The daily schedule and guided practices are there to support you while allowing your own experience to unfold naturally. If at any point you feel that you genuinely need additional support, you can also request a short private 1:1 conversation with the instructor. These conversations are kept brief and are available when needed, so you can feel supported without unnecessarily interrupting your experience of silence.
Can I use my phone during the retreat?
We strongly encourage you to take a genuine break from messages, social media, news and other everyday distractions during the silent portion of the retreat whenever possible. At the same time, we understand that completely disconnecting isn’t always realistic. Work commitments, family responsibilities or other circumstances may mean that you need to check your phone occasionally. You’re welcome to do so quietly and discreetly, ideally during your free time and away from shared practice spaces, as long as phone use doesn’t disturb the experience of other guests. We simply ask that you do not make or take phone calls during the period of silence.
Can I read or journal during the retreat?
Yes. Journaling is welcome and can be a wonderful way to reflect on what arises during your time in silence. We recommend leaving novels and other highly stimulating reading material at home so that you can give yourself the opportunity to fully experience the retreat rather than replacing one form of distraction with another.
Are all of the activities mandatory?
No. This is your retreat and we encourage you to listen to what you need. While we recommend participating in the practices as much as possible to experience the retreat fully, you are always welcome to rest or take some quiet time for yourself when needed.
Can I come by myself?
Absolutely. Many of our guests travel to the retreat alone. Although you’ll be spending much of the retreat in silence, you’ll be sharing the experience with a small group and will have time to meet everyone before silence begins and reconnect again on the final day.
What kind of food is served?
We serve three nourishing vegetarian meals each full day of the retreat. Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements when booking so that we can prepare accordingly.
How do airport transfers work?
Transfers from and to Ishigaki Airport are included on the first and last day of the retreat. You’ll be picked up at the airport upon arrival on the first day, and on the final day we’ll drop you off at the airport in the afternoon. We arrange the pick-up time or times according to our guests’ flight schedules. Once we have everyone’s travel details, we’ll send you the final transportation arrangements before the retreat. If you choose to arrive in Japan earlier or stay longer after the retreat, transportation outside the official retreat dates is not included.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for yoga and meditation, swimwear, light layers, comfortable shoes or sandals, personal toiletries, sun protection, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle are all useful. We also recommend bringing a journal.
Can I arrive earlier or stay longer?
You’re very welcome to spend additional time in Japan before or after the retreat, but accommodation outside the official retreat dates is not included. If you’re arriving on Ishigaki on a late flight on the first day, we recommend arriving one day earlier so that you don’t miss the orientation and the beginning of silence.
How many people will be at the retreat?
We intentionally keep our retreats small so that the experience remains personal, peaceful and supportive. The maximum number of guests we can accommodate is 14, although our groups are usually between 8–12 people and are sometimes even smaller.
How do I reserve my place?
Choose your preferred retreat dates and room type from the booking options on this page. Your place can be reserved with a €200 deposit. If you prefer to pay the full retreat fee upon booking, you can receive a 10% full-payment discount when booking directly with us. To take advantage of this offer, please contact us directly before making your payment and we’ll arrange the discounted payment for you.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation and transfer conditions depend on how far in advance of the retreat you cancel. Please read our full Terms & Conditions before booking for the most up-to-date information regarding deposits, cancellations, refunds and date changes.
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE, RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW AND DON’T MISS OUT!
Receive an additional 10% discount when you pay the full retreat fee upon registration. To claim this offer, simply contact us directly.
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