Yoga in the Philippines: 8 Idyllic Retreats to Relax Your Mind, Body and Soul

Breathe in, breathe out. Yoga is a popular practice that promotes mental clarity and focus. Meditation offers similar benefits for overall well-being. In recent years, yoga retreats have become increasingly accessible, providing opportunities for intensive practice and relaxation. The Philippines boasts a diverse range of stunning locations ideal for such retreats. Here are a few noteworthy options to consider.

Also read: Travel to Remote Places! It’s Good for Your Soul

1. Flow Surf Yoga Samba

Imagine yoga in beautiful destinations like The Farm Shed at Acacia Waldorf School in Laguna, The Pai Village Boutique Resort and Farm in Chiang Mai, and The Westin Grande Sukhumvit in Bangkok. What could be better than that?

Flow Retreats organises holiday wellness retreats rotating at various beach resorts and hotels around the Philippines and Asia. Their retreats have grown from yoga to surf lessons, dance classes, green smoothie and raw food workshops since they opened. Why not try something different with their upcoming The Surf Fitness Retreat in San Juan, La Union? If you love surfing, circuit training, and yoga, then you’ll definitely enjoy this place. You’ll also learn more about eating healthy food as they believe in the saying, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

Address: Various locations of yoga retreats

2. Bahay Kalipay

Bahay Kalipay emphasises on healing with yoga, dancing, gardening, and eating raw food.  If you’re goal is cleansing and healing, then this is one of the retreat houses in the Philippines you should go to for a weekend or a week long yoga activity. Everything is done in Filipino-inspired architecture from the Nipa huts, abaca, and rattan materials. Immerse yourself in the local culture and learn to feel at peace with yourself and your surroundings. This yoga retreat house is a bit different from the rest because of their activity called Inner Dance. It was inspired by an ancient local tradition called babaylan which is a self-awakening process through inner awareness of one’s body, mind, and energy.

Address: Hagedorn Road Ext. Brgy. San Pedro, Puerto Princesa, Palawan

3. Atmosphere Resorts

Though it’s first and foremost a luxurious resort, it’s worth including in the list because they have a yoga retreat program that’s done in such a breathtaking setting. It’s apt for those with kids because they actually do have a yoga class for children, which is a great bonding experience for families during vacation.

Their program usually lasts from three to six days, just enough time for their guests to immerse themselves in a yogic lifestyle. Prepare to relax while doing Asana Yoga, Pranayama Yoga, Sanskrit chanting, meditation, and attending nutrition workshops. You can also book a private yoga class if you’re an aspiring yogi. The yoga classes are uniquely held on a treetop yoga studio facing the endless blue sea of Dumaguete.

Address: Maayong Tubig, Dauin, Dumaguete, Philippines

4. SUP Yoga Bohol

What makes this yoga session entirely different from the others? They have a StandUp Paddleboard Yoga, or shortly known as SUP Yoga, by Qi Retreats where you can meditate while floating on water at the picturesque beaches of Alona Beach. Sounds hard? It won’t be as it will be a fun and for sure, a quite refreshing experience.

Your soul will be rejuvenated as you join an awakening morning session or a gorgeous sunset session with the smell of the ocean surrounding you. They also include island boat trips on board a traditional banca boat which will take you to see the dolphins, snorkel at the Balicasag Island’s marine park, and visit the white sand beach of Virgin Island.

Address: Alona Beach, Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines

5. The Farm at San Benito

Situated in the lush tropical area of Batangas, The Farm at San Benito is one of the well-known luxury retreat destinations in the Philippines. They emphasise on a holistic approach to one’s well being. The farm is said to have been built around a 250-year-old mango tree which possesses healing powers. Whether it’s true or not, it’s an utterly beautiful oasis where you can commune with nature away from all the stressful city life in Manila.

Their package includes a lot of activities and not just yoga, such as Muay Thai, Tai Chi, aqua aerobics, plyometrics, cooking classes, mandala flower arrangement, and many other. Definitely, it will be full of various classes, and you’ll end the retreat feeling more reinvigorated. You will also stay at exquisitely designed villas with thatched roofs and wood beamed ceilings or combined rustic and modern designed rooms. There are also luxurious open-air bathrooms and heated pools you’ll enjoy while relaxing at the farm.

Address: Brgy. Tipakan, Lipa, Batangas

6. Emerald House Retreats

Emerald House Retreats in Siargao offers a serene escape for those seeking to rejuvenate and connect with their inner selves. Nestled amidst the island’s lush landscapes and pristine beaches, this tranquil retreat provides a sanctuary for yoga enthusiasts and travelers alike. Immerse yourself in a transformative experience, where mindful practices, personalised guidance, and a supportive community come together to foster personal growth and well-being. Discover the true essence of relaxation and self-discovery at Emerald House Retreats.

Address: Emerald House Retreats, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte

7. The Dream Resort Palawan

Imagine waking to the gentle lapping of waves and the scent of tropical blooms at The Dream Resort Palawan. This beachfront sanctuary offers a unique blend of peace and luxury, perfect for those seeking a deep rejuvenation. Indulge in holistic spa treatments, invigorating yoga sessions, and personalised wellness programs designed to restore balance and harmony. Whether you prefer the privacy of your villa, the serene yoga pavilion, or the stunning seaside location, The Dream Resort provides the ideal setting for your spiritual journey. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and discover a new sense of peace and well-being.

Address: The Dream Resort Palawan, Puerto Princesa, Palawan

8. Lotus Shores Yoga Retreat

Lotus Shores Yoga Retreat caters to a diverse range of yogis, from enthusiastic beginners to experienced practitioners aiming to deepen their practice. Their immersive retreats provide a comprehensive introduction to the art of yoga, exploring its spiritual foundations and practical applications. Participants can expect to refine their skills through daily hatha yoga sessions and mantra meditation, creating a lasting foundation for their personal journey. The all-inclusive retreat includes comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, expert-led yoga classes, meditative Kirtan sessions, personalised consultations, and opportunities for community engagement.

Address: Lotus Shores Yoga Retreat, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Also read: 10 Boutique Hotels in the Philippines for a Romantic Retreat with Your Other Half

Despite your busy schedule, it’s always good to take a break once in awhile. And by joining a yoga retreat, it will help you soothe your soul and refocus on the most important things in life. It’s a great meditation to practise every day even after visiting these destinations. It will help you stay calm, cool and collected.