Retreats
Bali Retreat
1–10 September 2025
The Yoga Gem’s 3rd Annual Yoga Retreat Holiday took place in northern Bali, Tejakula.
I could not have asked for a more beautiful, private and perfect setting for a 10 day yoga retreat/holiday. It was simply a magical sanctuary. Located right on the beachfront meant that the magnificent sound of the waves as they crashed or lapped (depending on the tide) would be our everyday background music interspersed with beautiful birdsong and when in our yoga room or bungalows, the chatter of the geckoes making for much merriment.
The resort is beautifully but simply landscaped with a pool and the open sided dining area centrally positioned. Enriching this piece of paradise further is the onsite Temple where we were given a very moving blessing after being treated to welcoming mocktails, canapes and local dancing to formalise the start of the retreat.
All meals were provided and there were at least 6 dishes at every meal along with afternoon tea with either homemade banana bread, pancakes, bliss balls – it was just endless. Available all day was not only tea, coffee, cocoa but also hot lemongrass water and hot gingered water. We were spoiled.
The yoga space was a magnificent octagonal shape, with heaven and earth represented by a circle within a square, a design known as a mandala (in Hindu and Buddhist symbolism), which embodies the whole of the universe. Putu, the General Manager, advised that according to Feng Shui, the octagon is a symbol of protection, good health, good fortune and rebirth, which was the Gaia Foundations wish and intention for its guests. All this, set between the tranquil gardens and sound of the ocean, providing a serene sanctuary for all.
The morning practice was from 6:30am – 9:00am – with many people sitting quietly in contemplation on the lawn watching the sun rise prior to the start. Brian’s job was to sound the gong 10 minutes before morning or afternoon practice to invite everyone to class. It was wonderful. Our afternoon practice was a shorter session of 2 hours and usually focused on quieter, more restorative practices, pranayama and hip work. One of the days was focused entirely on partner work and what we can learn working with another practitioner. These practices are always popular, great fun and incredible for learning, experiencing and sharing.
I invited 3 experienced Bali based teachers to come and take us for Meditation, Sound Healing, Kirtan and Alchemy and Bodywork. This proved to be very popular and added another level of depth to the retreat experience.
There was ample free time between the yoga sessions for everyone to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the wonderful array of treatments available at the onsite spa or lie in a hammock reading, sleeping or simply “being”. We had one completely free day where a group took themselves off with guides to snorkel away from the resort and others stayed behind going for walks, lazing by the pool or having treatments.
Practice Gallery
Student Reviews
“This was my third retreat with The Yoga Gem and in my opinion the best yet. As always Jolanta’s planning and attention to detail was impeccable. The venue was gorgeous: tucked away in a beautiful quiet corner of Bali, where we fell asleep to the sound of the sea. The food provided by Gaia was delicious and nutritious, and we all enjoyed the on-site spa treatments. Our group of yogis and partners shared meals, conversations, adventures a little further afield, and lots of laughs. Of course the highlight of our time was the yoga. I really appreciated the extra couple of days this year, allowing me to settle into the routine of twice daily practice, let go of my niggly worries and plans, and just be present and concentrate on my practice. Jolanta had incorporated meditation and sound healing sessions into the timetable, and this added a wonderful depth to the spiritual yogic journey.
Thank you Jolanta!”Lisa
“The place was magical
The Balinese ayurvedic food, massage and people were nurturing
The yoga was intense and took me to the next level
The sound healing was enlightening
The kirtan on the sea’s edge under the full moon was total bliss
The entire experience was life changing; transformational to body, mind and spirit.
You don’t want to miss the next one – I certainly won’t.”Brian B
“It is difficult to put into words what a truly special experience this retreat in Bali with Jolanta has been. She created a fantastic atmosphere that allowed us to deepen our yoga practice while also exploring sound healing, meditation, a myofascial massage workshop and enjoying wonderful spa treatments. Practicing with the ocean right in front of us – and even witnessing a Blood Moon in Tejakula – made it all feel magical. The food was healthy, varied and simply delicious, and the Gaia team were incredibly attentive and kind. Jolanta’s warmth and care made the whole experience unforgettable – We return home grateful, inspired, and already looking forward to the next retreat.”
Sabina and Ruben
“This Northern Bali yoga retreat at Gaia Oasis was uplifting and transformative with guidance from an inspiring teacher and nourishment from wholesome buffet meals throughout the stay. Two daily yoga sessions that were both motivational and challenging for me. Practicing yoga in such a beautiful environment created a grounding yet demanding environment, where Jolanta gave precise instructions and encouraged deeper awareness in every pose. The experience promoted a strong connection between body and breath, and the setting added an invigorating edge to each session. Being right on the water's edge of the ocean offered me time to experience the elements and practicing yoga by the sea contributed to a sense of peaceful wellbeing throughout the holiday.
This Bali yoga retreat, as my annual holiday, provided a deep sense of renewal……a reminder that Iyengar yoga is a lifelong journey. It was great to spend time with like minded yogis, to share their warmth in establishing new friendships. The retreat also had extra activities of sound healing, kirtan and an optional workshop. All part of the vibrant experience.”
Megan W
“This has been the first opportunity to join a Yoga retreat with Jolanta in Bali for the course of 10 days. Jolanta plainly is a passionate Iyengar teacher, who not only pays precise attention in guiding students to accomplish asanas suited to their level by incorporating a variety of props into her teaching, but also focuses on the significance of BKS Iyengar’s philosophy.
Looking back, I could have not asked for a more suited and serene location in the north of Bali. It certainly made a difference to be surrounded by lush vegetation, the ocean, out of this world friendly Balinese people and wholesome food. Following a 2h+ yoga class in the morning and evening, partakers had plenty of free time to enroll in activities involving the pool, the spa, sightseeing or simply savoring the company of fellow students. Undoubtedly, it was a delight getting to know a bunch of fascinating humans. What’s more, collective gatherings entailing pranayama, sound healing and guided meditations enriched my whole personal experience and I am feeling so much more grounded and appreciative for it all. Gurave Dhanyavāda Jolanta, this is a firm YES for your next held yoga retreat”
Alina
“Thank you Jolanta for another amazing retreat. What a wonderful experience to spend 10 days at magical Gaia Oasis. Tejakula was something a little different - away from the busyness of touristy Bali - we could settle into our home away from home with all meals provided. Creative and healthy dishes with plenty of options made sure our tummies were always full. Our every whim was catered for - all dietary options provided for which exceeded expectations.
We experienced going to sleep to the sound of crashing waves under a beautiful moon. Long lazy afternoons in the hammock and swims aplenty in the pool. Jolanta's yoga sessions were amazing - challenging and some much enjoyed restorative classes too.
Additional meditation, healing and kirtan sessions added to the physical practice and enriched the overall experience. Enough free time allowed a chance to recharge between sessions and indulge in treatments at the spa. I can't thank you enough Jolanta for all your hard work in researching and organising such a wonderful yoga holiday.”Donna L
“WOW!! Just a heartfelt thankyou to Jolanta for a truly amazing and uplifting yoga experience.
It was our first time in Bali and we absolutely loved it. Staff were incredible, accommodation gorgeous, food delicious and location heavenly. We can't wait to return.”
Di & Paul Simonsen
“I was lucky enough to attend Jolanta’s Yoga Gem Retreat for the second year. As was the case last year, Jolanta’s research and commitment to finding just the perfect spot for the retreat meant it did not disappoint. Gaia-Oasis Beach Resort in Tejakula was a truly special place by the ocean, with sunrises that were quite spectacular.
Our room was spacious with a wonderful outdoor shower, and the dining and yoga facilities were great. The spa on site proved to be incredibly popular with everyone, not just me! Having lunch and dinner onsite this year was a real bonus and saved any hard decisions on where to eat dinner each evening, that certainly lead to a very relaxing time and indeed no need to leave the retreat at all, pure bliss.
The staff were simply the best, remembering everyone’s names by day 2! Food was great with plenty of variety each mealtime and always tasty.
I love your yoga retreats Jolanta! We not only have two classes daily but longer classes. I feel as if my journey in Iyengar Yoga is deeper both spiritually and physically following this retreat.
Jolanta, thank you it was wonderful and I will be hoping there is another retreat next year.”
Susie S
“My stay at the Gia Retreat in Tejakula, Bali was nothing short of magical. The yoga retreat led by Jolanta was deeply transformative—her wisdom, warmth, and guidance created a truly sacred space. Surrounded by incredible students, the sense of community was uplifting. The setting was serene and ideal for deep relaxation and inner work. Every meal was a nourishing, 5-star culinary delight, and the accommodation was equally luxurious and peaceful. I left feeling recharged, inspired, and grateful. Highly recommend to anyone seeking a soulful escape.”
Annie M
“My experience at Gaia Oasis in Tejakula was wonderful and I can say the same for Michael.
We were Bali first-timers so were slightly apprehensive about everything including travelling across the island to one of the more remote coastal resorts but am so glad that we did. Our van drivers were great and we got to know our fellow passengers and to see so much! The time flew by.
It felt very special to have a welcoming ceremony at the temple when we arrived, and then to be entertained and enthralled by the beautiful and skilful dancers in their traditional costumes.
The resort was perfect; a village of thatch or terracotta roofed houses, all with their own character, set in beautiful gardens facing the ocean and the rising sun with the large yoga room, dining room, swimming pool in the centre and the spa tucked away at one end.
The staff were so friendly but relaxed. Many of them had been there for more than twenty years and their love of the place was evident. We felt well cared for. The food was delicious and varied.
I loved the fact that this place gives back to the community and that the staff share some of the profits. That felt very good.
The daily routine of getting up to the sunrise, yoga twice a day and sharing meals with everyone was a welcome structure for me. Still plenty of time to swim in the gorgeous pool, or the sea, or have a massage, pop up to the shops or walk up the bush track to the hidden away garden cafe.
The day off allowed us to go on a snorkelling expedition with a few others and that was a delight.
Having some additional workshops - the sound healing, the meditation and the Kirtan led by invited practitioners - elevated the experience, particularly as they were so professional and well prepared. That the Kirtan, held in the garden at dusk, coincided with a full moon was magic!
Thank you for your excellent research, your communication and organisation and your always detailed and compassionate teaching. You created an experience we will treasure and I’m sure we are all very grateful.”
Joanne S
“I have been home for a week and am still zinging. What a magical and mystical experience. From the moment I arrived at Gaia Oasis Retreat in Tejakula I could feel myself start to completely relax and heal in the special elevated energy of the place and its people.
So much to mention - I loved the gentle sea air and the sound of the crashing waves, the beautifully constructed accommodation with unique outdoor bathrooms, the wonderful friendly happy staff and delicious healthy food they grew and created, the endless massages and swims, the incredible sound healing sessions and meditations made all the more auspicious by the Saraswati Festival, blood moon and lunar eclipse.
The yoga was both challenging and exhilarating and it felt like it was magnified by the special octagon yoga studio with its mesmeric powerful high roof. I never imagined I could do so much yoga in a day but I did and it felt so good. Deep gratitude and appreciation to Jolanta for her hard work and inspiring teaching. Also thank you to her for having the imagination to manifest such a magnificent retreat with so many special people. I just don’t want the feeling to end !”Angela H