becoming increasingly popular, and I have many people returning to them regularly. Don’t take my word for it, please read below what Gemma McCaw and Beryl say about these Kimi Ora retreats.These special weekend retreats start on Fridays. My car is always so full when I pack it to go to a retreat that it looks like I’m moving out, and I’ve got everything in there but the kitchen sink. Then I enjoy the scenic drive to the Kimi Ora Resort in Kaiteriteri. This is a short drive from Nelson through picturesque Motueka. The Resort sits up on a hill overlooking the beautiful Kaiteriteri beach which is decidedly the best beach on the South Island. The golden colour of the sand comes from a high quartz content which glitters in the sun.
Because I have been to Kimi Ora so many times teaching wonderful retreat weekends it feels to me like going home. And the team at Kimi Ora are always so welcoming, especially Suzi, the receptionist who always works there on the retreat weekends.
Most retreat participants arrive between 3 and 5 pm on Friday. They settle into their rooms and have a cup of tea while catching up with other retreat participants or enjoy their first soak in the spa pool to unwind. Some arrive tired and stressed, taking this special time off is a real treat. We all deserve a break from our busy lives, which can be like running on a hamster wheel.We start our retreats with the first yoga class at 6 pm. I always notice how everybody starts to feel calmer after the first class, even though they might not always feel that they have fully arrived yet. They usually feel that way after the Saturday morning yoga class.
After yoga, we get together for a light meal and share and connect before a short mindfulness video (or similar) and meditation. Then we retreat early to our rooms to catch up on sleep.
On Saturday, in-between yoga classes, participants have time to explore this stunningly beautiful area with activities like mountain biking, hiking, paddle boarding or kayaking. Or they can relax and enjoy their free time in the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful resort. Resort activities include native bush walks, unique glow-worm walks, scenic beach walking, swimming in either the indoor or outdoor pool, relaxing in the spa pools, saunas, and
steam room, or just reading a book on the sun deck overlooking the breathtaking Kaiteriteri beach.I love the way these retreat weekends are fun and full of laughter – sometimes the best medicine. As we laugh and relax, our positive energy arises. This reminds me of how interconnected we are, as the energy created through shared laughter relieves stress and builds connections.
According to the participants of previous retreats, the highlights of these retreats are the diverse yoga classes, the mindfulness walking in nature, the delicious breakfast buffets and the shared dinners, and the transformational group workshop with my husband, Kieron Goodwin, on Sunday morning.
Each of these retreats is different. I prepare thoroughly for them and include new ideas and practices to keep them fresh and interesting. And then, of course, once everyone is there and I have the time to tune into the group and the individual participants, the classes and itinerary can be as flexible as required.Here are what two participants say about these retreats: “I had the opportunity to attend a Kimi Ora Yoga and Mindfulness retreat with Jamila Knopp in June. I was blown away by the weekend. It was the perfect balance between being able to get away to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and practising yoga, mindfulness and meditation. Jamila was able to cater to everyone’s needs in our class, from beginners to the more advanced yogi, and she was always happy to adjust poses when required, which was extremely helpful. I would highly recommend Jamila’s retreats for the perfect balance of restoration and learning more about yoga and mindfulness with a kind, calm and caring approach.” – Gemma McCaw
“The Kimi Ora yoga and mindfulness retreats with Jamila are a fantastic way to recharge your batteries and reset your goals. I have thoroughly enjoyed both retreats that I have attended over the past 6 months. The group is made up of about 14 adults. You don’t need to know anyone prior to attending as it is your own journey. However, I met so many lovely women during these retreats who have now become friends. It is a wonderful time for sharing and learning. The beauty is that everyone has their own purpose for being there. I particularly enjoyed the yoga and taking time out to be
actively mindful. Jamila is amazing, she puts in so much effort that sometimes we are unaware of. Thank you, Jamila, for igniting my quest for learning and for learning to be more present.” Beryl – Nelson
These retreat weekends are affordable, relaxing and can be transformational. If you feel like taking time out to unwind, rejuvenate, de-stress and revive, then join me for an amazing retreat in the most beautiful location at Kimi Ora Eco Resort in Kaiteriteri.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if interested, or click here for more info. I would love you to join me at one of my yoga & mindfulness retreats.
Best wishes,
Jamila