21 - 26 APRIL 2024
THE HEART OF AUSTRALIA
ULURU YOGA ADVENTURE
YOGA & MINDFULNESS TREK OUTBACK AUSTRALIA
START: Alice Springs
FINISH: Yulara
DATE: 6 DAYS
September 2023
INVESTMENT:
$3333
GROUP SIZE:
20
Discover the Outback
Embark on an unparalleled journey with Spirasana and YAMA Movement to the sacred heart of central Australia, where the profound energy of Uluru awaits to deepen your connection to the land and yourself. This powerful adventure, long in the making, invites you to explore inward as we travel through stunning landscapes, drawing closer to the earth's elements and radiating gratitude toward the spirits of Uluru. Recognized as the solar plexus of the earth, Uluru’s massive blood-red rock and its intricate folds mirror the sacred spaces within, holding ancient stories and wisdom. Under the guidance of the Anangu tribe’s, we will engage in ceremonies, offering our prayers, songs, and womb wisdom with respect at sacred sites. Each night, our group gathers around the fire for shared stories and deep connections, fostering a sense of community and support on this transformative journey.
Prepare yourself for an authentic experience, explore the raw elements of nature and open your eyes to the beauty of Australia's rugged outback.
About this retreat: BREATHWORK / YOGA / HIKING
This transformative journey empowers you to delve into your internal and external worlds, rediscovering your connection with yourself, nature, and the rhythm of existence.
Uncover personal growth and healing through an immersive blend of adventure, yoga, artistic expression, and physical movement. Equip yourself with practical tools to enhance alignment with your life's trajectory. Strengthen your intuition, cultivate self-therapy, conquer fears, navigate emotions, and foster self-love while engaging, connecting, and resonating with like-minded individuals.
Experience the outdoors, savor nourishing cuisine, cultivate wholesome routines, explore bodily expressions, and embrace the subtle nuances of breathwork and meditation practices. This retreat seamlessly combines learning, exploration, and the application of art and movement to comfort your soul, offering a revitalized perspective on the world. Our adventure retreats are precisely that—adventures! For those ready to participate, unafraid of getting a little messy, conquering challenges, and rekindling their untamed spirit.
Breathwork
Breathwork and Breath Medicine:One of the most transformative experiences awaiting you on this journey is Breath Medicine—a deep, shamanic journey under the stars designed to trigger profound cellular changes and liberate old belief systems. This powerful practice provides an intense, immersive experience that opens the door to significant emotional, mental, and spiritual healing. And just imagine, if this journey is already transformative, the energy of the location will amplify its power, making it an even more unforgettable experience.Beyond this remarkable experience, we'll also incorporate other forms of breathwork throughout the trip. Learn simple yet effective breathing techniques to regulate your nervous system, oxygenate your cells, and establish mindful awareness in your daily routine. From functional breathing to heart coherence breaths, these practices will serve as grounding tools, bringing you back to the present moment no matter where life takes you.
Yoga and Movement:
Daily Yin Yoga sessions, designed to cater to participants at every level. Whether you are taking your first steps into yoga or are an experienced practitioner, our sessions provide a supportive and inclusive space for you to explore the profound benefits of Yin Yoga. This gentle, meditative practice focuses on passive stretches, targeting the connective tissues in the hips, pelvis, and lower spine, inviting your body to slowly open and release tension. Extended hold times, ranging from one to five minutes, allow you to deepen into each pose, encouraging a state of mindful awareness and inner calm.
Guided by our knowledgeable instructor, Elissa, each session is thoughtfully adapted to accommodate all levels, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your practice. As you immerse yourself in Yin Yoga, you will experience its impact not only on your physical body but also on your energetic system. The practice works in harmony with the body’s meridian system, helping to unblock and balance energy pathways and promote a seamless flow of Qi (energy). This holistic approach leaves you feeling rejuvenated, balanced, and deeply connected to your inner self, making every moment of your journey an integral part of your path to well-being.
Hiking & fitness:
This is an active trip involving a hike every day plus general walking around the campsites and destinations. However, we always take hikes at a reasonable pace and have plenty of breaks to catch our breath, we are here to enjoy nature and this experience - not to push ourselves to our physical limits! To make the most out of this trip a reasonable level of fitness is required to enjoy all the hikes, but you may choose to sit out on a particular activity at any time if you feel you want to rest at the camp or a nearby safe spot such as a cafe or information center.
The hikes:
Uluru base walk - 10km (or 5km half). Flat easy path.
Valley of the Winds - 7.4km. Moderate varying/uneven terrain, some steep inclines and stairs.
Kings Canyon Rim Walk - 6.5km. Moderate varying/unever terrain, some steep inclines and stairs.
Ormiston Pound Walk - 8km mountain trail, rough/uneven terrain with lots of stairs.
Medium-impact hikes, offering an engaging exploration of the great outdoors.
Trip Highlights
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Grounded yoga classes in nature at places such as Uluru, Kings Canyon, and the West Macdonnell Ranges.
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Mindfullness and Meditation activities to deepen our connection to ourselves and nature.
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Sleep under the brilliant outback stars in swags around a campfire.
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Walk the base of Uluru and learn about Anangu culture on an idigneous guided walk (covid restrictions dependant).
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Hike the spectucular Kings Canyon and meditate in the Garden of Eden.
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Cool off with a swim in many stunning oasis waterholes.
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Hike the Ormiston Pound Walk, one of the outbacks most pictureque mountain scape.
Itinerary
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Overview8/05 - Arrival and settle into your hotel in Labuan Bajo (Theory of freediving) 9/05 - Early start for a full-day exploration of Cunca waterfall, mirror cave house & Ranko Caves. Back to hotel dinner and early night sleep 10/05 - Transfer to boat Labouan to Sebayur Besar 11/05 - Sebayur besar - Gili Lawa Darat 12/05 - Gili Lawa Darat - Makassar Reef - Pink beach - komodo village 13/05 - Komodo Island - Long Beach - Padar Island 14/05 - Padar - Rinca island - Kalong Rinca 15/05 - Kalong rinca - Manjerite - Kelor Island - Labuan Bajo 16/05 - Breakfast and checkout ( airport transfer)
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DAY 1Arrival & Introduction to Freediving Location: Settle in at the Hotel room, Labuan Bajo after your airport transfer. Activity: Engage in a thorough freediving theory session. Dining: Enjoy a communal dinner and gear up for the following day's exploration. Upon landing at Labuan Bajo Airport, a transfer will escort you to the Hotel. Use this day to unwind. At 3 pm, we'll convene ( WhatsApp group will highlight the meetup point) for an introductory free diving theory lesson. This is followed by a group dinner out in the town and an early bedtime in preparation for tomorrow’s escapades.
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DAY 2Immersing in Nature's Beauty & Captivating Sunsets Morning: Delve into the pristine waters of Cunca Wulang Waterfall after a scenic trek. Mid-Day: Admire the radiant interplay of light at the Mirror Cave House and relish a meal at a local restaurant. Afternoon: Experience the serene Rangko Cave with its enchanting natural pool. Evening: End the day at Sylvia Hill, capturing the mesmerizing golden sunset. We leave the hotel at 8:30 am for Cunca Wulang Waterfall, a picturesque 45-minute trek from Wersawe village. The vivid blue waters set amidst majestic rocks are a sight to behold. Dive in, or even jump! Next, we head to Mirror Cave House, where sunlight bounces around like a dream. Lunch is at a local eatery. Rangko Cave, accessed via a 1-hour drive and a boat ride, boasts a serene natural cave pool. Lastly, Sylvia Hill promises a breathtaking sunset - a perfect finale.
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DAY 3Beginning the Sebayur Besar Adventure Onboard Experience: Make the traditional Phinisi boat, Natural 001, your home for the coming days. Sebayur Besar: Dive into its calming waters and, later, witness a panoramic sunset after a short trek. Relaxation: Wind down with a rejuvenating Yin yoga class beneath the vast expanse of the starry sky. Our new abode awaits! Named Natural 001, this traditional Phinisi boat will be our home for six days. Our journey starts with Sebayur Besar, showcasing Komodo's pristine waters. Its shallow reefs and gentle currents offer a soothing introduction. A hike reveals Sebayur Besar’s unmatched sunset panoramas. After descending, relax with Yin yoga on the boat, and savor the view.
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DAY 4Encounters with Turtles & Breathtaking Landscapes Siaba Besar: Engage with the resident green turtles in the waters of the "Turtle City." Evening Trek: Head to Gili Lawa Darat and immerse yourself in the bay's panoramic vistas and awe-inspiring landscapes. Kickstart the day with yoga and breakfast. We then sail to Siaba Besar, also known as "Turtle City", home to many green turtles. The crystalline waters are perfect for honing our freediving techniques. By afternoon, we're anchored at Gili Lawa Darat, near Komodo Island, with a trek that promises magnificent bay views.
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DAY 5Manta Rays, Unique Beaches & Local Culture Taka Makasar Reef: Dive and possibly swim alongside the graceful manta rays. Pink Beach: Relax on the world-renowned Pink Beach of Komodo Island, known for its unique hue. Komodo Village Visit: Immerse yourself in local culture, home to both fishermen and the iconic Komodo dragons. We set course for Makassar Reef, famous as Manta Point. The sands of Gili Makasar beckon before we venture to Komodo Island's unique Pink Beach. We anchor for the night at Komodo Village, a mix of local life and dragon lore.
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DAY 6Exploring the Legendary Komodo & Mesmerizing Landscapes Komodo Island: Kick start your day with a morning yoga session, followed by an encounter with the legendary Komodo dragons. A team of rangers will ensure your safety. Long Beach: Bask in the sun on a pristine white sandy beach. Padar Island: Often referred to as the 'Jurassic Park', this island is a visual treat. Don't miss the trek that offers a panoramic view of one of the most breathtaking landscapes. After yoga and breakfast, we meet the fabled Komodo dragons. The day continues at Long Beach’s untouched sands. Later, Padar Island awaits, evoking visions of Jurassic Park. A trek here unveils a surreal panorama. Sunset, dinner, and rest cap off the day.
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DAY 7Wildlife Adventures & Sunset Delights Morning Yoga: Start with a refreshing yoga session and a hearty breakfast. Rinca Island: A short boat ride will take you to the ranger station on Rinca, followed by a trek to witness more of the famed Komodo dragons. Kalong: Named after the Indonesian word for 'bat', experience the magic as thousands of flying foxes take to the sky at dusk. Following our yoga routine and breakfast, we set sail for Rinca, home to more Komodo dragons. A ranger-led trek offers three duration options. Later, we cruise to Kalong, hoping to catch the spectacle of flying foxes emerging at dusk.
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DAY 8Final Freediving & Farewell to Natural 001 Morning Routine: Engage in your daily yoga session and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Manjerite: Dive into crystal-clear waters, marveling at the vibrant coral reefs. Kelor Island: Your last freediving destination and viewpoint trek. Labuan Bajo: Bid farewell to the Natural 001 and transfer back to Kalton Hotel for one last evening of shared memories. The day begins with yoga and breakfast. At Majerite, immerse in the last of our freediving experiences amidst vibrant corals. We then proceed to Kelor Island for diving and a scenic hike. As evening falls, we bid farewell to Natural 001 and return to our Hotel.
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DAY 9Day 09 - Labuan Bajo (Breakfast) Congratulations! You are now a certified freediver. This moring, we will have our last yoga class together followed by breakfast. Hotel checkout & airport transfer are provided. Our journey concludes here - Safe travels!
Accommodation
Nestle beneath the unbroken canopy of brilliantly lit starlit nights in cozy modest, cute and comfortable, single occupancy swag, snuggle in a watch the beautiful bright night show of the outback night sky.
2 man tents will also be provided on tour for unexpected weather. All transport local guide, yoga and meditation, and all meals for 6 days will be provided.
Prices and dates
21 - 26 APRIL 2024
Information
GETTING THERE:
This adventure begins in Alice Springs at 7:30am on the first day of the trip, so you should book your flights in to Alice Springs airport the day before. For accomodation we recommend either Alice's Secret Hostel for a cheaper option, or The Mercure for a nicer hotel. We will pick you up from any accomodation of your choice, just send us an email before the trip to let us know where your staying.
Finish point:
We will finish our journey at Uluru on the last day around midday. You can book any flight leaving Uluru (Connellan) Airport after 12pm, or alternatively stay another night in the Ayres Rock Resort and fly out the following day. Be aware that rooms at the Ayres Rock Resort can be pricey so book this as far in advance as possible if you wish to stay longer.
You can also join us for the roadtrip back to Alice Springs if you prefer. We will be leaving that afternoon and arriving around 6pm
Included:
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Camp gear: swag, sleeping bag, tent.
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Transport to all destinations.
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All meals: 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners; plus lots of yummy snacks.
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5 yoga classes lead by an experienced yogi.
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Yoga mat.
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Aborigional guided walk at Uluru.
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National park passes & campsite fees.
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2 qualified and experienced local guides.
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR :
Our trips are gender-inclusive, If you are young at heart and free-spirited you are perfect for our adventures! In saying this, the average age of our groups is 20-45 years old.
IMPORTANT!! PLEASE PACK LIGHT :
Please note: We have limited space for bags, please bring a small soft duffle bag no bigger than 56cm x 36cm x 23cm for a point of reference this is about the standard luggage allowance for airlines carry-on baggage. Any larger bags will not be accepted. If you wish to bring extra luggage for after the trip most hotels in Alice have luggage storage. ( Best to double-check with your selected accommodation).
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Day clothes (temps will be around 30°) shorts and shirt will be fine in the day.
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Warm jacket and warm pants – night time temperatures can drop to 5°. I would suggest a winter jacket, a long sleeve shirt, track pants and warm tights.
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Swimmers- if you would like to swim in the water holes.
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Hiking shoes- sneakers are okay, but there will be some rough terrain, so make sure they are sturdy.
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Sandals/thongs
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Hat
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Toiletries (don’t forget chapstick and moisturiser – its dry here!)
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Camera/gopro
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Chargers
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Battery pack
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Head torch and spare batteries (a must!!!)
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Fly net
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Day pack
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Water bottles or camelback
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Travel pillow
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Towel
Facilitators
ELISSA CHRISSON
Yoga teacher
Hello! My name is Elissa Chrisson, and I'm the proud founder of Yama Movement, a community and space dedicated to holistic well-being and the exploration of movement. My journey into the depths of yoga and self-discovery led me to spend a transformative decade in India, where I immersed myself in the practice and study of traditional yoga.
During those years, I learned not just the physical aspects of yoga, but also delved deep into its philosophical roots and meditative practices. I absorbed the culture, the wisdom, and the spiritual energy that India is renowned for, and it has profoundly shaped my approach to teaching and living.
I've always believed in the power of movement as a pathway to finding balance, inner strength, and peace. With Yama Movement, I've created a space where others can join me in this journey of exploration and self-discovery through movement, yoga, and community. I'm thrilled to share the wisdom and experiences I've gathered along the way, and I look forward to connecting with each and every one of you at Yama Movement.
MADDI AMBROSE
Outback guide
Hi, I’m Maddie Ambrose, your experienced guide and ecologist, ready to lead you through the outback’s vast expanse. With six years navigating its terrains, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to our adventures. My background in ecology not only deepens our journey’s educational aspect but also ensures a mindful approach to exploring and appreciating this rugged yet delicate ecosystem. Let’s uncover the outback’s secrets and marvel at its beauty together!