Devi Long Weekend Retreat

28 Feb - 4 March 2019 4 day residential retreat at Kookaburra Creek Yoga over the September long weekend. Immerse yourself in an inspiring long weekend of yoga, meditation, healing, nature and an abundance of vegetarian healing foods. The transformative program is focussed on rediscovering and reconnecting with the spiritual heart of nature through through puja, prayer and sacred mantras. We celebrate Bhu Devi, that aspect of divinity known as Mother Earth.

If you would like a peaceful, immersive yoga retreat close to Perth this September long weekend you're invited to Kookaburra Creek in the Perth hills for the 4 night Devi Yoga Retreat. 

Robert and Mandy will lead you through the soul-centred practices of traditional yoga, focussing on the healing, transformative and supportive aspects of yoga, with practical information to take away & integrate into daily life.

Also included are walks and meditations in the magical, pristine bushland of the Darling Scarp and a deeply healing Sound Journey Meditation. You will also have time for rest and stillness, and be nourished with an abundance of vital, delicious and healing 'sattvic' pure foods.

During the auspicious nine day festival of Devi Mahatma we celebrate the divine feminine in all its forms. In particular here at Kookaburra Creek, surrounded as we are by the intricate beauty of the natural world, we celebrate Bhu Devi, that aspect of divinity known in all cultures around the world as the earth goddess or Mother Earth.There is no more important time in human history to honour, respect and celebrate the wonders and beauty of nature and we do this together over our weekend retreat in a very special way. A way that has the power to transform not only our own relationship with nature but also to heal and repair the essential and fragile balance of life in all its forms.

This retreat is open to everyone offering newer students insight and guidance into beginning yoga and experienced students greater depth and refinement to an established practice. 

Retreat highlights
  • early morning healing meditations
  • daily hatha & yin yoga both indoors and under the trees
  • bush walks to sacred places of natural beauty
  • bonfire, kirtan & chanting 
  • nature meditations, simple rituals and pujas
  • sun and star gazing & forest meditations
  • agni hotra (sunset vedic fire ritual)
  • ​time for rest and reflection
  • sumptuous, soul-nourishing vegetarian food
  • Ayurvedic teas and tonics​
  • lovely, newly renovated accommodation
  • option to camp or stay offsite​

Cost $590 residential - shared room OR $500 camping 
​OR $470 non-residential - stay offsite

​Pay 50% deposit when booking. 50% balance by 10th September.​
Full retreat program & booking details below...
Book the Devi Yoga Retreat

restore the natural balance of life...

kookaburra yoga
Kookaburra Yoga Retreats include a generous balance of yoga, meditation, relaxation, pranayama, knowledge-based sharing, time in nature and opportunities for deep immersion into the yogic lifestyle. Sivananda's traditional hatha yoga is comprised of 5 distinct points which together comprise a balanced and holistic system of self-care and self-awareness. On your retreat you experience and live them all including proper exercise (yoga asana); proper breathing (pranayama); proper relaxation (yoga nidra); proper thinking (meditation); proper diet and lifestyle (sattvic/peaceful food, time in nature). When practiced with sincerity and integrated into everyday life and everyday thinking, traditional yoga perfectly and effortlessly brings balance and harmony to the 5 aspects of self: the body, breath, mind/emotions, wisdom and soul. 

devi mahatma
In the Yogic tradition the Divine Feminine takes three primary forms. Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, rides on the graceful swan, Hamsa and is the font of all learning and music. She is the consort, the balancing force of Brahma the creator. Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance arises from the golden lotus and is the source of fertility and wealth. She is the consort of Vishnu, the sustainer of creation. Shakti or Durga rides the mighty tiger and in all her majesty and power is the goddess of energy. In the form of Kali she governs death and is the consort of Shiva the redeemer.

Bhu Devi and Sri Devi are the twin aspects of Lakshmi. Bhu Devi the earth goddess rules the nature spirits, from Sri Devi arises gratitude and devotion. We have a physical representation of Bhu Devi who rides the owl in miniature bronze statuettes with which we will perform a special symbolic puja or devotional ceremony. Lakshmi is often prayed to in order to gain wealth or material gain but this is a basic misunderstanding based on a distortion of the divine feminine by the masculine principle.

​Patriarchal western culture, with its emphasis on continual and unsustainable economic growth, has usurped this subtle beauty and overlaid it with a grabbing sense of possession. We have been conditioned to try to own it for our personal and individual gain, clinging and holding onto wealth in greed and selfishness. We see the tragic results of this in the destruction of our precious planet, obesity and starvation is almost equal measure, the looming climate crisis and ruthless business practices that justify all means in the pursuit of so called growth.

This puja helps to set things back in balance. Through our worship of Bhu Devi we remind ourselves and through the vibrations we produce, those around us, of the mystery and wonder of self regenerating life and the boundless abundance of nature on which we are entirely dependent for our lives, true happiness, fulfilment and well being.

The masculine aspect, when property understood has an equally important role to play. That is, to create and hold a safe space in which this regeneration can take place. The analogy is that of a bowl, a pedestal in  which herbs and spices are ground to release their healing essence and intoxicating fragrance. The male aspect must chisel and carve the bowl from hard unyielding stone but should never seek to own and hoard the contents for its own benefit alone.

We discover and share the most secret and powerful of all the sacred mantras during the Durga Puja and so in the process, transform ourselves. Those around us cannot help but be affected.

Join us for this transformative weekend. Be the change, now more than ever, we as a human species, need to see.

Retreat schedule

Friday
3.00pm Arrive between 3pm and 5pm. (If you need to arrive later, it's ok - just let us know)
4.00pm Afternoon tea 
5.00pm Welcome & Hatha Yoga 
6.15pm Agni Hotra & Meditation.
7.00pm Dinner
8.00pm Durga Meditation and Puja
​10.00pm Mouna and Sleep

Saturday
6.00am Rise
6.30am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation 
8.00am Hatha Yoga
9.30am Breakfast
10.30am Bush Walk & Meditation
1.00pm Lunch
2.00pm Rest & Mouna
3.30pm Satsang: devi philosophy & practice
4.30pm Tea
​5.00pm Hatha Yoga
6.15pm Agni Hotra & Meditation
​7.00pm Dinner
​8.00pm Lakshmi Meditation and Puja
​10.00pm Mouna and Sleep

Sunday
6.30am Rise
7.00am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation 
8.00am Hatha Yoga
9.30am Breakfast
10.30am Bush Walk & Meditation
1.00pm Lunch
2.00pm Rest & Mouna
3.30pm Satsang: devi philosophy & practice
4.30pm Tea​
​5.00pm Hatha Yoga 
5.50pm Meditation
​7.00pm Dinner
​8.00pm Saraswati Meditation & Havan
​10.00pm Mouna and Sleep

Monday
6.30am Rise
7.00am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation 
8.00am Hatha Yoga
9.30am Breakfast
10.30am Devi Nature Meditation 
12.00pm Closing Circle
1.00pm Lunch & Departure
Staying at Kookaburra Creek...
Picture
Warm, cosy shared living and eating spaces
Picture
We feed your soul...delicious, nourishing, heart-warming sattvic food
Picture
Food is fresh, vital and prepared with love
Picture
Spacious shared bedrooms with either 2, 3 or 4 beds. Fresh, beautiful linen.
Picture
Luxurious, renovated bathrooms
Picture
Wrap around verandahs with hammocks and chairs overlooking the forest

Kookaburra Yoga Retreats...

Making yoga alive and real

The Kookaburra Yoga retreat program brings the history, philosophy and practices of yoga to life. We have an idea in our mind about what yoga is and even what life is, when in fact this is often a dream. The sages, rishis and deities are our alarm clocks - waking us from this this living dream. When you awaken and realise the true nature of things, life takes on a new perspective - infused with light and love. This is the blessing and beauty of a spiritual retreat.

Beautiful & serene venue

Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre was created as a sanctuary for seekers to experience the profound depths of true yoga. The centre has been blessed by our spiritual gurus who's presence, wisdom and influence infuse the program and teachings. The centre and grounds are a beautiful, pristine and vital environment which supports, replenishes and holds you during your retreat. 

Transformational program

The retreat program is designed to inspire, awaken and transform. Transformation happens at a subtle level - the consciousness becomes more subtle, able to perceive more directly. There may be a cathartic release of what is unreal which can be temporarily intense. A guided, professionally facilitated retreat provides you with the supportive framework to identify and release the pains you carry, enabling you to experience the joy of being.

The healing power of nature

Living closely to nature brings us into harmony with both the external environment and our inner nature, enabling an intuitive understanding of what is needed to rebalance and bring healing to the body, mind and soul. On this retreat we meditate within and upon nature, including the sun, the moon and the trees.

Hatha Yoga

Kookaburra Yoga's integrated system of Hatha and Raja Yoga is holistic and beneficial on every level of being. Asanas are of 2 types (both rejuventative/uplifting and restorative/calming) imbued with 4 qualities: those which bring inner quiet; those which bring focus and body awareness; those which bring humility and detachment; and those which increase confidence and vitality.

Daily Rhythm

We establish a rhythm and routine which bring immediate calmness to the body, mind and soul. The schedule for your days and evenings is taken care of, allowing you to relax deeply, immersing yourself in the program and the retreat process. The program includes yoga and meditation into the night, which is balanced by restful periods during the day. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of the forest.

Switch off and reconnect

We unplug from technology, computers, phones, devices and social media for the weekend. By all means bring a book (paper), camera, and provide loved ones with our landline for emergencies. With our focus consciously tuned to experience the present moment, the natural world and our own inner nature we are able to begin the recovery and reintegration of our fragmented attention.

Rest, write, read & reflect

Many people come to a retreat for rest and respite. We have allowed time in the program for  the rest you need and reflection. Our wide verandahs overlooking the creek and forest with comfortable chairs and hammocks are the perfect place to read, write or reflect. 

Sound Healing

Our guest sound healer leads you on a deeply relaxing and healing Sound Journey. Using sacred instruments, gongs and music bowls, the intuitive arrangement of harmonious sounds transports you deeply inward to experience the peaceful state beyond the body and mind. It is in this space healing becomes possible.

Fire Ceremony

Agni Hotra is a purifying vedic fire ceremony performed exactly at sunset and sunrise. The ceremony, which includes burning cow dung and chanting mantras, is purifying to both the environment and to participants. 

Sangha (community)

You'll have the time and the opportunity to get to know and share with others if you wish to. We have some lovely big common areas to relax and mingle. This is balanced with periods of mouna where we keep company with others while maintaining a respectful silence.

Powerful, healing places 

We take extended walks to nearby places in the Wungong and Churchman's Brook reserves. These are places of spiritual significance and natural beauty, and spend time meditating on the scarp, by the river's edge and upon granite boulders. This country is imbued with a powerful life force which is nourishing and healing

Accommodation

We have several onsite accommodation options which include shared rooms in the newly refurbished retreat centre which can accommodate 10 guests in single beds. We have a renovated railway carriage which sleeps two guests in either two singles or a double bed. There is an enclosed gazebo which sleeps two. There are many wonderful locations on the grounds to pitch your own tent - as close or as far from others as you wish to be.

Sattvic Food

Food on this retreat is sattvic - meaning it brings peace and enhances the wellbeing of the body, mind and spirit. All food is plant-based, predominantly organic with much of the produce coming from our own kitchen garden. All cuisine is completely vegan and gluten-free, and is sustainable, pure and real - supporting your body to detox, cleanse and heal.

Total surrender

On retreat we leave behind concerns and distractions to deeply and profoundly realise the spiritual and material benefits of yoga, returning to our lives with renewed energy and focus. We deepen the gratitude in our hearts for both the joys and sorrows of our lives. Both are a gift of love leading us beyond duality to the graceful, limitless centre of ourselves. 

About the facilitators

Robert Becker

Robert has taught yoga and inspired many thousands of students over almost 4 decades here in Australia, and also India, Africa and Europe. Robert is a humble teacher, his yoga is deeply spiritual and real and he is committed to sharing and passing forward the insights and knowledge he has acquired. Robert has a Masters in Psychiatric Social Work and is a professional and skilful group facilitator and spiritual guide. 

Mandy BeckerKnox

Mandy has decades of experience teaching the subtle, powerful and transformational methods of yoga. Her knowledge and insights have been inspired through devotion, consistent practice and learning, and integration of yogic values and concepts into everyday family and professional life. She designs and facilitates Kookaburra Yoga's local and internationl retreats and programs, is a skillful Ayurvedic cook, and mentors young teachers and students. 

Inclusions & Cost
Pay 50% deposit when booking. 50% balance by 10th September.​​

Residential
Camping
​Non-residential
590*
500
470
*Price per person sharing room
*Price per person, BYO tent & bedding 
*Price per person, sleeping offsite
  • 3 nights stay in shared room. Rooms are comfortable each with 2 or more beds.
  • All meals.
  • Full retreat program.
  • 3 nights stay in your own tent, bring your own bedding.
  • Full use of facilities.
  • All meals.
  • ​Full retreat program.
  • All meals.
  • ​Full retreat program​.
  • Full use of facilities during program.

Facts & Questions

Why choose Kookaburra Yoga for your retreat?
  • Established, reputable business. Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre is directed by experienced teachers Robert Becker and Mandy BeckerKnox in Perth, Australia. Kookaburra Creek Yoga is well established having been operating for twenty years.
  • Retreat management experience. Kookaburra Yoga have offered professionally organised and facilitated international retreats for over ten years. Each retreat is carefully planned to ensure the safety and comfort of participants. 
  • Health & Safety. Our venue is maintained to a high standard to support the health and wellbeing of participants. We take every precaution to ensure the hygiene and health of participants.
  • Quality food. Food is an integral part of our retreats and menus and ingredients are planned and considered to ensure they are nourishing, health-promoting and conducive to yoga and meditation.
  • High quality program. Directors Mandy and Robert facilitate all Kookaburra Yoga Retreats. They are both exceptional yoga and meditation instructors with decades of continuing education, self-enquiry and practical teaching experience. They have literally taught thousands of people yoga and to meditate and how to effectively apply the knowledge gained to enhance and transform lives.
  • Professional leadership. Both Robert and Mandy have worked professionally in high-level leadership positions in government and the not-for-profit sector and are leaders and skilful group facilitators able to guide individuals and groups safely through peak experiences and the transformational change which often occurs on retreat. 
  • Value for money. Retreats are fully inclusive with everything included in the cost. There are no additional costs and there are no items or services offered for sale during the retreat.
  • Socially responsible. We care for people and the planet. All our retreats cause as little harm as possible. We are an entirely vegetarian venue.
  • Personal development. Kookaburra Retreats are a wonderful opportunity for personal and professional development. You'll be gently guided to explore limitations and obstacles to achieving your potential and become equipped with the tools, techniques and practical wisdom to evolve and grow. Kookaburra Retreats are transformational and potentially life-changing!
Do I need experience in Yoga to attend this retreat?
No, we welcome anyone who is interested in embarking upon a journey of self enquiry and discovery. The yoga and meditation practices on each retreat are carefully explained and taught in a caring and respectful manner. All of the practices taught can be adapted to suit the needs of each participant.
​WHAT ARE THE VENUE DETAILS?
  • Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre is a purpose-built yoga centre in Bedfordale in the Perth hills with capacity and equipment for 30 students.
  • The centre is set on 10 acres of bushland and is quiet and serene.
  • The residential retreat facility is in separate buildings on the property including the primary residence (accommodation for 15 participants), and two renovated and enclosed gazebos (accommodation for 2 in each gazebo).
  • The grounds and facilities are also suitable for those who may wish to camp in their own tent. Camp sites are close to bathrooms and facilities.
What if I Need to cancel?
  • Your booking and deposit confirms your place, meaning other people cannot book it. Therefore the deposit is non-refundable.
  • ​If you cancel 0-1 week before the retreat the full amount of the retreat is payable.
  • If you cancel 1-2 weeks before the retreat 50% of your payment (minus deposit) will be refunded to you.
  • If you cancel more than 4 weeks prior to the retreat your full payment (minus deposit) will be refunded to you.
  • ​If we have a waitlist and can fill your place from this, all money paid (except for deposit) will be refunded to you regardless of when you cancel. 
What if I am not in perfect condition or if I get sick?
  • You should be fine to attend a if you are in reasonable health. Please check with your own health care provider if you have any concerns or doubts.
  • If you get sick during the retreat, an after hours locum doctor (bulk billed) or you can attend the Armadale Hospital Emergency Department (24 hours emergency) which is 5 minutes by car. 
​WHAT IS THE RETREAT SIZE?
  • Residential - 18 places
  • Camping & Non-residential - 16 places available
  • Total retreat capacity - 28 people
what are the payment options? 
Deposit on booking confirms your place
  • online payments only: credit card, paypal or direct deposit 
  • ​full payment must be received by 1st September 2017
  • deposit is non-refundable if you cancel
What should I bring?
  • clothing for: yoga, bush walking, warmth, swimming, waterproof jacket if raining
  • sturdy shoes for bush walking
  • shawl and warm clothing for meditation and evenings
  • notebook and pen
  • reading material
  • torch
  • mosquito repellant
  • toiletries, personal items
IF CAMPING
  • tent
  • torch
  • ground cover/mattress
  • pillows, blankets (it will be cold at night)
  • bath towel

Book The Devi Yoga Retreat

    Enquiry Form
    ​(I'd like more information)
Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre
210 Carradine Road, Bedfordale WA 6112