Easter Vigil Yoga Retreat

14-17 April  2017 4 day/3night residential retreat at Kookaburra Creek Yoga. A refreshing chance to take a short break from your busy schedule and immerse yourself in an inspiring Easter weekend of yoga, meditation & healing in a natural, nurturing environment.  
If you would like a peaceful, immersive yoga retreat experience close to Perth this Easter, you're invited toKookaburra Creek in the Perth hills for a 4 day Easter Vigil 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 and integrate into daily life.

The program includes mindful, joyful activities including walks and meditations in the magical, pristine bushland of the Darling Scarp and a meditative Sufi circle dance and a deeply healing Sound Journey. You will also have time for rest and stillness and be nourished with cleansing, healing 'sattvic' pure foods.

In the evenings we keep 'vigil' over our hearts and minds through vedic ritual, kirtan and both guided and solitary meditation into the night. This is a wonderful opportunity to rejuvenate your soul and rediscover inner peacefulness and calm.

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

​Full retreat program and booking details below...
"Your heart is the light of this world. Don't cover it with your mind" Mooji
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 
  • 'vigil' meditation into the night
  • ​moonlight walks & yoga nidra under the stars
  • sun and star gazing, moonbaths & forest meditation
  • agni hotra (sunset vedic fire ritual)
  • yoga philosophy: advaita vedanta
  • ​time for rest and reflection
  • sumptuous, soul-nourishing vegetarian food
  • Ayurvedic teas and tonics​
  • lovely, newly renovated accommodation
  • option to camp or stay offsite
Vigil
To keep vigil means to stay awake at times we would normally sleep - to keep watch, to pray, to meditate - on the eve of a holy day.  Regardless of which religion we follow, Easter is the time to acknowledge an important and significant Christian celebration - the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It's also an opportunity to look inwards at those aspects of our lives we could shed and renew - to rise up and shine, and reflect on the deeper spiritual meaning of Easter - the endurance and permanence of the inner divine spirit and renewal of the inner light.
Darkness
Within each of us, there is always an interplay of both 'darkness' and 'light'. The practices of yoga lead us through these polarities to discover the brilliant, unwavering inner light which is our soul. The Easter Vigil Retreat begins with an acknowledgement of the darkness within the world and our own hearts. We light a bonfire and chant together the sacred and beautiful Mahamrityujaya Mantra offering those aspects we wish to shed or transform to the flames. 
Light
We meditate into the night under the light of the stars, keeping the purifying flame alight within our awakened hearts. We listen with quiet minds to the messages of surrender, love and grace which flow into and through us. This sets the tone and mood for our retreat - delving directly and deeply into the spiritual yogic traditions which deepen our connection with our own inner nature, and the healing and peaceful forest around us. 
Grace
Without the distraction and stress of the constant thinking, doing, and acting which characterises our everyday lives we discover a silent centre, where we discern a deeper, spiritual presence. Immersing our mind and consciousness here within our centre we awaken to grace which powerfully illuminates and transforms our lives. We return to our lives with a lighter heart, with flow rather than resistance to the ever changing nature of life.​
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The healing and rejuvenative power of being amongst the trees

Retreat program

Friday
2.00pm Arrive between 2pm and 3.30pm. If you are camping allow time to pitch your tent and prepare your sleeping space.
4.00pm Afternoon tea
5.00pm Hatha Yoga under the trees
5.50pm Agni Hotra & Meditation
Sunset healing and purifying vedic fire ritual.
7.00pm Dinner
8.30pm Moonlight Walk & Yoga Nidra under the Stars
​10.00pm Rest and Sleep 

Saturday
6.00am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation & Dawn Prayer
7.00am Hatha Yoga
8.30am Breakfast
10.00am Sacred Bush Walk & Meditation
1.00pm Lunch
2.00pm Sufi Circle Dance
4.00pm Afternoon Tea
​5.00pm Hatha Yoga under the trees
5.50pm Agni Hotra & Meditation
​7.00pm Dinner
​8.00pm Bonfire, Fire Ceremony & Kirtan
9.00pm Chai, then 'Vigil' Silent Meditation

Sunday
6.00am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation & Dawn Prayer
7.00am Hatha Yoga
8.30am Breakfast
10.00am Sacred Bush Walk & Meditation
​(swimming in river - weather permitting)
1.00pm Lunch
2.00pm Sufi Circle Dance
4.00pm Afternoon Tea
​5.00pm Hatha Yoga under the trees
5.50pm Agni Hotra & Meditation
​7.00pm Dinner
​8.00pm Candlelit Kirtan & Sound Healing Journey
9.00pm Chai, then Silent Meditation

Monday
6.00am Mano Yoga Healing Meditation & Dawn Prayer
7.00am Hatha Yoga
8.30am Breakfast
10.00am Forest Meditation & Closing Circle
1.00pm Lunch & Departure
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens."
​Carl Jung

About this retreat

Making yoga alive and real

The Easter Vigil Retreat provides a program and platform to make yoga real and alive for you. We have an idea in our mind about what yoga is and even what life is, when in fact this is merely a dream. The sages, rishis and teachers of yoga are our alarm clocks - the ones who are already awake within 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 Easter Vigil 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, facilitated retreat provides you with an opportunity to release the many pains you carry. You are then free to go beyond the person 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.

Agni Hotra

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 purfying to both the environment and to participants. On Easter Saturday night we also light an impressive bonfire for a more elaborate Puja before our 'Vigil' Meditation.

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 Kookaburra Yoga's retreats and programs, is a skillful Ayurvedic cook, and mentors young teachers and students. 

Inclusions & Cost

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.
  • Surcharge for private options.
  • 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.

* This retreat is now fully booked. Please use contact form below to be added to the waitlist.

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 40 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 10 participants), a renovated railway carriage (accommodation for 2 - surcharge of $30 per person applies for this option), a renovated and enclosed gazebo (accommodation for 2).
  • The grounds and facilities are also suitable for those who may wish to camp in their own tent.
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 - 12 places
  • Camping & Non-residential - 14 places available
  • Total retreat capacity - 26 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 April 2016 
  • 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

Book Now

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