Profound relaxation: Yoga Nidra & Sound Bath Weekend Retreat

The therapeutic sense of a Sound Bath

A sound bath, also referred to as a sound bowl session, is a therapeutic practice that involves the use of instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and chimes to create sound vibrations. During a sound bath you lie down with your eyes closed and immerse yourself in the resonating sound waves that travel through the air and your body. The goal is to induce a profound state of relaxation and meditation. The soothing sound waves are believed to have healing properties, helping to alleviate physical, mental, and emotional tension. The teacher skillfully plays the instruments in harmony, creating a serene soundscape for participants to deeply engage with and unwind.

Speaking out your Sankalpa

The Sound Bath serves as a brief introduction to Yoga Nidra. Participants have already learned how to make themselves comfortable and arrive for the session wearing their warmest, most comfortable clothing. In the morning, instructions are given regarding your Sankalpa. A Sankalpa is the formulation of a wish or intention, written on a piece of paper just before the session. It can be something significant you wish to change in your life, a specific goal (like "I want to be in bed by 11:00 PM" or "I will start exercising"), or manifesting a wish or dream into the world.

Yoga Nidra - über relaxation

During the Yoga Nidra session, you'll be gently guided into a deeper state of warmth and relaxation. As you gradually relax, your awareness of your body diminishes, allowing your intention (Sankalpa) to pervade to your core. Unconscious processes unfold, potentially leading to spiritual insights. Eventually, you're gently brought back to the present moment, feeling a noticeable shift in both body and mind.

After the session

After a session of Yoga Nidra, a serene atmosphere often envelops, evoking a desire for solitude. You may feel compelled to seek out a quiet space, allowing room for reflection and the lingering effects of deep relaxation. One of our guests shared: 'Following the Yoga Nidra session, I returned to my room, opened the door, nestled into a cozy spot with a blanket, and enjoyed some time stargazing.'

PureandCure retreats are accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level. Suitable for both beginners and advanced participants, our weekend retreats offer a chance to escape home, immerse yourself in a different environment, and partake in an inspiring program. Ideal for those who may not have the time for an extended journey but still desire a relaxing getaway. Guests share that they feel rejuvenation and recharged, like they have been away for weeks. Our retreat weekends in the Netherlands provide an excellent opportunity to recharge your batteries. Many PureandCure guests choose to attend either alone (40%) or with a friend, partner, parent, colleague, or family member (60%). We follow our principle of "do whatever you love to do - nothing is obligatory!

Reviews of guests

"I'm still thoroughly impressed by the Yoga Nidra, which I didn't expect from myself. It's a wonderful combination of different classes that I really enjoyed. The clear explanations and deepening were great. Definitely recommended and worth repeating. Overall, it was a pleasant and beautiful experience!" - Monique

"This weekend brought two extraordinary experiences: a Sound Bath and a Yoga Nidra. I could completely surrender to the various sounds at the end of Friday evening's class. All thoughts disappeared, and I felt at one with the elements. Then, the Yoga Nidra on Saturday brought an unprecedented level of relaxation. I didn't realize how much tension was stored in my body. I now feel absolutely amazing, relaxed, and energized. Thank you!" - Irina

"I found it a nice change to start with a Sound Bath and have more active classes in the mornings. The Yoga Nidra was particularly enjoyable, as it really brought me into a deep state of relaxation. While I expected the active classes to flow more smoothly, I understand that more explanations may be necessary if participants' yoga experience varies. Thank you very much for a lovely weekend and the great classes!" - Esmee

"It was a special weekend at Mariken's! I've never practiced this form of yoga (Nidra) before, and I've never experienced relaxation like this before! While there wasn't much active yoga, it truly felt like a relaxation weekend! It's important for others to know this beforehand because otherwise, their expectations may not match. Thanks for this new experience!" - anonymous

'It was a nice relaxed weekend, combining moments of calm with activity. The Nidra was particularly pleasant, and the Sound Bath was quite a unique experience. However, starting on Friday at 6:00 felt a bit late as it meant eating dinner quite late. Thank you!" - Niels

About Mariken

This blog is written by Mariken Fliervoet, our multi master in Hatha and therapeutic yoga instructor, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapist, Reiki master, and detox coach. Mariken leads various retreats both domestically and internationally, drawing on her diverse expertise in yoga, nutrition, relaxation, and personal growth. Her primary aim is to help individuals find balance, both mentally and physically, offering personalized attention to support progress at each individual's pace, regardless of your level.

Interested in joining our next Yoga, Wellness & Sound getaway?