Retreat FAQ

Everything you need to know before joining a Yogyabalance / Ocean Valley retreat in Portugal. Whether it's your first yoga retreat or you’re returning for another experience, these answers will help you prepare with confidence.

Still Have Questions?

We’re happy to help.

📩 Email: yogyabalance@gmail.com
📅 Or schedule a quick call before booking.

Group of people sitting in a circle on a sandy beach with waves in the background, engaging in a meditative or spiritual activity.

Everything You Need to Know

  • What Makes Your Retreats Different?

    Our retreats combine yoga, mindful practices, nature, and personal growth in a supportive and welcoming environment.

    We focus on creating experiences that balance:

    • movement and stillness
    • personal reflection and community
    • structured workshops and free time

    Hosted in beautiful natural locations, our retreats offer the space to rest, reconnect, and return home feeling renewed.

  • What’s Included in the Retreat Price?

    Your retreat package typically includes:

    ✔ Accommodation
    ✔ Daily yoga, workshops, and guided activities
    ✔ Group ceremonies and community events
    ✔ Airport transfers within scheduled time windows

    Meals

    Most retreats include brunch and dinner.

    Lunch is either:
    • a light self-service option on site
    • or free time to enjoy local restaurants.

    ✈ Flights are not included
    🛡 Travel insurance is strongly recommended

    (Always check the specific retreat page for exact details.)

  • Are Retreats Beginner Friendly?

    Yes. Our retreats are open to all levels, including complete beginners.

    You don’t need experience with yoga, meditation, or retreats.

    All sessions are gently guided, and you’re always encouraged to practice at your own pace.

  • Can I Come Alone?

    Absolutely — most of our guests join solo.

    Many people arrive alone and leave with new friendships and a strong sense of community.

    You can also:
    • join with a friend
    • book a private retreat
    • organize a small group retreat

    Guests who book together receive 10% off their retreat.

  • What is the Typical age Range?

    Most participants are between 30 and 50 years old, with a recommended range of 35–50 from 2025 onward.

    However, what matters most is alignment and openness to the experience, not age.

    If the retreat resonates with you, you're welcome.

  • Do You Offer Payment Plans?

    Yes. Flexible payment plans are available when booking directly with us.

    Payments can usually be spread across 1–4 months, depending on how early you book.

    Contact us and we’ll help arrange a plan that works for you.

  • Can You Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

    Yes. Our chefs can accommodate most dietary needs including:

    • vegetarian
    • vegan
    • gluten-free
    • allergies and intolerances

    Meals are prepared with fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

    Please share dietary requirements when booking.

  • How do I Know if This Retreat is right for Me?

    Our retreats are perfect if you’re looking to:

    • reset and recharge
    • deepen your yoga or mindfulness practice
    • spend time in nature
    • meet like-minded people
    • step away from daily stress

    If you feel the call to slow down and reconnect with yourself, a retreat may be exactly what you need.

  • What is Your Cancellation Policy?

    All retreat payments are non-refundable, as many retreat costs are secured in advance.

    If you need to cancel, your payment may be transferred to a future retreat within 12 months (subject to availability).

    We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.

Our Facilitators

Meet Miguel Contreras

We’re honored to welcome Miguel Contreras, the facilitator of The Art of Pranayama workshop at our upcoming Ericeira Spring Retreat.

🩺 Miguel holds a degree in Medicine from the University of Salamanca and a Master’s in Health Promotion from the National School of Public Health in Lisbon. With over a decade of dedicated yoga practice, his passion lies in Planetary Health—a holistic vision that supports both human well-being and the vitality of our planet.

✨ For Miguel, the breath is a powerful bridge—connecting us with our inner wisdom, the natural world, and each other. Through conscious breathing, we awaken vitality, clarity, and deep presence.

🌿 Based on a peaceful homestead in Santa Cruz, Miguel lives in close connection with nature, sharing life with his partner and children. He teaches yoga, meditation, and breathwork, and also leads nature tours and community projects focused on environmental education, local culture, and ocean literacy in collaboration with local schools and organisations.

A man with curly hair and a beard, wearing a white shirt, speaking to a group of people.


  • Facilitator – The Art of Pranayama Workshop

    Join Miguel

    Deepen your connection to breath, nature, and self at the Ericeira Spring Retreat.

    👉 Explore the full retreat program
    📞 Book a call with us to learn more or reserve your spot.

    We can’t wait to welcome you.

Soundhealing by José Guerra

Training in the field of body and movement, physical activity, sound therapy (sound massage, gongs), Ki astrology, Reiki, Chi Kung, meditation, image, and photography. A significant part of his practice is dedicated to creating beautiful moments of inner exploration and connection through sound, vibration, movement, imagery, and sharing.

A man practicing mindfulness outdoors, sitting cross-legged on grass with a hand raised in a calming gesture, using a handheld musical instrument, with a scenic background of trees and ocean.


  • Sacred Sounds - Vibrational Therapy

    The healing power of sound has been part of human civilisation for thousands of years. We live in a universe of vibration. Everything we feel, see, and touch is pure energy—small, dense particles that we call matter, vibrating in accordance with the laws of creation.