This weekend retreat promises to recharge your batteries and soothe your soul, whilst enjoying a truly beautiful location on earth and experiencing the best of real, authentic Italian life. A total treat for the mind, body and spirit with like minded people and friends. 

After an amazing retreat here in May 2024, I'm excited to invite you to join me in Ischia, Italy for four nights where I’ll be your teacher, host, guide and friend during our weekend of yoga, energy work, relaxation, sight-seeing, fun and laughter. A perfect mix of yin and yang, alternating rest and activity.

Ischia is a small island located off the Bay of Naples,  with a laid back, relaxed and friendly vibe. Our peaceful paradise is nestled away from the tourist areas and crowds, yet only a short walk or drive from the pretty villages of Sant’ Angelo and Panza, and within five minutes walking distance of the Sorgeto Hot Springs, natural thermal waters to bathe and restore.

I chose this gorgeous location after originally visiting here with my mum for her 80th birthday in May 2023 and I just knew I had to offer a retreat here, so the seeds were planted and my dream became a reality in May 2024!  I was blown away by how charming, beautiful, lush, friendly and amazing this place is. Completely immersed in nature, whilst small enough to explore the many wonders it has to offer, I fell in love instantly with Ischia. I just knew I had to share this with you. Anything is possible.

Whilst complete exclusivity of the venue is not guaranteed as other guests may be staying there also, your room allows for total privacy or you can join the others for get togethers and enjoy the best of both worlds, sipping coffee or a cocktail, whatever takes your fancy. 

Our morning yoga will take place outdoors in the garden, surrounded by stunning sea views, lush green vegetation and beautiful flowers and for our afternoon sessions we can use the brand new indoor yoga studio, where you can retreat from the sunshine for a restful and rejuvenating yoga session whilst I guide you through yin yoga and yoga nidra (yogic sleep.) 

This is time out for you. To press pause and reset. No judgement, no pressure here. A yoga retreat with an emphasis on self care, healing and the education and inspiration to make positive life changes, whilst enjoying the incredible Italian hospitality and all its splendours, including an amazing private trip to Positano, a romantic little town on the Amalfi Coast whose colourful houses cling precariously to the hillsides overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Positano is one of Italy's most picturesque towns and one of the most beautiful on the Amalfi Coast.

This Italian Yoga Retreat promises to help recharge your batteries so you can bounce back from life’s challenges, make new friends and return home with calm and a renewed vitality. All whilst enjoying a stunning hidden gem in a peaceful paradise.

What can you expect from this wonderful experience? 

Well, good times and good vibes for sure!

Ischia offers agricultural produce of exquisite quality and incomparable taste due to both its unique climate and volcanic soil.

There are many high quality restaurants that combine the use of local produce, offering a wide range of Italian, traditional dishes 

Your retreat includes 4 vegetarian breakfasts and 4 vegetarian dinners, trip to Positano on the Amalfi Coast and all excursions and transport, allowing you to sample some of the local restaurants whilst we are out and about sight-seeing the stunning picturesque towns.

On arrival day, our first special welcome dinner at our Italian home is to meet up, unwind, relax with a cocktail and then an early night ready for the morning yoga then set our intentions for our week together.

What do you want to experience during our special time together? 

What is your heart’s desire? The universe is listening, the wheels are in motion and it’s time to get excited!

I have loads of knowledge to share due to my extensive and varied yoga teacher trainings,  life experience and 10 international retreats to date, so you can trust that you’re in safe hands with myself and also the fantastic team at our hotel, family run for over 40 years with pride and dedication to making your visit a truly sensational one. 

Admiring the sensational views goes without saying!

Ischia is a hidden gem that I’d love you to discover; the pace of life is so relaxed and retains an unruffled air of easy grace, a feeling of going back in time, in a good way of course! 

One truly memorable experience after another awaits you to take your breath away and keep you in the perfect present moment!

The itinerary has been designed to give you a good balance to rest, recharge, invigorate and restore, along with enjoying the Italian lifestyle and lots of good old down-to-earth fun and laughter!

Each yoga session will be different, every morning will be either 2 hours or 1.5 hours and some late afternoons or evenings of around 1 hour, depending on excursions.

The program will be tailored around the group’s needs as we journey through the week and get the good vibes flowing. There will be gentle Restorative Yoga/Yoga Nidra on arrival to replenish you after travelling and a mix of yin & yang for most morning sessions to move the energy and wake up the body.

Gentle flow, yin yoga, acu-yin and fascia work will be incorporated to move any stuck emotions and to stimulate energy flow further as well as guided meditations to help you feel lighter and brighter!

My unique blend of yoga will educate and inspire you to make the positive changes that will help you to move forward and achieve your dream life. Anything is possible! I share the tools, knowledge and wisdom that has the powers to transform and elevate your life. 

The wellness centre facilities are included for you to enjoy freely. 

Massages and special treatments can be booked for an additional charge.

• Experience joy, fun, laughter and adventure with like-minded people
• Release emotional baggage from the past and live a life you enjoy
• Stimulate your senses whilst immersing yourself in lots of healing yoga
• Embrace the tranquillity and relaxed vibes of Ischia, whilst relaxing in this perfect location to enjoy the beauty of nature at its best
• Visit the world famous Positano on the Amalfi Coast 
• Opportunity to learn from a highly qualified experienced registered yoga teacher (ERYT500) with over 900 hours of Yoga Alliance teacher training to advanced level.

Our hotel is located in a quiet area, near Sant‘Angelo, one of the most authentic parts of Ischia, in prime position to observe it through the eyes of those who live there. You can never lose touch with nature, completely immersed in a tranquil part of the island so lush and green, surrounded by the sea.

Only 200 metres and approximately 200 steps from the source of Sorgeto, only 5 minutes walk away. It hosts a pebble beach and is famous for its warm thermal waters, which form natural pools where you can swim all year round and at all hours: an experience you absolutely should try.

Only 2 kilometres from the hotel is the picturesque village of Sant'Angelo, probably the most beautiful place on the Island of Ischia. It’s a fishing village, with numerous colourful alleys that expand forming a fascinating labyrinth, and a small square with mouth-watering restaurants just a few steps from the sea. You can let yourself be tempted by their fab shopping or simply walk and get lost in the thousand glimpses opening up before your eyes.

This stunningly pretty 3-star hotel is located on a hillside, overlooking the bay of Naples, the Tyrrhenian Sea and Capri. Although right in the heart of Ischia, it’s a quiet and perfect retreat destination. A small family run property for over 40 years, where every member has an important role, which they play with energy and dedication, to make your experience extra special, outstanding hospitality, making you feel welcomed into the warmth of their home and the relaxed joy of a true family. You will instantly feel calm, peaceful and relaxed, knowing that all your needs will be taken care of. Happy, positive vibes just ooze from this place!

The restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties, subject to seasonality in a dream setting; the panoramic room or terrace suspended between sky and sea, a small corner of paradise that offers a wonderful view of the town of Sant' Angelo that promises to take your breath away.

Breakfast

We all know the importance of a good breakfast! Every day, it’s possible to choose between sweet and savoury flavours, with a rich choice that always includes numerous homemade desserts, croissants, brioches and bread of different types. In addition, homemade jams and Nutella, cereals, yoghurt, fresh fruit, salads, cheeses and eggs. There are many gluten-free products and alternative types of milk suitable for vegans and lactose intolerant. The outdoor terrace offers a splendid panorama; the perfect way to fuel your body and senses after your morning yoga session. The perfect way to start your day. (As a vegan myself I was very impressed with the array of options on offer and was more than satisfied!) Breakfast is included every day as part of your retreat package. If your departure time is before 8am, a small take out snack can be arranged.

Lunch

Lunch is not included in the retreat package, allowing for flexibility for excursions, free time etc. however the restaurant is open every day between 12.30pm to 2.30pm offering appetisers, first and second courses if you wish to enjoy a light lunch or even have it delivered to your spot at the pool. That’s what I call service! These can be charged to your room to be settled on check out.

Dinner

The restaurant at the hotel uses quality ingredients, many grown in their own gardens and offers the opportunity to taste Mediterranean and Ischia cuisine. Open every evening, from 7pm to 9.15pm, the chef is always ready to meet specific needs and desires. A welcome meal, farewell dinner and additional evening at the hotel and two at local restaurants are included in the retreat package (all vegetarian) which will include first and second courses and some side dishes to share. 

Swimming pools

Our hotel on the Island of Ischia has a swimming pool with hot geothermal water, with a temperature from 30 °C to 40 °C, as well as a swimming pool at room temperature, variable between 18 °C and 22 °C, there’s also a jacuzzi with hot geothermal water at a temperature between 30 °C and 40 °C. These pools are surrounded by a large relaxation area and gardens with a panoramic view, which allows you the opportunity to completely unwind, melt away stress and feel at peace.

Wellness Spa

To further enhance your relaxation we have the pleasure of being able to use the soothing wellness spa, which includes a hot thermal bath/jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, rain showers and complimentary water.

Massages and special treatments can be booked at an additional charge.

Rooms

• Soundproofed room
• Private terrace in the Bay of Sant’ Angelo
• Double bed or separate beds with double pillows
• Free Wi-Fi connection
• Air conditioning and heating with autonomous regulation
• Satellite LCD TV and international channels
• Bathroom in Vietri ceramics with shower box
• Hairdryer and a courtesy line
• Electronic key for access and light control
• Telephone
• Toiletries (shower gel, shampoo, conditioner)

Being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome then complex PTSD, depression and anxiety fifteen years ago left me unable to function. I led myself down the holistic route to get my health and, ultimately, my life back, and along the way stepped into my role as a teacher and wellness guide centred around yin yoga and stress management.

I love sharing my practice with others. This powerful journey has so far involved over eight hundred hours of Yoga Alliance teacher training and I won’t stop there! I just love learning, it’s my new addiction!

I’ve studied and trained in hatha, ashtanga, vinyasa, aerial, yin, yin yang, acu-yin, yoga for trauma recovery and recently added restorative and yoga nidra. 

I discovered yin yoga on my very first teacher training course in India.

Why haven’t I found this sooner? We find what we need when the time is right.

Yin is where my healing was ignited and kick-started into gear! It’s why I had to delve deeper with the advanced yin yoga teacher training and then acu-yin. The common thread through all my yoga teachings is to switch off the stress.

Whilst being treated for complex PTSD, I developed a fascination with how the human brain works. What my consultant shared with me about my brain was incredible, and I needed to know more so I dived right in there into the world of metaphysics! This then led me into gaining my PhD in Metaphysical Science. Isn’t it just mind-blowing how things turn out?! I never imagined I’d be able to use my brain, and heal my body and mind, to the extent that I have.

The intensity and depth of my yoga training and academic studying and the way in which they come together in my sessions have created my unique style of teaching yoga.

Postures, nurture and calm are combined with the brain science behind the practice and meticulous preparation, bringing wisdom and learning from many different sources into each session, hence, MindScienceYoga, made simple.

Education and inspiration is woven into my teachings and comes from my own personal experiences, providing the essential knowledge for healthy stress management. When we assign meaning to what we do we get better results. And that, my friend is a scientific fact, according to one of my fave docs, Dr. Joe Dispenza.

Allow me to teach you how to bring in balance, stillness and healing and help you to overcome life’s challenges so that you can enjoy the life you deserve, full of health, peace, happiness and joy. Isn’t that what we all want?!

Yin yoga is a meditative, healing form of yoga, which works on a deeper level into the connective tissues and organs, lubricating the body and releasing toxins and negative emotions. It invites you to enter a space of stillness, whilst combining the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and ancient Indian wisdom.

It restores, balances and enhances the energy flow throughout the body, interconnecting every tissue and organ, through invisible pathways, removing blockages, the precursors to illnesses. This works like acupuncture but without the needles!

Each organ has many energetic components that affect us physically, emotionally and mentally. Our bodies carry a record of all our experiences in our lifetime and all experiences carry an emotional charge.

Over the years any trauma, bad relationships, betrayals, stressful jobs and grief can actually affect our physiology. As a result, they can break down the immune system, leading to illness and disease. It’s really important to stay with this practice to help to release all the emotional baggage that we have been carrying around for so long. You will feel so much lighter and brighter. 

• I’ll add you to the private WhatsApp group to get the chance to meet everyone virtually beforehand and maybe arrange airport transfers/travelling together. Also, so that you can share photos and stories and remain in touch with your yoga friends.
• Extra support can be booked and arranged for after the trip to help overcome any challenges and also to integrate the teachings into your everyday life.

Kindness and respect for others is an integral part of not only this retreat experience but also for life in general. Our words and actions affect others and we all have a responsibility to be aware and live consciously, and not contaminate the beautiful healing space that has been created for a truly spectacular and life changing experience. 

Yoga has changed my life beyond belief and you too can create a life to love with memories that will lift you up for many years to come. Don’t let this unique and special retreat holiday pass you by.

Please share transport where possible to reduce carbon emissions and use water and electricity efficiently.

Fly to Naples Airport and make your way to the exit area where one of our trusted drivers will be there to meet you and drive you to the port to get the ferry to Ischia island. The tickets will already be purchased for you so you don't need to do anything. Another trusted driver will collect you at Ischia port to drive you to the hotel where I will be waiting to welcome you and the other retreat guests. Everything will be taken care of.

(Port transfers in Naples and Ischia are approx 20-30 mins each depending on traffic and the ferry takes around 45-60 minutes.)

This all inclusive transportation service is also available if you are arriving into Naples by train or staying in Naples beforehand, so please let me know where about in Naples you would like to be picked up from. 

• All deposits/payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• The strict no refund policy is due to the high costs involved and financial commitment on my part, so it is recommended that you take out your own travel insurance and cancellation insurance
• No responsibility can be taken in regards to travel arrangements; this includes flight delays or cancellations etc
• If you have a health condition, please consult your doctor BEFORE booking and make sure to complete my health questionnaire.
• It is your responsibility to make sure you can comply with all government guidelines regarding entry requirements.
• Dr. Amanda Bowen cannot be held responsible for any losses incurred.
• Dr. Amanda Bowen cannot be held responsible for other guests staying at the hotel

Payment

The specified deposit must be paid before a place on any of the retreats can be secured and a payment plan discussed and agreed.

Deposits and payments are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.

The full balance must be paid at least 2 months before the retreat starts, and in line with your payment plan selected.

Flights

Please DO NOT book flights until I confirm that the retreat will go ahead as minimum numbers are required for each venue for it to be viable.

Booking flights is entirely your own responsibility and you do so at your own risk. I recommend using a reputable ABTA protected travel agent to help you and making sure that you have adequate insurance to cover you in case you must cancel for any reason.

Cancellation/Postponement

If I cancel a retreat due to my own personal circumstances I will process a full refund or give you the option to transfer any payments made as a retreat credit for future events. If out of my control and I have to postpone due to global events the retreat credit option will be offered.

I am not responsible for any losses incurred on your part due to cancellation or postponement on your part for any reason. Please ensure you have adequate insurance for this.

Food

In line with yogic principles, all meals provided are vegan/vegetarian. No meat or fish will be provided by Dr. Amanda Bowen under any circumstances, however you are free to choose other options when dining outside of what is included in this retreat package.  If you have a restricted diet, please notify me BEFORE booking as I cannot guarantee that special dietary requirements can be catered for.

Health Problems

It is important that you let me know if you have any disabilities, serious health problems, or any clinical mental health problems – particularly if you are on medication.  Through an early discussion we can identify your needs and if the retreat is suitable for you. Then we can do our best to accommodate you. Retreats are open to people aged 18 or over.

Living Communally

Living communally is an important and enjoyable element of the retreat. We eat together as a community and our retreats are known for being friendly, happy and harmonious. It's important that we live together comfortably and to keep the retreat running smoothly, we ask participants to cooperate with one another and to refrain from harsh speech or unacceptable behaviour. It is also important that retreatants commit to attending the full period of the retreat to maintain the integrity of the community and atmosphere.

Unacceptable behaviour 

Unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated.  Unacceptable behaviour is any activity that causes harm to the teacher, group or community and upsets the harmony of the retreat. This includes any action that leaves anyone:

• feeling alarmed, harassed or distressed
• concerned for personal or public safety
• acting in a way that causes disturbance to the rest of the group or any neighbouring properties
• experiencing public disorder or public nuisance.

Please ensure that noise is kept to a minimum, particularly late at night or in the early morning. If I consider that you have behaved unacceptably, irresponsibly, or have caused significant damage to the property or the property of others, I am entitled to terminate your retreat immediately without a refund.

I will ask you to leave the retreat immediately (without any compensation being payable) if:

• I consider that you have committed a serious breach of these terms and conditions
• I consider that your behaviour endangers the safety of yourself, other clients or staff
• Any complaints are made of anti-social or unacceptable behaviour against you
• You deliberately cause damage to the property or its contents.

Liability

I do not accept any liability for any damage, loss, injury, sickness, or inconvenience to you or any possessions belonging to you, howsoever caused, nor shall I be liable for any additional expenses incurred by you whether directly or indirectly caused by or arising from any aspect of the booking. Under no circumstances shall my liability to you exceed the total amount that was agreed and paid in advance of attending the retreat.

I do not accept any liability for failure of services due to weather conditions or other circumstances outside of my control, for example power cuts, interruptions to telephone/broadband connections and noise from neighbouring properties.

By making a booking/payment for any of my services you are agreeing to these terms and conditions.

Mandatory Health Form

https://www.dramandabowen.co.uk/contact-us/

Bookings cannot be accepted without this document.

1pm - 3pm Arrival and complimentary welcome drink & light snack

5pm - 6pm Gentle Yoga/Meditation

7pm - Welcome dinner at the hotel (vegetarian)

9pm - Early night or a night cap!

5.30am Sunrise

8am - 10am Yoga & opening circle

10am - 11.30am Breakfast (vegetarian)

12pm - 1pm Intentions Workshop/ “Achieve Your Dreams Through Yoga” 

1pm - 3pm Relax/Massage/Spa

5pm - 6.15pm Yin Yoga/Meditation

7pm - Pasta & pizza evening in Panza 

5.30am Sunrise

8am - 10am Yoga

10am - 11.30am Breakfast (vegetarian)

12pm - Visit beautiful Positano by private boat (including light lunch and all transport)

7pm - Dinner at our hotel 

5.30am Sunrise

8am - 10am Yoga

10am - 11.30am Breakfast (vegetarian)

12pm - 3pm Sorgeto Hot Springs

4pm - 5.15pm Yoga & closing circle

6pm - Visit Sant Angelo and have dinner overlooking the harbour

5am - 6am Any early departures (Manchester flights)

8am - 9am Yoga 

9am - 10.30am Breakfast (vegetarian)

11am - Checkout and further goodbyes (for now!)