Are you ready to shed the masks, soften the armour, and meet the truth beneath it all?
To move, feel, and remember who you are when nothing needs to be performed?
Say yes to yourself.
UNVEILING – The Retreat
Unmask. Unfold. Awaken.
31 October – 7 November 2026 | Monchique, Algarve, Portugal
A Retreat for Shedding What No Longer Fits
As autumn arrives and the days grow quieter, we enter a natural season of reflection — a time when life gently invites us inward.
Across this week-long retreat, held in the energy of Samhain, Halloween, and the Day of the Dead, we explore unveiling: noticing the masks we’ve learned to carry, and softening into what feels true beneath them.
It’s a space of curiosity, honesty, and presence — a grounded moment to reconnect with yourself and make room for what wants to grow next.
“Jump, and you will find out how to unfold your wings as you fall.”
Ray Bradbury
The Journey
Over 8 days of embodied exploration, movement, Yoga, breathwork, and ritual, we’ll enter a space of deep honesty and transformation.
Through the body, through the senses, through stillness and release, we’ll peel away the layers of protection and performance — allowing the truth of our being to unfold.
You will be held in a loving container that welcomes your shadows and your light — where you can unmask, unfold, and awaken to your essence.
Find out more about the practices below.
Breathwork
practice of conscious and connected breathing is meticulously crafted to help you access the depths of your subconscious, liberate suppressed emotions and traumas, and instigate profound shifts in your mind, body, and soul. Embark on a journey within, where each session is an opportunity to become the mindful observer of every facet of your being, unraveling the layers to reveal your authentic self.
Ceremonies & Rituals
Profound experiences that create a sacred space for transformation. Acting as powerful catalysts, they help ignite deep shifts within the subconscious mind, offering clarity, renewal, and connection.
Carefully designed to honor transitions, set intentions, and celebrate the journey inward. Through symbolic actions, guided reflection, and shared moments of presence, we awaken the energy needed for change and healing.
Whether it’s through movement, breath, or meaningful symbolism, ceremonies provide an opportunity to step into a new chapter with clarity, intention, and purpose.
Let yourself be fully present and embrace the magic of transformation.
Workshops
Our workshops blend ancient wisdom with modern self-inquiry, offering a space to explore, reflect, and embody your truth.
Each session — whether focused on values, vision, or self-awareness — invites deeper clarity, authenticity, and alignment with your essence.
Meditation
Meditation as a journey of self-discovery and presence. We will explore diverse practices to meet everyone’s unique needs. From mindfulness, grounding you in the present, to visualization, unlocking creativity and healing, each experience is crafted to deepen your connection with yourself.
We also integrate dynamic meditation, blending movement with breath to release stored energy, and somatic practices, tuning into the body’s subtle sensations.
Whether you're new to meditation or experienced, this retreat invites you to explore, connect, and carry these tools into your daily life.
Soma Groove
A fusion based embodiment modality, drawing from Breathwork, Somatic Movement, Trauma Healing, Dance Movement Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Music Therapy, Ecstatic Dance, Meditation, and Trauma and Emotional Release techniques. Offers a holistic approach to personal growth and healing, by connecting you to the present moment and true emotions. Find out more.
Yoga
Classes are focused on cultivating strength and flexibility through the mindful practice of āsanas. With care and concentration, each posture becomes both a physical and mental discipline. Sessions include meditation, dynamic and static warm-ups, āsana practice, and deep relaxation. Bandha, mudrā, dṛṣṭi, and prāṇāyāma are also explored. Ideal for those looking to deepen their practice. All levels welcome.
Somatic Movement
An invitation to move with awareness, reconnecting to the innate wisdom of your body. A guided journey through gentle, intuitive explorations that release tension, unlock stored emotions, and create space for deeper self-connection.
Through practices like guided improvisation, dynamic flow, and breath-led movement, you’ll learn to listen to your body’s signals, honor its needs, and move with authenticity. This is not about choreography or perfection—it's about feeling, expressing, and rediscovering the freedom of your natural rhythm.
Whether you’re seeking release, vitality, or a deeper connection to yourself, somatic movement offers a safe, empowering space to explore and embody your essence. Allow yourself to move and be moved.
Breathwork
practice of conscious and connected breathing is meticulously crafted to help you access the depths of your subconscious, liberate suppressed emotions and traumas, and instigate profound shifts in your mind, body, and soul. Embark on a journey within, where each session is an opportunity to become the mindful observer of every facet of your being, unraveling the layers to reveal your authentic self.
Ceremonies & Rituals
Profound experiences that create a sacred space for transformation. Acting as powerful catalysts, they help ignite deep shifts within the subconscious mind, offering clarity, renewal, and connection.
Carefully designed to honor transitions, set intentions, and celebrate the journey inward. Through symbolic actions, guided reflection, and shared moments of presence, we awaken the energy needed for change and healing.
Whether it’s through movement, breath, or meaningful symbolism, ceremonies provide an opportunity to step into a new chapter with clarity, intention, and purpose.
Let yourself be fully present and embrace the magic of transformation.
Workshops
Our workshops blend ancient wisdom with modern self-inquiry, offering a space to explore, reflect, and embody your truth.
Each session — whether focused on values, vision, or self-awareness — invites deeper clarity, authenticity, and alignment with your essence.
Meditation
Meditation as a journey of self-discovery and presence. We will explore diverse practices to meet everyone’s unique needs. From mindfulness, grounding you in the present, to visualization, unlocking creativity and healing, each experience is crafted to deepen your connection with yourself.
We also integrate dynamic meditation, blending movement with breath to release stored energy, and somatic practices, tuning into the body’s subtle sensations.
Whether you're new to meditation or experienced, this retreat invites you to explore, connect, and carry these tools into your daily life.
Soma Groove
A fusion based embodiment modality, drawing from Breathwork, Somatic Movement, Trauma Healing, Dance Movement Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Music Therapy, Ecstatic Dance, Meditation, and Trauma and Emotional Release techniques. Offers a holistic approach to personal growth and healing, by connecting you to the present moment and true emotions. Find out more.
Yoga
Classes are focused on cultivating strength and flexibility through the mindful practice of āsanas. With care and concentration, each posture becomes both a physical and mental discipline. Sessions include meditation, dynamic and static warm-ups, āsana practice, and deep relaxation. Bandha, mudrā, dṛṣṭi, and prāṇāyāma are also explored. Ideal for those looking to deepen their practice. All levels welcome.
Somatic Movement
An invitation to move with awareness, reconnecting to the innate wisdom of your body. A guided journey through gentle, intuitive explorations that release tension, unlock stored emotions, and create space for deeper self-connection.
Through practices like guided improvisation, dynamic flow, and breath-led movement, you’ll learn to listen to your body’s signals, honor its needs, and move with authenticity. This is not about choreography or perfection—it's about feeling, expressing, and rediscovering the freedom of your natural rhythm.
Whether you’re seeking release, vitality, or a deeper connection to yourself, somatic movement offers a safe, empowering space to explore and embody your essence. Allow yourself to move and be moved.
Breathwork
practice of conscious and connected breathing is meticulously crafted to help you access the depths of your subconscious, liberate suppressed emotions and traumas, and instigate profound shifts in your mind, body, and soul. Embark on a journey within, where each session is an opportunity to become the mindful observer of every facet of your being, unraveling the layers to reveal your authentic self.
Ceremonies & Rituals
Profound experiences that create a sacred space for transformation. Acting as powerful catalysts, they help ignite deep shifts within the subconscious mind, offering clarity, renewal, and connection.
Carefully designed to honor transitions, set intentions, and celebrate the journey inward. Through symbolic actions, guided reflection, and shared moments of presence, we awaken the energy needed for change and healing.
Whether it’s through movement, breath, or meaningful symbolism, ceremonies provide an opportunity to step into a new chapter with clarity, intention, and purpose.
Let yourself be fully present and embrace the magic of transformation.
Workshops
Our workshops blend ancient wisdom with modern self-inquiry, offering a space to explore, reflect, and embody your truth.
Each session — whether focused on values, vision, or self-awareness — invites deeper clarity, authenticity, and alignment with your essence.
Meditation
Meditation as a journey of self-discovery and presence. We will explore diverse practices to meet everyone’s unique needs. From mindfulness, grounding you in the present, to visualization, unlocking creativity and healing, each experience is crafted to deepen your connection with yourself.
We also integrate dynamic meditation, blending movement with breath to release stored energy, and somatic practices, tuning into the body’s subtle sensations.
Whether you're new to meditation or experienced, this retreat invites you to explore, connect, and carry these tools into your daily life.
The setting
Held in the mystical mountains of Monchique, Algarve — a land of ancient waters, soft mists and wild beauty.
Here, the landscape mirrors the inner journey: spacious, sacred, alive.
Our beautiful home for this week sits within more than six hectares of ancient terraces, cork oak and medronho trees, and natural spring water that flows directly from the mountain’s heart.
Here, the landscape mirrors your inner journey: vast skies, whispering winds, sacred ground, alive with the quiet pulse of nature.
Visualize intimate, beautifully renovated accommodations — each room facing the hills, each bathroom ensuite — and a purpose-built studio/yoga shala perched above the land with panoramic views across the Algarve’s coast.
Water from the mountain fills open natural tanks and refreshes the body; a sprawling pool terrace invites you to rest and soften under the sun, and hidden pathways wind away into stillness.
In this sanctuary, you are held by the earth and invited to let go — of noise, of masks, of the rush. You are welcome to move into silence, to gather around fire circles, and to integrate beneath the stars. It is a space designed for depth, renewal and the unfolding of truth.
Curious how it feels to join our retreats?
Here's what previous participants had to say:
‹
"It was such a wonderful experience and if I had one wish it would be that every person in this modern fast paced world could immerse themselves in this experience with themselves. To dive into a world of feeling, sharing, listening, empathising, being seen and feeling connected in a deep quality. It feels like planting a seed, the seed for so much more discovery of myself and others. Curious to see what else this seed of the Spring Awakening Retreat has in store. Let us grow. Let us grow together. Get ready to let go of who and what you are not to discover the pure YOU with so much love and curiosity. This has been such a safe space and a space of trust and acceptance and love. A space to free myself, to feel myself, to explore, to heal, to grow, to feel right and supported in following a path of feeling and emotions, of listening to my intuition. A path of human beeing. Dear Vanda, dear Raquel, thank you for this gateway to something very beautiful, very complex and very real and very me. I appreciate so much what you both have created for us❤️ It really is exactly what the world needs more of. Carry on, loving with every cell of you, grooving, embodying, moving, guiding, planting beautiful seeds. It is just so beautiful and you are both meant to do this. You and your energies complement each other symbiotically🙏 Such a beautiful gift to this world and to us all. Thank you so much from my deepest love!"
-Lisa
"I am deeply grateful for this experience and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a space to reset, reflect, and awaken a new sense of purpose. Thank you to Vanda and Raquel."
-Matheus
"Spring Awakening Retreat with Vanda and Raquel has been a most transformative experience- the setting- the music- the early asanas- amazing food- words of wisdom- deep intentions created the perfect synergy for release and to connect within..developing connections and moments to last a lifetime..bonds were built- a strong community of sincere support and love..thank you ladies..Hari Om♥️"
-Mariangela
"Truly thankful and moved by the experience I had participating in Vanda and Raquel’s 4-day yoga retreat in the Algarve. It was a unique and transformative experience, set in a breathtaking location that provided the perfect atmosphere for connection and self-discovery. The program - Spring Awakening - was carefully curated, allowing us to immerse ourselves in nature with mindfulness, self-care, and a sense of rebirth through body and soul. Beyond the practice itself, what made this retreat truly special was the warm and welcoming energy of everyone involved. Thank you, Vanda and Raquel, for creating such a beautiful, heart-centered opportunity - I left with a renewed sense of balance, gratitude, and inner peace. ✨"
-Giulia
"Don't think twice, just do it. This changed my life and it can change yours too. For the best. This is totally safe and so good for you. ❤️✨"
-Mamen
"This experience has been so incredible beautiful, one that words could never fully describe. Vanda and Raquel created a space that felt safe, sacred, and truly special, allowing me to open up completely. They were there in every moment, holding space with so much care and presence. Each day brought deep insights, everything flowed together so seamlessly, it was really wonderful! This will forever have a special place in my heart. I am deeply grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every connection made along the way. My heart is full of love, and I carry this feeling with me, knowing it will continue to guide and support me long after this journey. Thank you sweethearts!"
-Lotte
"This retreat was such an amazing experience! I gained such wonderful insights about myself and was able to heal emotional wounds that were holding me back from being the man I want to become. Still integrating the experience into my day to day life, and can feel the experience shifting my behaviour to carry me towards the future I envision for myself."
-Ben
"It was such a wonderful experience and if I had one wish it would be that every person in this modern fast paced world could immerse themselves in this experience with themselves. To dive into a world of feeling, sharing, listening, empathising, being seen and feeling connected in a deep quality. It feels like planting a seed, the seed for so much more discovery of myself and others. Curious to see what else this seed of the Spring Awakening Retreat has in store. Let us grow. Let us grow together. Get ready to let go of who and what you are not to discover the pure YOU with so much love and curiosity. This has been such a safe space and a space of trust and acceptance and love. A space to free myself, to feel myself, to explore, to heal, to grow, to feel right and supported in following a path of feeling and emotions, of listening to my intuition. A path of human beeing. Dear Vanda, dear Raquel, thank you for this gateway to something very beautiful, very complex and very real and very me. I appreciate so much what you both have created for us❤️ It really is exactly what the world needs more of. Carry on, loving with every cell of you, grooving, embodying, moving, guiding, planting beautiful seeds. It is just so beautiful and you are both meant to do this. You and your energies complement each other symbiotically🙏 Such a beautiful gift to this world and to us all. Thank you so much from my deepest love!"
-Lisa
"I am deeply grateful for this experience and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a space to reset, reflect, and awaken a new sense of purpose. Thank you to Vanda and Raquel."
-Matheus
"Spring Awakening Retreat with Vanda and Raquel has been a most transformative experience- the setting- the music- the early asanas- amazing food- words of wisdom- deep intentions created the perfect synergy for release and to connect within..developing connections and moments to last a lifetime..bonds were built- a strong community of sincere support and love..thank you ladies..Hari Om♥️"
-Mariangela
"Truly thankful and moved by the experience I had participating in Vanda and Raquel’s 4-day yoga retreat in the Algarve. It was a unique and transformative experience, set in a breathtaking location that provided the perfect atmosphere for connection and self-discovery. The program - Spring Awakening - was carefully curated, allowing us to immerse ourselves in nature with mindfulness, self-care, and a sense of rebirth through body and soul. Beyond the practice itself, what made this retreat truly special was the warm and welcoming energy of everyone involved. Thank you, Vanda and Raquel, for creating such a beautiful, heart-centered opportunity - I left with a renewed sense of balance, gratitude, and inner peace. ✨"
-Giulia
"Don't think twice, just do it. This changed my life and it can change yours too. For the best. This is totally safe and so good for you. ❤️✨"
-Mamen
"This experience has been so incredible beautiful, one that words could never fully describe. Vanda and Raquel created a space that felt safe, sacred, and truly special, allowing me to open up completely. They were there in every moment, holding space with so much care and presence. Each day brought deep insights, everything flowed together so seamlessly, it was really wonderful! This will forever have a special place in my heart. I am deeply grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every connection made along the way. My heart is full of love, and I carry this feeling with me, knowing it will continue to guide and support me long after this journey. Thank you sweethearts!"
-Lotte
"This retreat was such an amazing experience! I gained such wonderful insights about myself and was able to heal emotional wounds that were holding me back from being the man I want to become. Still integrating the experience into my day to day life, and can feel the experience shifting my behaviour to carry me towards the future I envision for myself."
-Ben
"It was such a wonderful experience and if I had one wish it would be that every person in this modern fast paced world could immerse themselves in this experience with themselves. To dive into a world of feeling, sharing, listening, empathising, being seen and feeling connected in a deep quality. It feels like planting a seed, the seed for so much more discovery of myself and others. Curious to see what else this seed of the Spring Awakening Retreat has in store. Let us grow. Let us grow together. Get ready to let go of who and what you are not to discover the pure YOU with so much love and curiosity. This has been such a safe space and a space of trust and acceptance and love. A space to free myself, to feel myself, to explore, to heal, to grow, to feel right and supported in following a path of feeling and emotions, of listening to my intuition. A path of human beeing. Dear Vanda, dear Raquel, thank you for this gateway to something very beautiful, very complex and very real and very me. I appreciate so much what you both have created for us❤️ It really is exactly what the world needs more of. Carry on, loving with every cell of you, grooving, embodying, moving, guiding, planting beautiful seeds. It is just so beautiful and you are both meant to do this. You and your energies complement each other symbiotically🙏 Such a beautiful gift to this world and to us all. Thank you so much from my deepest love!"
-Lisa
"I am deeply grateful for this experience and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a space to reset, reflect, and awaken a new sense of purpose. Thank you to Vanda and Raquel."
-Matheus
"Spring Awakening Retreat with Vanda and Raquel has been a most transformative experience- the setting- the music- the early asanas- amazing food- words of wisdom- deep intentions created the perfect synergy for release and to connect within..developing connections and moments to last a lifetime..bonds were built- a strong community of sincere support and love..thank you ladies..Hari Om♥️"
-Mariangela
"Truly thankful and moved by the experience I had participating in Vanda and Raquel’s 4-day yoga retreat in the Algarve. It was a unique and transformative experience, set in a breathtaking location that provided the perfect atmosphere for connection and self-discovery. The program - Spring Awakening - was carefully curated, allowing us to immerse ourselves in nature with mindfulness, self-care, and a sense of rebirth through body and soul. Beyond the practice itself, what made this retreat truly special was the warm and welcoming energy of everyone involved. Thank you, Vanda and Raquel, for creating such a beautiful, heart-centered opportunity - I left with a renewed sense of balance, gratitude, and inner peace. ✨"
-Giulia
›
UNVEILING IS FOR YOU IF YOU SEEK:
To shed the masks you’ve learned to wear and meet the truth of who you are beneath them.
To reconnect with your body’s wisdom and learn to listen to what your emotions and sensations are truly trying to tell you.
To release old patterns, conditioning, and stories that no longer serve — and rediscover your essence with clarity and compassion.
To find safety in your own presence, grounding in your body, and expansion through breath, movement, and stillness.
To be held in a sacred, attuned space where all parts of you are welcome — the tender, the wild, the raw, and the radiant.
To walk this path in community — surrounded by kindred souls who are also remembering, unveiling, and coming home to themselves.
STILL NOT SURE?
Delve into the questions below and discover if this journey is the missing piece to your renewal, empowerment, and deeper self-connection.
Do you often feel disconnected from yourself and others?
Unveiling - The Retreat with all the embodiment techniques will root you into your body, into the present moment, and will alow you to connect with your self and the group form a state of balance, compassion and presence.
Are balancing multiple roles leaving you stressed and overwhelmed?
Unveiling - The Retreat might hold the relief you seek from life's demands. The sanctuary of practices provides moments of calmness and clarity amidst the complexities of juggling various roles.
Do you struggle with self-love as a common challenge?
Ponder if Unveiling - The Retreat is your journey to self-love and acceptance. Through heart-centered healing practices, you can nurture a more loving relationship with yourself, fostering confidence and self-assurance.
Does feeling stuck in the past hinder your joy in the present?
Consider Unveiling - The Retreat as your path to breaking free from the chains of the past. The transformative practices guide you towards a future filled with joy, vitality, and purpose.
Are you at a crossroads in your life, seeking clarity and direction?
Contemplate Unveiling - The Retreat as your guide through life's cycles, symbolizing renewal and expansion. It empowers you to gracefully step into a new and fulfilling phase of life.
Is authenticity a challenge for you?
Think about engaging with Unveiling - The Retreat because you yearn to explore and express your authentic self. Through various practices, you can foster a deep sense of alignment and empowerment.
Have you lost touch with your sensitivity?
Embark on Unveiling - The Retreat to rediscover and embrace the beauty of feeling alive and in touch with your sensitivity. Dance movement therapy, guided meditations, and nurturing circles await to reconnect you with your innate warm energy.
Do you often feel detached from your body, emotions, and sensations?
Explore Unveiling - The Retreat as your transformative journey back to the essence of your being. Soma Groove, yoga, dance movement therapy, and emotional release sessions provide a sacred space to reconnect with your body, explore emotions, and embrace the richness of sensations.
Meet your Facilitators
Meet the hearts behind our Retreat, Vanda and Raquel, leaders dedicated to breaking down barriers within and guiding you on a journey of self-discovery. Their expertise ensures an unparalleled experience.
Vanda de Vasconcelos e Sousa
Vanda is the founder and creative force behind Soma Groove — a living, breathing movement that bridges somatics, dance therapy, nervous system work, bodywork, energy healing, breath, ecstatic dance, shadow work and music therapy into deeply human experiences of transformation. Her work invites people back into the body — to feel, release and remember who they are beneath the noise.
Over the years, she has guided hundreds of people through retreats, 1:1 sessions, group journeys, and long-term online containers, sharing her work across Portugal and internationally with a growing global community. Her spaces are known for their deep attunement, sensitivity, and strong presence — a place where people often say they feel immediately safe, and where all parts of them are allowed to exist.
Through Soma Groove, Vanda continues to explore the meeting point between movement, healing, and consciousness — merging spirituality and ritual with cutting edge science, supporting others to meet their emotions as allies, integrate their stories through the body, and awaken the healer within.
Her path continues to expand through collaborations, guest teachings, podcast invitations and trainings, where she shares not only the method but the essence of embodies truth— guided by rhythm, awareness, and heart.
Those who journey with her often describe the experience as coming home to themselves — like exhaling after holding your breath for too long.
Come as you are. Leave as more of yourself.
Raquel Dobato
Raquel Dobato is a 700hr RYT international yoga teacher and an art world professional, with five years of teaching experience across Spain and Portugal. Specialized in the Ghoṣ lineage and the Aṣṭāṅga Vinyāsa system, she integrates traditional discipline with mindful, heart-centered practice. She trained under Talia Sutra through the Love and All Is Coming school, bringing depth, clarity, and devotion to every class.
Alongside her yoga path, Raquel has built a career in the art world as a gallerist and art consultant, curating and sharing meaningful art experiences around the globe. The search for light, harmony, and beauty — both inner and outer — is what continues to guide her life and practice.
Raquel teaches sāttvic (balanced) classes that blend strength, softness, and awareness.
Her willingness to share yoga arises from a deeply personal journey of emotional healing, transformation, and self-love. Yoga became her anchor after the passing of her father — a light that guided her through loss and opened the path to her spiritual awakening. Today, her mission is to empower others to live with presence and authenticity, sharing the timeless values of Yamas and Niyamas as the foundation for a life of balance, devotion, and purpose.
JOIN US IN THIS PARADISE CALLED PORTUGAL!
Your Stay at Bodhi Bhavan
Step into comfort, beauty, and calm at Bodhi Bhavan.
Whether you choose to share a room or enjoy your own private sanctuary, every space is thoughtfully designed to support rest, reflection, and connection with nature.
With cozy heating, elegant furnishings, and ensuite bathrooms, your retreat experience begins the moment you arrive.
Shared Room – for 2 guests
Ensuite bathroom in each room
Heating included for cozy comfort
Memory foam mattresses and stylish furnishings
Peaceful space for quiet companionship while honoring your own rhythm
Private Sanctuary – for 1 guest
Same room as shared, exclusively yours
Private ensuite bathroom
Heating included
Plush, beautifully designed, with serene views or private terrace
Your personal haven for rest, reflection, and reconnecting with yourself
Nourishment
Throughout Unveiling, you’ll enjoy three wholesome meals a day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — all included in your retreat experience.
Our chef will prepare fresh, plant-based dishes made with seasonal, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, cooked with love and intention to support your body’s natural balance and vitality.
Each meal is designed to nourish, ground, and energize you through this journey — simple, delicious food that connects you to nature and the wisdom of the earth.
This is more than just eating; it’s a moment of care and gratitude, a reminder that nourishment is part of your transformation.
What We Will Explore Together
Each day unfolds in a gentle, intentional rhythm — balancing guided sessions with spacious time for rest, reflection, and connection with nature.
Our mornings open in Mouna (noble silence), a quiet arrival into the day, followed by Āsana Sādhana, a grounding morning ritual that harmonises body, breath, and awareness.
Throughout the week, we’ll journey through a rich blend of practices, each designed to support emotional clarity, nervous system regulation, and deep inner connection:
Yoga
A holistic practice harmonising body, breath, and consciousness through:
• āsana (physical postures)
• prāṇāyāma (breath regulation)
• satkarma (purification techniques)
• bandha (energetic locks)
• mudra (gestures that direct prāṇa)
• mantra (sacred sound vibration)
A grounded, steady foundation for the day.
Somatic Movement
Intuitive explorations that reconnect you with your body’s innate intelligence.
We work with sensation, impulse, breath, and presence — inviting softness, curiosity, and honesty into every gesture.
Soma Groove
A fusion of dance, somatic awareness, emotional alchemy, and free expression.
Here we release the armour, awaken authenticity, and meet the deeper layers of ourselves through movement, rhythm, and embodied truth.
Breathwork Journeys
Transformational breath experiences — guided in a trauma-informed, polyvagal-aware container — supporting emotional release, clarity, and nervous system reset.
This is where deep layers unwind and space opens for renewal.
Workshops & Self-Inquiry
A mix of guided exploration and embodied reflection, touching on:
• values & vision
• shadow work
• inner child healing
• limiting beliefs
• parts work & subconscious patterns
• relational dynamics
• authenticity & aligned living
These sessions support emotional literacy, personal clarity, and inner reorganisation.
Ceremonies & Rituals
Gentle, grounded, meaningful moments of intention, release, and renewal — drawn from nature, embodiment, and your personal truth (never performative, always invitational).
Meditation & Stillness
Practices that cultivate spaciousness, embodied presence, inner listening, and nervous system calm — allowing the wisdom of the week to land.
Additional Experiences
Nature Immersion in Monchique
A full day exploring the surrounding mountains, springs, and forest — reconnecting with the landscape, your breath, and your own natural rhythm.
A Full Day of Mouna (Silence)
An inward journey of deep listening and integration.
Silence becomes a teacher, a mirror, and a soft landing place for everything unfolding within.
Limited Early Openings
To mark this unveiling, we’re opening just 5 Super Early Bird spaces at a special rate — an intimate invitation for those who feel the call to cross the threshold first.
If your soul whispers yes, trust it.
Investment
| Option | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Super Early Bird (shared) | Until April 30 | €1,298 |
| Early Bird (shared) | May 1 - July 31 | €1,398 |
| Regular (shared) | Aug 1 - Oct 30 | €1,598 |
| Private Sanctuary Upgrade | For single room luxury | + €700 |
Flexible Payment Plans:
To make your retreat experience even easier to book, we offer a convenient payment plan:
A €300 non-refundable deposit secures your place.
All balances must be paid by 30 September 2026.
Instalment details & availability depends on booking date.
(click on Learn More below to find all the details)
Take the Leap – Your Journey Begins Now!
CAN'T JOIN US? SIGN UP NOW AND GET THE NEXT DATES FIRST HAND.
More retreat dates will be announced soon – sign up to the newsletter and receive information first hand - access to earlybird and exclusive promotions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Uncover all you need to know about our retreat. (click here)
From breaking down barriers to meditation novices, we cater to all. Your comfort, our priority. Have more questions? Dive into our comprehensive Q&A section below:
I never attended a retreat. Is it suitable for me?
Yes, enjoy it! Unveiling - The Retreat it's an unique and special holistic event tailored with love and expertise that is suitable for brand new people in retreats as well as for those who love this type of experience. We recommend all potential participants to read all Q&A and Terms & Conditions before signing up. Our retreat organizers - Raquel Dobato & Vanda Sousa - are happy to talk to you directly, if you have any questions.
I never tried meditation or a breathwork session before. Is this retreat for me?
This retreat is appropriate to all levels of experience. All activities on the schedule are guided and the techniques are explained in detail.
In this retreat we aim to provide you simple yet powerful tools of mindfulness, breathing techniques and meditation that you can apply in your day-to-day life.
Note that some breathwork techniques have some medical counter-indications, however we can always adapt it to your needs.
Are beginners at yoga welcome?
All levels are welcome, whether you practice yoga frequently or have never practiced before, the practice will be suitable to everyone in the group and queues will be given for different levels.
I have some medical conditions. Can I still attend the retreat?
Please talk to us directly, so we can best address this retreat for you.
Do I need travel or medical insurance?
Yes, it's important to acquire that, in order for you to be comfortable and fully covered for the retreat and in case of any flight cancellations.
Are there yoga mats available at the location (and other props)?
The space provides all the materials you’ll need for the retreat, including yoga mats and props such as blocks, bolsters, straps, and more. Of course, you’re also welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer.
How many people will be on the retreat?
We welcome a maximum of 17 participants, keeping the retreat intimate and personal.
Are the flights and transfers included in the retreat package?
The rates only include the retreat itself. However, by request, we are happy to book a transfer for you for an extra charge.
How To Get to Bodhi Bhavan?
You can fly directly from most cities in Europe to either Faro Airport (closest) or Lisbon Airport in Portugal.
From Faro to Bodhi Bhavan:
Faro is the most convenient arrival point. The drive to Bodhi Bhavan in Monchique takes approximately 1 to 1¼ hours(around 85‑100 km), depending on traffic and your exact drop‑off point.
From Faro Airport you have three main options:
Rent a car and drive yourself — this gives you flexibility and takes about 1 hour in light traffic.
Uber - trips starting at 60€.
Private transfer/shuttle — pre‑book a private vehicle (door‑to‑door) from Faro Airport. Typical rates are around €75‑100 for up to 4 people, and €100‑130 for up to 8 people.
Public transport — the most budget‑friendly, but takes significantly longer (around 3 hours) with multiple connections. Example: bus/train routes from Faro → Monchique cost roughly €10‑25.
From Lisbon to Bodhi Bhavan:
From Lisbon Airport to Bodhi Bhavan is under 3 hours by road. Shuttle or private transfer quotes can be provided on request.
Is there any place around to rent a Car?
Car rental is advised to be arranged in Faro Airport where there are several international car rental companies.
Which meals are included?
All meals are included (3 formal meals) and unlimited mineral water and herbal teas throughout the day.
I am pregnant, is this retreat suitable for me?
We like to assess each case individually, so if you are pregnant, please reach out and we will discuss your participation. Although some practices are not recommended, we will always suggest adjustments when necessary for your comfort and safety.
What do we eat?
We serve fresh and healthy plant based food that is preferably local and seasonal, all prepared on-site by the retreat chef. The chef can adapt to allergies and intolerances among the group. The food restrictions should be mentioned previously in the form provided when signing up.
Do we have free time?
Yes, we will provide you free time to integrate the experiences, to relax, to choose to have a massage. In your free time or simply to go for a walk in the stunning wild nature.
Is there a town at walking distance?
Bodhi Bhavan is nestled in the peaceful Monchique mountains, with the charming village of Monchique just a short 20–40 minute walk away. The village offers a few cozy cafes, local restaurants, and small shops — perfect for a gentle stroll and a taste of local life.
Is there a beach within walking distance?
No, Bodhi Bhavan is located in the Monchique mountains, which are inland, so there isn’t a beach within walking distance, however in the clear sky days you can still see the ocean, both south and west coast!
Do you accept children in this retreat?
This retreat is specifically for adults over 18 years old, since we aim to provide the maximum tranquility and also some silence for you to restore and reconnect with yourself.
Are massages available at the retreat?
All messages and other available treatments can be booked before arrival at an extra cost (to be paid in cash to the therapist).
Our team of therapists includes different massages, such as deep tissue massage, ayurvedic massage,thai, etc. We have other therapists for special needs (acupuncture, physiotherapy, crano-sacral, etc).
Please get in touch with our team for bookings preferably before your arrival.
What are the check-in / check-out times at Bodhi Bhavan?
Check in is at 4:30pm.
Check out from the venue at 10:30am.
In case you arrive earlier, we can’t ensure early check-in at the moment of the booking.
Do we have Wifi/Internet access during the retreat?
You have access to the Wifi only in the main house.
How do I contact the organisation directly?
Please choose your preferred way of contact:
Vanda: somagroovesessions@gmail.com
Raquel: raqueldobatoyoga@gmail.com
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