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.
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.
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.
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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