Your first yoga retreat: what to expect — with a packing list
A first retreat often feels bigger than it is. You arrive, put the phone away, eat together, practise twice a day — and notice on Sunday how long it has been since you felt this calm. Here is how it works and how to prepare.
What a retreat day looks like
Most retreats follow a similar rhythm. As an example, our Saturday at the Schweibenalp:
- 06:00 Meditation and puja in the temple
- 07:00 Therapeutic yoga
- 08:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Hike to the lake (in bad weather: talk, cards and a tea ceremony)
- 13:00 Lunch, then rest
- 16:30 Evening yoga
- 18:00 Dinner
- 20:00 Mantra chanting
In between there is time for yourself: read, sleep, walk, do nothing. These pauses are part of the programme, not lost time.
Do I have to be “good” at yoga?
A retreat is not a performance test. Whether a particular retreat suits your level depends on its programme, though — ask the organisers directly. Good teachers offer variations and do not expect everyone to do the same. If you are unsure, write to us before you register.
Health and personal responsibility
If you have health limitations, are pregnant or are recovering from an injury, clarify participation with a doctor beforehand and tell the teacher. With us, you receive an information pack before the retreat with a liability declaration, which you hand in signed on site.
Packing list for a mountain yoga retreat
- Comfortable clothes in layers (mornings and evenings are cool in the mountains)
- Warm socks and a jacket for the temple and fire tent
- Sturdy shoes for hiking, a rain jacket
- Your own yoga mat if you like practising on it (ask whether mats are provided)
- Water bottle, notebook, pen
- Personal medication
- Slippers, a torch for the path in the evening
- In November: hat and gloves
Digital detox — is it a must?
Nobody takes your phone away. But it helps to leave it in your room during sessions and switch off notifications. Many people notice after a day how much space that frees up.
The group
On a small retreat you eat and practise together. Conversations happen on their own — but you do not have to talk if you need quiet. An opening circle on the first evening helps you arrive and set an intention for the days.
After the retreat
Plan nothing big for Sunday evening. The return to everyday life goes better if you allow yourself a quiet evening and take a small practice — five minutes of breathing, a few postures — into the new week.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear on a yoga retreat?
Comfortable clothes in layers, warm socks and sturdy shoes for outdoors. In the mountains it gets cool in the morning and evening.
Can I go on a retreat alone?
Yes. Many participants come on their own. Shared meals and circles make it easy to settle in.
Do I have to join every session?
No. Every session is an invitation. If you need rest, take it.
