THE RETREAT HERE JOURNAL

A realistic approach to lasting wellbeing for women over 40. Discover practical articles to help you build simple habits to feel calmer, stronger and enjoy a more balanced life, alongside stories and insights from our Yoga & Pilates retreats around the world.

The Journal

7 signs of stress

7 Signs Your Body Is Holding Onto Stress

Reading the Signs: How to recognise nervous system overload before it becomes your new normal When did you last take a full, slow breath – the kind that actually reaches your belly, not just your chest? Or notice where your shoulders are sitting, right now, this very second? You’re probably so used to living in… continue reading »

why exercise matters women after 40

Why Movement Matters for Women After 40: 8 Reasons to Keep Moving

Here’s something we’ve learnt after years of teaching women in their 40s, 50s and beyond: the goal isn’t to exercise harder. It’s to exercise smarter by choosing the right mix of movement for your body, staying consistent, and allowing time for real recovery so your muscles can adapt. It’s about understanding what your body needs… continue reading »

powerful practice to feel happier and reduce stress

A Powerful Practice to Reduce Stress and Feel Happier

Ahimsa: a simple self care practice towards less stress and a calmer nervous system What follows comes straight from the heart. Lately, we’ve felt a growing sense of disconnection from the wellness industry. Not from you – our beautiful community – but from the noise that surrounds it. All the ‘quick fix’ shit that promises… continue reading »

overseas yoga and pilates retreats recap

A Year of Boutique Retreats and Renewal

A recap of our 2025 Yoga Holidays in Fiji, Bali & Italy This year has been nothing short of magical. We organised three overseas retreats – in Fiji, Bali, and Italy – all hosted by our founder, Sab. Designed to be intimate, restorative, and memorable, our small group getaways became more than just retreats. They… continue reading »

best pilates studios in melbourne

The 5 Best Pilates Studios In Melbourne

In recent years, Pilates has surged in popularity across Melbourne and has become a go-to fitness routine for many women seeking to improve both their physical and mental well-being. Finding the best Pilates studios in Melbourne can help you fully experience the benefits of this low-impact form of exercise. Pilates is well-known for improving flexibility,… continue reading »

melbourne best yoga studios

Five Of The Best Yoga Studios in Melbourne

It should come as no surprise that a regular Yoga practice is our ‘go-to’ for staying healthy and moving well. Yoga is an excellent practice for enhancing flexibility, improving mobility, reducing stress, and supporting overall well-being – no matter your age. As we grow older, prioritising both physical and mental health becomes even more essential…. continue reading »

discover five best wine regions in europe

Discover The 5 Best Wine Regions In Europe

Have you ever dreamed of visiting the best wine regions in Europe, where each sip tells a tale as old as time itself? Picture wandering through ancient vineyards, where history and tradition blend into a rich mosaic of flavours. Then, moving from Italy’s rolling hills to Portugal’s calm landscapes, each vineyard presents its unique story… continue reading »

five best wineries in victoria australia

The 5 best wineries in Victoria

Victoria is home to the most renowned wine regions in Australia, from the cool climate vineyards in the Macedon Ranges and the Yarra Valley to the sun-soaked slopes of the Bellarine Peninsula. We’ve done the tastings for you and have compiled a list of the best wineries in Victoria. Settle in with a vino and discover… continue reading »

Ten best things to do in Rome

10 Best Things To Do In Rome

Welcome to Rome, a city where history blends seamlessly with the modern-day culture, offering experiences that span from the grandeur of its ancient empire to the lively scenes of contemporary life. There are so many must-see sights and bucket list-worthy moments! The hardest part is narrowing down the best things to do in Rome and… continue reading »

best private island resorts fiji

The Best Private Island Resorts In Fiji: Eco-Friendly Choices

Escape to Fiji’s pristine shores, where the Pacific Ocean welcomes you to a world of serene luxury and natural beauty. Among the best private island resorts in Fiji, you’ll discover exclusive havens that provide comfort and luxury.  Fiji is famous not just for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. It is the perfect destination for… continue reading »

best wellness experience in tuscany

The Best Wellness Experiences in Tuscany

Ever dreamt of exploring Tuscany? We certainly do! Imagine finding yourself amidst Tuscany’s rolling hills, in a tranquil spot where the essence of the region’s wellness scene perfectly blends with the charm of Italian countryside living. Envisage a gentle breeze rustling through the olive groves, the fragrance of wildflowers perfuming the air, and the soft… continue reading »

best women retreats worldwide

Discover The Best Women-Only Wellness Retreats In The World

As more women have become empowered by solo travel in recent years, it’s no surprise that women-only retreats have started to gain popularity around the world. Female-only retreats are more than just a place to holiday. Instead, they offer a secure, relaxing, and comfortable environment tailored to independent women who love travelling solo. With thoughtfully… continue reading »

things to do in melbourne

Melbourne Wine And Wellness: Five Unique Self-Care Experiences

If there are three things we love, it’s Melbourne, Wine & Wellness. So, we thought it was only fair if we’d help you discover the Melbourne Wine and Wellness movement – a fusion of sensory indulgence and mindful relaxation. It’s not just about sipping a glass of fine wine. It’s about the experience that comes… continue reading »

top yoga poses for relaxation

Top 5 Relaxing Yoga Poses To Improve Sleep & Reduce Stress

In today’s fast-paced world, sleep and effective stress management have become vital elements of a balanced life. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, many of us face sleepless nights and increasing stress. Fortunately, there is a time-tested natural remedy: turning to relaxing yoga poses. Yoga lovingly cares for your body while calming… continue reading »

safest cities solo female travellers

Safest Cities For Female Solo Travellers: Our Top 5 Picks

Hey, fellow solo travel enthusiast! Are you seeking the safest cities for solo female travellers? Well, you’re not alone. Diving into new cultures, tasting unfamiliar foods, and wandering down streets we’ve never seen before is an absolute thrill. But let’s be honest: safety is a big deal when we’re alone. We want to make memories… continue reading »

yoga retreats reduce stress

7 Top Reasons To Book A Women’s Group Yoga Retreat Or Holiday

Are you thinking about a women’s group yoga retreat but are unsure if it’s right for you? Or maybe you’re longing for a break that offers relaxation and personal growth. Women’s yoga retreats offer more than a simple holiday. These group getaways aren’t just restful escapes. They’re game-changers. Imagine blending a relaxing stay in a… continue reading »

ten tips to manage stress better

10 Tips To Manage Stress

Do you have a hard time switching off? Do you often feel anxious or overwhelmed, sometimes without even knowing why? Living in today’s fast-paced society, the chances of you needing some tips to manage stress are pretty high. Even as a yoga teacher, having all the ‘tools’ and knowing all the ‘tricks’, I struggle to… continue reading »

reasons to retreat

5 REASONS TO BOOK A YOGA RETREAT

Have you toyed with the idea to book a yoga retreat, but you’re not sure how it will benefit you? Do your friends keep telling you about their personal retreat experience, and the thought of a ‘welcome circle’ gives you anxiety? Not all retreats are the same or have the same purpose. There are detox… continue reading »

what we eat at our yoga retreats

What we eat at our Yoga Retreats in Victoria

WHAT WE EAT AT OUR VICTORIA RETREATS You may have asked yourself the question: What do we eat when on retreat? The short answer is: a well-balanced diet that is delicious, healthy and a little indulgent. If you have previously been a guest at our wellness retreats in Victoria, you know that our breakfast and… continue reading »

why book yoga retreat victoria

Why book a yoga retreat in Victoria

Victoria might be the mainland’s smallest state, but size doesn’t matter when you retreat here! Locals and travellers are spoilt for choice with some of the most exciting and interesting things to see and do. Whether you’re a new or seasoned practitioner, a Yoga Retreat in Victoria offers you a land of opportunity to explore whatever it… continue reading »

what is yoga nidra

Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation

WHAT IS YOGA NIDRA? Yoga nidra is a form of guided meditation, also known as ‘yogic sleep’, which helps to create a deep sense of relaxation for your body and mind. There are plenty of benefits when practicing yoga nidra, and we believe it’s the perfect style of yoga when you are tired and don’t… continue reading »

Yoga Retreats Victoria

Retreat Here: Year in Review 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW 2022 .. And what a year it has been! Following the aftermath of the previous two years, we couldn’t be more grateful for the full retreat calendar of 2022. We have loved seeing our community continue to grow these past 12 months, and we can’t wait to see what 2023 brings. But… continue reading »

still a busy mind

The easiest and most powerful tool to still a busy mind

A scattered mind can be overwhelming. Having too many ‘tabs’ open on your to-do list causes exhaustion, sadness and stress. Whether it’s the holiday season or you have a deadline at work, sometimes you just need a little breather to reset in order to continue your day with clarity and a sense of calm. The… continue reading »

what to expect yoga retreats victoria

What to expect at our Yoga Retreats in Victoria

So, you’ve been wanting to book yourself into a yoga retreat in Victoria for a while now, but you’re not sure how to find the right one? We totally get it. With demand at an all-time high, the choices for yoga and wellness escapes are endless. And when it comes down to it, only YOU… continue reading »

skincare tips for selfcare

Skincare is Self-Care

Guest Blog by Katreena Sarmiento Your skincare routine should be something that brings you joy. While not everyone starts a regimen for aesthetic reasons, allowing yourself to devote time to a daily skin routine is the first step in better understanding how regular skincare may impact your wellbeing. A good skincare routine is a therapeutic… continue reading »

important to breathe correctly

The importance of breathing correctly

Did you know that most of us breathe incorrectly? Do you know how many breaths you take per minute? On average we take between 8,000 and 30,000 breaths per day. As breathing happens automatically we often don’t realise how essential it is for our health and wellbeing. You could say that Breathing is the New… continue reading »

Yoga and Wine retreat for hens party Melbourne

Three unique digital detox retreats in Australia

At Retreat Here, we believe technology should serve us, not enslave us. Our fancy gadgets, designed to make our lives easier, have become the cause of rising stress levels and anxiety. It is no surprise that taking a ‘ditox’ has become increasingly popular. If the sheer thought of taking a break from your devices gives… continue reading »

3 Healthy Habits to Boost your Immune System

Feeling sluggish or low on energy? Lacking concentration or motivation? If only we could dedicate every last week of the month to a yoga retreat to reset and replenish.. In reality, we are lucky if we’re able to retreat once a year, and cultivating a well-balanced lifestyle with healthy habits that are sustainable is therefore… continue reading »

Morning ritual for more energy and clarity

Create more energy with this morning ritual

Do you reach for your phone the minute your alarm goes off – on your phone..? Do you instantly start scrolling, and check your emails and messages? I used to do that too. It’s safe to say I was exhausted before I even got out of bed. These days, I have a morning ritual that… continue reading »

Improve the quality of your sleep

How to improve the quality of your sleep

We all experience difficulties sleeping at some stage in our lives. Poor sleep quality can be the cause of stress, anxiety, irritability, lack of concentration, low energy, mood swings and might eventually lead to burnout. Considered that a restful night plays a massive role in regulating our physical and mental health, getting the right amount… continue reading »

Mindfulness and Meditation Guide

How I try and live more mindfully in Melbourne

Ever since founding Retreat Here, people often think my days consist of green juices, smoothie bowls, and hours of yoga and exercise. I get up at 6am, set my intention for the day, write in my gratitude journal, go for a run, meditate, have a turmeric latte while I catch up on some reading, and… continue reading »

3 healthy habits to boost immunity

Ten Benefits of Taking a Digital Detox

Did you know that most people check their smart phone every 15 minutes? And that Instagram was rated the worst social platform for its negative impact on our mental health? It’s a scary thought to think that we’re literally scrolling our lives and wellbeing away. At Retreat Here, we truly believe a change is needed…. continue reading »

The benefits of meditation

Easy meditation techniques for beginners

Have you ever finished a page in a book without truly absorbing its content? Or driven home without ‘knowing’ how you got there? Just as training your physical body through different activities and sports, you can also train your mind with these easy meditation techniques and tips for beginners. We spend a lot of time… continue reading »

Why you should book a digital detox retreat

Why everyone should book a digital detox retreat

WHY EVERYONE SHOULD BOOK A DIGITAL DETOX RETREAT Do you remember the last time you spent a whole day without your phone? Are you able to go without your phone the first few hours after waking up? Can you watch a movie without scrolling through your emails or socials? If the answer is ‘no’ to all… continue reading »

Yoga and Wine Retreats

Why yoga and Wine Retreats in Melbourne are the perfect pairing

Before you have visions of yourself lying in Savanasa with an empty bottle in your hand, let me stop you right there. I’d like to start by saying we won’t be handing out Straws ‘n Shiraz during our yoga and wine retreats in Melbourne. There will be no drinking vino and tree-posing at the same time. Neither… continue reading »

Be Mindful

What you should do to improve your wellbeing

We believe taking a break is important to reboot your brain. Whether that’s a yoga class after work, a ten minute meditation or an exotic retreat overseas. Whereas a tropical escape is perfect to replenish your soul, taking care of your wellbeing at home is just as important. Resting when you need to and finding… continue reading »

Chiang Rai healthy Travel Guide

Things to do in Chiang Rai

Guest post and pictures by Jen Curcio, founder of Decisive Cravings Chiang Rai is Chiang Mai’s quieter cousin, and if you are looking for a break from Bangkok, Chiang Rai is the perfect green paradise. Chiang Rai offers cooler weather (both day and night), more of a small town feeling, plenty of temples and above… continue reading »

Things to do in Ubud, Bali

Things to do in Ubud

Guest post by Jen Curcio, founder of Decisive Cravings. Preferring the island’s famed beaches, Ubud is often missed by travellers visiting Bali. The lush greenery of its rainforests and rice paddies combined with its famed temples, arts&crafts, and its’ wellness centres, offers visitors a different type of island getaway. Although it is no stranger to tourists, Ubud… continue reading »

Workplace Wellness Tips

5 ways to improve workplace wellness

FIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE WORKPLACE WELLNESS We’ve all heard the virtues of a good night’s sleep — you spend eight hours a day doing it, so surely it makes sense to ensure you get the best rest available. But there’s something else most of us are doing eight hours as day, five days a week:… continue reading »