Supporting Schools in Thailand
At Freedom Yoga & Retreats, our retreats are about more than beautiful locations, inspiring practices, and time to reconnect with yourself. They’re also about connection, contribution, and community — especially with the places and people who welcome us.
On the tranquil island of Koh Yao Noi, Thailand, where our Thailand retreat is held, this value comes to life in a very real and meaningful way.
Teaching English on Koh Yao Noi
During her time on the island, Scher Black, our Community Outreach Support, spent time teaching English to local schoolchildren on Koh Yao Noi. English education is an invaluable skill for children growing up in island communities, opening doors to future opportunities in education, employment, and cultural exchange.
The sessions were simple, joyful, and deeply human — learning through conversation, laughter, and connection. For the children, it was a chance to practise English with a native speaker in a relaxed and encouraging environment. For Scher, it was a reminder of how powerful even small acts of service can be.
Why This Matters
Koh Yao Noi is a peaceful, traditional island community that has largely avoided mass tourism. While this preserves its natural beauty and way of life, it also means that resources — particularly for education — can be limited.
Supporting local schools helps to:
Build confidence and communication skills in children
Create cultural exchange built on respect, not extraction
Strengthen the relationship between visitors and the local community
Ensure tourism has a positive, lasting impact
This kind of giving back isn’t about charity — it’s about reciprocity. When we visit a place, we believe it’s important to ask not just what we can take, but what we can contribute.
A Retreat With Purpose
Our Thailand retreat on Koh Yao Noi is intentionally designed to honour the land and the local people. From where we stay, to who we work with, to the experiences we offer, we aim to support the local economy and community wherever possible.
Knowing that our retreat is held in a place where genuine relationships have been formed — including supporting local education — adds a deeper layer of meaning to the experience. It allows our guests to feel part of something grounded, conscious, and real.
Moving Forward Together
We are proud to continue hosting retreats in Thailand with a commitment to mindful travel, cultural respect, and community support. Acts like teaching English, supporting schools, and engaging with local initiatives remind us that yoga off the mat matters just as much as yoga on it.
When you join a Freedom Yoga & Retreats experience, you’re not only investing in your own growth and wellbeing — you’re also supporting a model of travel that values connection, kindness, and shared humanity.