Practitioner-led
Retreats
Freedom retreats have always been rooted in connection - to place, to practice, to community, and to the people who gather with us.
Now, we’re opening the door for trusted practitioners to co-host or lead their own retreat experiences within the Freedom framework.
These retreats are guided by practitioners with their own wisdom, voice and way of holding space, while Freedom gently supports the foundations behind the scenes. The result is a retreat that feels personal, meaningful and beautifully held, with the same care, structure and sense of ease you can expect from Freedom.
Co-hosted ↠ A retreat co-hosted by a practitioner and Jax Heffer-Cooke from Freedom Yoga & Retreats
Led ↠ A retreat solely led by a practitioner
Freedom
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Thailand
Week 2
Co-hosted by Tara Bishybee
14th-21st February 2027
About co-host Tara
Tara’s work is rooted in movement, breath, touch and the natural rhythms that have guided her through the most challenging chapters of her life. She teaches and offers bodywork because these practices supported her when she needed grounding, compassion and strength — and she loves to share that same steadying presence with others.
Yoga, mobility and functional movement have been part of her life for more than sixteen years. They became especially important during periods of injury recovery and throughout a long season of caring for her family through illness, Alzheimer’s and mental health struggles. Movement gave her structure when everything felt uncertain; breath gave her space when emotions felt heavy; stillness helped her listen inwardly when I couldn’t find the words.
These experiences shaped who she is as a teacher: grounded, nurturing, intuitive and deeply compassionate.
What to Expect
A week built around adventure, connection and seeing a little more of Thailand:
Daily practise on the beach
A traditional Thai massage by the beach
A full-day 4 Island boat adventure
Swimming and exploring the Andaman Sea
Koh Lanta Old Town
A gentle hike through Mu Ko Lanta National Park
Bamboo Beach day
Travel by traditional local songthaew
Fresh, delicious Thai food
Plenty of free time to swim, wander, read or do absolutely nothing
Optional meditation and philosophy throughout the week
Opening and closing ceremonies
A group of 20 people who all arrived solo too
Your 8-Day Journey
Day 1 - Phuket
Arrive at Proud Phuket by 5pm, settle into your private room and meet the group before a relaxed sunset dinner at Nai Yang Beach.
A gentle first evening to put names to faces, eat good food and settle into Thailand together.
Day 2 - Koh Lanta
After breakfast, we’ll leave Phuket and travel south together to Koh Lanta.
Settle into your accommodation, unpack, explore your surroundings, take a swim or simply relax after the journey before coming back together for dinner.
Day 3 - Beach, Massage + Opening Ceremony
Our first full day on Koh Lanta is intentionally slow.
We will open with practise on the beach, followed by a tasty breakfast.
Spend time by the beach, swim, read, wander or do very little at all, with an included traditional Thai massage by the sea.
Later, we’ll come together for our opening ceremony- a relaxed chance to properly arrive, get to know one another and set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Optional meditation and philosophy will be woven into the week for anyone who wants to join.
Day 4 - 4 Island Boat Tour
Today we head out onto the Andaman Sea for a full-day 4 Island boat adventure after our beach practise and nutritious breakfast.
Expect turquoise water, incredible island scenery, swimming, beaches and plenty of time out on the open water.
A proper Thailand adventure day.
Day 5 - Island Life
Today is about seeing another side of Koh Lanta.
After morning practise on the beach, we’ll explore the characterful streets of Koh Lanta Old Town, with time to wander, browse, eat and soak up the slower rhythm of island life.
Then we’ll head into Mu Ko Lanta National Park for a gentle hike - nothing crazy, just enough to stretch the legs and explore the jungle, coastline and beautiful scenery.
Day 6 - Bamboo Beach + Closing Ceremony
For our final full day on Koh Lanta, we’ll travel by traditional local songthaew to beautiful Bamboo Beach.
Swim, relax, explore, read, chat or simply enjoy a full day with nowhere else to be.
Later, we’ll gather for our closing ceremony- a chance to look back on the week, the places we’ve explored, the friendships made and everything we’re taking away from the experience.
Day 7 - Back to Phuket
After breakfast, we’ll say goodbye to Koh Lanta and travel back to Phuket together.
Our final night is spent back at the beautiful Proud Phuket, where you’ll have time to relax, enjoy the pool and settle in before we come together for one final beachside dinner at sunset.
A pretty perfect way to finish.
Day 8 - Departure
We’ll share breakfast together before check-out and goodbyes.
Then it’s time to head home- hopefully with a camera roll full of Thailand, a few very good stories and a group of people who definitely weren’t strangers eight days ago.
Where You’ll Stay
The journey starts and finishes in Phuket, with the heart of the week spent on Koh Lanta- an island of long beaches, lush national park, local communities and plenty of space to explore.
Throughout the trip, you’ll have your own private, air-conditioned accommodation, so you get all the fun and connection of travelling with a group without giving up your own space.
Your first and final nights will be spent at Proud Phuket, close to Nai Yang Beach, before travelling together to and from Koh Lanta.
Food
Expect fresh, colourful and seriously tasty Thai food throughout the week- relaxed breakfasts, local lunches and flavour-packed dinners.
Some meals will be part of our planned days out, while at other times you’ll have the freedom to choose where and what you fancy eating.
Vegetarian options are available, with vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free requirements catered for when arranged in advance.
What’s Included
Daily beach practise
7 nights’ private, air-conditioned accommodation
All scheduled transfers between Phuket and Koh Lanta
Freedom Yoga & Retreats support throughout the journey
Traditional Thai massage
Full-day 4 Island boat experience
Koh Lanta Old Town visit
Mu Ko Lanta National Park visit and gentle hike
Bamboo Beach day
Traditional songthaew transport where scheduled
Opening and closing ceremonies
Optional meditation and philosophy sessions
Scheduled meals and experiences detailed in the itinerary
Not included: Flights, travel insurance, your journey from Phuket Airport to Proud Phuket on arrival, personal spending, meals or activities outside the planned itinerary and anything not listed above.
£1,400 per person
20 places available.
Payment plan options are available.
When
Week 1 ↠ 7th-14th February 2027 led by Jax from Freedom Yoga & Retreats
Week 2 ↠ 14th-21st February 2027 (this retreat) co-hosted with Freedom & Tara Bishybee
Week 3 ↠ 22nd February - 1st March 2027 led by Practitioner Lou Bugg
Week 4 ↠ 3 – 10 March 2027 led by Jax from Freedom Yoga & Retreats
Week 5 ↠ 11 – 18 March 2027 led by Practitioner Natasha
Week 6 ↠ 19th March - 26th March 2027 led by Practitioner Rebecca
You can book as many weeks of Thailand as you would like to. If booking more than one week, you must treat each week separately, and pay for a deposit per week.
For example, if you are attending Thailand week 2 & 3, you must add week 2 and week 3 to your cart, fill out all forms asked of you at checkout, and pay for both.
Please note, you are paying for retreat days as listed. For example, if you choose more than one retreat week, we are not responsible for you on the nights in between retreats, and you will have to seek out and pay for your own accommodation and amenities etc.
Contact us if you have any questions!
Payment Options
We offer two options: pay in full or a payment plan.
Flexible payment options tailored to you available. Please contact hello@freedomyogaandretreats.com
We also accept Klarna and Clearpay.
Co-hosted
Week 2 of our Thailand retreat is co-hosted with Tara Bishybee Yoga alongside lead Freedom guide, Jax Heffer-Cooke
Week 3
Led by Practitioner Lou Bugg from The Seed of Change
22nd February - 1st March 2027
↡
Phuket + Koh Yao Noi Retreat (8 Days) 22nd February - 1st March 2027
We are excited to be teaming up with practitioner Lou at Freedom Yoga, where she will host week 3 of our Thailand retreats, bringing her wisdom and wonderful soul to the experience. She owns Seed of Change, where she aims to help people find themselves amongst the noise of life- we all need to slow down and switch off!
Please note, even though Jax Heffer-Cooke is a tour guide for this week of the retreat, she is only hosting week 1 & 2, with the amazing Lou hosting the third week.
A note from Louise:
WHAT THIS EXPERIENCE OFFERS YOU…
This retreat has been designed with intention —
to guide you through a full inner journey using movement, stillness, nature and connection.
Each day gently aligns with a different element / energy centre (chakra)…
so you don’t just visit Thailand —
you move through transformation whilst you’re there.
Daily yoga (accessible to all levels)
Guided meditations + bodywork
sound healing sessions
Opening + closing ceremonies
Island experiences (boat trips, kayaking, nature immersion)
Space to rest, reflect, journal… or simply be
A like-minded group — no pressure, just connection
YOUR INVESTMENT
£1,400 per person
(Flights + travel insurance not included)
This includes:
Accommodation
All retreat sessions + teachings
Planned excursions + experiences
Selected meals
WHO THIS IS FOR
This is for you if…
• You’re feeling the pull for something deeper
• You’re ready to step away from the noise of life
• You want space to breathe, feel, and reset
• You don’t want a “busy retreat”… you want a meaningful one
You don’t need to be “good at yoga”
You just need to be ready.
When
Week 1 ↠ 7th-14th February 2027 led by Jax from Freedom Yoga & Retreats
Week 2 ↠ 14th-21st February 2027 co-hosted with Freedom & Tara Bishybee
Week 3 ↠ 22nd February - 1st March 2027 (this retreat) led by Practitioner Lou Bugg
Week 4 ↠ 3 – 10 March 2027 led by Jax from Freedom Yoga & Retreats
Week 5 ↠ 11 – 18 March 2027 led by Practitioner Natasha
Week 6 ↠ 19th March - 26th March 2027 led by Practitioner Rebecca
You can book as many weeks of Thailand as you would like to. If booking more than one week, you must treat each week separately, and pay for a deposit per week.
For example, if you are attending Thailand week 2 & 3, you must add week 2 and week 3 to your cart, fill out all forms asked of you at checkout, and pay for both.
Please note, you are paying for retreat days as listed. For example, if you choose more than one retreat week, we are not responsible for you on the nights in between retreats, and you will have to seek out and pay for your own accommodation and amenities etc.
Contact us if you have any questions!
Payment Options
We offer two options: pay in full or a payment plan.
Flexible payment options tailored to you available. Please contact hello@freedomyogaandretreats.com
We also accept Klarna and Clearpay.
Led
Week 3 of our Thailand retreat is led soley by Lou Bugg from The Seed of Change.
South Africa
Pilates in the Wild
South Africa with The Continental Fox Pilates
24 September–1 October 2027
7 nights · Phelwana Game Lodge · Greater Kruger
£1,960 per person · Private room · Private pool · Half board
Morning Pilates beside Hippo Dam, a full day exploring Kruger and afternoons with nowhere you need to be except beside your pool. Join Natasha, aka The Continental Fox, for a South African adventure that brings together the pleasure of movement and the excitement of being somewhere extraordinary.
For seven nights, Phelwana Game Lodge will be home. We’ll head out on safari, explore the bush on foot, cruise through Blyde River Canyon and watch the reserve change after dark. Between adventures, there’s time for thoughtful Pilates practice, an included massage and long, relaxed meals together.
Led by Natasha and supported by a Freedom host, this is a week to enjoy your body, your surroundings and the freedom of having it all organised.
A different kind of Pilates week
There’s something to look forward to every day here. Sometimes it’s an early start and the anticipation of what we might spot on safari. Sometimes it’s rolling out your mat beside the water, taking your time over breakfast or returning to your own pool after a day exploring.
Natasha’s Pilates sessions will help you build strength, awareness and confidence, with space to ask questions, explore movement and work at your own pace. Practice will take place in settings including Hippo Dam, the garden lawn and the boma, our open-air gathering space.
You’ll have the opportunity to spend more time with Pilates than your usual weekly class allows, while experiencing the wildlife and landscapes that make this part of South Africa so special. This week’s movement programme is Pilates, with no scheduled yoga or meditation.
What you can expect
Seven nights at Phelwana Game Lodge, with your own private room and private pool.
Pilates with Natasha, bringing over ten years of teaching experience to your week.
Four reserve game drives, including sunset outings, a night drive and a final morning safari.
A full-day excursion to Kruger National Park, in search of the Big Five and other wildlife.
A guided bush walk, discovering tracks, plants and the smaller details of the reserve.
Stargazing beneath the African night sky.
A boat cruise through Blyde River Canyon and a walk to the waterfall.
One included massage, with time to relax afterwards.
Breakfast and dinner, shared in the surroundings of the lodge.
Free time to swim, read, rest and enjoy being away.
A final sunset gathering, farewell dinner and evening around the boma fire.
Support from a Freedom host throughout the retreat.
Meet Natasha, aka The Continental Fox
With over ten years of experience teaching Pilates, Natasha is passionate about helping people discover their own strength and feel more confident in their bodies. Her teaching encourages you to work with your individual abilities and goals, creating an environment where movement feels supportive, empowering and enjoyable.
Her approach combines thoughtful instruction, encouragement and a genuine love of Pilates. Whether you practise regularly or are still finding your feet, she’ll help you explore at your own pace and build a deeper understanding of how you move.
In South Africa, Natasha will bring that same care and enthusiasm to a week of outdoor practice and adventure. She’ll lead the Pilates programme and share the journey with you, assisted by a Freedom host who will support the running of the retreat.
Your week in the wild
Day 1 — Bags down. Safari starts here.
Arrive at Phelwana from 1:30pm, settle into your room and take a first look around your home for the week. After meeting Natasha, your Freedom host and the group, we’ll head straight out on our first game drive. The afternoon ends at Hippo Dam as the light begins to soften, before we return to the lodge for our welcome dinner. Your first evening in the bush, with a whole week ahead of you.
Day 2 — Pilates with a remarkable view
Our opening Pilates session takes us to Hippo Dam, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the reserve. Natasha will guide you through thoughtful movement, with time to settle into the practice and enjoy where you are. Afterwards, a generous breakfast and free time at the lodge await. Later, we’ll head back out on a game drive, watching for wildlife as the afternoon turns towards evening.
Day 3 — Into Kruger, eyes wide open
An early departure takes us into Kruger National Park for a full-day safari. Keep your camera close and your eyes on the landscape as we search for the Big Five and discover what the day brings. There will be stops for breakfast and lunch during the outing, before we return to Phelwana in the late afternoon. A gentler Pilates session offers time to move and unwind after the journey, followed by dinner and a look through everyone’s photographs.
Day 4 — The bush beneath your feet
Begin with Pilates in the boma and breakfast, then enjoy a few hours with no plans to follow. Swim, read, have a nap or take your time over a conversation. In the afternoon, we’ll leave the vehicle behind for a guided bush walk, learning about the tracks, signs and plants that tell the story of life in the reserve. Tonight, we’ll gather for dinner around the boma fire.
Day 5 — Poolside rest & safari after dark
A slower start, a leisurely breakfast and your included massage. This is your day to make the most of the lodge, with plenty of time to relax before afternoon Pilates at Hippo Dam. Then we stay out as daylight fades, heading into the reserve for a night game drive and stargazing. Different sounds and the possibility of nocturnal wildlife make this a very different safari experience. Back at the lodge, a late dinner rounds off the evening.
Day 6 — Blyde River Canyon by water & on foot
Morning Pilates on the lawn and breakfast prepare us for a day beyond the reserve. We’ll travel to Blyde River Canyon, where a boat cruise takes us beneath its enormous walls and through the green landscape. Afterwards, follow a trail towards the waterfall, with time to enjoy the scenery along the way. We’ll return to the lodge for a gentler Pilates session before dinner.
Day 7 — One last sunrise, one more adventure
Our final full day begins with sunrise Pilates at Hippo Dam, followed by a morning game drive and breakfast. There’s time afterwards to enjoy the lodge and make the most of your last afternoon beside the pool. Later, we’ll come together to close the week and watch a final African sunset before our farewell dinner. We’re keeping the dinner location a surprise — wear something you love and join us for a celebration, followed by a last evening around the boma fire.
Day 8 — Take the memories home
A final morning at Phelwana before checkout at 10am. Time to pack up, swap details and say goodbye after a week of Pilates, wildlife and shared adventures. We hope you head home feeling good in your body, with photographs you can’t wait to show people and stories that will take a little longer to tell.
This is our planned itinerary; timings, practice sessions and activities may change. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Lunch during the Kruger excursion is at your own expense.
Your home at Phelwana
Set within the Greater Kruger landscape, Phelwana Game Lodge gives us the pleasure of staying in the bush throughout the week. The experience continues when we return from our outings, with the sounds of birds, changing evening light and time to take in the surroundings.
You’ll have your own private room and private pool, giving you somewhere to relax and enjoy your own company between the group experiences. Spend the morning exploring together, then settle down with your book or take a swim before dinner.
It’s that balance of company and personal space that makes the week feel like a holiday as well as an adventure.
Good food, enjoyed together
Breakfast and dinner are included throughout your stay. Expect generous breakfasts and carefully prepared evening meals, with time to eat slowly and share the day’s stories.
Lunches and alcoholic drinks are payable separately, including lunch on excursion days. Please let us know about allergies or dietary requirements before booking so we can confirm arrangements with the lodge.
Who is this retreat for?
This week is for you if you’re drawn to Pilates, excited by wildlife and ready to experience somewhere completely different. Perhaps you already love your regular classes and want time to explore the practice further, or you’re looking for an active holiday with thoughtful movement woven into your days.
You’re welcome to come on your own or with someone else. Shared meals and adventures offer plenty of opportunities to get to know people, while your private room gives you space whenever you need it.
There will be early starts, time travelling in safari vehicles and walking excursions. If you have questions about the Pilates sessions or the physical demands of the outings, please get in touch before booking. We’ll help you work out whether the retreat suits you.
What’s included
Seven nights’ accommodation at Phelwana Game Lodge.
Your own private room and private pool.
Half board: breakfast and dinner.
The scheduled Pilates programme with Natasha.
Four reserve game drives, including a night drive.
A full-day Kruger National Park excursion.
A guided bush walk.
Stargazing.
A Blyde River Canyon boat cruise and waterfall walk.
One massage.
The closing gathering, farewell dinner and final evening celebration.
Support from a Freedom host throughout the retreat.
What’s not included
Flights.
Travel insurance.
Lunches, including lunch during excursions.
Alcoholic drinks.
Additional massages, treatments and extra amenities.
Personal spending and optional activities.
Any transfers not explicitly listed as included in your booking information.
Your questions, answered
Do I need to be experienced at Pilates?
Natasha works with people of different experience levels and encourages you to progress at your own pace. If you’re new to Pilates, returning after a break or have an injury or particular requirement, contact us before booking so we can talk through the programme with you.
Is there yoga on this retreat?
No. This week is led by Natasha and focuses on Pilates, alongside safari, walking and time to relax. There are no scheduled yoga or meditation sessions.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. You’ll have your own private room and plenty of opportunities to meet people through our practices, meals and adventures. You don’t need to bring a travel companion to enjoy the week with others.
Will we see the Big Five?
Our full-day Kruger safari gives us the opportunity to search for them, but sightings are never guaranteed. Every outing is different, with plenty of wildlife to look out for throughout the week.
Will I have free time?
Yes. We’ve left space between outings and practice sessions so you can enjoy the lodge, spend time by your pool and have a proper rest.
How do I arrange my travel?
Contact us for the arrival airport and transfer arrangements before booking flights. Arrival at the lodge is from 1:30pm on 24 September, with checkout at 10am on 1 October.
Join us in South Africa
Friday 24 September–Friday 1 October 2027
Eight days / seven nights at Phelwana Game Lodge
£1,960 per person
Private room, private pool, breakfast and dinner, Pilates with Natasha and the experiences listed above.
If you’ve been imagining a holiday with a little more adventure, we’d love to have you with us.
Questions before you book? Email hello@freedomyogaandretreats.com and we’ll be happy to help.
Led
Greece
Greece with Lou from Larimar
Payment plan option available (see below)The Journey
For me, LARIMAR has always been about creating spaces where people can simply be themselves. Spaces where we can step away from the demands of everyday life, breathe a little deeper, connect with others and perhaps reconnect with parts of ourselves that get lost in the busyness.
I’m not a yoga teacher or a therapist, and this retreat isn't about me teaching you how to live a more mindful life. Instead, I want to create a beautiful space for you to be held, supported and gently guided through moments of reflection, creativity and connection.
I’ll bring together the things that I love and that have become such an important part of my own journey — guided meditation, journalling, creativity, gentle movement, meaningful conversation and time to simply slow down. There will be structure when you want it, but also plenty of space to rest, wander, laugh, explore and just enjoy being somewhere beautiful.
Why Greece?
There is something about Greece that has always spoken to me — its warmth, ancient landscapes, mythology, food, slower rhythm of life and the feeling of being surrounded by something much older than ourselves.
One of the most special parts of our journey will be visiting the Ancient Amphiareion of Oropos, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Amphiaraos, believed to be a place of healing, wellbeing and spiritual connection. People travelled here centuries ago seeking healing and guidance, making it a truly fascinating place to experience as part of our retreat.
To me, there is something incredibly meaningful about spending time in a place where healing and wellbeing were valued thousands of years ago. We'll have the opportunity to explore this sacred sanctuary, take in its peaceful surroundings and reflect on the people who came here long before us seeking restoration and renewal.
I love the idea that our retreat journey can connect us with this ancient tradition of rest, reflection and healing, while creating our own modern version of that experience together.
To visit such an ancient sanctuary as part of our own wellbeing journey feels truly special — a meeting of past and present, surrounded by the beauty and spirit of Greece.
From exploring the ancient Amphiareion of Oropos, to sharing food, learning to cook Greek dishes, visiting the thermal spa and spending time together at Villa Amfiario, this isn't simply a retreat where you stay somewhere beautiful. The journey is part of the retreat.
A retreat created with heart
This has been something I've wanted to create for LARIMAR for a long time — an experience that brings together wellbeing, creativity, connection, culture and a little adventure.
My hope is that you'll arrive feeling excited, perhaps a little nervous, and leave with new friendships, beautiful memories and a renewed sense of yourself.
Not because you've been told who you should be or how you should feel, but because you've been given the time, space and permission to reconnect with who you already are.
A few days away from everyday life. A little sunshine for the soul. And a journey you can carry home with you.
Greece • Near Athens (3 Days)
Highlights
Guided meditation & journalling
Creative workshops & self-expression
Gentle movement & mindful moments
Space to rest, slow down & reconnect
Visit the ancient Amphiareion of Oropos
Thermal spa experience
Beautiful Greek villa stay
Delicious local Greek food
Time to explore, wander & simply be
Meaningful conversation & connection
A small, supportive group experience
Accommodation + Meals
Stay at Villa Amfiario in shared rooms.
Includes nourishing breakfasts, light lunches, and vegetarian dinners made with fresh local ingredients.
Vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available.
Included
Accommodation, meals (as listed), scheduled practices/workshops, cultural visit, cooking session, thermal spa visit.
Not included
Flights, travel insurance, personal spending, optional extras.
When
May 7-10 2027
Payment Options
We offer two options: pay in full or a payment plan.
If you choose to pay with a plan, you can choose to pay over 6 months at checkout.
Flexible payment options tailored to you available. Please contact hello@freedomyogaandretreats.com
We also accept Klarna and Clearpay.
Led
2025
Thailand
Co-hosted with Nicola Pollet
What makes a practitioner-led retreat different?
Each practitioner-led retreat carries its own energy.
Some may be rooted in yoga and meditation.
Some may weave in sound, bodywork, breathwork, creativity, ceremony or deep rest.
Some may feel spacious and slow.
Others may invite gentle transformation, movement, nature and adventure.
But every Freedom retreat shares the same intention:
to create a thoughtful, human experience where you feel safe, supported and free to meet yourself exactly as you are.FREEDOM HOLDS THE JOURNEY
Our practitioners lead the heart of the experience - the practices, sessions, teachings and group energy.
Freedom supports the wider retreat journey, including carefully chosen locations, accommodation, guest care, logistics, bookings, payments and the flow of the experience.
So you can arrive knowing the practical pieces are held, and the retreat itself has been created with care.
Looking for a Freedom-led retret?
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working with us, take a look at our Host A Retreat page.
For any other enquiries, feel free to get in touch.