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Croatian magazine

Clean Up Your Act

Holidays aren't just for relaxing any more. Going on a detox holiday is the new way to a fresh new you

When it comes to food, I'm no angel. I'm blissfully happy indulging my palate with things that are bad for me. Succulent steaks, crispy bacon, mounds of pasta, fried checken wings, spongy cakes and creamy lattes are things i wouldn't dream of saying no to; the cruellest way to torture me would be to separate me from my favourite foods. So, when I checked into the Samahita Retreat in Koh Samui for a one-week detox programme, I found myself staring at a very thick detox guidebook, a daily schedule of detox herbs, pills and colon cleansing sessions, and I heard my stomach howl in fear.

An Oasis For Your Mind, Body and Soul

Imagine a place you can go, to spend some quality time with yourself. And by 'self' i actually mean your metaphysical or spiritual self. Samahita Retreat is an oasis unlike any I have seen or experienced before. Tucked away on the southern part of Koh Samui, in Thailand, it's a sanctuary dedicated to yoga, wellness and a balanced lifestyle.

I'm attending a month-long yoga teacher intensive here, led by the dynamic and inspiring Stephen Thomas. One week in, and I'm beginning to see why so many people, yogis and others alike, consider this place a home away from home.

The schedule can be grueling: getting up at 6am every day, spending several hours in the morning doing breath work (pranayama) and yoga postures (asanas). Besides the physical activity, there's much to think about too, with classes in philosophy and anatomy in the afternoon, followed by more yoga asanas.

I have found the classes in yogic philosophy particularly stimulating. The idea that 'pure consciousness' is all around and within us, that the universe (yes, that includes you) is nothing but vibrations of varying frequencies - these concepts force you to stop and think, and look at the world a little differently. The environment here supports that personal discovery.

Then there's the food. It's more than just delicious. It's tasty on the palate as well as nourishing inside the body. Guided by the principles of a sattvic diet, the chefs at Samahita Retreat prepare some of the most amazing food you can eat without harming your body or mind. Everything is fresh and seasonal, there's lots of fruit, cereals, legumes, vegetables and nuts. Meat is never served, though fish is sometimes available. We eat twice a day, and it's always a pleasure to see what the chefs have conjured up with their imagination, from raw vegetable lasagnas to homemade salad dressings and jams to coconut fig balls to soups and stir fries. It truly is a feast for the eyes and the stomach.

Samahita Retreat also boasts a wellness centre offering a range of therapies, from traditional massages to detox therapies like colon cleansing and coffee enemas. All in all, this place takes a holistic approach to well-being, one that's guided by the teachings of yoga but fits in with our modern world.

This place is about letting go, on so many levels: of bad habits, negative thoughts, repetitive behaviour, the inclination to judge and be judged. It's a misconception that yoga is all about achieving bliss. Rather, it's about balance: a realisation that life is not always bliss and neither should it be. The journey of self-discovery is never easy. But as the days and weeks progress, I can see myself truly relaxing here, away from the stresses of my life, in moments of silence and reflection. And that's very important for each and every one of us, whether you realise it yet or not. And you don't need a tropical retreat on a beautiful island to go to that space, though of course being surrounded by nature, healthy food and good company, helps.

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Thailand's Yoga Resort "Samahita"

Take time out to renew your mind, body and spirit by exploring new places while having wonderful experiences. The Samahita Yoga Retreat in Thailand will give you the best of both worlds, a vacation and wellness in one. Samahita Retreat was established in 2003 on the island of Koh Samui, and has been called by many a "hidden gem". Owned and directed by yoga and lifestyle teacher, Paul Dallaghan, the Yoga retreat center has been a location for practice, learning and holiday for literally tens of thousands of guests from all walks of life over the years.

Originally known as Yoga Thailand, the yoga retreat center has grown and developed over the years and now encompasses a wellness center as well as its traditional yoga offerings. Samahita translates from Sanskrit as "centered" or "balanced". To find balance is key - in daily habits, in weight management, in dealing with stress.

Samahita Retreat is home to Samahita Retreat, Centered Yoga and Samahita Wellness Thailand, three distinct entities that share a single purpose: to provide both the tools to work on yourself through specific practices and dedicated programs as well as the environment within to learn, change and renew. This is a personal mission and one we are committed to share with you.

Discover delicious and healthy food and an atmosphere conducive to both restoration and growth in a true community where many friendships blossom.

Samahita Retreat has a respected reputation in offering classical yoga practices and their philosophy through pranayama (breath), asana (body postures), vinyasa (breath and movement) and meditative techniques. Classical yoga embodies the wisdom of the Yoga Sutra and the practices of hatha, rooted in the original teachings but practical and accessible for a demanding life today.

Centered Yoga is a leader in the field of yoga education and teacher training. Since its founding in 1999 it has been offering courses for professional yoga teachers, those aspiring to become teachers, and serious students seeking to go deeper in the practice. We have earned the reputation as Asia's most respected and longest running Yoga Alliance Registered Program both at the 200 and 500 levels and one of a few so well established and experienced in the world.

Samahita Wellness Thailand offers a complete approach to well-being, one that takes into account physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental aspects of one's health. We offer several personalized and guided Detox, Healthy Weight and De-Stress programs, for either the first timer stepping into healthy approaches or one already in yoga and health to take your practice a step further while transforming your body and mind.

Samahita Retreat is located in the south of Koh Samui, right on the beach. It is in a quiet area off the beaten track, with plenty of privacy and comforts, yet still close to markets and amenities. The beach is virtually ours alone, many rooms in our yoga retreat have a direct sea view, while the surroundings are lush and green. Many of Koh Samui's special attractions are down the south near us, waterfalls to temples and more. A walk down our beach brings you to the golden Laem Sor Pagoda of a realized Buddhist monk, whose force has drawn us to be established in this special spot.

All backgrounds of people join us here, whether yoga students, from beginners to advanced, those looking to lose weight and get healthy, regenerate from a stressful life to a holiday with all the healthy perks. It is the kind of place where someone traveling alone can meet people and feel at home, and where families can relax and enjoy themselves. (We offer many services for parents of young children, who might not have much time for their own time or yoga back home.) Even partners who don't do yoga or wellness find our setup perfect for them while their other half gets on with the yoga and treatments! In short, all are welcome.

For your health and environment, Samahita Retreat is a smoke and alcohol free retreat center.

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Samahita Retreat - The Boutique Retreat

Tucked away on Koh Samui's unspoiled southern shore, Samahita Retreat combines the soulful tranquillity of a yoga ashram with the creature comforts of a boutique resort. Featured in the Taschen book, Great Yoga Retreats, the centre was founded in 2003 by New York yoga teacher Paul Dallaghan and his Thai- American wife Jutima, and boasts an enviable ocean-side location and meticulous ecoplanning (solar panels heat water; bathrooms are stocked with biodegradable toiletries). Alongside its yoga programmes, Samahita Retreat offers a range of supportive therapies such as ayurvedic and Thai massage, reiki and reflexology. Miami-based yoga teacher Kino MacGregor teaches a popular ashtanga yoga programme here and is effusive about the resort: "More than a yoga retreat, Samahita is a paradise where travellers and yoga students from all over the world come to heal their bodies and minds." Ashtanga too much for you? Choose the 'simple balanced living' retreat for some gentle re-balancing, or the more intensive 'de-stress programme' as a respite from a high-powered lifestyle, with classical hatha yoga, coupled with breath-work to soothe overworked adrenal glands.

so you want to be a yoga teacher?

Kerri Kelly experienced the power of yoga firsthand when she mourned the loss of her stepfather after the September 11, 2001 tragedy in New York. "I was in one of the many yoga classes I attended during this painful time, when I realised how my yoga practice gave me the space I needed to cry, to mourn my loss and eventually to heal." That was the transformative 'it' moment for Kelly, who quit her corporate advertising job and moved out west with the intention of studying yoga more deeply and eventually teaching. Today, 10 years after taking her first yoga teacher training course, she is a well-regarded teacher in the San Francisco Bay area. Her dream of teaching yoga is a reality.

Yoga in Thailand: Samahita retreat

The venue

Samahita is on Koh Samui, but don't panic - situated on Laem Sor beach on the south coast, it's at a safe distance from the debauchery of Chawang. Eco-friendly buildings use natural lighting, rainwater harvesting and solar power.

The vibe

Yoga and fitness are taken very seriously here and the retreat is costly for a Thailand getaway. As such, guests tend to be extremely driven, with fixed goals of improving their practice, gaining yoga qualifications or learning about yoga philosophy.

The yoga

They specialise in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, and one of the teachers was directly certified by Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois, who developed the style. Guest teachers are regularly brought in for focus retreats and workshops, teaching pre-natal yoga, pranayama and other specialist topics. Classes are taught in the retreat's yoga shala which overlooks the meditation garden, beach and pool.

When you're not in a downward dog

Reiki training, healthy cooking and massage workshops are available, or you can join a group barefoot run. Samahita is close to Laem Sor Pagoda, some interesting shopping areas and numerous walking routes.

Is it punishing?

The yoga is focused and intense, and if you're booked in for one of their detox programs, your diet will be extremely limited. Alcohol and smoking are not allowed. But no pain, no gain, eh?

Rooms start at £63 per night. www.yoga-thailand.com

Go on a yoga retreat in Koh Samui

Though South-East Asia has plenty of yoga centres, there are few places with a larger concentration of retreats than Koh Samui, arguably the new yoga capital of the region (just beware: flights are a little pricier, as none of the budget airlines fly here). Two in particular offer a high quality of instructors and facilities, though you'll pay for the privilege: the plush Samahita Retreat (www.yoga-thailand.com), which focuses on the yoga courses (EUR790/$1,287 per week), but where you can stay for a few nights if you email; and the even fancier Absolute Sanctuary

Spa Junkie's week-long yoga programme at Samahita Retreat in Thailand is drawing to a close.

DAY SIX, 7.30AM

Morning practice. Things have improved remarkably since I tweaked the diet. There is a great deal to be said for a focused retreat versus my twice-weekly classes in London. The advancements in my practice are beyond my expectations, and I am now doing headstands unassisted. I hold the pose for so long, it feels as though all my blood is in my head when I come down.

The middle of the days are ours to fritter away as we wish. Most spend time at the pool, but the resort also books boat and car excursions for those wanting to venture off premises.

In the afternoon we do technique class as well. And in the evening, kirtan - call-and response chanting. Maria and Rod sit at the head of the class and chant hymns. They use a keyboard and a harmonium and Maria's voice is otherworldly; soon we are all seemingly in a trance.

DAY SEVEN, 7.3OAM

Today's the day for ftill integration of the beginner class into the Mysore room. All of us disperse among the advanced practitioners, so we can observe and follow the seasoned (or use the sheet, if need be). The girl next to me tells me about "experiencing such empowerment... to practise on my own, at my own pace yet getting help from two teachers, and also sometimes go to the wall with props to work with... and to get to ask questions afterwards, address injuries..." Clearly she's loved her week thus far.

In the afternoon we have Satsang - which is a sort of spiritual question/answer period - all about the practice and where to go with it once we're back home. Essentially, how to sustain

a lifetime yoga practice.

THE BOTTOM LINE

"I have been doing Ashtanga for 20 years, and have had several injuries and bad teachers," said one of our company during that final Satsang session, a guy I have kept in touch with. "What they showed me in that week renewed my hope for the practice." For my part, I have left Thailand lithe and emotionally restored; but more than that, I feel empowered. What Ron and Maria have taught me is invaluable. To have been given a "self-practice" I compare with being taught meditation. It allows me the freedom to practise at any time and in any place, which for a business traveller like me means a full mind and body workout when I need one, with or without the gym. Not only have I lost a few kilos, but in a week my bingo wings have vanished and I feel long and lean. Call it science or call it sorcery; but all these bankers going long on yoga are hard to ignore.

Yoga in Samui

Island of Repose
Samahita Retreat guest Louise came here to take a break and take stock of her life...

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Ontspannen op Koh Samui

Geniet van prachtige natuur en kies uit een breed scala aan yogalessen op het Thaise eiland Koh Samui.

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The Art of Thai Healing

Stepping out of the coolness of my air-conditioned car straight into a warm cocoon of peace at the Samahita Retreat, I feel my body instantly relax. The balmy evening air is laced with lingering spice and a hint of incense that lifts the weight of the world from my shoulders.

Emerging from the smoggy heat and chaos of Bangkok to the island escape of Koh Samui, destined for a week intriguingly entitled 'Yoga & the Art of Healing', I'm eager with the promise of shedding my winter skin.

Under the watchful eye of Claudia Jones, it doesn't take long for me to surrender to a daily routine, all early rising, herbal tea, long breathing workshops and sandy beach Ashtanga yoga classes. Mouth-watering brunches give way to afternoons of slightly self-indulgent relaxation and contemplation, lounging in the salt-water pool to soothe away the yoga aches and, according to Claudia, refreshing my lymph system - a vital part of any detox regime.

I finish my days with some much needed pampering in the Wellness Centre, extra classes in shady indoor spots or tuition on all sorts of alternative therapies - think vibrational medicine, flower remedies, and chakra systems

Watching the sun set from the herbal steam room, and retiring to my suite after a divine evening buffet, I try to remember who I had even been before this most heavenly of routines had begun, twelve hours earlier.

I realise that my shy inner 'yogi' has finally surfaced from the recesses of my mind. It's the end of the week and I'm entirely relaxed - and couldn't feel further than the 14,000 miles I am from home. I've swapped my prized creature comforts for simple luxury, with a queen sized bed, air-conditioning and some seriously healthy meals for company, and let life go a little.

Though I know I can't delay the inevitable, and will soon be making reluctant steps towards the long journey home, I know that I'll travel soundly, safe in the knowledge that I'd be able to re-find my yogi back in London with more than a few simple tricks in my pocket.

I'll be back next year.

Yoga, Sun, Beach and Ocean at Samahita Retreat

Über Koh Samui ist der Himmel blitzblau, der Flieger nähert sich der nahezu kreisrunden Insel, die wunderschön grün aus der türkisblauen Haut des Golfs von Thailand ragt. Man sieht sie immer häufiger am Flughafen von Samui, die reisenden Yogis mit ihren Mattentaschen. Hier gelandet, um ins Yoga, tropische Wetter, den Sand, das Meer und die köstliche Thailändische Interpretation einer sattvischen Küche einzutauchen... Download PDF >>

Asia's Top Ten Burnout Retreats

Stress is something we all live with, right? Whether it's the pressure of a punishing work schedule or a busy home life, it's not unusual to feel like there aren't enough hours in the day. Some forms of stress are good for us and motivate us to achieve, but chronic stress - the kind of stress that seems inescapable and is ongoing - is a serious no-no and can cause illness and disease if left unchecked. Recent studies suggest that three in four people experience stress at troubling levels, the side effects of which are anxiety, depression, weight gain, heart disease and stroke, hair loss, diabetes, sexual dysfunction, infertility, low immunity, ulcers and cancer. That's the bad news; the good news is that chronic stress can be avoided through wellness education. Here we look at some of Asia's best stress-busting retreats and their techniques to boost energy and maintain balance, no matter how hectic life gets.

Samahita Wellness Centre, Thailand
Perched on a pristine beach in Koh Samui, Samahita is a peaceful wellness centre that uses the holistic principles of yoga as a lens to view nutrition, attitude, exercise and lifestyle for greater wellbeing. The team of health directors, nurses, yoga gurus and nutritionists will guide you through a detoxification regime to rid the body of toxins. A retreat of at least seven to 10 days is recommended for best results, but shorter stays are also on offer. The holistic programme includes juice and broth fasts, Ayurvedic herbal formulas, liver cleansing, colon hydrotherapy, infrared saunas, steam rooms, spa treatments, yoga practice and breath work. www.samahitaretreat.com

Thailand's Wellness Gurus

Paul Da llaghan, founder of Samahita Retreat, has been living in Koh Samui with his wife Jutima since 2001. They originally came to teach and study while in India but were called to offer more for others interested in yoga and health. "We genuinely felt a place with authentic practices and integrity was needed and could only be done by those who fully live it. Though the country is full on in modernity and materialism with its own typical tourist callings, it at the same time carries with it a legacy of spiritual practice through Buddhism and even yogic exposure. The forest monks here are real yogis." With Samahita they have created an environment with the principles of an Indian ashram and the conveniences of the modern resort. "Though one can get caught up in the fun and games up north of the island, this element of raw spirituality still thrives. This drew us and will hopefully help direct others to it too."

Extraordinary Retreats

Holidays are conventionally all about being indulgent and treating yourself, but more often than not you return home needing an extra holiday to get over your holiday. Planning your time away around a health retreat may sound like it's taking the fun out of your valuable time away from work and everyday routines, but in fact you will be treating your body and mind in a far better way and they'll thank you for it with higher energy levels, a more positive outlook and possibly some inner demons that have been put to rest on your return.

Thailand's mix of natural beauty and spiritual culture makes it an obvious choice for a retreat, and there are several to choose from, whether you simply want to relax, tackle weight or serious health problems, or embark on a detox.
"Some people come for general health purposes, such as to improve energy levels or digestion or to lose a few extra kilos, others have more serious medical conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, IBS, even cancer or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and others may just be curious," says Michelle Cooper, Manager of Atsumi Healing Centre, Phuket. "But mostly people come after being recommended to Atsumi by a friend, relative or work colleague."
Word of mouth works particularly well when it comes to recommending retreats, as does the glowing appearance of friends or family who have just completed a cleanse. Chiva-Som's popularity among Hollywood stars, not to mention its long-standing reputation as one of the pioneering retreats in Asia, works strongly in its favour, while at Kamalaya a recent slew of industry awards has shone the spotlight their way.
At the Four Seasons Koh Samui, guests this page: A dreamy alfresco treatment at the Indonesia Spa, Six Senses Sanctuary, Phuket. opposite page: The view from the balcony suite at Anantara Si Kao.
Holidays are conventionally all about being indulgent and treating yourself, but more often than not you return home needing an extra holiday to get over your holiday. Planning your time away around a health retreat may sound like it's taking the fun out of your valuable time away from work and everyday routines, but in fact you will be treating your body and mind in a far better way and they'll thank you for it with higher energy levels, a more positive outlook and possibly some inner demons that have been put to rest on your return. can eschew the usual fine wining and dining to follow the Puriti detox. Lead by Spa Manager Gabriela Zoltakova, a qualified nurse, guests answer a detailed questionnaire before they arrive, and at the initial consultation discuss any problems and the goals they are aiming for. "The idea is to make a detox enjoyable," says Gabriela. "You're staying at the Four Seasons and enjoying the luxury that comes with that. It's an opportunity to observe what is going on inside and take time to reconnect with yourself."
Mandarin Oriental Group Director of Spa Andrew Gibson has created a retreat at the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi that "can harness the best of our talent to the benefit of as many guests as possible." Providing more than just spa, the resort's wellness retreats introduce guests to gentle programmes that address weight problems, bring down stress levels and help to generally detox, while also giving them the opportunity to explore Chiang Mai. Wherever you choose to 'treat' your body and mind, retreats can be just as much fun, and infinitely more rewarding, than a conventional holiday. A kick start to new positive habits and long-term holistic health, it's no wonder this spa trend has caught on big time.

Samahita Retreat, Koh Samui You can choose from wellness, detox and yoga retreats at Samahita, founded by Paul Dallaghan and his wife Jutima. Graeme and Carole Bradshaw lead regular Yoga Detox retreats, and there's Jessica Blanchard and Paul Dallaghan's Evolving with Ayurveda. On Laem Sor Beach, the resort's Wellness Centre for spa treatments, colonic irrigation and farinfrared sauna supports detox programmes, while Sattva Restaurant focuses on serving up food that gives your digestion a holiday too.

Yoga und Ayurveda

Vor wenigen Jahrzehnten waren Yoga und Ayurveda im Westen annähernd unbekannte Größen. Heute sind sie Mainstream, das eine als Alternative zu Sport, das andere als Vorbeuge- bzw. Komplementärmedizin. Worum geht es dabei? Ein Selbstversuch in zwei Etappen. Continue reading >>

Tropical yoga immersion at Samahita Retreat

The beautiful island of Koh Samui, off Thailand's East coast, has become a hotbed of yoga in the last few years.

Koh Samui and the yoga scene

As well as detox and yoga resort The Absolute Sanctuary on the north coast, the 20km-wide island is also home to acclaimed holistic spa Kamalaya, and, ten minutes along a quiet road, nestling in the far south of the island, Samahita Retreat. Continue reading >>

Samahita Retreat - The Perfect Detox Experience

The Samahita Wellness Centre provides an authentic yoga retreat and impeccably managed detox programme against an inspiring tropical island backdrop.

We were so thrilled to be invited to the first residential Samahita Yoga and Detox retreat on the beautiful tropical island of Koh Samui. The centre has always offered yoga residentials, but this is the first time the centre has run a dedicated detox stay. Continue reading >>

Detox, Cleanse and Yoga

Serious yoga aficionados should look no further than Samahita Retreat, a small "home from home" facility set in Samui's deep south on the quietest beach on the island. Living the talk, instructor Tiana says that staff at Samahita Retreat keep things "honest, simple and sincere," believing that yoga isn't just about asanas: healthy clean living plays its part, so all food is organic vegetarian and sugar-free, yet delicious. Yoga retreats or training can be accompanied by a no-nonsense yet nurturing detox at the integral Samahita Wellness facility - and personalised regimes are available too. Architecture is functional rather than aesthetic, but, as to be expected, the ecoemphasis is high. The idea is to leave here rejuvenated and relaxed , but, more importantly, empowered on many levels. www.yoga-thailand.com

Thailand's Hidden Yoga Gem

In my time I have been to many retreats around the globe with the yoga, health and wellness "theme" to it. But none seemed to quite hit the spot as Samahita Retreat in Koh Samui did. Perhaps this is one reason why I keep coming back. Unlike other wellness centres around Asia and globally for that matter, Samahita Retreat offers something the others don't. SINCERITY. This teacher - owned, teacher - directed Hidden Gem is the genius of Paul and Jutima Dallaghan, who have instilled a sense of balance to this unique place on all levels.

With a home away from home atmosphere, (but not lacking the comfort and chiq-ness we are used to) this niche 28 room retreat and wellness centre offers a proper understanding and teaching of yoga for beginners and non beginners a like. With a beautiful and well- equipped wellness centre providing detox programs and treatments tailored for you, it is a complete embodiment of health and wellness on every level.

Where other "spa type" retreat and wellness resorts have a very stagnant almost Club Med feel, Samahita Retreat provides personal, dedicated and unique attention you just won't find anywhere else.

As Hong Konger's we often cannot seem to take too much time off, so with direct flights to Koh Samui on Bangkok Airways, there really is no reason not to go.

Go pamper yourself. Go get a detox 3,5,7 days and come back and make all your friends jealous.

Check out www.yoga-thailand.com and www.samahitaretreat.com for more details. Well worth the trip! Do it for your health.

Finding the inner I

Take a deep breath when you reach the full stop at the end of this sentence. Now exhale. Again: deep inhale, feel the cool air as it moves through your nostrils, see your abdomen and chest expand; now exhale slowly through your nose, the same air coming back out warm, feel your face relax. Last time, and now don't read on, just breathe. And smile. Plug your ears with your fingers and listen to yourself breathe. Continue reading >>

Headstand on the Beach

When in 2001, with modest savings, Paul and Jutima squinted at the light at the end of the Lincoln Tunnel, they were leaving not only New York and their former years in training as yoga teachers behind them. Their destination was Los Angeles, their next stop Bangkok, Jutima's place of birth. Before they founded Samahita Retreat, they travelled to India in order to study in Mysore with their teacher Pattabhi Jois and his grandson Sharath. Continue reading >>

Take up yoga in Thailand

Miles from the thrum of Chaweng beach, with its tandooried Euro backpackers, designer fakes and pesky touts, is one of Koh Samui's hidden gems: Samahita Retreat.

Irishman Paul Dallaghan and his Thai wife, Jutima, established the yoga centre six years ago after relocating from Manhattan to raise their family. The result is a dedicated yoga retreat, a place where yogis aspiring or experienced can take up residence and immerse themselves in traditional ashtanga vinyasa yoga, the discipline responsible for 51-year-old Madonna's rock-hard physique. Continue reading >>

Samahita Retreat

Koh Samui, Thailand
www.yoga-thailand.com

Paul and Jutima Dallaghan's Ashtanga Yoga shala (school) and retreat center may be the only smoke- and alcohol-free getaway on the island of Koh Samui. The couple opened Samahita Retreat in 2003 after living and teaching in New York. This year, they're relocating to the southern part of the island and reopening just in time for their annual Christmas and New Year's Retreat. The new center can accommodate as many as 60 guests. Its eco-design features include rainwater harvesting and solar water heating. Continue reading >>

Paul Dallaghan, Founder of Samahita Retreat and Centered Yoga Institute, Thailand

Paul has been teaching constantly since he arrived on Koh Samui in 2001 when only a small number of yoga studios existed there. He believes strongly that yoga's spread can not be attributed directly to the influence of people, but will spread organically through the effect of yoga itself. Continue reading >>

Best for honest yoga practice.
Technically not a spa but very much wrapped up in healing philosophy, Samahita Retreat is a haven for yogis

and yoga want-to-bes worldwide. Situated on a secluded beach facing the island of Ko Pha Ngan, to the north of Samui, it is the brainchild of Irish yogi Paul Dallaghan and his Thai wife. Jutima. Dallaghan is one of just a handful of practitioners in the world registered by Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois (the founder of Ashtanga yoga) and the centre is totally dedicated to the practice of the dynamic Ashtanga practice. Retreats are held regularly through the year while locals and visitors appea r fromall corners of the island for regular morning yoga practice. If clean energy,. honest practice and some time out to listen to the heart or become enlightened is needed, then Samahita Retreat is a must.
For more information, visit www.yoga-thailand.com