Riding the Wave Sri Lanka by Seasoul Collective // 4-11 April 2020

YOGA, SURF & FUN RETREAT IN WELIGAMA

Riding the wave Weligama, Sri Lanka4th – 11th  | April 2020

Hello all! 

I want to invite you personally to a retreat that we're organizing with our Seasoul Collective next April in Sri Lanka! I'm super excited as this time I will be in charge of teaching vinyasa and yoga for surfers to all of the participants. We will then, head up for long surf sessions in front of our accommodation, and tons of other fun stuff while we explore the beautiful South Coast all together! 

Check all the info below and don't miss our 100$ discount plus 50$ more if you bring a friend with you, until the end of January!

Join the Facebook event and send me DM if you need more info about Sri Lanka or this retreat or check our web for more info, photos and book your spot!

From Sri Lanka with love & light,

Ale xoxoxo

The retreat

Hosted on the beautiful south coast of Sri Lanka, this week-long wellness retreat is a unique opportunity to open yourself up to the powerful healing Indian Ocean alongside great company.

Together, we will tune in to how it feels to unfold, release,  and disconnect through early mornings full of yoga, surfing sessions, and time well spent at sunset time sipping coconuts under a palm tree…

Vibes & week’s program 

Every morning will begin with a 90-minute yoga practice of Vinyasa Flow. This practice is designed to help you to harness a better connection with your body and to be able to shutter the mind. After the practice you will be welcomed by delicious vegan/vegetarian breakfast full of fresh and locally sourced products by the Island Sisters team.

From here, you have the day to enjoy at will! Those wishing to surf, can grab a board or book a surfing lesson with us. You can explore the multiple spots just in front of our accommodation or get a tuk-tuk and experience the many spots along Sri Lanka’s south coast. Our team will recommend the best options for your needs.

For those in search of relaxing tropical vibes, get a fresh coconut and take a barefoot walk along the palm-lined beaches, or cycle through the local villages surrounding Weligama. You have unlimited options to enjoy the area.

As the day draws to a close, you are invited to join the rooftop Sunset Sessions where we will cover a variety of self-healing practices. From Yin yoga, Hatha, and moon salutations, to a variety of sound healing sessions with tibetan bowls, gongs or other instruments.

Come dinner time we will gather together for delicious meals at one of the many neighborhood dining options proposed by the collective. Local, vegan and little concerts are on the plan!

*Full program will be released with enough time before the arrival of participants*

What people say about us…

“Cosy and super friendly”

My experience in the retreat was great. The small size of the group made us feel like a small family. It was a very friendly environment but still very professional, keeping the group engaged at all times with different activities each day.

– Mireia López.

+ More reviews of our retreats here

Location

Island Sisters Weligama

Dive into that sweet escape you’ve always dreamed of. Weligama is known as a surfer’s and sun lover’s paradise. With waves perfect for beginner or pro surfers, and beaches filled with unlimited coconuts and scenic views perfect for walks on the beach and beautiful photos. Situated at the southern point of Sri Lanka, Weligama is a must see for anyone visiting the country.

The Island Sisters are situated in the heart of Weligama on a quiet street, only a hundred meters from the beach, and walking distance from the main attractions around town, local markets, bus and train stations, and all the good stuff. The Island Sisters accommodation consists of seven spacious, naturally lit, and minimalistic rooms, all set up for your comfort.

The Island Sisters is a two-story hotel with a free-spirited vibe, vibrant colors, welcoming, warm, and all together loving atmosphere. The staff will always make sure to make you feel right at home. As soon as you step in you’ll feel the down-to-earth, welcoming vibe that you want on your perfect holiday. From mesmerizing art and soothing color tones, to nutritious meals and spacious private rooms. You’re all set!

+ More info about Island Sisters here 

What’s included:

• 7 night accommodation in private or shared accommodation. 
• 7 healthy vegan/vegetarian breakfasts.
•  3 group dinners.
• Daily Sunrise Vinyasa Flow practice (90min) including pranayama, asana, meditation and mantras.
• Special Sunset Sessions in our rooftop.
• 2 special sessions by guest teachers.
• 1 visit in bicycle to buddhist temple in Weligama.
• Concierge service from our team to organize transfers, surf lessons, local tours of  surrounding areas, visits to spas and additional day trips.
• Lifelong memories and friendships.

** Not included: Flights, transfers and travel insurance.

Extra activities

Surfing lessons, or surf rentals.

Ayurvedic Massages.

Traditional cooking class.

Tours & visits nearby.

Excursion to Temple & Tea Plantation.

Beach Hoping Tour.

– and much more…

Accommodation Options

You have the option to choose from twin shared, double shared, or private rooms that all offer a comfortable experience. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom, A/C, hot showers, mirrors and clothing stands. Feel free to get more acquainted with your tropical home at The Island Sisters.

Private Double Room/ Single occupancy

PER PERSON/ $1.090

Accommodates: 2 in total. Beds: 1 queen size bed. For single participants looking for more privacy and comfort.

Twin Room/ Double occupancy

PER PERSON/$890

Accommodates: 2 in total. Beds: 2 twin beds. To be shared with solo travelers and/or friends.

Shared Double Room/ Double occupancy

PER PERSON/$829

Accommodates: 2 in total. Beds: 1 queen size bed. Best shared with a friend or partner.

How to Book?

Book your spot with a 300$ deposit.

Relax from here, and pay the rest before March 1st 2020.

Get an early bird discount of $100 USD for bookings until end of January!!!
Click here to book your spot!

+ For more details request our retreat info-pack sent by email to: hello@seasoulcollective.com

The Seasoul Collective

We are a team of Sri Lanka based creative nomads, yoga teachers and surfers coming together from all walks of life to bring you a unique experience during your retreat. We will let you know the ins and outs of everything there is to know about enjoying what Sri Lanka has to offer! Feel free to ask us anything and check our past retreats in our social media.

We’ve been organizing yoga & surf retreats around the world since 2013 in places like Bali, Mexico, Nicaragua, Europe, etc.

+ More info about our team here

See you very soon here in Sri Lanka!

Fall Retreats 2017 San Sebastián/ Donosti Chill X Seasoul Collective/ Oceanlove & Wellness

BOOK NOW // OCEANLOVE & WELLNESS RETREAT

At the SEASOUL COLLECTIVE x DONOSTI CHILL RETREATS we aim to provide our guests with a unique cultural experience based on a foundation of health and wellness. This 5 day wellness retreat will immerse you in the beautiful surf-city of San Sebastián, allowing you to experience the city and its culture through yoga, meditation, food, and nature. We invite you to find a renewed sense of health, and discover the beauty of the Basque Country while deepening your yoga, meditation, and overall physical practice.



After the five days of activities, you will have the option of staying two extra nights for an additional fee of 99€ . This price includes accommodation, breakfast & lunch, and 1 daily yoga lesson.

DATES AUTUMN 2017:
/// September 29th to October

/// 3rd.October 16th to October 20th

/// November 1st to November 5th.






 
WHATS INCLUDED:
– 5 nights/ 6 days of accommodation + possibility of 2 extra nights (100€ extra per day).
– Daily early vinyasa yoga + 3 guided meditations (pranayama).
– Daily breakfast & lunch catered by our takeaway café: Bowls and Bites San Sebastián.
– 3 surf lessons (all material included) + 1 hiking tour to Pasaia.

ACCOMMODATION & PRICES:
Price in shared double room/ single bed: 760€. Single private room for 10€ per night.

5 Daily Yoga Lessons + 3 meditation/ pranayama practices:
Our in-house yoga teacher and Host, Shelby Pauletto, will guide you through 5 daily morning asana practices. The classes are based on level 1-2 yogis, with optional modifications for advanced students. Meditation sessions will include pranayama (breath work), Yoga Nidra, and Yin style practices.

DAILY BREAKFAST & LUNCH
These meals will be made specially by Bowls and Bites-San Sebastián, a health food café 10 min. away from our venue. Bowls and BItes prides itself on a vegetarian offer of organic, local, and fresh ingredients.




1 Hiking Tour
We will hike backwards along the northern route of the Camino de Santiago (St. James’s Way) from San Sebastián to the small fishing town of Pasaia enjoying beautiful ocean views, lush forest, and steep sea cliffs. Upon arrival we will take a water taxi to Pasaia Donibane to eat lunch (not included on the price).

3 Surf Lessons
Your itinerary will include three surf lessons provided by one of the bests surf schools in San Sebastián. The lessons will supply you with the basic knowledge of surfing and for a small additional fee, you will also have the option to rent surfboards and wet suits on your free time if you wish to continue your practice on your own.

EXTRA ACTIVITIES UPON REQUEST:
– Road trips to France or the surrounding area
– Guided pintxo tours + Guided city tours and excursions
– Car & Bicycle rentals
– Extra yoga lessons by Donosti Chill teachers

NOT INCLUDED:
– Airfare to San Sebastián
– Airport Transfers (very easy to get to the house, check below how to get to San Sebastián)
– Meals & drinks purchased at restaurants, local cafes & bars
– Staff Tipping

RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS:
– Early bird: Get a 50€ discount if booking is made up until 20 days before the date of arrival
– We require a 50% of deposit to reserve your spot (non refundable) through Paypal. The remaining 50% balance will be due at your arrival in cash.
– Refunds will be reviewed & treated individually according to each circumstance.
– Please note that there is likely to be other guests staying at the Donosti Chill who are not partaking in the retreat. All guests are encouraged to be respectful of each other´s space.



HOW TO GET TO SAN SEBASTIAN:
You have plenty of flights available to San Sebastian airport; but also to Bilbao airport, and Biarritz, France airport from many points in Europe.
Also train and buses lines are available directly to city downtown and our house is just 10 mins. walking to the bus/train station.

Buses from nearby airports to San Sebastian:
– Bus from Bilbao by Pesa.net/ 1h30/ at 17,10€
– Bus from Biarritz by Pesa.net/ 1h/ 7,00€
– Bus from San Sebastian by Ekialdebus & Lurraldebus / 20mins./ 2,50€

BOOK HERE 

 

The importance of a morning yoga practice by Nathalie de Haaij

Good morning everyone!
I just wanted to share a beautiful article written by my friend Nathalie de Haijj about the importance of a morning practice. Nathalie de Haaij is a certified Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga teacher (Primary Series) and also a qualified Masseuse.

She will be leading the daily morning yoga practices and guided evening meditation sessions during our Bali Surf, Yoga & Wellness Retreat in January 2016.

This is a unique 10 day retreat in beautiful Bali, hosted by a professional all female team from Seasoul Shelter, MALEKAI & From Where you'd Rather Be.

More information about the retreat and dates available here. For bookings & plus info please contact info.malekai@gmail.com 

Hopefully this article will get you motivated to jump into your mat everyday!
Here you go the article!

_________________________________________________________________________________

The importance of a morning yoga practice 

by Nathalie de Haaij

Easy steps to get you motivated and started.
Finding it hard to do your yoga practice in the morning? Here are a few good reasons, why and how you can get started!

For most people getting up in morning is just plain difficult. That extra 5 – 10 minutes in bed before getting ready for work is sacred.  The very thought of any form of movement, let alone 20 mins or 1 hour of yoga (that could potentially send you back to sleep) is often unbearable. So hitting the snooze button, usually feels like the better option.

Sure you can practice yoga any time of the day, but here is why an early bird yoga session is worth getting out of bed for:

Gets you to your mat every day
Practicing in your lunch break, or in the evening, you are less likely to cultivate a regular habit, as you will be more prone to distractions. Waking up early each morning, this is YOUR time, you give yourself.

Sets you up for the day
Morning yoga can help you set your intention(s) for the day. A combination of mediation, breathing and yoga postures, calms the mind and prepares you to handle the stresses of the day more easily.

Play by your rules
A morning yoga session, allows you to choose the length of your practice, where that be just 10 mins or a full-on 1 hour power session.  You decide, you set the standards, but you still get the practice in.

© aleromophtography.com

HOW TO START A MORNING YOGA PRACTICE?
It is ALL about the preparation, wait for it…. the night before! Yes, to ensure that you actually get on that mat when you wake up, you need to make sure you have everything ready in the morning. The more prepared you are, the less likely you find excuses for not to get out of bed. Before you know it - well, we all know it takes 21 days for the habit to kick in - you will be wondering what all the fuss was all about. So here is what you need. You can do this!! : - )

Choose Your Space
Find a space that you can comfortably do your practice. Move some furniture, clear some stuff, you need to create an environment where there is plenty of room for you to move around and is free from distractions.

Start Small
Decide on the length of time you want to dedicate to your morning yoga practice. I recommend that you start doing less than what you used to eg. 10 – 15 mins, it will be easier to achieve at the start and motivate you to do it more regularly. Then slowly begin to increase the time by 5 mins until you find the length of practice that works for you.

Select A Sequence.
If you are new to yoga, then selecting an online class would be your best option to help guide you. If you are more experienced, deciding on a sequence ahead of time can help you structure your practice. You can either stick to the same sequence every day or mix it up a bit, up to you.

Handy Props
Apart from your mat, have a pillow, bolster or towel handy, in case you need them to prop yourself up on your hips or shoulders. Yoga straps, blocks and blanket are also good to have around.

Outfit Ready
Make it easy for yourself and have your clothes laid out in the morning, one less thing to think and worry about.  Remember no matter how great you think you look, your yoga outfit should be hassle free and comfortable to do your practice in. (Yoga in PJs, is not a good look).

Set The Alarm
Give yourself enough time. The worse thing is to feel that you rushing your practice, whether it is a short or long session.

Head to bed early
Try and get as many zzzz in as you can, ideally 8 hours. Not enough sleep, will make it harder to get up and do your practice. The more energy you have in the morning, the more you will get out of your practice and greater you feel for the rest of the day.

Wake up, Get On Your Mat & Practice
Well done if you managed to get this far. With all that preparation, this would be easy- peasy! Embrace the morning and enjoy your practice!

Collaboration Ale Romo X Havaiii.com

Today I feel so blessed and very excited to announce you my most recent collaboration with the guys of Havaiii.com.
Havaii is a clothing and accessories company inspired in the love of traveling and exploring new and exciting horizons. Just like me! That's why this collaboration was perfect match of what we are both doing in separate. Our seeking of adventure and exploring brought us together in this collaboration and we are both hoping that this work will inspire you to live your life by design, doing whatever you want to do while exploring this beautiful world.

From today I'm gonna be their ambassador, taking the brand to new adventures.
Appart from that, we will be doing a couple of things. The team liked so much my blog, that offered me to have my own space at their site to write about my adventures. The name of the blog will be "Tales of Wander" and will be under "Explore and Discover".
Among this, we will prepare a limited edition collection based on my pictures and some other interesting stuff I will tell you as things develop.

A while ago, when I knew about them, I got to read their Manifesto, which inspired me and hooked me in to collaborate with them. You will like it for sure.
Here it is:

"To the adventure seeking individuals, the global citizens guided by wanderlust, the forever exploring discoverers of our modern times. This is your community across continents, your belonging to global unity. This is your life of expressing who you truly are; expressing your unique self through style. A style inspired by the universal love for travelling this beautiful planet of ours and exploring the adventurous unknown.
This is your culture, your vogue. This is HAVAIII."

Following some of their clothing. To check out all their catalogue go to: http://havaiii.com

Also be sure to check out my profile and our collaboration much better explained with some of my pictures here: http://havaiii.com/pages/ale-romo-x-havaiii

 

Surfing pic of the day, Friday SUPper

What's for dinner tonight mum? - Waves son, sunset waves!

I took this pic at Maderas around December or so. I started to document the amazing surf of a group of 4-5 suppers that came to the beach for about 2 weeks.
A lot of people tend to believe that SUP is for small waves. They're wrong! These guys were surfing waves from 3ft to 8-12 ft with such an impressive style. These guys got barreled every time they could, and yes, with such a monster board. Pretty cool to watch indeed.

Sunset supper at Maderas

It's Monday, follow your path!

Monday's are for reminding you to follow your dreams and try whatever you want to do. These are yours and they worth a big try. Good week girls!

Jone, Monte Ulía, San Sebastian, Basque Country-Spain

Surfing pic of the day, documenting the stoke!

For those surfing (or not), you might recognize the feeling of the first wave caught, or how cool is to see one friend "doing it" for the first time, specially being a kid.
I was so lucky to be there at this precise very moment, and to have my camera with me.. hope you'll like it

Documenting the stoke, Maderas beach, Nicaragua

Friday song suggest

If you're still at office, this might cheer you up onto your final hours of suffering, watching the weekend is just a few hours away. Here's "Vacation" from The Blank Tapes, a very cool surfy band I met last year in California in a Cyrus Sutton's party. Enjoy and dream on!!

What would be more than stoked in English?

What would be the word of more than stoked in English?

Well, I really don't know, but I feel more than stoked to have one of my pics highlighted  at the Surfing Scene in the Seshn.com platform. So, what is Seshn? you have to be wondering?
Seshn is like a magazine online to share interesting content in different themes like Surfing, Art, Photo, etc. You can get an invite to collaborate (what happened to me), or you can ask for an invitation, and if they consider your content is cool, they invite you to collaborate.
Once you collaborate and submit some posts, their team review it and if it's cool enough they highlight your post in some of the scenes.

So, yes, this pic of mine made it to the Surfing scene... more than stoked!!! You can see the pic online here: http://surfing.seshn.com/ and of course here it is. What do you think of it?

Local surfer turbing on a greeny wave at Maderas beach