As we enter the darker cycle of the year it is a lovely time to take time out to rest, reflect and nurture yourself. The darkening months can sometimes take quite a toll on your energy and mental health, it's important to take time for yourself to recharge your mind, body and spirit before the hectic rush of the festive season.

Dearbhla Glynn will lead calming, grounding yoga sessions focused on mindfulness, and guide you through deeply relaxing Yin and Restorative practices. Ballymaloe will nourish your body with delicious and healthy food, using the best of what Ballymaloe Gardens have on offer.

Through the morning meditation we will nurture quiet, stillness and peace, nourishing both the body and spirit. We will focus on strengthening the muscles by working through a lovely warming slow flow, moving through different yoga postures and transitions. This will be followed by a lovely and lovingly prepared breakfast.

We will enjoy crisp, leaf- carpeted mindful Winter walks around the grounds, observing nature, the light and the end of the harvest season at Ballymaloe farm. In the practice before lunch, we will enjoy some breath-work, gentle stretching and relaxing.

The afternoons and evenings  are for resting, maybe taking a plunge into the sea and a walk along the beach, cosying up by the fires in Ballymaloe house, reading a book or having a soak in your bathtub.

Our evening practice will relish in the wonders of Yin yoga, opening up tired and stiff joints and eventually moving towards deep relaxation as we hold restorative poses, which calms the body, mind and the nervous system.

The Retreat at Ballymaloe is a retreat that ultimately nurtures mind and body through food, comforts, beauty and the healing powers of yoga. Deep relaxation, heavenly meals and treats, luxurious accommodation and the natural beauty of Autumn, all the ingredients needed for a blissful few days at Ballymaloe.