Assisting on a Menopause Yoga Retreat in Bali: A Journey of Learning, Healing & Connection

Bali greeted us with soft golden light and the scent of incense drifting through the air - the perfect beginning to a week of learning, transformation, and connection.

Our retreat at Tulus Hati Retreat opened with a traditional Balinese Welcome Ceremony, a symbolic cleansing ritual to release stagnant energy and prepare us for the days ahead. The experience was deeply moving — a reminder of the importance of arriving in presence, body, and spirit.

I was so grateful to be invited to assist the incredible Petra Coveney, founder of Menopause Yoga, on this beautiful Menopause Yoga Retreat and Teacher Training. Together, we supported women through yoga practices tailored to the physical, emotional, and energetic transitions of menopause.

Each morning began with a slow sunrise practice - a gentle way to overcome jet lag, ground into the body, and breathe with the rhythms of Bali. The sound of birdsong and the soft hum of the jungle became part of our meditation, as nature held space for our practice.

One of the highlights was demonstrating Menopause Yoga modifications - for example, the seated Shoelace (Gomukasana) pose, a wonderful counter to the Moon Salutation (Chandra Namaskar) sequence. These thoughtful adjustments help balance heated emotions such as irritation or rage, bringing calm and cooling energy back into the body.

Beyond the yoga shala, our days were filled with study, laughter, exploration, and joy - from zipping through town on Gojek scooters between studios and temples, to sharing traditional Balinese meals lovingly prepared by the talented team at Tulus Hati.

Petra’s teacher training is rooted in a unique blend of Western medical science and Eastern wellbeing, requiring deep study and reflection. It was inspiring to watch the students grow in confidence and prepare for their final Menopause Yoga Teacher assessments. Their dedication and compassion were truly moving - and I know they’ll go on to become extraordinary teachers.

As our final evening arrived, we gathered for a Tumpeng Nasi Kuning feast - a golden rice dish symbolising gratitude and celebration. Surrounded by friendship and the soft glow of sunset, we shared memories, laughter, and heartfelt thanks.

Bali, you’ve won my heart.

To Petra - thank you for the opportunity to assist and learn from your wisdom. And to all the inspiring women I met - thank you for your openness, your laughter, and your courage.

May the memory of this view, this air, these sounds, and this joy remain in my practice forever more.