A typical retreat day
A sneaky glimpse into a day on retreat at the House of Figs……….
Words by Nicki Pulvertaft (retreat yoga teacher)
7am It’s time to rise and start to shine! (Or a longer lie in for those who want it!)
7.15am I throw on some comfy clothes and head down to the yoga shala.
7.30am I sip herbal tea, light incense and candles, choose some tunes and enjoy a couple of our homemade date and coconut balls.
8am Anyone who would like to meditate can head down to the yoga shala where classes are held.
8.30am Our guests enjoy a 90 minute morning yoga class with the fabulous Becky (my yoga partner in crime!) I leave Becky to work her magic on the mat while I head up through the twisting medieval streets of Vezenobres to pick up fresh croissants and baguettes from Marc’s Bar. I sit and chat to other early birds whilst enjoying a rich black coffee. There are usually a few local cats snaking around my ankles and lounging in the warmth of the early morning sun. This is my favourite morning meditation. Soaking up the smells, sounds and tastes of village life.
Morning meditations
9.30am I meander back to the house. Take cover off the pool. Lay out some fluffy towels ready for the guests who will soon be finishing their class.
10am Breakfast on the terrace with guests. Becky and I lay out the fresh baked goodies but make sure to balance out those buttery treats with a spread of fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, granola, yogurts (vegan too) nut milks and of course our famous coconut chia pudding.
11am Opportunity for guests to grab a massage, lie by the pool, or explore the beautiful village (up for prettiest village in France award!) Becky and I usually spend some time chatting with everyone and checking in to see if they have everything they need. On two of the days we offer an optional trip out to a local attraction. One trip takes us to some stunning local waterfalls where we set up a typical french picnic, plunge our bodies into the cool clear waters (often this is just Becky and I which entertains our guests as we try and use our best breathing techniques to overcome hyperthermia!) Our other adventure takes us to the stunning market town of Uzes. Local wine, truffle, honey and lavender producers as well as artisans gather in the market square to sell a cornucopia of goods which our guests end up always extending their baggage allowances for!
Cooling off at Cascades du Sautadet
4pm Afternoon tea on west terrace to catch some afternoon rays, enjoy a relaxed chat and indulge in some healthy cakes!
5pm Evening yoga in the shala or if not too warm (June) or not too chilly (October) maybe poolside yoga.
6.30pm Relax or wander up to Marc’s bar for a sundowner…
The yoga shala where most classes are held
8pm Supper. Recently taking up the role of resident chef I love to serve up nourishing vegetarian and vegan dishes, packing punchy flavours with fresh local seasonal ingredients. My dishes are inspired by the Indian science of Ayurveda which helps heal and maintain the quality and longevity of life. We serve local wines with our suppers and encourage our guests to enjoy mindfully. Depending on the season and the group the shared experience of enjoying food together could either be light and animated or sometimes we find our guests are so mellow that they slip off quietly to bed with a chamomile tea and a full belly to make the most of an early night and some solitude away from their busy home lives.
10pm. Silence and rest… Whatever the vibe Becky and I whole heartedly encourage our guests to relax and give themselves permission to take what they need. We do ask that you to join us in the practice of Mouna (silence) from 10pm until after yoga the morning after. It unnerves some of our guests at first but they all leave convinced of its benefits.
Shhhhhhhhh…….night night X
