Awaken your spirit, embrace your purpose. Connect | Cleanse | Celebrate

Enter a deeply transformative journey of self-discovery and inner connection through this spiritual yoga retreat, guided by experienced DRYFT yoga teachers and the renowned traditional Filipino Spiritual Healer and Mediator, Batara Gat Bayat. This exceptional experience weaves together the ancient wisdom of yoga and Filipino spirituality, inviting you to explore the profound connection between body, mind, and spirit through yoga, meditation, and sacred practices.

Each morning begins with energizing yoga classes led by our skilled DRYFT teachers. Flow through fluid sequences, connect with your breath, and awaken your energy as you move into the day with clarity and presence.

In the afternoons, the journey deepens with soul-nourishing sessions led by Batara. During the first three days, you will join the transformative “Hayahay” meditation workshops. Accompanied by traditional flute and percussion, these distinctive meditations offer a powerful body-awareness practice centered on the seven major “kaluluwa” (souls) and the body parts they correspond to: head, nose, mouth, eyes, ears, hands, and feet. This ancient Filipino practice creates space to reconnect with your inner self in a profoundly meaningful way.

Silence is an essential part of the retreat, with designated periods of quiet reflection from after dinner or the evening activity until after breakfast the next morning. These moments of stillness offer a sacred pause for contemplation, rest, and self-discovery.

On Wednesday, gain a deeper understanding of Filipino life and culture through an immersive cultural activities day. More than a cultural tour, this off-the-beaten-track experience includes a mini flora and fauna trek, learning how to make coconut milk, climbing a coconut tree, and trying local crafts, dances, and games in celebration of the Philippines and its people.

On Thursday, take part in the powerful cleansing “Panaboy-taboy” ceremony. Together, you will release what no longer serves you and welcome fresh energy and intention. Batara will expertly sweep away negativity and unwanted influences, helping to purify the space and restore balance within. This sacred practice opens the door to renewed clarity, positivity, and transformation.

The retreat concludes with the joyful “Sayaw ng Diwa” (Dance of the Soul) ceremony, a vibrant celebration of gratitude and empowerment. Throughout Batara’s special sessions, traditional Filipino flute and percussion create an evocative soundscape, while the aroma of Filipino incense enriches the spiritual atmosphere.

As part of this week-long experience, Batara also offers a personal 1-to-1 “Gabaybayin” session. Using traditional Filipino scripts similar to runes, he will share personalized messages designed to offer insight and guidance on your unique path.

This is far more than an ordinary retreat. It is a sacred passage into the depths of your spirit — an invitation to reconnect with your body, awaken your spirit, and embrace your purpose through the powerful synergy of yoga and Filipino spirituality.

Meditation retreat in El Nido