Left A Piece of me in Sri Lanka
Reconnect, Revive, Recharge:
My Travel Blog from an Unforgettable Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat
Tucked away on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Unawatuna was the magical setting for a yoga and meditation retreat I’ll never forget. Titled Reconnect, Revive, Recharge, this retreat turned out to be so much more than I ever imagined. An incredible blend of mindfulness, adventure, and authentic cultural connection.
From the moment we arrived, the Good Vibes were unmistakable. No TV, no alcohol just a group of inspiring likeminded women on a shared journey of reflection, self-growth, and deep reconnection. The energy was raw, real, and filled with gratitude.
Unawatuna: Where Serenity Meets Smiles Each afternoon, we wandered through Unawatuna village, greeted with endless warmth and kindness by the locals. The Sri Lankan people are some of the friendliest, most joyful souls I’ve ever met, always smiling, always welcoming. Their peaceful, generous spirit made every walk feel like a moment of connection and calm.
Tea Tasting in the Highlands One of our standout experiences was tea tasting at Hermanteas Plantation. We learned about the rich tea culture of Sri Lanka and were amazed to discover that one of the machines they use is actually from Ireland my own home country. It was a beautiful reminder of how cultures intertwine and how something as simple as a cup of tea can carry the stories of generations.
Surf’s Up at Dewatta Beach Of course, no retreat is complete without a little adventure. We headed to Cool Vibes Beach House, right on Bonavista Bay at Dewatta Beach, where the waves rolled in with just the right energy. Whether you were a beginner or a pro, there was something empowering about standing on a surfboard and letting the ocean carry you. We ended the day with a beautiful dinner together on the water’s edge.
A Night in Mirissa & Sunrise at Sea Towards the end of the, we travelled down to Mirissa for a change of pace and a night by the beach. The following morning brought a 5:00 AM wake-up call for a whale-watching experience a special birthday gift from a good friend of mine Nadia. While the whales remained mostly elusive (just a distant spout) we were mesmerized by playful dolphins and sleek barracuda dancing in the water. It was a morning filled with light, joy, and the quiet awe that only nature can provide.
A Farewell in Historic Galle Our final stop was the enchanting city of Galle. Steeped in colonial architecture and vibrant history, it was the perfect place to reflect on an incredible week. The cobbled streets, charming cafes, and coastal views felt like a storybook ending to our journey.
The Heart of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka stole a piece of my heart. From the deeply spiritual atmosphere of the retreat to the colorful markets, mouthwatering curries, and genuine kindness of every person we met, this country radiates soul and warmth. The culture is rich, the food unforgettable, and the landscapes nothing short of breathtaking.
This wasn’t just a retreat it was a full-body, full-heart experience. A chance to reconnect with ourselves, revive our spirits, and recharge among new friends and new perspectives.
Until Next Time… Forever grateful for the amazing group of women I shared this journey with, and for Sri Lanka a place I’ll hold close forever. I’ll be back !
Elaine
