We were heading from Cape Town to Stilbaai for the March holidays and decided to break the journey in Barrydale on the scenic R62. To our great fortune, I found Little Samadhi Karoo Retreat. “Samadhi” is a Sanskrit word meaning bliss or enlightenment, and you can literally feel your worries falling away as you enter the retreat. The owner, Atma, welcomed us warmly at the door. The house itself is beautiful, inside and out; warm and comfortable and a visual delight.
The rain didn’t hamper our visit at all and we made full use of the two spacious bedrooms and common areas to rest, read and relax. There is a large, wood-burning fireplace for chilly Winter evenings. The master bedroom has a lovely Victorian bathtub in the room, and there are soft cotton robes provided. Atma made a hearty vegetarian stew for supper. Breakfast was abundant: fresh fruit salad, smoothies, oats and yoghurt and the option of a cooked breakfast. Delicious espresso coffee and hot chocolate prepared us for the day ahead.
Atma is a certified Kundalini instructor and teacher trainer, as well as a Hatha teacher of many years standing. In her large, tranquil yoga studio, she gives classes to Barrydalers as well as teacher training, and retreats for groups and individuals, both local and from overseas. The yoga studio looks onto an indigenous garden and distant hills. Atma is also a masseuse who gives invigorating Kahuna massages on site.
I woke up early each morning and did my own yoga in the quiet studio before the family awoke. Perhaps the highlight of our stay was Atma’s yoga class for my children, ages 13, 11 and 11. She took them on a lovely journey of fun asanas, stretching, breathing and finally a very welcome meditation and relaxation. The children certainly have a new appreciation for their mom’s yoga practice!
Little Samadhi is a real treat of a retreat, within easy reach for a weekend – yet feels as if you’re worlds away.
To contact Atma:
email: littlesamadhi.co.za | 028 572 1002 | 082 8233179 | http://littlesamadhi.co.za
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Many thanks to Laurie and Cal for sharing their story and images, what a great experience!