Top 5 Yoga Holidays; Namaste

The benefits of yoga are endless; improve your flexibility, strength, balance, posture and breathing. Whether you are trying to relax, recuperate from an injury or tone up, yoga is very good for your mental health, overall fitness and also helps to control weight.

Yoga is a gentle form of exercise which trains you to understand your body as well as your mind, and when you start you can learn it at your own pace. Due to our fast-paced lifestyles that we lead today, we require an escape that allows us to feel refreshed in mind and body. On yoga holidays you can experience, learn or practice this invigorating tradition in a stunning location with expert yoga teachers, whilst enjoying healthy cuisine, various activities and spa therapies. 

So what are the benefits of doing yoga? The variety of yoga regimes consisting of postures, breathing exercises and meditation techniques can help manage or control several physical and emotional health problems. These problems can include high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety and stress or being overweight, but yoga can also increase muscle tone, improve circulation and concentration, as well as helping to revive you, all whilst you're in a serene environment. 

There are different types of yoga depending on what level you are ready for. Hatha yoga combines mental strength with breathing and movement, making the practice ideal for a beginner to improve their awareness, flexibility and strength. For those looking for a faster pace, you can try Ashtanga yoga for a more physical challenge, or to build strength, and if you have a real sense of adventure Acro yoga combines traditional moves with acrobatics and Thai massage.

A yoga holiday also combines wellness activities with nutritional meals, detoxifying spa treatments, as well as professional support and guidance from health and fitness experts. So if you want to combine yoga with stand-up paddle boarding in Turks and Caicos or an Ayurveda Bolus Bag massage in India, then you may like to try one of our top five yoga holidays around the world:

1. Parrot Cay Yoga
Turks & Caicos, Caribbean

Escape to your very own luxury private island at Parrot Cay and experience a tranquil atmosphere in the heart of a tropical paradise. Guests can expect only the best from their daily yoga classes, some held on the white sandy beach. Andrea Scarborough, their resident yoga teacher has a wealth of experience spanning over 10 years and with her background as a competitive gymnast, she can provide unique techniques to improve your yoga experience. To get more out of your holiday, try the Pilates classes along with yogic philosophy group discussions, mountain biking or a relaxing shiatsu massage.

2. Absolute Sanctuary Yoga
Thailand, Asia

This specialist yoga retreat at Absolute Sanctuary is perfect for those wanting to thoroughly enjoy and regain their spiritual, physical and mental balance. Up to 25 yoga classes take place daily at their fitness centre, meaning guests can choose from a variety. Yoga Styles range from Yoga for Beginners, Yoga Pilates, Ashtanga or Hot Flow (similar to Bikram Yoga). As if this amazing yoga hideaway is not enough, enjoy daily spa treatments such as an Absolute Thai stretch massage, along with healthy and delicious cuisine.

3. Ananda Yoga
India, Asia

Secluded in the absolute serenity and beauty of the Himalayas, Ananda offers a wonderful well-being experience. Through a mixture of personalised one-on-one yoga lessons tailored to your every individual need, right down to the sensual spa treatments delivered for your comfort and relaxation, this stunning retreat offers the prospect of refreshing your entire lifestyle through ancient regimes of Ayurveda, yoga and Vedanta combined with other wellness activities. Stretch and strengthen your muscles through a series of ancient yoga postures whilst the breathing training helps re-energise your mind.

4. LaLuna Yoga
Grenada, Caribbean

Divulge into a spiritual journey at LaLuna, a magical land complimented by its charming landscape. Their structured well-being programme offers several daily yoga classes which include less traditional forms of yoga such as Yin that focuses on stretching; Kundalini which improves your peace of mind; or a more intense session of Vinyasa. Indulge in delicious dishes created by Italian chef Daniele Gaetano, who can also give guidance on healthier meals to prepare at home. Unwind with Balinese massages, a spiritual walk in the rain forest or enjoy scuba diving in the beautiful ocean.

5. Kamalaya Yoga
Thailand, Asia

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, the Kamalaya yoga programme offers private one-to-one yoga sessions tailored to your individual needs or goals. This yoga holiday aids your interaction with different yogis meaning you learn something new to improve your technique from those with similar ideals. Health professionals are always around to give expert guidance on your posture (asana), breathing (pranayama) and meditation. Complement your yoga practice with refreshing spa treatments such as the Vital Essential Oil massage or the Kati Vasti.