Otways Wintering Retreat 2027
Bookings open!
We are returning to the beautiful Otways Pennyroyal valley for our Wintering retreat on the last weekend in July 2027.
Be immersed in mid-winter… the warmth of connection, evening fires, nourishing ayurvedic foods, and soulful yoga.
There will be a selection of supportive and inclusive movement, meditative and contemplative sessions each day, as well as opportunities for creative expression, bush walking, quiet time, and socialising.
Some words shared by the 2026 retreaters
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The atmosphere was truly amazing! The retreat provided me time to recharge and refocus. I am truly grateful for the experience
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A wonderful time to decompress and reconnect with peaceful purpose to what is important and meaningful in my life. I felt so invigorated at the end of the weekend and look forward to the next one.
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Thank you Mel, I loved this retreat so much. It was perfect timing for me. I would love to join you again, if you have another go in 2027. I especially loved your style of yoga, I loved you calm, clear instructions and the ability to take it your own level. I loved the delish food, thank you to you, Lincoln and your team for the planning, preparing, purchasing and cooking. I truly loved every minute of this retreat. Thanks again. Sally
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A wonderful weekend with delicious and nourishing food, affirming meditation and great yoga sessions. Loved the sauna and bushwalking’ options and encouragement to try a creative activity. It would be good to have more of an idea of the daily program so participants know what to expect. Beautiful, welcoming and warm instructors/facilitators. Thank you
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I loved it all as it was. It didn't feel strictly organized. Changes were made on the fly which suited me fine. eg instead of coming back at 3, it was changed to 4 which allowed us to go for a walk. I loved the choices of painting or games or even just reading in a corner. The location was really lovely and so peaceful. Even the weather was accommodating. The classes of course were all perfect as they were. The food was superb and perfect for me. Thought was given to my dietary requirements, so I never felt like I missed out. It all felt very nourishing - from the food, yoga and meditation, amazing view. Thank you so much Mell & Hayley (and of course Linc for food prep and most importantly the coffee.)
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The group size was perfect and meant there was enough yoga space, meal times were not too difficult to manage and we had an opportunity to get to know each other. I love the group photo with us all smiling and having fun;))
Some Details
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Friday 30th July - arrive from 2pm
till Sunday 1st August
*We are taking expressions of interest in an optional 3rd night (thursday 29th)
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King Parrot Cottages in the Pennyroyal valley, about 30 mins from Lorne, and 90 mins from our studio in Bacchus Marsh.
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We will share delicious meals together- snack on arrival, before dinner Friday evening. Each day after a morning practice we can settle into brunch, and a nourishing evening meal. Homemade healthy snacks and treats (the refined sugar free, vegan and GF caramel slice will be returning for 2027!), excellent coffee and herbal teas.
Minimum of 2 guided immersion style yoga experiences per day
All yoga equipment supplied
infrared sauna
Cosy accomodations in your chosen room configuration
Accomodation Options
Each room at King Parrot Cottages is uniquely beautiful. Located across several houses, each space is crafted from locally sourced brick and wood, originally logged from the property and built by the original owner, creating a bright, clean, and homely atmosphere.
Each room has its own amenities: bathroom, kitchen, living area, private outdoor nook, and a cozy wood fire heater, with a fridge, coffee and tea provisions, and everything needed for a comfortable stay. The main lodge also features a dining room and lounge, always open to create an inviting, communal atmosphere for your retreat.
SHARED ROOM
A shared room with in one of the shared houses on the KPC property. These beds are in a room with 2-3 other people. Beds are made up with cosy white sheets and warm bedding + towels provided.
All rooms include:
- Shared kitchen within the house.
- Shared Bathroom
- Split system heating/cooling.
- Wood fire heater
- Private outdoors pavilion with BBQ
Early bird pricing
$980
TWIN SHARE
A shared room with in one of the shared houses on the KPC property. These beds are in a room with 1 other person. The bed can be made up as a King for couples or twin singles for mates. Beds are made up with cosy white sheets and warm bedding + towels provided.
All rooms include:
- Shared kitchen within the house.
- Shared Bathroom
- Split system heating/cooling.
- Wood fire heater
- Private outdoors pavilion with BBQ
Early bird pricing
$1045
PRIVATE ROOM
A private room with in one of the shared houses on the KPC property. King bed all to yourself. Beds are made up with cosy white sheets and warm bedding + towels provided.
All rooms include:
- Shared kitchen within the house.
- Shared Bathroom
- Split system heating/cooling.
- Wood fire heater
- Private outdoors pavilion with BBQ
Early bird pricing
$1210
Lock in your spot
A non- refundable deposit of $300. is required to lock in your spot, with the balance due by 17/6/27.
Payment plans are welcomed and encouraged, please reach out to Mell to arrange
via email chikinyoga@gmail.com or text 0400102666
*travel insurance is recommended for all retreats.
Upon booking, you will be sent a form for some details from you, so we can best look after you on retreat.
Mind body medicine
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
a workshop with Mell
This workshop explores practical ways and powerful tools we can all use to reduce the burden of stress in our lives.
The techniques we will explore can be used in times of stress and pressure to help you navigate your way through difficult times, or we can use these techniques when things are feeling easier to build resilience and regulation.
“You can’t control the waves, but you can learn to surf”
No experience or prior knowledge required, everyone is welcome and encouraged.
Session 1 - September 20th, 2-4:30
Breathe into calm - pranayama workshop
Breathe into calm - pranayama workshop
Join Dr Mell for a transformative Pranayama Workshop that will leave you feeling energised, centred, and calm.
Whether you're a beginner or have experience with breathing techniques, this workshop is designed to give you the tools of self regulation so you feel confident to take charge of your wellbeing and bring more clarity into your life.
Learn take-home practices that can be used whenever you need to find calm and self regulate.
WHEN
WHERE Chi Kin Yoga - 99a Main st Bacchus Marsh
COST $55
WITH Dr Melissa Hehir- Osteopath and senior yoga teacher
HOW DO I BOOK?
Pranayama, the practice of controlled breathing in yoga, offers a wide range of benefits for both the body and mind.
Some of the key benefits include:
Improved Respiratory Health: Pranayama exercises help to improve lung capacity, strengthen respiratory muscles, and promote better oxygenation of the body.
Stress Reduction: By focusing on the breath and using specific breathing techniques, pranayama helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety.
Increased Mental Clarity: The practice helps improve concentration, mental focus, and cognitive function by calming the mind and promoting mindfulness.
Enhanced Circulation: Pranayama can help improve blood circulation, increase oxygen flow to the tissues, and support overall cardiovascular health.
Boosted Energy Levels: Many pranayama techniques invigorate the body and mind, helping to boost energy and vitality, especially when practiced in the morning.
Detoxification: Deep breathing helps expel toxins from the body through the breath and can assist in cleansing the respiratory system.
Emotional Balance: Regular practice helps regulate emotions, reduce mood swings, and promote emotional stability by balancing the nervous system.
Improved Digestion: The controlled breathing involved in pranayama can help improve digestion and support the smooth functioning of the digestive system.
Better Sleep: Pranayama can help promote restful sleep by calming the mind and releasing tension in the body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Mind-Body Connection: By focusing on the breath, pranayama enhances the awareness of the body and its sensations, deepening the connection between mind and body.
Regular practice of pranayama can lead to long-term improvements in both physical health and mental well-being.