Nervous & Thrilled: My Upcoming Retreat in Sri Lanka

Hello friends,

I’m writing this on the eve of a big adventure—one that’s stirring up a mix of excitement and nerves. In just a few days, I’ll be flying to Sri Lanka to host my first international yoga retreat at Polwaththa Eco-Lodges. I’ve led countless classes, breathwork sessions, and meditation circles before, but never surrounded by such lush nature on the other side of the world. To be honest, I’m a little terrified, and that feels real and necessary to share.

I’m nervous about the solitude. Traveling alone has always been a double-edged sword for me: on one hand, there’s a beautiful stillness and time for self-reflection; on the other, there’s that little voice asking, “Are you sure you can do this?”I’m banking on that stillness—tucked away among the trees at Polwaththa Eco-Lodges—to give me the space I need to absorb the culture, connect more deeply to my own practice, and truly show up for those attending the retreat.

But amid the jitters, I’m also thrilled. I’ve dreamed of visiting Sri Lanka for years—its history, architecture, landscapes, and especially its cuisine fascinate me. More than anything, I’m eager to meet people from a culture I’ve only read about. I believe there’s no better way to understand our shared humanity than by traveling, listening to local stories, and tasting food prepared with centuries-old traditions.

Hosting the retreat at Polwaththa Eco-Lodges feels like the perfect fit for diving deeper into yoga, breathwork, and meditation. The lodges themselves are nestled in nature near Kandy, committed to sustainability and a mindful way of living—values that resonate deeply with my own approach. This environment will allow us to practice yoga with the sounds of the forest as our soundtrack, explore breathwork in the fresh morning air, and share in meaningful conversations under the stars.

I’m carrying my years of experience, but I’m also arriving as a student—ready to learn from the environment, the locals, and the retreat participants who will join me. I’m committed to creating an honest, nurturing space where we can all explore what it means to step outside our comfort zones and truly grow.

Thank you for your ongoing support and curiosity. I’ll be sharing updates—both the highs and the challenges—so you can follow along on this journey with me. Here’s to discovering new perspectives and letting the beauty of Sri Lanka guide us forward.

With nerves and excitement,

Danielle