Two unique ways to rest, reconnect, and renew — in Thailand or Whangamatā
Bhakti & Beings
Thailand Yoga Retreat & Elephant Sanctuary Experience
8–19 July 2026 | Northern Thailand
Bhakti & Beings is a 12-day heart-led retreat combining five spacious days in Chiang Mai with a seven-day volunteer immersion at Elephant Nature Park.
Retreat Structure
Arrival in Chiang Mai: Wednesday 8 July 2026
Chiang Mai retreat time: Wednesday–Monday (5 nights)
Elephant Nature Park volunteer program: Monday 13 July – Sunday 19 July 2026
After the Elephant Nature Park program concludes on Sunday 19 July, guests are free to continue on or return home independently.
Investment
From NZD $1,785 per person
(Land package – flights not included)
What’s Included
Chiang Mai – 5 Nights
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5 nights accommodation
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5 breakfasts
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4 x 1.5-hour morning yoga and meditation sessions
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On-site yoga studio hire
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Airport transfer on arrival when travelling on the main group flight with Emma
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Retreat facilitation and support
Elephant Nature Park – 7-Day Volunteer Program
Guests will stay on-site at Elephant Nature Park from Monday 13 July to Sunday 19 July.
Included during this portion:
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Full 7-day volunteer program
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On-site accommodation
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All meals while at the park
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Optional gentle morning yoga (gifted, not charged)
Elephant Nature Park is a rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary dedicated to the protection and ethical care of elephants. This is a non-riding, non-performance environment focused on conservation, education, and long-term welfare.
Also Included
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Retreat administration and coordination
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A spacious, intentionally paced retreat flow
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Ongoing support and communication in the lead-up to departure
What’s Not Included
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International flights
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Airport transfer if travelling separately from the main group flight
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Optional spa treatments
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Meals not specified above
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Optional Chiang Mai activities (e.g., cooking classes, cycling tours)
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Travel after the Elephant Nature Park program
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Travel insurance
Flights
Flights are booked individually.
Flight prices vary depending on season, airline, and booking time. Please check current fares when planning your travel.
You are welcome to:
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Book flights independently
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Travel on the same flight as Emma
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Be connected with a trusted travel agent for assistance
After the retreat, guests are welcome to continue their travels independently.
What the Retreat Will Feel Like
In Chiang Mai, days include:
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Morning yoga and meditation
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Spacious time for rest, integration, massage, or exploring at your own rhythm
Optional activities such as cooking classes or cycling tours may be available, though participation is entirely your choice.
At Elephant Nature Park, days follow the volunteer program structure, with simple evenings and the option of gentle morning practice.
This is not an entertainment-focused retreat, but a thoughtful and nourishing experience. It is grounded in yoga, presence, ethical awareness, and meaningful connection.
The rhythm is intentionally spacious and unhurried, with room to rest, reflect, and reconnect.
It is a journey rooted in care – for ourselves, for community, and for the natural world.
Is This For You?
Bhakti & Beings may feel aligned for you if you:
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- Value ethical and conscious travel
- Feel called to meaningful conservation experiences
- Appreciate spacious structure rather than constant activity
- Enjoy yoga as a supportive practice rather than performance
- Feel comfortable with simplicity during the volunteer immersion
Next Steps
If this retreat feels aligned for you, you’re warmly invited to reach out.
You’re welcome to:
- Express your interest
- Ask any questions
- Or simply take time to sense whether this experience feels right for you
Warmly,
Emma Scott
Emma Scott – Balance Mind, Body & Soul
New Zealand
Bespoke Coastal Retreats – Whangamatā
Create your own retreat experience by the sea.
These personalised retreats are designed for individuals, couples, friends, or small groups seeking rest, reconnection, and space to breathe. Set in beautiful Whangamatā, each retreat is thoughtfully tailored to your needs, energy, and intentions.
Your bespoke retreat may include:
• Yoga, pilates & mindful movement
• Breathwork & meditation
• Relaxation & nervous system support
• Bodywork or massage options
• Nourishing plant-based meals
• Retreat day, weekend, and accommodation options available
• Beach walks & nature connection
• Time to rest, reflect, and reset
• Creative or soulful experiences
• Sauna, spa or local wellness add-ons
• Space to simply be
Whether you’re looking for deep rest, personal renewal, meaningful connection, or a special shared experience, your retreat can be created to support what matters most to you.
Get in touch to explore the retreat format, accommodation, and experience that best suits you.