Handstand & Yoga Retreat Portugal

WHAT AWAITS YOU

• Invigorating yoga flows led by Helen to awaken your body and center your mind.
• Immersive handstand workshops with Natalie to build confidence and technique.
• A luxurious villa with a private pool, beautiful gardens, and spacious rooms, perfect for unwinding in style.
• Relaxing beach trips where you can soak in the coastal beauty of Portugal.
• A full-day adventure in Lisbon, where you’ll explore its vibrant culture and historic charm.
• Delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients to nourish your body and mind.

This retreat is your chance to step away from the daily grind and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience of personal growth, connection, and relaxation. Whether you’re new to yoga and handstands or a seasoned practitioner, this retreat is designed to meet you where you are and help you thrive.

YOGA SESSIONS: FLOW, STRENGTH, AND BALANCE

During the retreat, Helen will guide you through a dynamic mix of Ashtanga, Vinyasa flow, and Rocket yoga, combining strength-building sequences with creative, energizing flows. Her teaching style blends structure with adaptability, ensuring every session is engaging and accessible to all levels.

Expect to explore flowing transitions, arm balances, and inversions in her Rocket-inspired classes, while grounding yourself with the breath-focused discipline of Ashtanga. Alongside these dynamic practices, Helen will include Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga, offering time to unwind and recharge.

Helen’s sessions are designed to challenge and inspire, helping you build confidence, flexibility, and balance on and off the mat.

HANDSTAND WORKSHOPS: STRENGTH, BALANCE, AND CONFIDENCE

Natalie’s handstand classes are designed to help you build the strength, alignment, and confidence needed to master handstands—whether you’re just starting or refining advanced skills. With a focus on technique and progression, her workshops cater to all levels, breaking down the complexities of hand balancing into manageable steps.

You’ll explore foundational drills to improve alignment, core engagement, and shoulder strength, as well as playful exercises to develop balance and control. For those ready to take it further, Natalie will guide you through advanced variations, including press-to-handstand and creative transitions.

Her teaching style is approachable, encouraging, and packed with tips to help you feel empowered in your handstand journey. With Natalie’s guidance, you’ll not only gain the physical tools for hand balancing but also the mindset to embrace challenges and celebrate progress.

LOCATION

THE MAVERICK LOURINHÃ, PORTUGAL

Set in the peaceful countryside of Lourinhã, Portugal, The Maverick Surf & Yoga Resort is the perfect setting for our 6-night retreat. Just one hour north of Lisbon and close to breathtaking beaches like Praia da Areia Branca, The Maverick combines luxury, tranquility, and a welcoming atmosphere. With beautiful villas surrounded by lush gardens, an infinity swimming pool, and spaces designed for relaxation and connection, it’s a haven for rejuvenation. Enjoy practicing yoga in the serene outdoor shala, mastering handstands in dedicated workshops, or unwinding by the pool. Gather around the wood-fired pizza oven for a cozy evening and soak in the vibrant energy of this unique location.

The Maverick is not just a retreat space—it’s an experience, offering the ideal blend of comfort, community, and natural beauty to make your time with us truly unforgettable.

MEALS

During the retreat, you’ll enjoy fresh, wholesome meals designed to nourish your body and fuel your practice. Each dish will be crafted using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to ensure every bite is as vibrant and energizing as the experience itself. Our menu caters to a variety of dietary needs, so whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific preferences, we’ve got you covered. Expect a mix of hearty breakfasts, refreshing lunches, and satisfying dinners that celebrate the flavours of the region while supporting your wellness journey.

YOUR TEACHERS

Natalie (@theoutspoken30s) –

Natalie is a passionate Handstand Enthusiast and the visionary Founder of THM (The Handstand Movement). With an unwavering commitment to helping others experience the exhilarating world of handstands, Natalie initiated this movement in April 2020 and began her coaching journey in May 2021.

Since embarking on this path, Natalie has cultivated extensive expertise by working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, tailoring her guidance to meet their unique handstand aspirations.

Her coaching prowess lies in guiding aspiring handstand enthusiasts through the fundamental principles, empowering them to develop strength, balance, and the unwavering confidence necessary to master this dynamic art form.

Fueled by her deep passion for handstands, Natalie’s infectious energy and unyielding dedication have inspired countless individuals on their own handstand journeys. Her commitment to sharing her love for handstands with others is unparalleled, ensuring an atmosphere of enthusiasm, support, and boundless motivation at every workshop she leads.

Prepare to be captivated by Natalie’s genuine passion as she guides the way, providing a transformative experience for all participants in her workshops.

Helen (@helendowneyoga)

Meet our inspiring yogi, who left behind a successful career in event management to follow her passion for yoga. After immersing herself in the yoga world during her travels, she completed a 500-hour Yoga Teacher

Training in Ashtanga Vinyasa in Goa, India. Returning to the UK, she established herself in Liverpool, where she built a strong yoga community as a lead trainer for 200-hour Yoga Teacher Trainings. Her expertise lies in Ashtanga, Vinyasa flow, and Rocket yoga. Her love for inversions led her to train with a gymnast and former circus performer, further deepening her knowledge of hand balancing.

Passionate and dedicated, she shares her profound love for yoga with her students. Her journey is a testament to the life-changing power of yoga, and she continues to inspire others as she spreads her passion for handstands and all aspects of the practice.

PRICING & ACCOMMODATION

All prices are indicated per person. The price includes all retreat activities and workshops, daily meals and your choice of accommodation.

For this retreat, we’ll be staying in two stunning villas at The Maverick Surf & Yoga Resort, designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and connection.

Each villa features:

• 5 Twin Suites: All rooms are equipped with private bathrooms, offering a comfortable and private space to unwind.

• Private Outdoor Spaces: Each villa has its own garden, terrace, and swimming pool, ensuring a tranquil and exclusive experience.

• Cozy Amenities: Enjoy the warm atmosphere with floor heating throughout and a fireplace for cooler evenings.

We are offering a mix of shared rooms and limited single spaces:

Early Bird Pricing (until 31st January 2025):

• Shared Room: £1,350 per person

• Single Room: £1,650 per person

Standard Pricing (after 31st January 2025):

• Shared Room: £1,500 per person

• Single Room: £1,800 per person

Shared rooms are ideal for those looking to connect with fellow participants, while single spaces provide a more private retreat experience.

These beautifully designed villas, combined with their serene surroundings, ensure a restful and inspiring environment for this unforgettable retreat. Let us know if you have any specific room requests or preferences when booking!