Nicola's Journey into the Heart of Samoa

How can I begin to describe the wonderful time I had in Samoa? My yoga retreat with Raw Shakti was so special, it wasn’t just a holiday, it changed my life.

From the minute I arrived, I was hit by the lush greenery and abundant flowers everywhere in Samoa, it’s a stunning country. A huge rainbow soared over the lagoon when a brightly painted boat came and took us off to the tiny island of Apolima. From the outside, this volcanic cone seemed impenetrable, but once inside the perfect bay you quickly realise you’ve stumbled into a kind of Garden of Eden. Unspoilt, and simply beautiful, the land here is bursting with vibrant vitality. A handful of villagers live here and welcome you into their modest homes. Living amongst them was an honour, and I was fascinated to learn first hand about the Samoan way of life. It was incredibly life affirming to watch how the families worked together to create peaceful, happy lives for themselves and their children.

So, the beautiful surroundings, the interesting walks and talks, the snorkelling and the swimming in the sea were all on top of the fantastic yoga sessions overlooking the bay. The surroundings were breath-taking, and the practices we shared were moving and inspiring. Being around Taialofa and Kevin is a wonderful thing. Their energy and positivity radiates and uplifts you. They taught me so much about the whole world of yoga, about a different way of being, and this is what I have chosen to embrace for my everyday life.

Throughout my time in Samoa, I was repeatedly blown away by what I saw, and to be able to do yoga there was a real gift. Taialofa and Kevin think of everything, and the spots they have hunted out for yoga practice are all so special; pristine beaches, perfect bays, waterfalls, to name but a few. Amongst this spectacular scenery, Taialofa encourages you to open up to the energy of the nature around you and drink it in, it’s intoxicating. She’s an inspiring teacher, and I was extremely lucky to spend time with her one to one. With her gentle encouragement, I found myself opening up and blossoming in ways I never expected.

Even now, back in the reality of my city life and career, I only have to picture the beach in Samoa to feel transported to a calm and peaceful place of natural beauty. I felt a true connection with this land, and to all that I learnt from Taialofa and Kevin. In fact, I loved it so much, I couldn’t wait to go back and I returned a few weeks later for a second visit!

It’s an unforgettable trip; take it if you get the chance.

By Nicola Pointer