Ignite a New Cycle Retreat
Holistic Wellbeing Retreat • Yoga, Psychology, Pranayama, Meditation, Sound, and Dance.
This is a retreat like no other.
In May, a special spring energy fills the air. Nature awakens in full bloom, a vibrant reminder of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings - perfectly mirroring the essence of a retreat. The longer days invite slow, mindful mornings, extended practices, and sunset gatherings. As summer approaches, many feel a natural pull to pause, reset, and realign, making May an ideal time for deep inner work, reflection, and transformation.
Our intention is to unleash the magic that comes from remembering who you truly are, so when you return home, you can continue shining your light and share your passion and purpose with the world.
Imagine stepping away from the noise of daily life and letting something truly magical unfold. Guided by experienced yoga teachers and well-being professionals, you’ll be able to rest, turn inward, embrace your yoga practice, and reconnect with your heart, rediscovering just how beautiful and brave you are.
Ignite this new cycle surrounded by like-minded souls, each on their own journey but, like you, dedicated to living a life of connection, authenticity, and freedom.
Come exactly as you are. You’ll explore the depths of your being, reconnect with your core, and unlock the magic within. Your heart will guide you.
When you return home, you’ll see how everything around you remains the same, but within you, everything will have changed.
Testimonials
Leonor is truly gifted; she knows how to balance the days with great programs and surround herself with fantastic and talented people in beautiful settings.It was time for me to take care of my emotional state and needed the right environment to do so. I was able to tap into unresolved pain and allow myself to feel it and then let it go.
I had a very long list of criteria, and this retreat met it all!
Was able to trully disconnect, leaving my phone away for the entire retreat. I left with a feeling of being deeply well rested and happy! Definitely recommend myalfazema if you are looking for a retreat in Portugal. The staff is super caring and professional, the people attending were very nice and there was a strong sense of community. The venue was breathtaking (especially the Shala!), the food was amazing and the yoga practices demanding but doable even for me!
Thank you to everyone who participated too - my old friend Serendipity had a plan for me, and as such, I have met some fantastic people - big love and bountiful blessings. 💖💞🧘🏾♀️
I am deeply grateful for all the new tools, insights, mantras, and new friends this journey has given me.
I genuinely wish that everyone could have this experience.
The story behind this retreat
This is the ‘Ignite a New Cycle Retreat’ because everything you need is already within you - we’ll simply guide you to ignite it. Something magical happens when you step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, take time to rest, and turn your attention inward. Its impact goes far beyond what you could ever imagine.
We are all on our own journeys, and the path can often feel chaotic - especially without someone to guide you. Yet, step by step, it becomes clear how fun, beautiful, and deeply rewarding it can be. The journey isn’t just about the destination - it’s about embracing the light and the shadow, and finding joy in every step along the way.This is why we created and believe so strongly in the power of this retreat. It offers you the chance to pause, remember the magic within, let go and take bold steps forward - even when it feels hard. Most of all, it will bring beautiful people together, reminding us how good human nature actually is.This retreat is not just an escape - it is a celebration of the journey, a reminder of your strength, and an invitation to reconnect with what truly matters.
What makes this retreat special is the transformation it brings. Our retreats have already transformed the lives of over 200 people - and this is just the beginning. We don't advocate for magic potions because they do not exist, but we have been witnessing how our retreats transform lives. Join us on this journey of empowerment, love, clarity, and self-discovery, and experience firsthand the transformation everyone’s talking about.
A myalfazema day
This retreat is more than just a relaxing getaway; it's an epic inner journey.
We’ll spend plenty of time flowing in a beautiful shala overlooking the ocean. You will be guided through authentic yoga classes, dance, sound journeys, and insightful talks, all while enjoying delicious plant-based food.
We curate a balanced program that lets you fully engage in scheduled activities while also leaving plenty of time each day to relax, visit the beach, take a walk, or explore the charming, typically Portuguese town of Ericeira.
Please note that this retreat is not a substitute for medical or psychological advice, evaluation, or treatment. Each participant is responsible for ensuring that they are fit and adequately prepared to participate in the retreat.
If you’re even considering this retreat, ask yourself: Why aren’t you listening to that desire? What would change if you said YES to that inner whisper?
Some more testimonials
Highly recommend 💙🌞
I confess that the first day was tough, tough in the silence, tough returning to yoga after 5 months of a life without time, tough living with myself, with time for thoughts we don't deal with due to lack of time with ourselves.
Without wanting to write a bible about this 3-day journey into my interior, I want to say that if you're considering whether or not to go, go and do it for yourself.
I was fortunate to do it with the best, organized by the dear Leonor and her dear mother, and with the best yoga teacher who crossed my path, Claudia Sousa Santos....
Thank you for planting the first flower in my garden. Now every day I am sowing, and one day, I will have a beautiful garden. That's the path. ♥️🌸🪷🌼
Who will guide you?
Leonor, Psychology Host
Those who have been following Leo’s journey, the founder of myalfazema, know her deep passion for transformation, her dedication to inner work, and her desire to understand the roots of our being.
She is a passionate Portuguese soul who has studied around the world, traveled to more than 50 countries, and is a psychologist with a degree from the University of Amsterdam, specializing in social psychology. Her expertise covers the scientific study of emotion, motivation, attitudes and behavioral change, group dynamics, cultural psychology, and positive psychology.
Leo’s mission has always been to guide people inward, encouraging them to connect with their hearts and recognize the beauty within themselves and the world. Her ultimate goal is to guide each person to discover their unique talents and empower them to use these gifts to contribute to a better world.
Over the years, Leo has developed numerous workshops and masterclasses. During this retreat, she will offer a unique session that blends scientific reasoning with spiritual practices, tailoring the topics to the desires of the group and the energy of the retreat.
For many reasons, Leo felt her dharma was to dedicate her life to creating wellbeing retreats. One of these is her love for bringing together inspiring people and creating a space where everyone can share their soul and learn from one another. This is a two-way journey - your experiences will contribute to both Leo’s and the group’s growth. We’re all on our own journey, and none of us have all the answers
Claudia Sousa Santos, Yoga Host
Claudia is more than a yoga and meditation teacher; she is a powerful guiding force.
Empowering her students is at the heart of Claudia’s mission. She helps each of us build a solid foundation, enabling us to spread our wings and flourish beyond what we once thought possible.With Claudia, there is a clear sense of direction, and we are truly blessed to have her guiding us through this new cycle.
With over 15 years of experience not only as a yoga teacher but also as a physiotherapist, with a background in gymnastics and dance, Claudia approaches teaching holistically. Her dedication and expertise culminated in her role as the primary assistant in the Teacher Training Program at the Manu School of Yoga in 2022.
Our aspiration is for you to ignite a new cycle through your practice, your body, and your movement — connecting more deeply with your inner voice, your heart, and feeling empowered to live and share it confidently.
Chef Amabile
When searching for the perfect private chef to join our team, Amabile’s name came up time and again in recommendations. And honestly, the moment we met her, we knew she was the one!
At retreats, Amabile’s mission goes beyond simply preparing meals – it’s about nourishing the soul. Her greatest joy comes from witnessing participants not only enjoy delicious food but also feel truly fulfilled and connected. She crafts an experience that transcends the plate, creating moments of unity and deep satisfaction.
Driven by passion and curiosity, Amabile draws inspiration from diverse culinary traditions and ancient healing practices, seamlessly integrating them into her work.
You won’t want to miss this! Get ready to experience vibrant, delicious dishes, all crafted with love and the sweetest energy by Amabile.
Where?
Quinta dos Raposeiros, Ericeira
From the moment we set foot here, it was love at first sight. We were completely captivated by this retreat center - it truly has it all!
First off, the rooms are the largest we’ve ever seen at a retreat center. They’re not only spacious but incredibly comfortable, fully equipped, and each with its own stunning ocean view.
The yoga shala is nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the ocean and unforgettable sunsets. There are two beautiful pools, and the entire venue offers plenty of space to walk around, listen to the birds, and simply relax — whether on your balcony, by the pools, or in one of the center's other peaceful corners.
This location is nothing short of magical. Just minutes from the ocean and surrounded by walking trails, it’s the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. During past retreats, we would often walk to the beach together, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the area.
Located just a few minutes from Ericeira, one of Portugal’s most charming traditional fishing villages, it’s also only 35 minutes from Lisbon Airport, making it incredibly easy to reach!
Everything that’s included:
- 4 nights in a premium retreat center, Quinta dos Raposeiros — only 40 minutes from Lisbon airport
- 2 pools, beautiful hiking trails — and a sky full of stars!
- 3 delicious plant-based meals daily, prepared by Chef Amabile
- Daily Yoga Asana Classes guided by Claudia
- 2 talks on Psychology and Yoga, guided by Leonor and Claudia
- Yoga Nidra
- Guided Meditation
- Night Reflections
- Surprise Night — A Sound Journey
- Free-Soul Dance Session
- 20€ of your registration fee will go directly to an institution that promotes wellbeing
- And all the unexpected magic that will flow into this experience…
The retreat certainly did not disappoint, in fact, it surpassed all my expectations and more: it's given me a new found confidence in my practice and has really motivated me to learn more, explore and push my boundaries.
I cannot put into words how life changing this experience has proved to be for me (and, as my fellow yogis have learned, I am not one to be rendered speechless!). So, I will say this: thank you for creating and holding such an incredible, inspirational and safe space for me to find myself again; my cup fills every time I think back to my time (with you all there) and I continue to release and let in lots of emotions I didn't even know were there.
Everytime I go to the mat (which has been everyday since my return) I can feel the energy of the Yoga Shala filling me with positive light, which makes me excited about life and my practice - you've really awakened a passion in me, for which I am eternally grateful.
The investment
This is the time - no more waiting for the perfect moment or for life to be less busy. Follow your heart, your truest guide, and the one who knows you best.
Book on your own
Shared Room
This is a fantastic option for solo travelers seeking affordability while still enjoying spacious accommodations. Both the rooms and private en-suite bathrooms are large and inviting each accommodating up to 3 people.
Many of our past guests were pleasantly surprised by the size and comfort, even though sharing a space was a new experience for them.
749€ 699€
Book on your own
Private Suite for One
Rest and unwind in the well-deserved luxury of your own private ocean-view room with an en-suite bathroom, all exclusively for you. Each room offers beautiful ocean views, a spacious bathroom, and a private balcony. Immerse yourself in the perfect mix of comfort and charming Portuguese rustic style, all surrounded by nature.
1299€ 1199€
BRING A FRIEND & SAVE
Private Suite For Two
Bringing a friend, partner, or family member? Enjoy a private ocean-view room with an en-suite bathroom all to yourselves - single or double bed.
Treat yourself and your loved one to the ultimate retreat experience.
Need more space? If you're bringing more people, such as a group of three or four, simply contact us directly, and we’ll make it happen!
750€ PER PERSON
20€ of your registration fee will be donated to an institution that promotes wellbeing.
Begin the journey. Book your escape.
Don’t just go with the Flow. Be the flow.
Complete the form below to learn more, reserve your place, or gift the retreat to someone special with a voucher. Leonor is here to guide you every step of the way.
Please check if you got a confirmation email that your message was sent. If not, please contact us directly at leonor@myalfazema.com.
Thank you 🙂
FAQs
Let us know if you do not find what you are looking for.
Our team is here to help you 🙂
Payment plan:
- Your spot will be confirmed after payment of a 200€ deposit
- The remaining amount is to be settled until one month after the deposit has been paid
- We can adjust the payment plan according to your needs. If needed, we can divide the payment into 3 or more installments. Please contact us so we can discuss your options
Payment options
- Bank transfer
- Mbway (Portuguese)
Don’t let anything stand in the way of your dream retreat in Portugal.
Over the past four years, guests from around the world have safely arrived in Ericeira, just a convenient 35-minute drive from Lisbon Airport. Various transportation options are available, including Uber and Bolt in Lisbon, as well as public transit.
To make your arrival even smoother, we’ll set up a WhatsApp group before the retreat to help with ride-sharing. This has been a great way for guests to connect and arrange shared rides from the airport or central Lisbon.
Check-in starts at 3pm. The retreat officially begins at 5.30pm.
On the last day, the retreat ends around 12pm, allowing you plenty of time to return home without rushing.
We’ll send out a questionnaire to gather information about your allergies and intolerances. Our chefs are skilled at adapting the menu to various dietary needs, so you'll be fine 🙂
If you have any major or life-threatening allergies, please let us know before signing up so we can confirm whether we can accommodate them and assure your safety.
Sure! We’ll provide you with contact details for some recommended massage therapists that our guests have loved in the past.
Please note that massages are not included in the myalfazema package, and you’ll need to confirm the availability of the massage room with us before booking.
Please check our T&C to know all the details about the cancellation policy. By enrolling in a myalfazema retreat, you are automatically agreeing to the terms and conditions.
https://myalfazema.com/terms/
Sometimes, I look back at photos from last year’s winter retreat in Ericeira and can’t believe how sunny it was. Early January treated us to beautiful weather - so much so that we swam in the pool, went to the beach, and enjoyed lunch outside! ☀️
Typically, winter in Ericeira is mild, with daytime temperatures around 16°C and nights cooling to about 9°C. Out of the five winter retreats we’ve hosted here, the weather has mostly been pleasant and sunny, perfect for beach walks. We only had few cloudy days, which gave our guests a chance to cozy up indoors and enjoy the warmth of the venue.
While the weather can be unpredictable, Portugal’s climate usually stacks the odds in our favor. This is one of the many reasons we love hosting our retreats here in our home country.
Who knows what February will be like? It’s entirely beyond our control - and not that important! Regardless, it will be wonderful because, more than anything, it’s the people who make a retreat special. It’s the deep sense of community that we create and share.
And we’re already planting the seeds to make it flourish.