Inner Recharge • Ignite a New Cycle
Two editions:
13-17 February & 15-19 May in Ericeira, Portugal
An Holistic Wellbeing Retreat
It's not just a retreat; it's a precious eye-opening experience.
Say "adeus" to the hustle and bustle of daily life and let this retreat be your precious escape. We’ll be at Quinta dos Raposeiros, a premium beautiful retreat center in Ericeira overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Just minutes from the beach and surrounded by hiking trails, it’s the perfect setting for a transformative experience where you’ll find peace and renewal. We curate every detail with love and care; all you need to do is secure your spot, pack your bags, and head to Ericeira — just a quick 40-minute drive from Lisbon Airport.
Our vision is that you (re)connect, recharge, and begin a new cycle with a clear, inspired, and expanded mindset. It’s not about clichés like "new year, new me." Instead, you’ll embrace the process, sparking an inner revolution and discovering that you can create a meaningful life beyond what you think is possible - whatever that means to you. Nothing grandiose, just simple and purely authentic.
What has made our previous retreats even more special is the strong sense of community and the genuine connections that deepen over the days.
Will you join us on this journey?
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's Curation
It seems that everyone is eager for a fresh start, ready to change and begin anew. But is this truly the most meaningful path?
Let's take a moment to consider the moon as inspiration. The moon changes daily, and each new cycle offers an opportunity to explore new paths, and to let go. Yet, the moon’s phases honour those that came before, as yesterday’s phase is part of its journey. It’s what has shaped the moon into what it is today and will be tomorrow. The moon evolves step by step - it’s a journey, much like our own. While quick fixes or radical changes may offer short-term excitement, they aren't sustainable for long-term contentment, as scientific research shows. True, lasting change comes from gradual, authentic growth, supported by sustainable practices and self-awareness.
That’s why we designed this retreat: to give you the space to step back, rest, reflect, and reconnect with yourself and nature. The truth is, the mind is rarely content; even when we achieve our goals or experience pleasure, it often fears that this joy will fade and either tries to hold on to it or immediately starts seeking the next thing. To enhance our human experience on Earth, we need to step back, recognise what is already within our field of vision, engage in our sadhana practice, and find contentment in life's imperfections and simple joys.
Let’s ignite a new cycle - one that values the journey, and flows with its phases. Our teachers will guide you through this process with a blend of Eastern wisdom and Western psychology.
People from all walks of life are joining us, and together we will flow into this new cycle. No background in psychology or yoga is needed -just come as you are!
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, talks, and enjoy delicious plant-based food — all while flourishing and growing together. Plus, everything else that contributes to this holistic retreat.
We curate a balanced program that allows you to participate in the scheduled activities while also giving you plenty of time each day to relax, visit the beach, go for a walk, or explore the charming town of Ericeira.
Don’t just go with the Flow! Be the flow 🙂
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.
A retreat is not - and will never be - a magic potion for happiness. It is, however, an eye-opening step in your wellbeing journey of growth towards a MEANINGFUL life.
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
It's been a profound and fascinating journey to arrive here – from street knowledge to scientifically-based knowledge, and onward to ancient and inner wisdom. Learning from numerous teachers across diverse fields worldwide, each with a unique approach, Leonor delved into various subjects at 6 universities across multiple countries. Furthermore, she's traveled to over 50 countries, opening her mind, soul, and body to the diversity of the world, seeking to comprehend and navigate the vast universe we inhabit.
Leonor, the founder of myalfazema, is a passionate seeker of knowledge and inherently curious human being. Motivated by a strong passion for self-actualization and overall well-being, as well as the collective pursuit of a better society, Leonor applies her degree in psychology to curate this unique retreat. She uses a scientific reasoning approach combined with spiritual practice to explore ways to flourish and flow, so in the end, each of us uses our talents to contribute to a better world.
In recent years, Leonor has explored deeper into the scientific study of psychology at the University of Amsterdam, which holds the top Psychology program in Europe according to the World University Rankings by Times Higher Education (2020). Throughout her degree, she has gained insights from various fields and perspectives. As a passionate enthusiast of social constructivism and humanistic psychology approaches, she consistently immerses herself in questions like 'What is right with you?' and 'What is the meaning of life?'. These questions explore the role human beings play in their own lives on a global, non-personal, aiming to maximize human potential. Leonor is dedicated to unlocking the inherent potential of each human being. Ultimately, the journey unfolds, empowering each of us to use our talents for the greater good of society.
Leonor has developed diverse workshops and masterclasses where she will teach you about psychology and explore psychological research on happiness, well-being, wabi-sabi, yoga and the meaning of life together. This journey will be two-way, where your experiences will also contribute to her growth and development.
Claudia Sousa Santos, Yoga Host
Claudia is more than just a yoga and meditation teacher; she's a guiding force who believes in the transformative power of creative sequencing using breath and movement to help her students grow and transform. With over 15 years of experience as a physiotherapist and a rich background in gymnastics and dance, Claudia approaches teaching holistically. She empowers her students by building a strong foundation, paving the way for personal liberation and growth. Take a moment to read the testimonials from her classes and talks at our past three retreats—it’s definitely worth it! 🙂
Claudia founded Shambhala, a highly esteemed studio in Lisbon known for its authenticity, with the intention of fostering an authentic community and holding a space where everyone can freely express themselves and their unique practices. Her dedication and expertise led to her role as the primary assistant in a Teachers Training program at the Manu School of Yoga in 2022.
Our aspiration is for you to further connect with your inner voice, your flow, and feel empowered to live and share it confidently.
Where?
Quinta dos Raposeiros, Ericeira
It was definitely love at first sight. When we first visited this venue, we were completely blown away. This place has it all! The shala is absolutely breathtaking, with an ocean view and stunning sunsets. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with everything you need - plus, they too offer an ocean view. There are two pools, and the entire place is so large that it gives you plenty of room to walk around and soak in the serenity. It's a magical venue just minutes from the ocean and surrounded by beautiful hiking trails in Ericeira, one of Portugal's most famous traditional fishing villages. During our previous retreats, the group would walk to the beach and enjoy together.
This beautiful paradise is just 35 minutes from Lisbon Airport, making it very easy to reach!
What is included?
- 4 nights in Quinta dos Raposeiros
- 2 Pools & beautiful trekkings – and a sky full of stars!
- 3 daily plant-based meals
- Daily Yoga Asana Classes
- 2 Talks | Psychology & Yoga
- Yoga Nidra
- Guided Meditation
- Night Reflections
- Surprise Night – A Journey
- Free-Soul Dance Session
- 20€ of your registration fee will be donated to an institution that promotes wellbeing.
- And everything else 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
Our lives are shaped by our experiences. Investing in yourself, trust us, a retreat is one of the best gifts you can give yourself
BRING YOUR FRIEND
Private Double Room
Bringing a friend? Stay in a private room with a private bathroom all to yourselves - single or double bed.
990€ 950€
PER PERSON
Book on your own
Shared Room
The ocean-view shared rooms are both spacious and comfortable. Each room accommodates a maximum of 3 or 4 people.
949€ 849€
Book on your own
Private Individual Room
Enjoy a private ocean-view room with your own bathroom. We offer two types of rooms, both featuring stunning ocean views, spacious bathrooms, and private balconies. Experience the bliss of a comfortable and charming room, perfectly nestled close to nature.
1449€ 1399€
20€ of your registration fee will be donated to an institution that promotes wellbeing.
Set the tone for a phenomenal 2024.
Join us on this perfect serene gateway
If you are interested in joining the retreat or offering it to someone else as a gift voucher, please fill out the form below and we will get back to you soon.
Please check if you got a confirmation email that your message was sent. If not, please contact us directly at leonor@myalfazema.com.
Looking forward to meet 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
- Online payment - Stripe
- Mbway (Portuguese)
Don’t let anything stand in the way of your dream retreat in Portugal. Over the past three years, guests from around the world have safely arrived at Quinta dos Raposeiros, which is just a convenient 35-minute drive from Lisbon Airport. Various transportation options are available; you can easily use Uber or Bolt in Lisbon, and public transport is also accessible.
To make your arrival even smoother, we'll set up a WhatsApp group before the retreat to facilitate ride-sharing. This is how all the past guests have found company and connected with fellow guests to arrange shared rides from the airport or the center of 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.
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/
Winter in Ericeira is generally mild, with daytime temperatures around 16°C and nights dipping to about 9°C. We've hosted five winter retreats in Ericeira, and overall, the weather has been good and sunny, allowing for beach walks. There was only one rainy day, which gave our guests a chance to relax indoors and enjoy the cozy venue.
Winter in Ericeira can be really pleasant, with a good chance of sunny days, clear skies, and perfect waves. But of course, you never know! 🙂