Ashiyana Yoga Retreat Goa Review: A Midlife Woman’s Experience of Rest, Yoga & Slow Living

This review of Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in Goa shares my experience as a midlife solo woman seeking rest, nervous system support and gentle wellbeing.

Located in Mandrem, North Goa, Ashiyana is known for its yoga holidays, Ayurvedic detox programmes and a calm nature-based setting.

It’s an ideal choice for midlife women, solo travellers and those living with lower energy levels.

My short (but perfect) stay at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat

Most people visit Ashiyana Yoga Retreat for longer stays of a week or more, but my own visit was shorter – a discounted one-night stay arranged so I could experience the atmosphere and share a glimpse of what makes this place so special.

And wow – even in such a short time, it left a strong impression. The setting, the people, and the overall energy felt calm, welcoming and deeply nourishing.

If you’re a midlife woman searching for a yoga retreat in India, Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in Mandrem, North Goa may be a good fit.

It offers a space that supports rest, nervous system regulation, yoga and gentle wellbeing in an abundant tropical environment.

There is a beautiful balance of structure, community, wellbeing, and the freedom to rest and respond to your body’s needs.

I would love to come back!

What Is Ashiyana Yoga Retreat?

Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in North Goa is a dedicated wellbeing retreat centre offering a range of longer-stay programmes focused on yoga, detoxing and relaxation.

There are also Ashiyana retreats in Brazil and Spain, but this review focuses on my personal experience in Goa.

The structured retreat style is designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing.

The retreat offers several types of programmes, including:

• Yoga & Wellbeing Holidays – combining 2 daily yoga classes with time for rest, relaxation.
• Detox Holidays – focused on cleansing and reset, often including specific dietary and wellness support.
• Yoga Teacher Training – longer, more intensive programmes for those wishing to deepen their practice or become teachers.
• Hosted Retreats – external teachers and facilitators run their own specialist retreats within the Ashiyana space.

All of the yoga and wellbeing holidays include accommodation, food, yoga, evening activities, spa and refreshments.

While my own visit was brief, I was able to dip into the activities provided on both the yoga and detox holidays and experience the beautiful lush natural environment.

What is a Yoga Holiday Like at Ashiyana?

Daily Yoga Structure

Yoga holidays form the core of the experience, with guests typically taking part in two yoga sessions each day.

A variety of yoga styles are offered, and each day’s schedule is displayed on a board, allowing guests to see what classes are available and choose what suits their needs.

My morning Hatha yoga experience

Although my stay was brief, I was able to take part in a morning Hatha yoga session, held in one of the open-air yoga shalas.

The session lasted around two hours and felt like a wonderful way to begin the day. Practising outdoors, surrounded by nature, created a sense of calm and spaciousness that felt very different from indoor studio yoga.

The teacher was clearly experienced, guiding the class with confidence, while also bringing warmth, support and a welcome sense of humour that made the session feel approachable rather than intimidating.

Even as a single class, it gave me a glimpse into the rhythm that shapes daily life here – mornings beginning with movement, breath and stillness.

Detox Holidays and Spa Treatments

Ayurvedic Detox & Panchakarma

Ashiyana Yoga Retreat also offers Ayurvedic detox programmes lasting 7, 10 or 12 days, including traditional Panchakarma. These programmes begin with a full consultation with the in-house Ayurvedic doctor, allowing treatments and dietary recommendations to be personalised to each guest.

Spa Treatments and Therapies

Alongside these longer detox programmes, the on-site spa offers a wide range of treatments available to all guests. These include Ayurvedic massage, as well as therapies such as shiatsu, bodywork and Thai yoga massage. It gives guests the opportunity to choose approaches that suit their individual needs.

The spa itself has a lovely earthy feel, with natural materials that echo the surrounding environment, creating a space that feels calm, grounded and unhurried. The room was softly lit, with the scent of warm herbal oils lingering in the air, creating an atmosphere that made it easy to let go of tension.

My Massage Experience

During my stay, I opted for a 90-minute Ayurvedic massage and it was quite simply wonderful.

From the moment the treatment began, I felt immersed in the experience, which for me is always the sign of a skilled therapist. The rhythm of the massage felt deeply soothing, grounding and continuous, without abruptness.

I walked out in a slight daze of deep relaxation, as though every bit of stress had been gently coaxed out of me, leaving my body feeling looser and lighter.

It was the kind of treatment that lingers long after it ends.

Evening Activities at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in Goa

Evenings at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat offer a full programme of optional activities, including sound baths, meditation, yoga Nidra, kirtan and handpan sessions.

I experienced a handpan sound session in the round yoga shala, lying down and simply listening as the music filled the space. The sound felt immersive and deeply calming, drawing everything into stillness.

Two of the retreat’s dogs were stretched out sleeping nearby, completely at ease, which added a quiet sense of warmth – a small but very sweet detail that made the moment feel even more special.

A perfect way to end the day before bed.

➡️ Learn more about Ashiyana Yoga Holidays here.

What is the physical environment like at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in Goa?

Gorgeous!

Lush Tropical Grounds & Natural Design

The grounds are lush, leafy and abundant, filled with layers of tropical green and bursts of colour from blooming flowers. Much of the space is shaded, offering relief from the heat and there is a sense that nature is not just surrounding the retreat – it is part of it.

The accommodation melts into the tropical surroundings, built with natural materials like wood and mud that blend gently into the landscape.

Swimming Pools

There are three small swimming pools, each with crystal-clear water and surrounded by greenery. One overlooks the river, offering a quiet place to pause, while the others are tucked away among the leaves, creating small pockets of stillness rather than one central gathering point.

I really liked this idea of small pools rather than one large one, as it meant you could always find your own space – somewhere quieter, more private and gently held within nature.

Places to Lounge

All around the retreat are cocoon-like shaded lounging spaces with low-level seating, cushions and couches designed for lingering alone or sharing conversation with others. These spaces invite you to slow down, to sit for longer than you planned and to rest unapologetically.

For me, there was something particularly supportive about this layout. It allows you to move at your own pace, without pressure to be anywhere or do anything, which can feel especially grounding in midlife or when living with fluctuating energy levels.

Winding pathways and hidden spaces

Four yoga shalas are woven into the environment, connected by winding pathways that lead you through the gardens.

Walking between spaces feels almost like wandering through a hidden village – open doorways framed by overhanging vines, blooming flowers, and the constant sound of birdsong.

Because of the design,  the twisting paths, enclosed gardens and thick greenery, the retreat feels both spacious and protected. There is room to breathe, yet also a feeling of being gently held within the landscape.

It feels like stepping into a small magical world, one that feels quietly separate from everyday life.

Rooms at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat

Palm Grove, Raj & Luxury

Across the retreat, all rooms are designed with nature in mind, using materials such as wood, adobe and stone, along with curved lines and polished surfaces that reflect the organic feel of the surrounding landscape.

Accommodation at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat caters to a wide range of budgets, with rooms divided into three distinct areas, each offering its own character and style.

Palm Grove Eco Cabins

In Palm Grove, accommodation includes eco log cabins and adobe-style homes that feel simple, grounded and closely connected to the natural surroundings.

Raj Rooms

In the Raj area, rooms take on a more eclectic feel, including distinctive spaces such as the sublime Moon Villa and the curved Garden Rooms, each with their own personality.

Luxury Suites

For those seeking greater comfort, there are also beautifully designed luxury suites, including the sumptuously named Jaipur Suite, which blends bohemian elegance with thoughtful detail and the Jodhpur Suite.

My Stay in the Jodhpur Room

During my stay, I was fortunate to stay in the sumptuous Jodhpur Room — a cool, calm, carefully curated space that felt like stepping into a private chamber of an Indian palace.

The room was spacious, with soothing blue walls and charming antique furnishings, including a large desk overlooking the gardens.

White curtains drifted gently in the breeze, softening the light that filled the space.

A cosy nook created a quietly decadent lounging area, perfect for post yoga relaxation.

I especially loved the bathroom — an elegant stone sanctuary with a sunken circular bathtub that felt both luxurious and grounding. Crisp white walls contrasted with the deep blue of the bedroom, the smoothed stone floor felt soft underfoot, and the curved lines throughout accentuated the retreat’s natural, organic style.

The room blended contemporary design with a quiet sense of timeless Indian elegance.

Outside, a balcony overlooked the river and surrounding palm trees — a quiet place to sit and simply watch the world move at a slower pace.

Just divine...

Meals

Communal Dining & Atmosphere

Meals at Ashiyana Yoga Retreat are shared at long communal tables, which creates a warm, open atmosphere and makes it easy to connect with others. There’s a gentle sense of community that builds quickly around food, whether you’re travelling alone or as part of a group.

Food is served buffet-style and is predominantly healthy, plant-based, with a variety of dishes offered at each meal.

Meal structure: brunch and evening meal

Rather than an early breakfast, brunch is served late morning, which naturally fits around the morning yoga sessions (typically 8–10am). This rhythm allows for a slower start to the day and a more intuitive eating pattern, with time to move, stretch and then eat afterwards.

For some people, this later meal timing may feel supportive, particularly if they already follow intermittent fasting or prefer a slower morning routine.

In the evening, a delicious generous selection of dishes is served, offering variety and nourishment after a full day of activity.

Throughout the day, refreshments are always available, including masala chai and a selection of herbal teas, which add to the sense of ease and ongoing care.

Yoga Shalas and Activity Spaces

Ashiyana in Goa has four yoga shalas, each with its own atmosphere and feeling.

Open-Air Yoga Shala

One of the most striking is a large open-air shala, enclosed with fine mosquito netting and supported by tree trunks that feel as though they’ve been woven into the structure itself. It’s a beautiful, organic space open to the breeze, but gently protected, with a strong connection to the surrounding nature.

Rooftop Yoga Shala

There is also a rooftop shala, which feels more exposed and expansive, offering a sense of openness and light.

Circular Enclosed Shala

Another is a fully enclosed circular shala, which feels more contained and inward-focused — a softer, quieter space that naturally draws attention inward.

This was also where the evening handpan session took place, dimly lit and perfectly suited to the acoustics of the music, creating a very immersive, calming atmosphere.

Outdoor Yoga Shala

The fourth is an outdoor but enclosed shala, simple with a very natural, grounded feeling. The Hatha yoga I did in the morning was held here and it was especially nice to be out in the open air at that time of day, before the sun rose too high.

Is Ashiyana Yoga Retreat a welcoming environment?

Yes, from the moment I arrived.

I was welcomed and shown to reception by the porters, followed by a warm greeting from the friendly reception team. I also met Bea, the manager, who was affable, gentle and easy to talk to, which immediately set a calm and reassuring tone for the stay.

That sense of friendliness continued throughout the retreat – from the spa reception to the massage therapists and yoga teachers. Everyone I encountered felt approachable and genuinely welcoming.

Is Ashiyana Yoga Retreat suitable for midlife women?

Yes, I would say most definitely.

There is a wide range of ages here, but during my stay I noticed a strong presence of guests in midlife and beyond, with many appearing to be over 45. As I was leaving, a larger group of new arrivals came in, and this group also seemed to be predominantly over 50.

What stood out most, however, was not age, but the way the space itself feels. The leafy pathways, quiet corners, and softly enclosed lounging areas create an environment that feels particularly well suited to midlife women, offering both privacy and space for solitude, alongside plenty of natural opportunities to connect in shared areas.

A space that feels quietly supportive, particularly for women navigating midlife transitions.

Is Ashiyana Yoga Retreat suitable for solo women travelling alone?

Yes, many of the women I met had arrived alone, and there was a strong sense that people naturally connected over the course of their stay, often leaving with new friendships.

Of all the retreat-style places I’ve visited, Ashiyana Yoga Retreat in Goa felt one of the most community-oriented. The shared spaces, particularly the large wooden communal dining tables, encourage conversation and connection in a very natural, unforced way.

At the same time, there is plenty of space for solitude, so it feels easy to move between community and quiet depending on your mood and energy.

I was only there for one night, but in that time, I spoke to several people and felt completely at ease. There was a natural openness in the atmosphere, and I can imagine that, had I stayed longer, it would have been easy to form new friendships.

Ashiyana is a very safe environment, there are staff around at all times.

Is Ashiyana suitable for those with chronic health conditions?

Nervous System Support & Rest

For those living with chronic health conditions, including fatigue, nervous system conditions or fluctuating energy levels, Ashiyana Yoga Retreat offers a gentle, flexible environment where rest is genuinely supported.

Overall, the focus here is on health, nourishment and creating an environment that supports rest and restoration.

Healthy Meals that support detox

There is a strong emphasis on nourishing, plant-based food and the meal structure makes it easier to maintain a steady and supported eating rhythm while away from home.

Flexibility and Optional Participation

One of the most supportive aspects, is the freedom to fully opt in or out of activities. Yoga sessions and evening events are always available, but there is no expectation to participate. You can simply rest if that is what your body needs.

For example, I had planned to attend a yoga session after a massage, but when I left the treatment, I realised all I wanted to do was sit on my balcony and absorb the after-effects. There was no pressure or expectation to be anywhere else – just space to listen to what felt right in the moment.

For me, this created a sense of nervous system ease – a feeling of being able to slow down and respond to my body rather than a schedule.

Important Note: As with any retreat environment, individual needs vary, and it would depend on the nature and severity of a person’s health condition and the level of support they require.

Accessibility at Ashiyana Yoga

Terrain and Movement Around the Space

There are ground-level rooms, dining areas, swimming pools and yoga shalas, which means much of the retreat feels relatively easy to move around during the day.

However, the terrain is uneven in places, with some steps and uneven pathways, so it would not be suitable for wheelchair users or those who require fully step-free access throughout.

The team felt warm and approachable, and I imagine that if someone had specific accessibility needs, they would do their best to help where possible.

For me personally, living with FND where balance can sometimes be affected, I found I needed to take a little extra care with my footing, particularly in the evenings when certain areas were more dimly lit.

With a bit of care and awareness, it felt navigable, though not designed with full accessibility in mind.

Where is Ashiyana Yoga Retreat located in Goa?

It’s located in Mandrem, a small, relaxed village in North Goa, India.

It’s just a short walk across a river bridge to reach the main village and beach area, which means you are very close to cafés, restaurants, supermarkets and small shops. Because of this, you never feel contained within the retreat – you can easily wander out for a coffee or a walk along the beach whenever you feel like it.

I stayed in Mandrem village itself for a month and really enjoyed its easygoing, unhurried vibe. Nearby Arambol is also well known for its more alternative, creative energy and is particularly famous for its ecstatic dance gatherings.

Thank you Ashiyana !!

Learn more about Ashiyana Yoga Retreat:

www.ashiyana.com

Connect with Ashiyana:

• Facebook

• Instagram

Ashiyana Retreats in Brazil & Spain

Ashiyana Yoga also runs retreats in Spain and Brazil.

Other Wellbeing Retreats in India:

10-Day Pranayama Retreat in Rishikesh, India – Review of Yoganga Healing

Nirvana Naturopathy & Ayurveda Retreat and Hospital (Near Mumbai): My Honest Review

The Best Exotic Marigold Retreat – A Midlife Women’s Wellness Retreat in Rajasthan, India 

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