Geraldton revs up fitness events for International Yoga Day next Tuesday with meditation and surfing retreats

This month is full of mindfulness, meditation and motion as Geraldton celebrates International Yoga Day with multiple events on offer.

International Yoga Day has been celebrated annually since 2015 to recognise its harmony and health benefits for a variety of ages and fitness levels, helping to reconnect the mind and body.

Gypsea Retreat was founded last year when two women participated in a sailing experience together in Broome and shared likeminded beliefs.

Hosts Gypsie Thomas and Rina Schulte offer off-the-grid getaways based in Exmouth, from one to four-day packaged retreats throughout June to September.

The community retreats combine surf lessons, water education, meditation, breath work and yoga flows.

“The retreats are for women who are ready to take a step out of their comfort zone, expand themselves and connect with their inner selves and Mother Nature,” Ms Schulte said.

Closer to home, on Saturday, The Geraldton Yoga Club will host a free community yoga event in conjunction with Midwest Indian Cultural Society, The Art of Living Foundation and Midwest Orthopaedics.

The session will run from 8am-12pm and combine various types of yoga practices, with breaks in between.

A yoga mat, generously donated by Midwest Orthopaedics, will be given away to one lucky yogi, while wellness stalls and a performance by Natya school of Indian Classical and Bollywood Dance will show at Queen Elizabeth II Community Centre.

Later in the month, the Yogic Academy will host a fire mantra ritual on June 24 at Maitland Park, derived from ancient Vedic culture in which mantras are repeated and rice is thrown into the fire, symbolising purification and wholesomeness in a meditative ceremony.

The session will be held at the Wake Up to Life yoga studio at 8.30-10am for $20.

Tickets are available for the Gypsea Retreats through their Facebook page or visit gypsearetreats.com.

To attend The Yoga Club’s celebrations visit eventbrite.com.au.

To book your spot with The Yogic Academy visit https://theyogicacademy.com/.