MARRAKESH, MOROCCO \ ALIGN + AWAKEN \ Sep 8-13, 2024

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MARRAKESH, MOROCCO \ ALIGN + AWAKEN \ Sep 8-13, 2024

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ALIGN + AWAKEN - Join us for a luxurious week of exploring your body and mind through daily yoga, somatic body work, and sensory explorations of Marrakesh. Go inward with time for renewal, and adventure outward on our Moroccan day trips and adventures!

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HIGHLIGHTS: MAJORELLE GARDENS • SOUK TOUR • HAMMAM SPA TREATMENTS • BOUTIQUE HOTEL • HENNA PARTY

 

OVERVIEW

ALIGN + AWAKEN

This retreat will combine yoga with somatic bodywork. Soma exploration involves witnessing and experiencing the entirety of one’s organism. Much of our human experience has been carved into fragments of the whole self, where we’ve compartmentalized our being into the thinking vs. feeling self, conscious vs. unconscious self, physical vs. spiritual self. Somatic play aims to return us to a state of wholeness.

Alongside ALIGNment-based hatha/vinyasa yoga classes, somatic workshops will be offered to explore a return to wholeness via sensory entry points, including touch, breath, movement/gesture, and sound. Activities such as self-massage with oils, breath practices and meditations to bring one into the present moment, movement exercises to encourage embodied awareness, and use of sound as means of release and restoration from the habitual grips held in the body. Each participant will also have the opportunity to AWAKEN to one’s deep yearnings and desires, notice how beliefs and emotions are held in the body, and learn tailored practices to implement upon one’s return home. The essence of Align + Awaken is to leave an impression of what is would be like to be wholly present in the moment and to one’s life unfolding.

GIVE BACK RETREAT

This retreat is part of our GIVE BACK initiative, where EPM will donate at least 10% of profits to a humanitarian partner in the community where each retreat is held. Our partner in Marrakesh is PROJECT SOAR who works with underprivileged communities and young women to empower with design, clean-up projects, and creative ventures.

ACCOMMODATION

This fantastic yoga retreat will take place at the fabulous Peacock Pavilions boutique hotel. Located in Marrakesh on 8.5 acres of land, including 5 acres of olive grove, this stylish and eco-friendly abode has been featured in worldwide publications, including National Geographic Traveler.

Breathtakingly beautiful and luxuriously designed, the living quarters where guests will stay during the retreat feature gorgeous fireplaces and a glamorous bathroom in each room. Each bedroom also has its own private terrace - "just the right place to enjoy a minty tea or a zingy cocktail"!

The entire pavilion property has been decorated with care and "loaded with art, special fabrics, and exotic good stuff from all around the world...A swanky place to relax, the salon/great room has a stunning lacy plasterwork that took weeks to complete. There are also seating and dining areas for intimate discussions and cozy meals. A spiral staircase leads to a catwalk high in the air, where you can sit on vintage embroideries and admire the view." Not only is this place gorgeous, but it's also eco-friendly. Observing "green" building and gardening techniques, you'll feel good about the organic bounty served to your plate, and the hot water you use is heated by the solar panels! Spend some free time at the lovely, inviting pool and patio, or join us for a henna and cocktail party in the painted tent, or perhaps an outdoor cinema night on the lawn.

Peacock Pavilions is owned by Maryam and her husband Chris, both recently featured on HGTV's House Hunters International. Chris is an architect, and Maryam a freelance photographer, travel and lifestyle writer, and the author of the award winning blog, My Marrakesh. Both make a perfect team in putting this amazing estate together.

CUISINE

Healthful, vegetarian food is part of the retreat experience, including breakfast and dinner daily, plus selected lunches, either hosted at Peacock Pavilions or out and about in town. Some even come with a side dish of belly-dancing! The cuisine is simple, delicious and Moroccan, using fresh ingredients from the on-site organic gardens or local markets. Selection may include tempting dishes and libations like stuffed dates, almond couscous, vegetable terrine, avocado dip, leek tarts, mint tea, pomegranate martini, rose water, and more. Selection is seasonal, and you can guarantee to love and appreciate each bite.

ACTIVITIES

Guests will not only enjoy the grounds of Peacock Pavilions and the outdoor areas (including a lovely pool, patio, private terraces, and covered yoga platform), but the retreat also includes some amazing day-trips to surrounding sites. A guided day in Marrakesh will lead guests through an introduction to souks, artisans, and plenty of architectural sites to see.

A day will be spent exploring the desert outside of the city where we’ll experience camel rides on the dunes and a coursed tasting lunch! We’ll of course visit the famed Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum. During the week we’ll enjoy activities on-site such as a henna party, a poolside brunch, after dinner Moroccan entertainment, and an evening cinema under the stars. The final full day entails a trip to a famous hammam (a luxurious spa facility), where guests can be pampered to their heart's content with a full program of various treatments. What better way to wrap up a week of yoga than a day of pure relaxation.

WELLNESS

Daily yoga classes and somatic body work will be offered in a way to relax, stimulate, and help guests grow in their own personal practice. Classes are open to all levels, beginner to practiced, and can range from gentle, restorative, and more vigorous vinyasa flow and ashtanga styles.* Style and class levels will be determined and moulded to fit participating students' needs, and with a small intimate retreat class size, students will be able to get personalized attention and comfortability to deeply explore their practice. Depending on each retreat location, classes will be held in a dedicated indoor yoga space and some also offer outdoor options as well for us to use if the weather is agreeable. There will be a time for yoga and meditation each day working through various themes in the week.

AASIA LEWIS

Our group leader this week will be our collaborator, Aasia Lewis. Aasia is a yoga educator, certified somatic coach + bodyworker, and clinical speech-language pathologist (SLP). Although mainly based in Canada, she spends some of her time each year in Morocco and considers herself a citizen of the world. Recognizing that she could not “fix the mind with the mind,” Aasia’s journey into somatic coaching + bodywork stemmed from her own emerging awareness of how limiting intellectualizing and cognitive entry points were to true, embodied learning and transformation. Upon witnessing the entirety of one’s organism; their soma, and how its unification lead to great equanimity and more radically- attunement, she completed an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Accredited training in Body-Oriented Coaching from the Somatic School and a Somatic Bodywork Seminar Level One from the Strozzi Institute. Her practice of somatic coaching and bodywork encourages the coalescing of the body-mind through conversations around a person’s desires, yearnings, and vision for their life, coupled with movement and energy analysis to identify the stories and tendencies living in the tissues and muscles, for greater harmony within one's self and the world.

* Participation in classes and activities is optional throughout the retreat. All levels welcome!

WHAT PAST GUESTS ARE SAYING

TESTIMONIALS

I cannot thank you enough for the most unforgettable experience in my life. My trip with EPM was beyond my expectations. To this day, I still reminisce about every moment from that trip. To be honest...if I didn't have photos I would think that I had dreamt the entire experience. From the moment I sent you an email asking you dozens of questions about the trip to the mix up with the rug...you were gracious, kind and patient. Thank you. When I first arrived to Peacock- I couldn't believe my eyes. It was everything I had hoped for and more. From the Aladdin tents dressed in an array of bright and beautiful colors to the incredible gourmet cuisine. It was perfect. When I was taken to my room...I expected to meet my roommate. Only to find out that you had placed me in my own special room for my birthday. I simply couldn't believe the blessing I had received to stay in such a gorgeous room and to be treated with such love. I truly felt like a princess. I get emotional just thinking about that moment...walking into the Pavillion and seeing my room for the very first time. It simply brings tears to my eyes...happy one's at that. It came at a time in my life where I needed it so much- so thank you! It will forever be- the best birthday I could ever wish for! Every single moment of my trip was beyond my expectations and likely one of the most magical and memorable moments of my lifetime. My only regret is not having contacted you immediately after the trip to send you a wholehearted thank you for creating a memory and experience of a lifetime. I will never, ever forget my experience. Please accept my heartfelt thank you albeit delayed. Many, many thanks and much love and light and blessings to you!! I hope that all is well in your world.

Thank you so much for the outstanding week in Ischia. I honestly had the best time. I loved everything from the beautiful hotel with amazing views and service to waking up and doing yoga and all of the wonderful excursions. I was expecting a great experience but it was so far above and beyond what I could have ever imagined. The people in our group made it even better. I cannot say enough about Allison. She went above and beyond and is truly the best. I will definitely be back. Thank you for everything.

The retreat surpassed my expectations! I thought the location, hotel and excursions were perfect! I enjoyed the free time early in the morning and late afternoons to enjoy the pool. I believe that Allison was an excellent leader/yoga instructor. Hoping I can enjoy another retreat with EPM in the future.

It was more than lovely 11 out of 10 trip! Meeting so many like-minded women, being able to bond and come together has filled my heart and soul with joy and love!

Eat Pray Move is a beautifully crafted life experience. The choice of charming activities made for a perfectly well-rounded week. The leadership, Mindy, on the Amalfi Coast trip was dedicated to the individual's and group's comfort and enjoyment. She was astute, offering eye opening moments.  All of the participants were friendly and bright. Overall, I would say that EPM is the perfect way to travel whether solo or in tandem.

Hey Erin! I didn’t get to say goodbye this morning so just wanted to say a massive THANK YOU! I had an amazing week and I feel refreshed and relaxed - I already know it’s going to make a huge difference for the months to come, and it was the first definitely not the last retreat for me. Thanks for the amazing organisation (everything was just perfect, I felt like we went from treat to treat) but also for the great yoga sessions, and all the warmth and connection and energy you instilled in this (amazing) group.

Wrapping up this incredible week with a heart full of gratitude. From the Yoga sessions every day to the , amazing food, belly laughs that worked out those abs, adventures on day trips, engaging classes, and just soaking in those great vibes, it's been a wow! Big love to each of you for adding that extra sparkle to the whole experience. Here's to new friendships, old friendships and happy memories!

EAT.PRAY.MOVE’s retreat to France was so well planned, and each day was filled with delightful yoga, interesting tours throughout the region, top quality accommodations and superb meals. This retreat exceeded my expectations in every way. If you love yoga and travel, I recommend Eat.Pray.Move for an adventure of a lifetime.

Wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed this trip. The food was delicious, the accommodations were so unique and so lovely and of course Iceland's landscape was just breath taking. Thank you for planning a great trip, this will certainly not be my last!

I have had my Iceland guide for ten years and my yoga practice for over 20. This Iceland retreat met all my expectations. The well thought-through itinerary for the discovery of a new place, meeting amazing & lovely people, Erin’s knowledge of the area & yoga and the food. The yoga classes were a relaxed start into an amazing day, accessible & deeply enjoyable for all levels of practitioners. The perfect mix for discovering an amazingly intriguing country. I would travel with EPM again, anytime, hopefully soon.

Deciding to finally live my dream and go to Morrocco, when finding EPM and the Luxury Marrakesh package I was immediately SOLD! Erin did an outstanding job to really deliver a luxury retreat without missing a beat! Her knack for style, taste, and overall experience is bang on! I just wish it never ended!! From the food selections to the markets, hotels, spas, wine tasting, mule treks and yoga (of course), it was all around exceptional. She has created the ultimate experience, and I look forward to adding another one of her retreats to my list! Thank you, Erin and EPM, for a life altering experience that I will always cherish!

You've made us appreciate yoga, traveling and eating well to another level. And not to mention the friendships we've made. Thank you...thank you...Can't wait to see you AGAIN!!!

The Marrakesh retreat was like a dream. Every detail from the warm welcome to the departure lunch was fabulous and so thoughtful. Erin's wonderful personality along with all the women in our group created a beautiful energy full of fun, adventure and inspiration. Everyday there were new activities, treasures to see at Peacock Pavillions, yoga postures and beautiful table settings in the stunning dinning tent. Along with Erin, Maryam and Chris were so welcoming and made us feel so comfortable. Peacock Pavilions was an amazing and perfect setting for EPM. Thanks so much Erin - my mom and I had a fantastic week and we look forward to another one...maybe Italy next...

EAT.PRAY.MOVE Tuscany was the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and joie de vivre. Erin curates a retreat that makes you feel the furthest thing from a tourist, exposing you to the local haunts and gems of Tuscany. Thank you for so many beautiful memories made in Tuscany. I can't begin to tell you what an amazing time I had! What an incredible, beautiful, and graceful woman you are. I can't wait to join you around the world again! Thank you.

I can’t thank you and Julian enough for the amazing experience in Italy. It was everything I needed and then some. Thank you to both of you for your hospitality, fun spirit, teaching of yoga/art and warm presence. It was a blessing to me how our group came together and had such a fun time...I will most definitely be back on one of your retreats in the future.

Loved our retreat with EAT.PRAY.MOVE! I own Serenity Yoga in Mineola, TX and wanted to travel but also incorporate yoga into my daily routine. Along with two of my members, we joined Erin in Provence and took advantage of this fabulous retreat! Erin was great to find a perfect balance of yoga, adventure and a spa day that was wonderful. I would definitely join Erin again at another retreat in the near future. I loved her yoga practice and her well organized daily excursion trips. Our accommodations, in a beautiful villa, were fabulous!!

I had the best time in Italy with you! I keep thinking about all the amazing people I met on the retreat and all that we saw and learned. Thank you so much for that experience and I look forward to taking more retreats with you in the future.

I have to say this was the first organized group trip I have ever taken and only did so at the suggestion of my sister, Liz. As I’m not particularly adept at yoga or art I did need a bit of convincing, but that said, this was definitely one of the best trips I’ve been on in a lifetime of traveling! Erin and Julian were so encouraging and interested in helping the group not only understand but improve their skills in their respective disciplines. I definitely learned many new things and enjoyed talking to both of them. The location at Peacock Pavilions was magical and I cannot say enough about how wonderful the accommodation was. The food was excellent and the staff were exceptional. The trips/excursions and schedule were well planned and thought out and I feel gave us a very good overview of Marrakesh. Thanks to you and everyone who made it so special. I hope to participate in another EPM in the future.

When it feels like signs are guiding us in a direction…they might be leading us to an adventure with Eat Pray Move! I was searching retreats online when I emailed an inquiry to one particular company (that I wasn’t super excited about) and instead of receiving a reply from that initial retreat, I heard back from Sarah, of EPM! I had unintentionally emailed a different retreat than I first thought, and when I read through the EPM website, I knew: this connection was no accident! I traveled to Ischia, Italy, and realized from day one, a unique quality of the EPM retreat was that our group was doing all of these crazy-fun & unique things that the owner, Erin, was choosing as something SHE would want to do! Like a friend with an inside connection on what to do on the local level! That element made me feel less like a tourist and truly let me experience things that kept me present, constantly absorbing, feeling, and remembering.  Many of the attendees I’ve met were “return-retreaters” and I think that speaks to the amazing experiences we’re all having and sharing because of Erin’s vision.  I’ve since traveled with EPM to Champagne, FR, and am planning on another trip to Italy!

I have been on two retreats (Marrakesh and Amalfi) with EPM and can't say enough good things! I'm not a large-group-travel kind of girl, but there are some places that I don't want to try to navigate on my own. EPM has been the perfect fit for me to get out and see the world with new friends and without a lot of planning. What I love about these trips is that there is a focus on yoga and wellness, but you don't just sit around a retreat center all day. Each trip is packed with amazing experiences, including the must-sees in the area plus unique experiences that you might not find on your own. Every detail from the hotels to the food to even the pace of each day is perfectly planned, and you feel so cared for while you're there. I definitely hope these two won't be my last!

As this was my first trip with your team, I was not sure of what to expect. I am a beginning yoga practitioner and a carnivore, which I considered two significant strikes against me. I soon learned that a vegan diet can be as satisfying as a meat-based diet (and I felt better for it too) and that yoga can be practiced at all levels, with Erin's gentle leadership. Everything about the trip was first class from the unique and lovely accommodations, the magnificent meals, and the experiences (falconry, whiskey tasting, boating on the Loch, etc.). Julian's love of history was evident as he proved to be an expert and interesting guide. Last, but not least, was the interesting and talented women who shared the trip. The range of ages, experiences, careers, and accomplishments made it a joy to get to know each of the women. I truly hope to see some of them on future trips. I will watch with interest and pride in Erin as she continues to grow her amazing business! Thanks to all of you for a trip of a lifetime!!!

I'm happy to share my testimoniales with you - such an amazing experience in Costa Rica! Mindy was such an inspiration as a teacher and a leader. She was always so upbeat and positive. She is by far my favorite yoga instructor, and I can't wait to join her again on another retreat. The resort was amazing and so beautiful. The staff was very attentive, and the location was perfect. I loved the yoga on the beach, the hike around the waterfall, and getting to know a fabulous group of ladies. Thank you for all your patience, and I can't wait to go on another EPM adventure!

Wonderful trip - beautifully curated collection of experiences hosted by the lovely Erin & Julian who are both generous, full of knowledge and good company.

There is no right qualitative adjective to describe this retreat. It would be a list of the most positives ones. Iceland is just magnificent and helps you to learn that everything can change so quickly and sun can show up again and again. Every details were just so thoughtful and of course Erin and Julian are just two amazing and funny human beings. Love it. Hopefully I’ll be able to come back soon!

I was invited by a couple of friends to join them for a retreat, loved it. Great way to start out each day. In addition they were thoughtful about choosing local experiences so one could enjoy the culture, foods, in addition to some pampering. The cooking class was one of my highlights. Michelle did a great job of hosting, teaching, her perspectives and disposition are way beyond her years, a delight to be around. I would have enjoyed a few more yoga sessions but now sure what I would cut out… Blessings as you have fashioned a great experience that anyone would enjoy. Thankful to be a part.

I am so grateful that I got to join EPM for the beautiful week in Puglia. I felt so happy the whole week. The yoga classes Erin gives,- give me an inner peace and well-being and I can’t wait to experience it again. Everyday was filled with what felt like the exact thing I wanted to do, the people in the group were fabulous, every one of them, lots of laughs and happy moments together. The Puglia-experience still sits in my system and I know it gave me the final kick to change my life, I am in process, for me it was an important moment. I can’t wait to join EPM again, and as I am an returning guest - I know I’ve become addicted! Thank you Erin, for everything!

First I can’t explain how much I enjoyed Croatia and our group- it was the time of my life truly- exactly what I needed!! I came home and first thing was trying to figure out where’s next! I want to go everywhere now. I am so glad I came across EPM and took a chance outside my box and booked- Amazing, truly amazing.

I can’t begin to express my gratitude for one of the most amazing experiences in my life. I’ve had a few in my 67 years, and next to the birth of my north star, Catherine, who came along with me on this epic EPM journey, I can honestly say nothing can compete. Every moment surpassed all pre-conceived expectations I had and I went to sleep every night in Praiano knowing the next day would bring joy and peace beyond measure. May sound cliche but it’s not. Money well spent and we hope to be able to go on another healing journey again with EPM.

I really felt it was such an amazing trip that I was able to enjoy with my sister and daughter and meet so many wonderful women. It was the perfect trip of busy and relaxation! I often do all the planning for our family trips, so this was perfect for me as I just needed to show up and enjoy! So many laughs , smiles and even a few tears, and I wouldn’t have changed a thing. Another EPM trip is definitely in my future!

I do want to thank you again for planning and offering this lovely trip. It was so enjoyable on many levels and everyone here was so easy to be with. It was a fabulous vacation, one of my best! I loved Tuscany, the lovely villa, yoga and the other guests, the food, the wine and the beautiful countryside. Our host Julian was most knowledgable, kind and engaging. His knowledge of history, art and culture was quite enlightening. I recommend the trip to anyone.

 

DETAILS / PRICING

  • 6 Days / 5 Nights (Sep 8-13, 2024)

  • Inclusive Retreat Price = $2,795 (shared room*) +$665 single room supplement

  • Deposit to hold space = $950

  • Max # Guests = 12
    * Guests traveling alone can choose the shared room and we match up based on guest profile. Rooms are spacious with separate beds and private bathrooms.
    ** Final balance due 60 days before retreat start date.
    Read full cancellation policy in our     Terms & Conditions.

INCLUDED*:

  • Accommodation (spacious bedrooms each with private bathrooms, linens)

  • Daily Breakfast at Peacock Pavilions

  • Select dinners and lunches at Peacock Pavilions or in town

  • Welcome Reception

  • Airport Transfers

  • Transportation to/from day trips

  • Daily yoga classes

  • Somatic bodywork classes

  • Use of estate premises (terraces, pool, etc.)

  • Tour guide on various day trips

  • Walking tour of Medina & Souks

  • Daytrip to Luxury Desert Camp for Tasting Lunch

  • Camel Rides in Desert

  • Henna Party

  • After dinner Moroccan entertainment

  • Poolside Champagne Brunch

  • Spa Treatment day at luxury hammam

  • Afternoon at Jardin Majorelle + YSL Museum

  • Taxes

* airfare not included
** all meals are vegetarian. special dietary restrictions can be accommodated
***activities may change based on weather or unforeseen circumstances

LOCATION / TRAVEL:

13km outside the old city (Medina) of Marrakesh Nearest airports: Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) Nearest train station: Marrakesh Transfers between airport or train station and villa will be provided. After signing up, we will guide guests on best options for flights and travel to Marrakesh.

SUGGESTED PACKING:

Besides the basic packing and travel needs, here are a few things to think about bringing with you.

  • Yoga mats and props are provided

  • Bathing suit (on-site pool, spa)

  • Layers of clothing for weather changes

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Plug adaptors / converters

  • Journal