Essence of Stillness Yoga Retreat
A 5-Day Escape in Bologna Italy
September 10–15, 2026 | Hosted by Niamh Pollins & the I AM THAT Team. A sanctuary for movement, connection, and deep restoration. From $1750
Seeking space to unwind, heal, and explore?
The Experience
This retreat is for anyone seeking space to unwind, heal, and explore through yoga, meditation, and meaningful cultural experiences. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned practitioner, everything is taught with modifications to meet you exactly as you are.
You won't be alone on this journey. You’ll be supported by the I AM THAT Studio team you know and love and the week is hosted by Niamh Pollins, bringing her deep expertise in Himalayan Kundalini and restorative practices to our community for the first time.
Meet Your Host
Niamh Pollins
Niamh is a 650hr Yoga Alliance Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500) who has been guiding students since 2018. Her approach was deeply transformed by a 300-hour Himalayan Kundalini Yoga training in Rishikesh, which now anchors her heart-led, inclusive teaching style.
Beyond the mat, Niamh is a humanitarian passionate about social justice and the principle of seva (selfless service). Her teaching is warm, rooted in presence, and designed to create a peaceful space where you are welcome exactly as you are.
BUILT FOR CONNECTION
WHY CHOOSE US
All Levels Welcome
From first-timers to long-time movers. We provide the options; you choose the depth.
Strictly Ego-Free
No performance, no judgment. A space to put down the 'to-do' list and just be you.
Built for Connection
Come as a stranger, leave as part of the community. Perfect for solo travelers.
The Essence of Stillness
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The Morning.
7:00 AM Meditation & Yoga Flow. Fuel your body with farm-to-table breakfast and fresh juice in the Shala
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Vitality & Adventure.
Five full days of stillness and reset, with time to explore the Apennine hills, taste the wines of Tenute Tozzi, and savour the local food of Casola Valsenio.
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Deep Integration.
5:30 PM Sunset Yoga, Yin, Nidra and cosmic breathwork. Communal dinners under the stars.
DAY PLAN
An inward JOURNEY BEGINS
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Your journey begins at 11:00 AM with a fresh welcome refreshment and your retreat kit. At 1:00 PM, we gather in the Shala for our Opening Ceremony to set group intentions, followed by a communal welcome dinner at the farmhouse
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We establish our rhythm with a 7:30 AM Meditation and Solar Flow. Spend your afternoon at the pool and relax on the grounds of the property. We close the day with an evening movement session and dinner al fresco.
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A 6:00 AM Sunrise Yoga session sets the tone for a day on the water.
The afternoon is yours to rest or explore the local town of Casola Valsenio at your own pace.
That evening we head to a local award winning restaurant to taste what Bologna has to offer.
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During the late afternoon we will visit a local award winning winery, Tenute Tozzi we will get to enjoy a wine, olive oil and food tasting.
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We will set off in the late morning for a lovely hike through the Apennine hills.
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Our final morning begins at 6:00 AM with a Heart-led Closing Ceremony.
Overlooking the valley of Casola Valsenio
Your Private Sanctuary
Nestled in the quiet hills overlooking the valleys of the Apennines hills, our venue is designed for deep integration. From the swimming pool to the open-air Shala, every corner of the property is an invitation to exhale.
Every detail is held
Everything You Need to Exhale
From the moment you arrive, every detail is held. We have curated this experience so you don't have to make a single decision, only the choice to be present.
5 Nights Accommodation in a protected Farmhouse with breathtaking views over the Apennines.
Daily Morning Rituals: Guided meditation and Yoga.
All-Inclusive Dining: Three daily vegetarian meals with local, seasonal produce, coffee and tea.
The Movement Series: Daily Yoga and Evening Yin/Yoga Nidra sessions. Hiking and outdoor movement in Nature
The Adventures: Guided hike, wine tasting and local cuisine excursion.
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Restful Suites.
Rooms are light filled and airy, drawing in the fresh air of Casola Valsenio and looking out over the Apennine hills.
Shared Suite starts from: $1750P/P
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Nourishment.
Three meals daily, sourced from local, seasonal produce. Vibrant and traditional, full of the incredible flavours Italy is loved for.
We will try to accommodate all dietary requirements with advanced notice.
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Sacred Spaces.
An open-air shala in the style of a traditional Apennine farmhouse, overlooking the valley of Casola Valsenio
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Getting Ready (Logistics)
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We spend 5 nights in the Apennines hills. While flights aren't included, we can coordinate your airport transfers through our local partners for an additional fee.
Once booked, we’ll reach out to collect your flight details.
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Travel insurance is mandatory for all guests.
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Bring comfortable gear for Yoga and swimwear for the pool and sturdy shoes for our local hike.
We will provide a full, curated packing list four weeks before we depart
2. The Experience (Daily Life)
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Absolutely. All levels are welcome, from first-timers to long-time movers.
Niamh and the team provide modifications for every practice so you can choose your own depth.
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Three freshly prepared meals a day, made with the beautiful local produce of Casola Valsenio.
Please let us know of any dietary requirements in advance and our kitchen will do their best to try accommodate you
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Yes! This retreat is built for connection. Whether you choose a shared room to meet someone new or a private suite for solitude, you'll be part of a supportive community of 12 guests.
3. Bookings & Policies
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Investment starts from $2,000 AUD. To secure your sanctuary, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required, with the remaining balance due 30 days before we depart.
We believe this experience should be accessible, if a customized payment plan would help you join us, we are more than happy to arrange one that suits your needs.
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Your deposit is non-refundable. For full details on cancellations and returns, please view our studio Terms & Conditions.
Ready for the Essence of Stillness ?
*A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot. Payment plans for the remaining balance are available upon request.
*Strictly limited to 12 places ensure an intimate experience.