The Modern Silence Retreat

A Week of Yoga, Meditation & Deep Rest

In Portugal.

Step away from the constant noise of daily life and enter a slower rhythm of presence, simplicity, and reconnection.

This 7-day retreat is an invitation to pause deeply — to soften the nervous system, quiet the mind, and reconnect with yourself through silence, movement, meditation, nature, and rest.

September 25 – October 2, 2027

With Barbara van Dortmond

Location: Bodhi Bhavan in Portugal

Happy to be back again at this incredible retreat center with the most amazings views! Super healthy food and the sweetest staff!

Unlike a traditional strict silent retreat, this experience offers a more spacious and balanced approach to Noble Silence. Mornings and evenings are held in silence to support inner stillness and reflection, while afternoons allow space for gentle connection, integration, movement, creativity, and rest.

Throughout the week, we will explore meditation, mindful movement, Yin & Yang Yoga, pranayama, walking meditation, and Dhamma-inspired teachings rooted in awareness, compassion, simplicity, and presence.

No-Device Retreat

This is also a no-device retreat. Phones and laptops will be put away during the retreat to support a deeper reset of the nervous system and attention.

Once per day, there will be a short designated check-in moment for anything essential regarding home or family.

Whether you are feeling overstimulated, emotionally tired, creatively disconnected, or simply longing for more space and clarity — this week offers a supportive container to slow down, reset, and recharge.

Retreat Programme

Our days will follow a gentle rhythm designed to support grounding, spaciousness, and deep restoration. There will be moments of silence and moments of connection. You will benourished with 2 plant based delicious mails a day, Brunch & Dinner. There is enough fruits & nuts during the day and mornings.

Mornings - Noble Silence

From the morning bell at 7:00 a.m. until after brunch at 12:00 p.m., we will remain in Noble Silence.

Morning practices may include:

  • Seated meditation

  • Gentle Yang Yoga

  • Pranayama

  • Walking meditation

  • Silent brunch

  • Teachings on meditation and awareness practices

The silence during the first half of the day creates space for deeper observation, nervous system regulation, and inner quiet.

Free Time — No Silence

After the morning session, around 12:00 p.m., Noble Silence is softly lifted and there is spacious free time to rest and integrate.

You may choose to:

  • Read

  • Journal

  • Swim

  • Walk or hike

  • Rest

  • Spend time in nature

  • Simply do nothing

Afternoon Practice - Noble Silence

The afternoon session begins again at 2:30 p.m. and we return to Noble Silence.

This part of the day may include:

  • Dhamma talks

  • Meditation

  • Pranayama

  • Yin Yoga

  • Reflection practices

Shared Dinner — No Silence

In the evening, we gather for a shared dinner without silence — a moment for gentle connection, conversation, and community.

Evening Meditation - Noble Silence

After the evening meditation, Noble Silence begins again and carries us into the next morning.

This Retreat May Be For You If…

  • You long for more clarity, stillness, and space

  • You want to reconnect with your body and inner world

  • You feel overstimulated or mentally exhausted

  • You are curious about meditation and Noble Silence in a more accessible format

  • You are seeking rest without completely disconnecting completely

  • You feel called toward a slower and more intentional way of being

Investment

Early bird price till November first 2026 : €1475

€1635 per person

Payment plans are available.

Check in is Saturday 25 September 2027 at 16:30 and check out the following Saturday at

10:30

Questions? You can send an email to info@yogaseads.nl

About

Barbara - owner Yogaseads - In my 23 years of teaching yoga, I’ve become increasingly specialized in Yin Yoga, Mind Training, and Buddhism.
I aim to weave these complementary teachings together in a way that’s simple, accessible, and down-to-earth for everyone.
Every day, I’m grateful to have found Yoga and Buddhism—and feel inspired to share them, hoping they may benefit the world around us.

I’d love to welcome you on this Modern Silent Week Retreat! 25 September - 2 October 2027

Please send an email to info@yogaseads.nl to sign up or if you have any questions.

With love,

Barbara