Our first ever week in Seville was a massive success with our guests reaping the benefits of Pilates and mindfulness. Everyone had a lot of fun with cava flowing, tapas and Flamenco. Here are some highlights and insights from the week.
How do you weave mindfulness into the Pilates retreat?
Any Mindfulness training involves shifting our attention from the mind’s mental constructs (the ‘lens’ we use to see our lives) to the body. Pilates movements are ideal for this. The class starts with a short breath and body meditation and the guests are encouraged to keep that awareness as they slowly move into classic Pilates exercises. The tutor gives gentle reminders throughout the lesson to refocus attention from wherever it might have wandered and into the physical sensations of movement. This way everyone can experience the quieting of the mind’s constant chatter and the opportunity to fully be present. The result is a much deeper experience of Pilates.
It is not all about Pilates, breathing and mindfulness…
The itinerary was particularly varied and exciting. Visiting Seville twice, giving guests more than just a whistle-stop overview of this stunning and fascinating city. Those who wished could visit the cathedral on their second visit. The whole tone of the trip was Andalusian authenticity, and everyone loved the vibrant and exciting Flamenco evening followed by beautiful cuisine in the restaurant next door .
The gin tasting trip, just a 15-minute bus trip away, was a fascinating insight into this family-owned business, and the tasting afterwards was welcomed.
The guests also visited the nearby town of Aracena where they could stroll the streets. They immersed themselves in the life of this beautiful little town, and topped off their experience with a stop at a street bar when families of all ages were gathering for evening drinks. The fun and varied activities and excursions were balanced with plenty of time to relax by the pool or in their rooms in the lovely villa.
What is the villa like? Where do you do Pilates? What should out guests expect?
The villa itself has a rustic simplicity to it, while at the same time has been beautifully renovated to make it comfortable and welcoming. The vast hall which was the base for Pilates, dining and general gathering worked brilliantly as there was never any short of space for any of those activities. The guests did Pilates in one corner of this main room, as there was no shortage of space and it gave everyone free range to spread out. The room had huge oak doors that were always open to let in the sun and the birdsong.
Final thoughts from the week
The Flamenco night was probably the highlight of the week; for sheer authenticity and impact. This said, the guests agreed that visiting to the Palace earlier on the same day, will stay in their minds as one of the most beautiful places they have visited.
This holiday is part of their exclusive holidays only for Amici guests – those who have travelled with them more than once. You can become an Amici club member too – simply book your first holiday with us.
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