Yoga Detox Day with Danya
A Day of Wellness, Connection, and Renewal
Last weekend, I was invited to take some time to recalibrate, rejuvenate, and reconnect at Danya’s Yoga Detox Day in Thorner; something that was long overdue and much needed.
After peeling of the numerous outer layers and receiving a welcoming hug from Danya, I entered the cosy yoga studio. She’d purposefully set the room up to make the most of the beautiful snow-covered view across the fields which created the perfect serene backdrop for the gentle flow of the retreat for the whole day.
We started with a calming lying posture and some gentle instruction to bring our minds into the studio and away from the heightened state that driving in icy conditions coming to the venue through country lanes had brought to some. This was followed by a gentle yet powerful series of twisting yoga poses, designed specifically for detoxing. The emphasis was on stimulating the digestive system, encouraging lymphatic flow, and gently releasing built-up tension in our bodies. As Danya guided us through each posture, I felt a deep sense of calm as the emotions – There were tears - I had been holding for many months in my upper body were released and the protective tightness around injuries and surgical scars started to relax. It was amazing to me to witness the power of simple, mindful movement in helping to clear my mind and body.
Our morning session then transitioned from the studio to vast cream sofas, in front of a warming stove, in the nearby lounge. Carla, a nutritional therapist and cardiac nurse joined us to share her expertise on healthy eating, especially tailored for women in the perimenopausal and menopausal stages of life. As she spoke, we poured health boosting turmeric and ginger based wellness shots made by Danya. Carla gave us so much valuable information while she was with us, to consider and discuss. It was refreshing to hear her advice grounded in practicality as well as the science – no expectation to be up at 4am for a 3hr wellness routine before getting the children ready for school!
As we chatted, Danya was in the kitchen putting the finishing touches to our vibrant buddha bowls which were to accompany a delicious lentil and winter vegetable soup - I had seconds. We ate together at the long table and shared our own stories fueled by Carla’s session. The food was light but incredibly satisfying, and I left the table feeling nourished in every sense of the word.
Before the afternoon session began, some of us took a walk outside in the sunshine. There had been a hoar frost earlier in the day which had settled on the lichen covered stone walls that lined lane which added an extra level of sparkle especially to the snow. I gave myself the time to sit on top of a stile to be quiet and still for a short time while watching sheep graze. As I headed back, I was treated to seeing a tiny wren sat in a nearby tree.
The gentle twists that followed lunch allowing our bodies to release any remaining tension from the morning's activities. These flowed into a series of deeper stretches that were slow and intentioned. I had forgotten how well Danya’s gentle encouraging touch, or intuitive instruction, can guide you to make adjustment to deepen a stretch or extend the reach. For me, it felt restorative, allowing for deep relaxation while still encouraging my movement which reflected my body’s months of tension rather than flexibility.
We ended with a deeply soothing Yoga Nidra; a guided meditation practice designed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. As I lay there warm and relaxed, listening to Danya’s voice and still aware of my surroundings, I realised I could also hear myself making quiet snoring noises. It was though I was suspended in a world where I could be awake and asleep at the same time; a perfect conclusion to the day’s activities.
Later that night at home in bed - I had the best night’s sleep - I reflected that it had been more than just a day of detoxing. It was a chance to slow down, nourish my body with the right foods, and connect with others who are going through similar life changes. It was an empowering experience, reminding me that self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
