After 9 years in Beijing, I could finally check this on my list of things I want to do here. As a yoga fan, I thought experiencing yoga in the mountain is a must. Moreover, with my great, great, friend Ana Zikic.

It was not the easiest place to find ( not sign on the road or at their entrance) so make sure to print out directions from this page and to call them.  We took the subway line 10, got off at Bagou station ( last station on the line), and got a taxi ride for a 40rmb.

You start with a yoga class at 11am, and the relaxation time in the end was quite surprising....I can't reveal you why though! I enjoyed the fact that for once, the relaxation time was long and perhaps even the core of the session instead of just 10 minutes in the end. The setting just allows you to go deep inside and to take time for this. We came from the city, thus, we especially appreciated this yoga session outdoors.

After yoga, you enjoy a silent lunch on the terrace, with the other habitants of the retreat. It is just nice to sit, and watch the mountain while eating. To appreciate your meal without chit chat and just being comfortable like that. The meal is simple, vegetarian, and delicious! I filled my bowl three times!

The rest of the day can be dedicated to more yoga, drum session, calligraphy class, mantra chanting, hiking...It's good to know there is such place, one day if I need some quietness and to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I appreciated the communal style of the place, and the fact that each person respects other people's silence and space. At the same time, people are warm and definitely present. 

It was worth coming here, even just for a day. I collected a lot of energy, relaxed completely, and stretched my body and mind. It' was totally refreshing!

Visit: http://www.mountain-yoga.org/htm/retreats/weekend.htm