Free the Heart
Yoga & Meditation Retreat
About The Retreat
Calm your mind and Free your Heart on a weekend yoga and meditation retreat in beautiful Queensland. Join me for a two and a half day immersion in the tranquil subtropical paradise of the Gold Coast hinterland, where we will dive into the mysteries of our inner universe and discover the immense power of the heart.
“Free the Heart” sounds appealing, but what does it mean? Usually, most of our attention is focused in the head as we regularly use the “on-board computer” of our mind to navigate life’s twists and turns, rationalising, deducting and coming to logical conclusions. I dare to say, though, that our hearts are in fact much more than a very important muscle in our chests; that the heart is the true centre of our inner world, and that we tend to disconnect from this most intimate part of ourselves in our efforts to cope with the daily grind of modern life.
This retreat has been designed so that through authentic teachings of the yoga tradition, and the practice of asanas, meditation and breathing exercises, you will be guided on a deep dive into your inner universe. Get to know yourself more profoundly and bring about processes of lasting inner transformation that will echo into all areas of life.
The retreat includes a well-balanced mix of theory and practices with a focus on the experiential side.
All practices are accessible to all ages and stages.

Retreat Teacher, Nina Thallon

Retreat Teacher, Nina Thallon
Why This Retreat?
Heart-centered yoga & meditation based on esoteric yoga principles
Transformational breathing practices (pranayama) and guided meditations
A supportive space for self-discovery and emotional healing
Delicious vegetarian meals by a private chef
Tranquil setting
2 nights accommodation in beautiful, natural surroundings
Powerful cacao ceremony to open the heart and deepen connection
What You’ll ExperiencE
Explore the spiritual anatomy of the heart
Learn practical yoga tools you can integrate into daily life
Tap into your intuition and inner wisdom
Understand the energetic nature of the universe
Make meaningful connections with like-minded individuals
Walk away with life-shifting insights and new vitality
Retreat Topics & Sample Schedule
Yoga Philosophy
- Learn the secrets behind esoteric yoga
- Learn the foundational principles of yoga
- Discover the true meaning of yoga and its origins
Asanas
- Practice yoga positions for benefits on all levels
- Learn the subtle dimensions of yoga practice
- Take home techniques to practice daily
Meditation
- Discover meditation and how it can transform your life
- Learn techniques for calming and controlling your mind
- Learn the principles behind meditation practice
Yogic Breathing
- Learn yogic breathing as a way to energise your being
- Discover the power of the breath and how you can use it to calm your mind
- Learn techniques to improve your life on all levels
The Spiritual Heart
- Tap into the secrets of the spiritual heart
- Learn the subtle anatomy of the heart
- Learn about the power of your intuition and how to awaken it
RETREAT SCHEDULE SNAPSHOT
(Subject to change)
FRIDAY 30th MAY
5:00 – 6:00 PM Check-in & Orientation
6:00 – 7:00 PM Dinner
7:00 – 8:30 PM Opening session
SATURDAY 31st MAY
7:00 – 9:00 AM Yoga
9:00 – 10:00 AM Breakfast
10:30 – 12:00 PM Consciousness training
12:00 – 3:30 PM Lunch break, Nature walks, Time for reflection, Swimming
3:30 – 5:30 PM Yoga & Breathwork
6:00 – 7:00 PM Dinner
7:00 – 8:30 PM Intuition & Heart awakening
SUNDAY 1st JUNE
7:00 – 8:30 AM Yoga & Breathwork
8:30 – 10:00 AM Access your intuitive power
10:00 – 11:00 AM Brunch
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Cacao ceremony & Sacred circle
About The venue



Tucked away in the enchanting Numinbah Valley, just forty minutes (39 km) from the Gold Coast, lies Solitude – an aptly-named secluded rainforest retreat, rich in nurturing energy and untouched beauty. The retreat is surrounded by some of Australia’s most captivating natural attractions, including horse riding trails and the ancient landscapes of Natural Bridge National Park. The land itself carries a deeply nourishing quality that supports reflection, healing and inner exploration.
When you enter, you are gently embraced by pristine subtropical foliage that winds past the caretaker’s cottage, opening into a private retreat sanctuary. From here, a naturally landscaped garden path leads you deeper into the land, where four rustic log chalets appear as if perched within the rainforest canopy, offering a rare sense of seclusion and serenity. At the heart of the property stands the original 98-year-old red cedar farmhouse, lovingly preserved and rich with heritage, grounding the retreat in the quiet history and spirit of the region.
What truly sets this retreat apart is its rare spiritual significance. A ceremonial Labyrinth and Native American Medicine Wheel can be found on the grounds, offering dedicated spaces for contemplation, ritual and intentional gathering.
Spanning approximately 160 acres (67 hectares), the property unfolds around the flowing Nerang River, which, in the wet season, feeds three cascading waterfalls. Here, you can enjoy the sights of towering strangler figs, lush rainforest, rock pools, open green spaces, king parrots and abundant native flora and fauna. Solitude is a place to slow down, reconnect and return to what matters.
Retreat at a Glance

Weekend Immersion
TBA
A unique, immersive retreat with a select group of like-minded people amidst the stunning nature of the hinterland of the Gold Coast. Personalised guidance and support are at hand. Places are limited.

Nina’s Passion
Nina has been practicing and teaching yoga and meditation for the past 20 years. She is passionate about sharing these life-transforming teachings and guiding others on their inner journey.

from $500
Includes all retreat activities, accommodation and delicious vegetarian/vegan meals. Options without accommodation also available.
what people are saying
"I recently attended the Free the Heart retreat in Maleny, led by Nina Thallon, who I’ve known since school and who remains a dear friend. Nina has a wonderful way of making people feel at ease, no matter their experience with yoga or meditation. The practices were thoughtful, accessible, and focused more on connection and awareness than on pushing yourself physically. The meditations and group sessions felt honest and meaningful. One of the best things about the retreat was the space it created to simply be; with no pressure or expectations. It was a chance to unplug and reflect, and I left feeling clearer and more balanced. If you’re considering one of Nina’s retreats, I’d absolutely recommend it. Thanks, Nina... it was a beautiful experience, and I’m so glad I came."
Alyshia G.
"I recently attended the free your heart yoga retreat and it was nothing short of incredible. The experience was unique and deeply enriching, offering a refreshing difference from the Hatha Yoga I have traditionally practiced in Australia. I enjoyed exploring this new approach to yoga, I found it grounding and expansive. The retreat itself was fantastic. Our yoga teacher, Nina, was exceptional and highly knowledgeable and deeply connected to the practice. Her guidance through both the yoga and meditation sessions made the experience all the more meaningful. I also found the meditation component to be a beautiful addition that brought a deep sense of calm and clarity.mI left feeling refreshed, inspired, and grateful. I would wholeheartedly recommend this retreat to anyone looking to deepen their yoga practice or simply take some time to reconnect and recharge."
Megan C.
"I attended a recent Free The Heart retreat lead by Nina. It was a fabulous 2 day immersive experience, shared with eight or so others. It was a beautifully run event, with fantastic attention to detail and a deliberate focus on drawing inwards. The setting and break out times fostered connection with other like minded participants. I really valued this. The activities and Nina’s insights encouraged me to slow down and become more attuned to the present moment and the bigger oneness we’re all chasing. I’m seeking an elusive inner stillness- this retreat helped me on that journey."
Loretta M.
"My experience at the 'Free the Heart' retreat was truly enriching and restorative. The intimate setting in a beautiful rainforest at Maleny offered the perfect space to slow down and connect deeply with myself and like‑minded people. The highlights for me were the yoga and meditation sessions, which felt deeply nurturing and well‑guided. The teaching was clear and accessible, and the practices left me feeling grounded, open‑hearted, and more present. Overall, this was an lovely experience that nourished both body and soul, and I left feeling deeply grateful, refreshed, and connected."
Kitty R.
"I attended the 'Dive into the Heart Retreat' of Nina’s earlier this year in the sublime
setting of Maleny. It became evident to me from the start what an incredible depth of wisdom and
spiritual understanding she emanates during her practices and teachings. Nina’s beautiful soft nature and serenity evident during her mindfulness teaching of the secrets and anatomy of the spiritual heart, helped in developing a much deeper
understanding of the power of her teachings. I so look forward to attending another one to further develop my capacity to intuitively
develop these enlightening skills."
Robyn S.
"I attended Nina Thallon’s 'Free the Heart' retreat at Maleny on 7-9 February 2025. What a heartwarming, nourishing weekend! The venue was peaceful and a world away from the hustle and bustle of life, a perfect setting to slow down and deeply embrace Nina’s teachings about a spiritual heart centred, intuitive approach to life. Thank you Nina. Such a gift you’ve given us all to take forward into the year. I am absorbing it into my life. I must also mention the delicious food you arranged for us all. Each meal was a treat firstly for the eyes and then for our bodies. Amazing!"
Jude V.
"I was very hesitant at first, as my partner was the initator, which I am now truly grateful for.
Being in my local area was convenient, firstly the food was 10/10 amazing and so nourishing, venue was homely and elegant at the same time, plenty of areas to retreat to on your own if needed. I’m very happy to have been a part of this particular retreat, I found some answers to questions, I found new questions, I also found parts of myself that were long forgotten, buried under kids, work, general life hustle to make ends meet. Much needed and I didn’t know it. I surprised myself how flexible I was."
Amy H.
"I am really happy I booked Nina’s retreat 'Free the Heart'. First, the location is stunning and the vegetarian food with vegan options is so tasty! The program had a good balance of yoga, meditations and talks. The yoga poses were at times challenging, but so glad I persisted, strengthening the mind and body. The regular meditations brought back an old habit I had lost. Connecting deeply with other like-minded people was a treat. This was an exciting new experience which provided a profound insight."
Franck B.
"I recently returned from a Free the Heart retreat with Nina. As a decided amateur in the world of yoga, I found the time inspiring and restorative. Nina's form of yoga is contemplative and meditative and I gained much from her teachings, particularly the breath work. Nina's communication skills are excellent and the delivery of her material is very engaging and heartfelt. She created a warm and involved atmosphere with our group. I would heartily recommend participation in her retreats."
Richard T.
"I attended several retreats with Nina, where not only did she teach yoga, but her amazingly hypnotic soothing voice brought me to a relaxing meditative state that allowed me to reach a deeper level of peace and relaxation.
Her extensive knowledge of the yoga arts combined with a sweet softness make her a unique teacher and mentor that I highly recommend.".
Albert A.
"When I met Nina, I was going through a difficult time in my life, and she became a true source of inspiration, guiding me on my path of personal and spiritual growth. I admire her sunny disposition and extraordinary sensitivity, which allow her to connect deeply and authentically with others. I’ve also had the pleasure of attending some of her presentations, where I was deeply impressed by her ability to address complex topics with clarity, paired with a captivating charisma that draws in and fascinates the audience. Nina is a truly special person who leaves an indelible mark on the lives of anyone lucky enough to meet her."
Luca G.
"The retreat was set in a most divine abode complete with river to swim in and waterfall... we experienced union through our asanas and meditation. The vegan/ vegetarian buffet meals were almost worth a Michelin star. I loved getting close to all the participants"
Jackie V.M.
"Nina’s approach and way of addressing certain barriers has supported my transformation as a man in my personal life, in my work environment and in my spiritual life, in a way that I didn’t believe possible. A clear, firm and feminine touch with a razor sharp insight that Nina provided, where nothing was left to chance, was the catalyst that I didn’t know I was longing for."
Alex M.
"I spent a very memorable and impactful weekend with Nina, Alex and group in March. The yoga sessions, conversations, sense of connection with others who were part of the program, and meditation - the whole program was very invigorating and energizing. I definitely plan to attend the next retreat whenever planned."
Ramakrishna P.
"This is the first retreat for me, spending 3 nights in a beautiful location removed from everyday life. The location was stunning for me, I loved the space but also the forest and the birds. The food was also nourishing. I enjoyed all of the practices and looked forward to each one, even though I am not a disciplined person.
I really appreciated your depth of knowledge, but also the fact that nothing was forced. You instructed us in various practices, but it was always at our own pace, with respect and with space to be as we are. This felt welcoming for me and gave me the ability to explore my inner being with ease."
Gabriel K.
