Are there any specific yoga studios, retreat centers, or wellness hubs in Bali that you particularly admire?
I’m particularly drawn to Alchemy Yoga and Meditation Centers, which are rooted in the Trika Shaivism philosophy and offer a wealth of workshops and classes for all levels. I also appreciate the diversity of instructors at The Yoga Barn and the dedication to the Sri Vidya Traditional lineage at Radiantly Alive. Each of these studios provides a rich variety of classes that stay true to the essence of yoga while fostering a strong sense of community and connection.
How would you describe a typical day in your life as a yoga instructor in Bali?
Well I don’t presently teach yoga in Bali because I now only teach online to my existing global audience. That’s one of the many perks to mapping out your dreams and sticking to them. A typical day for me does include yoga though. I wake up and meditate in my Bale Bengong (gazebo) and then I usually attend a class with one of my favorite local teachers and/or create and film home practices for my online instructor. I often work throughout the day at one of the many co-working spaces that are typically attached to the yoga centers and each day includes some sort of self-care whether it be a massage, a sauna session, beach walk, dip in the pool, or sunset watching.
Have you taken any new teacher training programs or workshops in Bali to further your skills and knowledge?
I’ve already begun exploring new courses in bodywork and trigger point release, as well as deepening my knowledge through yoga nidra workshops. These are two powerful healing modalities that I believe can greatly benefit yoga teachers, particularly when working with private clients or patients. Both approaches complement traditional yoga practices beautifully and provide yoga teachers with practical tools to help clients achieve greater well-being.
Do you see any emerging trends in yoga or wellness retreats in Bali that are different from other parts of the world?
Absolutely! One of the most striking differences is that yoga studios here are deeply rooted in a lineage of ancient yoga philosophy. This means their carefully selected teaching teams not only practice but also teach within the framework of this philosophy. It creates a beautiful and intentional approach, fostering meaningful and heartfelt practices for students.
Another unique aspect is the emphasis on workshops centered around Kirtan, dance, and sound healing. While sound healing has gained popularity in the U.S., many teachers there often lack a deep understanding of its origins or the proper techniques to facilitate it. Here, sound healing is approached with a somatic focus, delving into its impact on the body and mind.
Evening Kirtan sessions, group singing, and sound journeys are widely embraced and attended, creating a vibrant, connected community. I find it incredibly inspiring to see these ancient practices honored and integrated into modern life so seamlessly.
How do you manage to stay connected with your students and followers in Southern California while building a presence in Bali?
Currently, I’m focusing on creating retreat experiences that give my students the opportunity to step away from their daily routines, deepen their practice, and immerse themselves in other cultures. I believe these experiences can be powerful catalysts for growth and transformation.
I still create content for my loyal subscribers, who have been so supportive during this transition, but I’m also staying open to connecting with a new audience and building relationships with students here. These days, my passion lies more in mentoring new teachers, guiding them to create meaningful careers in wellness.
Rather than building my own community again, my goal is to help others give back in ways that feel authentic and heartfelt, just as my journey has been. Supporting teachers as they grow and share their gifts feels like the most fulfilling path forward.
Do you incorporate elements of Balinese healing traditions or modalities into your classes or retreats?
Not yet, but as I learn, grow and foster new skills through these practices I plan to. One thing i’m fascinated with in Bali is their martial arts.They still have many martial arts schools across the island which is an important part of their culture and history. I would love to be adding in some of the great martial arts philosophies into my teaching.
How has Bali’s food, nature, and overall lifestyle impacted your health and wellness?
There is no industrialized farming here; food grows abundantly and is always locally sourced. Cattle and chickens roam freely across the island and are cherished by the Balinese, who are predominantly Hindu and rarely consume beef. Every morning, I wake to the sound of chickens and cows, and I often see my neighbors walking their cows or gently holding their chickens.
This way of life feels worlds apart from U.S. culture, where there’s often little connection to the origins of our food. It’s made me reflect deeply on how I eat, how I manage food waste, and the kind of world I want to leave for future generations. Eating such fresh, locally grown food every day has shown me the immense value of farming and sustainability. It’s inspiring to think that anyone with a backyard could grow their own food and contribute to a healthier, more connected way of living.
What are your favorite places in Bali for relaxation and inspiration outside of yoga?
Sideman is amazing and quiet. The perfect island getaway for those who want to escape the motorbikes, traffic, and tourism. The rice fields in this area are absolutely breathtaking.
Do you have any advice for aspiring yoga teachers or practitioners considering a move to Bali?
If you’re feeling uninspired by what you’re doing, remember why you started in the first place. Often, it’s not a true loss of passion but the weight of external noise that dulls your spark. When that happens, it’s a sign to take a leap—step outside the circle you’re in and venture into something new.
Life isn’t set in stone; you’re not bound by rules or expectations about how things “should” be. The world is fluid, like water, and you have the power to flow in any direction you choose. Embrace the uncertainty, take the risk, and trust that growth and inspiration often come when you dare to move beyond the familiar.
Places like Bali remind me of this every day. The pace of life here is slower, deeply connected to nature, and full of community and kindness—so different from the fast, achievement-driven culture in the U.S. Embrace the uncertainty, take the risk, and trust that growth and inspiration often come when you dare to move beyond the familiar.
Thank you Emilie for your time – enjoy the beauty of Bali.
If you like to check out Emilies work – visit her website – or attend one of her many international retreats.
