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  • About
  • Coaching
    • Life coaching
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    • Leadership Coaching
    • Half-day coaching intensive
  • Workshops
    • Compassionate Conversations
    • Write Your Life Stories Workshops
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    • Free Monday Talk & Meditation
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    • Kate’s books
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Byron Bay Meditation & Yoga Retreat

Byron Bay Meditation & Yoga Retreat

Friday 14 to Wednesday 19 November 2025 (fully booked)

Our Byron Bay meditation and yoga retreat is for women looking for the chance to unwind, enjoy the peace of nature, feel completely nurtured and begin to discover why living mindfully is essential to your wellbeing.

We stay at Sangsurya, a beautiful tropical ten-acre bush retreat just a few minutes drive from Tallow Beach in Byron Bay. The property features an open, airy meditation hall, a freshwater swimming pool and dining room that includes outdoor seating with easterly views across Arakwal land and the ocean.

A social enterprise built on the foundation of love, pure intention and service to humanity by the late Mona and Tony Kruger, this secluded residential retreat has been a place of refuge and healing to thousands of students and practitioners for over 30 years.

byron bay yoga meditation retreat kate & meg james

“Absolutely magical! I feel like all of my senses have been nourished and reawakened.”
Rebecca

Byron Bay Meditation & Yoga Retreat inclusions:

  • Five nights accommodation in a room style of your choice
  • Delicious and nourishing organic vegetarian meals
  • Early morning meditation
  • Morning yoga, qigong and walking
  • Daily quiet time
  • Afternoon session (varies but includes values workshop, music and conversation)
  • Guided walks to the beach and lighthouse
  • Evening relaxation meditation
  • Optional massage treatments (not included in retreat pricing)
Byron-Bay-Mindfulness-Retreat-Deck-Qigong
Sangsurya-Med-Single-Room-2

Who is this retreat for?

Our Byron Bay meditation and yoga retreats are attended by women of all ages but mostly, we attract those who are looking for space, stillness and reflection. Many of our participants describe themselves as introverted so the energy of our group is always kind and supportive.

Many of our guests say they don’t make a habit of joining group programs as they can sometimes be a little overwhelming. You’ll love this retreat if you’re looking for a more gentle, peaceful experience.

Please note that we don’t offer individual coaching or counselling on retreat and all group sessions are optional. You’ll also have plenty of time to yourself if you’re in need of some space and silence.

Retreat facilitators

Kate James – Retreat Lead

Kate James is the author of Quietly Confident and she’s a coach and mindfulness teacher. For over 23 years, she has worked to support introverted women build self-belief. She is described as an authentic, warm and down-to-earth workshop leader.

Kate is joined on retreat by a group of experienced teachers, massage therapists and a wonderful vegetarian chef.  Sessions are varied and include meditation, yoga, qigong, Pilates, mindfulness and self-compassion.

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  • byron bay yoga meditation retreat kate & meg james
  • Byron Bay Retreat Deck
  • Byron Bay Mindfulness Retreat Qigong
  • ByronBay-food
  • Byron Bay Mindfulness Retreat Studio
  • Byron Bay Mindfulness & Yoga Retreat Pool

What previous retreat participants say

five-stars-image

“I discovered Kate’s meditations through Insight Timer six months before and thought bringing these meditations to life could only be a bonus, on top of nourishing meals and rest. I left five days later feeling like I was just beginning to get to know myself again. Between Kate’s soothing meditations and profound insights, and Catherine’s gentle guidance in qigong and mindful walking, I began to feel and remember parts of me I hadn’t known for 20 years. Kate and Catherine’s gifts complement each other so beautifully, that when combined with a group of women and the serene setting at Sangsurya, provide the opportunity for deep connection and healing.”

Jen

five-stars-image

“I came to the retreat simply wanting some time out and to be better at learning to be still. I leave with soooo much more. The past five days have exceeded my expectations in ways I thought was not possible. My heart is lighter and full of joy and for the first time in a while I not only feel excited about my future, but I want to jump in feet first. Thanks for reminding me just how much beauty and gratitude there is to be found in the everyday and how amazingly supportive a bunch of awesome women can be. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.”

Claire

five-stars-image

“This retreat gave me the space to be free from judgement and to gain clarity of mind. I feel so empowered to take this authentic self back to my everyday life. It was just what my soul needed. Pushing my boundaries, stepping outside my comfort zone and confronting my internal judge. I’m trying not to promise myself too much about how I will improve my life, but I’m motivated and aware of the small changes I might make to be more authentic in my every day.”

Tess

Byron Bay Meditation & Yoga Retreat Accommodation

Accommodation at Sangsurya is in Thai style hand-built timber-floored houses and cabins. Bedrooms are uniquely positioned amidst sub-tropical gardens and give a lovely sense of privacy and tranquillity. Each room has been individually designed and furnished to have its own charming ambience. All are heated, air-conditioned and have ceiling fans.

It’s difficult to describe the true essence of this property – it’s something you need to experience for yourself but previous participants have described it as ‘magic’ and ‘organic’ and many continue to return each year.

All inclusive pricing:

Small-single-with-ensuite

Superior single, ensuite
(fully booked)

$3,295

Small-single-with-ensuite

Superior single, shared bath
(fully booked)

$3,195

Byron Bay Yoga Meditation Retreat Small Single Room

Small single, ensuite
(fully booked)

$2,995

Life Coaching Melbourne

Shared room, ensuite
(fully booked)

$2,895

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More kind words

Not only was the retreat setting so breathtaking, relaxing and peaceful but Kate and Catherine have the most nurturing, kind and welcoming nature. Powerful and thought-provoking, the week was the perfect balance of rest, self-reflection and personal growth and development. Thank you.

Nicky

The most nurturing, healing and energising experience I think I’ve ever had! It was truly life changing. I feel calmer, happier, healthier, and more connected than I have in years. It has given me the confidence and awareness to start listening to and following my heart.

Ella

I came to the retreat feeling pretty good but as the days progressed, I realised that I had not been in touch with the ‘real me’ for years!! I found myself again. I feel inspired and filled with love and admiration for all of the beautiful women I touched souls with.

Sandy

It was a glorious time away for me to reset and have time to myself to reconnect and rejuvenate. I met some amazing women who made the journey even more beautiful. The setting was everything you need and more. I highly recommend it.

Jo

Words cannot do justice. The most amazing meditation retreat I have ever been to. I feel like it will change my life. Five days of perfect bliss, growth, nurturing, connections, nature, music and food. Heaven!! Please book me up for the next 50 years!

Kelly

I feel nurtured, rejuvenated and transformed. I wouldn’t change a thing. I have not felt so light, so courageous, so invigorated for years. I can’t wait to attend again.

Cathy

This was perfect, pure bliss on every level. The content, the atmosphere, the people, the connection, food and acceptance and safety to be one’s true self. These days are the most precious gift you can give yourself.

Karen

The most incredible five days of my life – I feel so light and still, a bit like I could conquer anything! I just hope I can maintain this back in the hustle of Melbourne life. Thank you so much.

Andrea

Kate is not just gifted as a teacher, coach and role model for mindful living, but she is also gifted in her ability to attract other gifted people to co-create a retreat that enlivens your senses and reawakens your soul.

Lena

Guest requirements

  • Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and travel insurance.
  • Participants should be free of medical or psychological contraindications.
  • Our retreat is an alcohol, smoke and fragrance-free experience to ensure the comfort of all participants.
  • Some experience in yoga and meditation is encouraged but beginners are also welcome. Please take classes at your own pace and assume responsibility for your own wellbeing.
Byron Bay Mindfulness Retreat guest requirements

Byron Bay Meditation & Yoga Retreat FAQs

Arrival & departure times

Guests are welcome to arrive at Sangsurya any time from 2pm on Friday, with our first session commencing at 4pm. Departure time is 10.30am on the final day.

How many women will be at the retreat?

We have a maximum group size of 18 women.

Can I book a 1:1 session with Kate or Catherine during the retreat?

Unfortunately, we don’t offer individual coaching or counselling on the retreat. Catherine is required to keep her clinical work separate from her retreat work which means that she is unable to take retreat participants on as clients. If you are a current client of Catherine’s, please reach out to her before making a booking.

Can you cater to dietary requirements?

Our chef prepares beautiful vegetarian meals with mostly organic produce. We can cater for gluten free, dairy free, vegan and nut allergies but unfortunately, we can’t always cover all personal preferences. While there’s an abundance of food available, for your own comfort you may like to bring along some personal snacks.

I’m a beginner at yoga. Can I join the classes?

Yes, absolutely. Our yoga teacher teaches a gentle class and caters to all levels of experience.

Is there wifi available?

No unfortunately, but there is phone signal if you need to be online. We do, however, encourage you to spend most of your retreat time on a ‘digital detox’.

How do I get there?

Guests are responsible for booking their own flights and transfers. The closest airports are Ballina and Coolangatta (Gold Coast). You’ll find a range of airport transfer providers available online including Byron Bay Express.

What are my payment options?

Your deposit of $500 is due and payable upon booking via direct debit. Balance of fees if payable three months prior to the retreat. We do offer the option to pay by instalments via direct debit. Please contact us to arrange this. If you wish to pay by card, we pass on the merchant fee charged by Stripe with is 1.7%.

What is your cancellation policy?

In the event of cancellation the following refund fees, minus the deposit, apply.

  • The deposit is non-refundable but may be transferred to another retreat or to a friend if 90 days notice is given.
  • Cancellation 90 days or less before due arrival date, 0% refund.
  • Cancellation more than 90 days before due arrival date, 50% refund if your place is able to be filled.

You’ll find  all retreat terms and conditions here retreat-terms-conditions

Terms & conditions

Airfares, transfers and travel insurance not included in pricing. Please read
our cancellation policy and retreat terms and conditions here.

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I’ve been thinking a lot about boundaries lately, mostly after chatting with my wise and insightful daughter, Meg and my wonderful colleague, Catherine. Both of these women know all about setting healthy boundaries. I still find it difficult at times, even though I'm aware how deeply this affects the way that I feel.Healthy boundaries aren’t walls that keep people out. They’re more like an inner framework that helps us stay true to ourselves while staying open to others.When our boundaries are clear and flexible, we can be giving and loving, and we can listen without feeling drained or resentful. When they’re blurred, we can feel overextended, irritable, and even anxious, not because others are asking too much of us, but because we’re not honouring our own limits and needs.If you’re wondering whether your boundaries are healthy, reflect on these questions this week. If you find yourself answering 'yes' to several, consider where you can be a little more true to yourself.✨ Do I say yes when I really mean no?✨ Do I feel guilty when I take time for myself?✨ Do I often feel responsible for other people’s feelings?✨ Do I worry about expressing my own needs and preferences?✨ After spending time with certain people, do I feel somewhat depleted?Healthy boundaries come from a place of self-respect. They’re not about shutting the world out, but about creating the conditions where connection feels safe, sustainable and uplifting.Like anything, our boundaries need care and attention. They can shift as we grow and change. They can strengthen as our self-respect deepens.Working on your boundaries isn’t about getting it perfect. It’s about noticing when you feel out of balance, pausing to listen, and making small, honest adjustments that bring you back into alignment. 💛#leadershipgrowth #healthyboundaries #womeninleadership #personaldevelopment #emotionalintelligence #mindfulleadership #selfawareness #confidentleaders
Yesterday I stumbled across some photos from the launch of my first book, Believe in Yourself & Do What You Love, held just over a decade ago. I’d forgotten how magical it was – the celebration of a lifelong dream to become a published author.It got me thinking about how so many of us, introverts in particular, rarely reflect on our best moments. The strength of humility is wonderful, but we can overuse it at times.As I flicked through the photos I remembered the joy of that night and how meaningful it was to share it with so many of my favourite people.So here’s an invitation for you this week. Scroll through old photos, glance back at your CV or spend some time reflecting and see if you can recall a moment you feel genuinely proud of (it doesn't need to be a big thing). And then, rather than keeping it private, share it with someone you trust. Let them know how it felt and allow yourself to re-celebrate. If it feels right, you might even share it more widely – perhaps in a post of your own.A big thank you to everyone who joined me on that fabulous night including my beautiful Meg, @ramaekerskaren, @enaproducts, @thewellbeingcorner, @lbeavan, @sarah.rudledge, @denu_australia, @lizzycphoto, @thegaleriefitzroy and many others I don't have photos of including @naids, @mindfulinmay, @ofkin, @christinaredlich, @louise_weigall, @linda.salo, @simbeever, @theholisticingredient, @corporatechillout, and anyone else I have missed. Special thanks to the gorgeous Sarah from @babylonflowers for making the tables look so stunning and to Emma Murray for the great photos. 🌸#reflection #celebrateyourself #introvertstrengths #joyfulmoments #selfkindness #confidencecoach #womenwhowrite #lifecoachmelbourne #believeinyourself
I’ve been exploring the theme of ‘not good enough’ for a while now, and the more I research, the more I see how deeply it touches every aspect of our lives. It doesn’t just shape the way we see ourselves – it influences our career, health, relationships, friendships, even the way we handle money.I’ll share more on my latest findings in next week’s article but for now, I want to leave you with this beautiful reminder from Hafiz.If you’re doubting yourself, comparing yourself to others, or feeling like you’re falling short in some way, keep these words close this week and remind yourself that you are valuable, loveable, and entirely unique – not because of what you have, how you look or what you achieve, but simply for being yourself. ✨#selfworth #selfkindness #innerlight #confidencecoach #healingjourney #mindsetmatters #notgoodenough #selfacceptance #gentlegrowth #personaldevelopment
I've had so many lovely responses to my recent articles about the four patterns of not feeling good enough and the signs of overfunctioning. It seems that this one is a common pattern for many of us.This week, I've written about why we overfunction and why it can be difficult to change –even when we know we're doing it. These behaviours often feel hard-wired into our being.If this sounds familiar, you might like to read my latest piece (links to all three articles are in my bio). I share the hidden pay-offs and the costs we often overlook, along with journal prompts to help you explore how and why overfunctioning might be showing up in your life.Over the coming weeks, I’ll write about how to transform overfunctioning, as well as exploring the other patterns of avoidance, procrastination and people-pleasing.#overfunctioning #selfdoubt #confidenceforwomen #notgoodenough #journalling #personaldevelopment #womenandwork
Just over a month ago, Chris and I had to move out of our house while it was being repaired from flood damage, so we decided to take a little road trip. We drove across to Mallacoota, up the south coast of NSW, across to Canberra, and back down through the mountains.Usually, in the middle of winter, if we were planning a trip we’d head somewhere warm. This time, we chose the opposite and it turned out to be one of the most beautiful holidays we’ve had.I think it helped that we stopped in so many places where we could immerse ourselves in nature, but I’m also aware that we expected very little. It was a simple trip with lots of home cooking, slow days, and finding delight in small things. When the days were sunny, we were grateful; when it turned cold, we were ready for it.It has me reflecting on how good it feels to do things differently, to challenge the ways we get set in our thinking. Because we loved this trip so much, I came home planning to repeat the same route next year. Then I realised I was missing the point – what made it special wasn’t the path we took, but all the things that were so unexpected.Sometimes real magic unfolds when we change our habits, let go of expectations, and allow ourselves to be a little more adventurous.An invitation for this week: where could you be more curious or open, or let go of one of your usual patterns? ✨📷 @chrisjamesphotos#innercalm #quietconfidence #mindfulleadership #wellbeingjourney #authenticliving #gentlewisdom #selfacceptance #findingpeace #womenempowerment #innerstrength #emotionalwellbeing
“In an age of speed, I began to think, nothing could be more invigorating than going slow. In an age of distraction, nothing can feel more luxurious than paying attention. And in an age of constant movement, nothing is more urgent than sitting still.” Pico IyerWise and beautiful words from one of my favourite writers.Even in the midst of a busy week, maybe this could be your focus? ✨#slowliving #mindfulmoments #simplewisdom #beingpresent #quietmind #innercalm #thoughtfulquotes #picoiyer #intentionaldays #findingstillness
Last week I wrote a new article in my 'hidden patterns of not feeling good enough' series, this time focusing on five signs you could be overfunctioning. The list could have included many more but these are a few that you might relate to.1. You feel responsible for everythingYou’re the first to notice what needs doing and the first to step in – at work, at home, and in your relationships. This constant responsibility can come from a fear that things will fall apart if you’re not in control.2. You stay busy to avoid feelingsYou fill every spare moment with tasks, even on your days off. Often, this relentless busyness masks uncomfortable feelings that arise when you slow down.3. You always put others firstYou go the extra mile for everyone else, often at the expense of your own needs. Over time, this shifts from kindness to self-abandonment.4. You feel resentful and guiltyYou give endlessly yet feel unseen or unappreciated. Resentment builds, followed quickly by guilt which is a sign that your boundaries may be out of balance.5. You feel anxious when things are out of controlYou plan ahead, double-check details, and rarely drop the ball. But uncertainty makes you uneasy, often triggering a deeper fear of not being enough.Overfunctioning can feel like the only way to keep life running smoothly, but it often comes at the cost of your wellbeing. It keeps you stuck in a cycle of stress and burnout, leaving little space for your own needs or joy. When you start doing less, you create room to breathe, to think clearly, and to feel more connected – both to yourself and the people around you. Small changes can open the door to a calmer, more balanced way of living.I've included a link to the article in my bio if you're keen to read more (and start changing).#overfunctioning #burnoutrecovery #boundariesmatter #emotionalwellbeing #womenandwork #calmoverchaos #mindfulboundaries #stressrecovery #selfworth #peoplepleasing #busymind #highachiever #mentalwellbeing #selfkindness #calmliving #stressmanagementtips #womenover40 #perfectionismrecovery #confidencecoach #coachingforwomen
A few weeks ago, I shared a post about the hidden patterns that show up when we don’t feel good enough. Then last week, I wrote about how exploring our life stories can help us understand ourselves better and give our lives greater meaning.Quite by accident, I’ve just come across a piece of research that brings these two threads together and confirms something I’ve felt for a long time: writing our stories can be transformative.Each of us carries an inner narrative that explains who we are and what’s possible for us. But sometimes that story is skewed or outdated – especially when it tells you you’re not good enough.Rewriting your story isn’t about fixing or changing yourself. It’s about seeing yourself more clearly and holding your experience with greater truth, clarity and compassion.While working on a writing exercise for my Life Stories facilitator training, I stumbled across this old photo of my family. I was around seven years-old and we’d just moved back to Sydney. I was at a new school and hadn’t yet made friends. It was a pretty lonely time in many ways, but after writing, I came to see it very differently. It was when I learned to love spending long hours on my own. Immersing myself in novels, playing alone at the local playground, and learning to love the stillness of nature.Finding that photo helped me see that chapter of my life very differently. Not so much as a time of aloneness but rather, a time of discovery.That’s the power of writing our stories: it gives us the chance to look again and sometimes, to see ourselves and our lives in a completely different light.I've included a link to last week's article about some of the benefits of story writing in my bio. Have a read and try the tips I suggest to help you start writing your stories. ✨#narrativeself #writingtowellbeing #selfworth #womenwhocoach #confidencecoach #lifecoachmelbourne #mindfulleadership
This week I’m sharing an excerpt from a wonderful poem by Andrea Gibson, titled ‘The Lifegiving Benefits of Befriending Our Mortality’.It’s a beautiful reminder to live more in the present moment. You’ll find the full piece on Andrea’s Substack (I’ve included a link below). ✨“But I did not meet this life until I met its brevity. Did not meet my voice until I knew every word could be my last. I did not know what prayer was until I started praying for what I already have. but this is what I know for certain–warming up to the idea of a promised tomorrow is the surest way to give today the cold shoulder. I whisper the words my therapist said years ago, The only thing we have control over in this life is where we put our attention.”Read the full piece here: https://open.substack.com/pub/andreagibson/p/benefits-of-befriending-our-mortality?r=2dpij&utm_medium=ios#livinginthemoment #mindfulliving #gratitude #slowdownandbreathe #hereandnow #groundedinpresence
© Kate James 2025

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We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands we live and work on, the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging.

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