What a Typical Day Looks Like on a Yoga Retreat With Joanna Dunn

Yoga PNW | Yoga Seattle | Community-Focused Yoga Retreats

If you’re thinking about joining a yoga retreat but feel unsure about what to expect, you’re not alone. The idea of stepping into the unknown, new faces, a different environment, and a full schedule , can feel a little daunting. But I’d love to ease those nerves and let you know that every retreat I lead is built around kindness, supportive community, and gentle guidance, where everything is optional and everyone is welcome.

Since 2012, I’ve had the privilege of leading yoga retreats across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. From long weekend escapes near Seattle to week-long getaways in beautiful destinations, one thing stays the same: the atmosphere is nurturing, friendly, and designed to meet you exactly where you are.

A Day in the Life of a Yoga Retreat with Me

While each retreat is unique and influenced by the location, the rhythm of a typical day tends to follow a grounding, spacious flow. Here's what a day might look like - and before you become daunted by the early morning hours - know that EVERYTHING is optional. I strongly encourage everyone to take care of their own needs, rest and sleep in if that’s what you most need - or get up early to soak up and savor an immersion in the practice.

6:00–6:20 AM – Early Morning Meditation
We begin with quiet reflection, often just before sunrise. These short meditations are a chance to settle inward, breathe deeply, and set an intention for the day.

6:30–7:45 AM – Morning Yoga Practice
This is usually a more active class to wake up the body and mind, offering strength-building poses and movement that align with your energy. My teaching style is accessible and adaptable, so you’ll always feel supported — whether you’re brand new to yoga or have years of experience.

8:00 AM – Breakfast
Shared meals are a treasured part of the retreat experience. Over nourishing food, real conversations happen. These moments foster connection, laughter, and a genuine sense of community.

10:00–11:00 AM – Morning Workshop - offered once or twice during a weeklong retreat
We explore themes like meditation, yoga philosophy, or how to build a home practice. For those seeking insight into an issue that is preoccupying their mind, a group coaching session might be offered. These sessions are often part lecture, part discussion, and always rich with insights and real-life application.

Breaktime! The middle of the day is reserved for free time, rest, exploration, journaling, reading or reconnecting with co-retreatants.

1:00 PM – Lunch
Another opportunity to slow down, nourish, and connect with like-minded folks in a relaxed, unhurried space.

4:00–5:00 PM – Afternoon Workshop - offered once or twice during a weeklong retreat
These are usually more movement-focused — think posture clinics, arm balance explorations, or discussions around core strength. You can participate fully or choose to rest. Remember: everything is optional.

5:30–6:45 PM – Evening Yoga Practice
We wind down with a restorative or yin class, encouraging deep relaxation. These slower sessions are especially good for letting the nervous system settle and integrating all you’ve experienced throughout the day.

7:00 PM – Dinner
Evening meals often feel like gathering around the table with old friends — even if you just met that morning.

8:30 PM – Evening Meditation
We close the day in stillness, either guided or silent. It’s a beautiful way to prepare for rest and reflect on your intention.

Who Comes to These Retreats?

Everyone is welcome. I’ve had people in their twenties, eighties, and every age in between. Some have practiced yoga for decades. Others are completely new. The beauty is in the mix — people come solo, with siblings, with partners, or as part of a mother-daughter pair. And what they discover is that there’s no need to impress or perform. We show up as we are and grow from there.

The community that forms on retreat is consistently one of the most supportive and kind I’ve ever experienced. Participants often say it feels like being part of something bigger — a nurturing space where you’re seen, heard, and valued.

Interested in Yoga Retreats Near Seattle or Across the PNW?

Whether you're looking for a weekend in the mountains, a quiet coastal escape, or a full week immersed in practice, you'll find it in my upcoming offerings. Many people searching for Yoga PNW or Yoga Seattle retreats discover that what they were really seeking was a place to feel supported, reconnected, and restored.

If you're curious, I’d love for you to browse upcoming retreats here and reach out if you have questions. You're always welcome — just as you are.

Kind Words:

“Joanna Dunn is so much more than a yoga instructor. She’s an educator and her ability to create a supportive environment in the class facilitates learning and growth. Her teaching style is nurturing and caring, which results in a sense of trust and safety that is critical for growth.”