Karma yoga retreat work exchange in Spain’s largest national park

Nestled in the mountain forests of Spain’s Picos de Europa, the Asturias Yoga Shala is a fully off-grid retreat center set within a restored, self-sufficient hamlet. Surrounded by lush chestnut trees, it offers a peaceful setting for yoga courses, workshops, and teacher trainings focused on Ashtanga Vinyasa and the center’s own Saoirse Yoga. Sessions often include Yoga Nidra and Vipassana Meditation, sometimes held in serene natural spots nearby.

From March to mid-May, the center welcomes volunteers to join daily life in exchange for helping with its operations. This work exchange offers the chance to live in nature, practice yoga and meditation, and share in the rhythms of retreat life in the Asturian mountains.

About the work exchange program

The Karma Yoga Program at Asturias Yoga Centre offers a unique opportunity to experience a yoga-centered lifestyle in the heart of nature — free of charge. Participants join the community during the low season (March to mid-May), living off-grid in a peaceful mountain setting while helping with the daily running of the center.

Karma Yoga is about integrating mindfulness into everyday life, doing tasks with full presence and without expecting anything in return. It’s a way to live, work, practice yoga, meditate, and enjoy nature in harmony with others.

Requirements

• A regular yoga or meditation practice.
  (preferably Ashtanga, Saoirse Yoga, or Vipassana Meditation, as taught at the center).
• A digital detox lifestyle (minimal and respectful device use).
• A vegetarian diet during the stay.
• Following the daily timetable.
• Being present, tolerant, and compassionate within the community.

Your tasks

Tasks depend on the season and the center’s needs, as well as each participant’s skills and interests. Typical activities include:

• Cleaning and cooking.
• Gardening and maintaining orchards.
• Basic building repairs and restoration.
• Preparing firewood.
• Setting up for upcoming retreats.
• Helping with promotion or course materials(e.g., photography, editing, etc.).

What’s in it for You?

• Daily yoga and meditation in a stunning natural setting.
• A chance to live simply and mindfully in a supportive community.
• Free afternoons for personal time or outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling, climbing, or surfing.
• Occasional silent meditation days (twice a month).
• A welcoming space for musicians, artists, and writers to feel inspired.

Timetable

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday

Morning: Group self-practice in the Shala (before 9:30 a.m.)

9:30–10:30: Breakfast

10:30–14:30: Karma Yoga

14:30: Lunch

Afternoon: Free

21:00: Short group meditation

Monday & Thursday

9:00–10:30: Guided Yoga with Simon

10:30–11:30: Breakfast

11:30–14:30: Karma Yoga

14:30: Lunch

16:30–20:00: Karma Yoga

Sunday

9:00–11:00: Guided Yoga with Simon

11:00: Brunch

12:00–13:00: Yoga Nidra

13:00–14:00: Workshop

Length of Stay

• Minimum stay: 1 week.
• Initial maximum stay: 2 weeks.

Longer stays may be possible after a review during the second week.

How to Apply

If interested, applicants should email Simon at [email protected] to request an application form.

Spots are limited and demand is high!

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Map

Accomodation offer

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Flight offer

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