Our Moroccon Experience

In May 2022, I conducted a 10-days retreat in Bab-Zounia, near Marrakesh, Morocco.

Bab Zouina (the door of beauty) is the vision of Karim Zein. Karim has built this place with his own two hands and made it to be a little heaven. Karim has a rare and precious blend of the hospitality of the East and the efficiency and precision of the West (especially of Switzerland, where he lived for many years). He catered to all our needs promptly and solved every problem that has arisen.

Every morning we woke up to the sound of the bird’s chirp and the peacock’s calls and climbed to the roof to practice meditation and Pranayama in the open air, and after a short break with herbal tea and local dried fruits (these were available 24 hours a day), we started 2.5 hours of Asana practice. Luckily, one of the participants was of Indian origin and she also taught us Vedic Mantras. So the practice included chanting and a discussion of yoga philosophy (which guided the following Asana practice).

A rich, vegetarian breakfast (or rather, brunch) was waited for us on the roof and was served with smiles, by the very kind and nice local staff. At noon, we went to explore Morocco either on a half-day excursion to the mighty Atlas mountains, or to the nearby city of Marrakesh, or had leisure time in the local swimming pool, the Hamam, or in a full-body massage.

Refreshed, we started the afternoon practice which was followed by a dinner on the roof (luckily we were able to see the rising of the full moon!).

And the good news! We have an offer for next year! See details here.

Here are the impressions of some of the participants.

This Yoga Retreat was unlike anything I had ever experienced before; it had a profound effect on me as I found an inspiring Teacher.

The compassionate leadership of Eyal was the vital element of this Retreat as it flowed through all of us and set the tone for the whole week. Eyal, his wife, and senior teachers made a strong team who spread their love and kindness to all. Eyal’s unique approach combined clarity, precision, humor, openness and gentle encouragement. Each one of us felt challenged and inspired in a safe and secure setting. I was particularly impressed by Eyal’s knowledge and teaching of the use of props.

Every detail was well taken care of in our small paradise, Bab Zoiuna, which is owned by Karim and Helene. The staff was helpful and attentive and nothing was too much for them. Karim organized delicious, nutritious meals, and nature hikes where we did walking meditation, fascinating sightseeing, and visits to the local markets and interesting museums. Karim, the host created a warm and welcoming home for all. It felt like we were visiting old friends.

We made strong bonds and felt a part of a loving Yoga family. I can’t wait to return for the next retreat!

Sonali Sibal, England

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Thanks, Eyal for an amazing retreat at Bab Zoiuna. What an incredible place to practice yoga. I loved the views of the snow-capped mountains, watching the moon rise and the sunset, immersed in the sounds of nature. Meals were delicious and varied, the group was so friendly and to top it all your wonderful inspiring teaching of asana, pranayama, meditation, chanting and philosophy.

What a treat to have a massage, hammam, camel ride, walk in the mountains, visit local gardens, and listen to the Berberes chanting and drumming around the firepit.

It was such a rich experience in all ways, a real feast for the senses, body, mind and soul. I feel very relaxed and recharged. Can’t wait to return next year

Di Sage, England

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I want to thank you very much and tell you about the way I experienced your yoga teaching, guidance and support after you encouraged me to overcome my hesitation and join this retreat.

The atmosphere of accepting everybody at so different levels of physical and spiritual depth gave every one of us an opportunity to grow, leaving comparing and competing behind, directing us with your wise words and gentle touch, made me feel welcomed (even though I don’t know the names of the asanas ) and wanting to participate in all the many hours we met.

It was so amazing for me to not feel any tiredness but rather look forward to the next session! One special moment for me was practicing Salamba Sarvangasana: I forgot to place the belt and felt more tiredness than an uplifting spirit. You “passed” by, replaced the missing belt with your legs, gripped my ankles, and lifted me into the “unbearable lightness of being”.

Barbara Bental, Israel