Bowen Island, British Columbia October 16-18, 2026

Evolve Retreats was created to support you in cultivating greater clarity and fulfillment in your life. In the rhythm of everyday routines, it’s easy to lose touch with what truly matters. Our retreats offer space to reconnect with what lights you up and rediscover your sense of purpose through embodied yoga, practices that extend beyond the mat, nature-immersed adventures, intentional rest, and meaningful connections that turn into lifelong friendships and memories.

Intentional Themes

Community Connection

Each day of the retreat is centered around a theme, creating the opportunity to reflect, explore, and discover real growth throughout our time together. This structure helps you reconnect with your yoga, with what lights you up and lean into your purpose.

Where connection and self-discovery come together, giving space to connect with others while diving into your own journey. Relationships and shared experiences are a core part of the retreat, offering support and inspiration along the way.

Thoughtful Facilitation

Guided Growth

Our retreats are guided with intention, weaving embodied yoga practices with workshops, expansive ceremonies, local adventures, and restful moments. From stunning venues to carefully designed schedules, travel guidance, and pre-retreat community connection, every detail is considered so you can arrive feeling supported and present.

We celebrate the possibilities of life and encourage you to lean into your aliveness! Evolve Yoga Retreats offers an encouraging space to explore who you are and who you are yet to become.

Inspiring? Absolutely.

Transformational? Without a doubt.

Fun? Always.

Your Evolve Retreat Includes:

  • Retreat into nature and press pause at Nectar Retreat Centre. Nestled on 20 acres of lush, forested land, Nectar offers a sanctuary that feels like home, a literal breath of fresh air and an escape from the city’s buzz. Featured in The New York Times, Nectar’s Scandinavian-inspired cabins and cottages seamlessly blend modern comforts with natural beauty. Picture wildflowers in bloom, deer meandering through the property, a freshwater stream winding its way through the forest, and top-notch amenities designed to make you feel completely cared for.

  • The catering team at Nectar never fails to amaze us! Every meal is a thoughtfully crafted vegetarian masterpiece, made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, and tailored to accommodate all dietary preferences and allergies.

    • Welcome snacks

    • Welcome dinner (vegetarian)

    • Breakfast, lunch and dinner on day 2 (vegetarian)

    • Closing breakfast (vegetarian)

    • Snacks, infused water, coffee, and tea always available

    There’s something so special about letting go of meal planning and instead being delighted by the nourishing and flavourful creations served at every meal.

  • Daily morning and evening yoga practices: Mikaela leads a 1.5-hour “Magic Morning” Vinyasa flow that blends yoga philosophy, breathwork, meditation, and journaling, each day centered around a soul-stirring theme that carries through the rest of the day. In the evening, wind down with 75-minute sessions ranging from Yin and gentle Vinyasa to Restorative Yoga and Yin + Yoga.

    Yoga props on site: Mats, blocks, blankets, straps, cushions, bolsters.

  • A private hot/cold contrast spa ritual.

    This 90 min. circuit consists of:

    • a luxurious outdoor hot/cold shower with Mist’s house eucalyptus shower spray 

    • a wood-fire sauna with views of the forest

    • a cold plunge tub

    • a warm soaking tub

    • and a beautifully cultivated outdoor rest area with fire 

    Read more about MIST here.

  • A signature Evolve practice of deep listening to yourself and others through meditation, breathwork, guided group circle sharing, and meaningful partner connection, fostering a profound sense of presence and understanding.

    Guests from previous retreats have shared that this part of the experience was one of the most transformative and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on their personal journey.

  • Goodies:

    You’ll receive an Evolve journal and pen along with a welcome swag bag! Yoga mats and Pilates props will be available for your use during our retreat.

    Explore:

    During your free time, feel free to explore the local artisan square and shops in town, just a 2-minute bus ride away.

    Recharge:

    Nectar offers an abundance of spaces to unwind and recharge: lounge chairs to soak up the surroundings, a cozy pergola for peaceful moments, the open-concept Onyx Lodge featuring large couches, puzzles, coloring books, and a library for leisurely reading. Explore the short nature trails on the property, or enjoy the yoga shala (available for your use between classes).

Our Location:

Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Vancouver, Nectar is nestled in the heart of a lush temperate rainforest on Nexwlélexwm (Bowen Island), the ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation. This sanctuary continues to be one of our annual retreat destinations for good reason - it feels like an instant homecoming. Step away from the busyness of life, and embrace practices that nurture your well-being and uplift your spirit.

Not Included:

Reminder:

Retreat venue check in: 3:00pm

Retreat venue check out: 11:00am

  • Your travel to Bowen Island is not included in the retreat cost. Mikaela will create a WhatsApp group one-two months prior to the retreat to help coordinate communication and carpooling (driving + ferry) for those interested.

  • Designed with warmth and simplicity in mind

  • Comfortable beds, soft linens, and cozy touches throughout

  • Large windows that invite natural light and forest views

  • Select cottages feature private or outdoor showers

  • Covered cedar porches perfect for relaxing outdoors

  • Quiet spaces to unwind with a book or a warm cup of tea

  • Nestled among beautiful maple and alder groves

  • A peaceful, restorative environment to slow down, reconnect with nature, and settle into the retreat experience

The accommodations at Nectar are thoughtfully designed to blend comfort with the natural beauty of the surrounding forest. Guests can stay in modern Scandinavian-inspired deluxe cottages, cozy A-frame cabins with a charming 60s feel, or simple forest-view bedrooms ideal for solo travellers.

Accommodation Options

The Amber Room offers a cozy, private space for one guest.

  • Comfortable double bed with soft linens and warm bedside lighting

  • Spacious closet for storage

  • Shared bathroom with one other guest: full shower, double sinks, and locally made toiletries

  • Located upstairs in the main Onyx Lodge, our communal gathering space

  • Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi

The Amber Room (Private)

The Turquoise Room offers a cozy, private space for one guest.

  • Comfortable double bed with soft linens and warm bedside lighting

  • Spacious closet for storage

  • Shared bathroom with one other guest: full shower, double sinks, and locally made toiletries

  • Located upstairs in the main Onyx Lodge, our communal gathering space

  • Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi

The Turquoise Room (Private)

Three peaceful and private A-frame cabins, each designed for one guest.

  • Simple, cozy layout with a comfortable double bed

  • Large picture window overlooking the surrounding forest and foliage

  • Covered front deck with year-round seating

  • Access to two shared detached bathrooms located about 10 metres away

  • Bathrooms include showers and natural, locally made toiletries

  • Wi-Fi available in the Onyx Lodge communal space

The A-Frame Cabins (Private)

The Deluxe Cottages (Shared | 2-3 Guests)

Three spacious Deluxe Cottages designed to comfortably accommodate 2 to 3 guests (optional third twin bed located in a cozy loft space, accessible by ladder (guests should be comfortable climbing).

  • Two XL twin beds on the main level

  • Ensuite full bathroom, double sinks, with both indoor and outdoor showers

  • Natural, locally made toiletries provided

  • Covered front deck with year-round seating

  • Cozy reading nook with a picture window

  • Mini fridge, kettle, mugs, and a selection of assorted teas

  • Smart TV and in-room Wi-Fi

The Moonstone Cottage (Shared | 2 Guests)

This cozy cottage set for two, offers similar amenities as our deluxe cottages with added privacy. Wake up to sunbeams through the windows and enjoy tea on the porch by the Alder grove, all while being surrounded by peaceful seclusion.

  • Choice of two twin beds or one short king bed

  • Private deck to enjoy morning tea and the surrounding nature

  • Comfortable reading chairs for relaxing moments

  • Mini fridge, kettle, mugs, and a selection of assorted teas

  • Ensuite bathroom with toilet and sink

  • Outdoor shower located on the deck

  • Natural, locally made toiletries provided

  • Wi-Fi available

Example Schedule

A full day on Evolve Retreat, Bowen Island BC:


A signature Evolve practice, blending expressive Vinyasa flow, yoga philosophy, Pranayama breath + energy techniques, meditation, and guided journaling. Each session is thoughtfully designed with a daily theme that weaves through the practice and sets the tone for the rest of the day.
7:30am - 9:00am | Magic Morning

Two groups will have the opportunity to experience the MIST Thermal Sanctuary. Details are highlighted above under "your retreat experience includes" section. The rest of the group will have this as free time, enjoy walks around the property, cozy up with a book, puzzle or hang out in the Onyx lodge, or perhaps enjoy a short drive into town to check out the artisan square market!

10:45am | MIST + Free Time

1:00pm | Long Table Lunch
This is a dedicated time of quiet following our morning practice, allowing the experience to gently integrate. Breakfast is held in silence, creating space to slow down, stay present, and tune inward.
9:00am - 10:00am | Silent Breakfast

We will gather in the Onyx Lodge for a cozy and nourishing shared meal together. 

2:30pm | Sacred Soul Circle
A signature Evolve Retreat practice centered around connection, with self and with others. Details are highlighted above under "your retreat includes" section.

6:15pm | Dinner
We will gather again in the Onyx Lodge for a long table dinner.

7:30pm | Easeful Evening
A 75-minute evening practice, either Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and/or Yoga Nidra. These gentle and grounding practices focus on embracing rest, and processing the day’s theme and energy.

4:15pm | MIST + Free Time
The other two groups will get to experience MIST while the others have free time to enjoy.
  • Mik has a beautiful energy about her. She's intuitive, kind, curious and creative. Every last detail was considered right down to her selection of music in our movement practices. At first, I was skeptical of the silent breakfasts but loved it! Some of my biggest retreat takeaways came from quiet, undistracted contemplation. Everything was as promised and so much more. Will totally do another retreat with Mik and Mama Sue!! Thank you for sharing your big hearts and creating space to reset and reboot!

    — Sara | Toronto, ON

  • Evolve Retreat was one of the starting points of a huge change in my life. Mikaela is a great teacher of yoga and life. She held so much space for every single person at the retreat. She planned a perfect experience filled with yoga, meditation, journalling, and adventure. If a person has the chance to experience one of Mikaela’s Evolve Retreats they are truly in for a treat!

    — Maitri | Boulder, CO

  • I came to the weekend retreat to expand my yoga and meditation practice surrounded by nature and step away from the difficulties of day to day life. Each yoga and meditation practice was deeply rooted in meaning and purpose which aligned with my personal reason for being there. Unexpectedly the biggest awakening for me was the innerconnectedness I felt with the group in such a short time. Even without conversation, through silent breakfast or eye gazing, there was a powerful sense of unity. We were all in these moments together. I left feeling cared for and empathy for people I had only met. The card I pulled our first day was ‘Awaken’ and this was an awakening experience I will carry with me forever.

    — Haley | Bellingham, WA

  • This retreat was such a beautifully curated experience—a true invitation to slow down, reconnect, and explore your soul in a new way. It had the perfect mix of adventure, ease, nurturing, and those little moments that fill you up from the inside out. The group flow felt so genuine, and one of my favourite parts was getting to know each person who attended. Experiencing Tofino through the retreat itinerary felt effortless and intentional, with just the right amount of space to wander on my own and take it all in. The food was incredible, nourishing in every sense, and prepared with such care. Mikaela created something really special here. I left feeling full, grounded, and deeply grateful.

    — Chelsey | Langley, BC

  • I came in thinking I just needed a break. To unplug. To breathe. To feel the earth under my feet again. But what I received… was beyond anything I imagined. I got clarity—beautiful, unexpected clarity. The kind that arrives when you’re surrounded by safety, truth, and love. It came through powerful journal prompts that cracked something open in me. Through laughter and tears with strangers who felt like soul family. Through Mik’s sparkling energy, tender presence, and Momma Sue’s warmth that felt like home. I didn’t just reconnect with myself. I remembered who I am. I saw parts of me I had forgotten. And I felt deeply held by the energy of the land, the community, and every single human who showed up with their full heart. I’ll carry this experience with me forever—and I already know this won’t be the last time. I want to keep evolving, keep showing up, keep healing, and keep growing alongside Mik and this beautiful family she’s created. To anyone wondering if this is for you… If you feel the pull, if you’ve whispered to the universe that you need something real, something sacred—this is your sign.

    — Paola | Moosejaw, SK

 
  • We are dedicated to making Evolve Retreats a welcoming space for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler or coming with a friend, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or completely new to the practice. Our aim is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and inspiring experience for those who want to delve into “living yoga” both on the mat and in everyday life. We practice movement (asana), meditation (dhyāna), breathwork (pranayama), guided journaling (svadhyaya), and come together for group circles and ceremonies. We also embrace fun and adventure through curated group activities and excursions, connecting with the local community and the natural beauty of our surroundings.

  • Expect hot days this time of year in Portugal, with refreshingly cool mornings and evenings. Especially being right on the coastline, packing layers will be key! Think long sleeves, t-shirts, tank tops, cozy hoodies, and activewear that’s comfortable for both movement and working up a sweat. Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and sandals for those more relaxed moments.

    A small backpack and water bottle is good to have for offsite adventures.

  • If the standard payment option of a non-refundable deposit followed by a later balance payment doesn’t suit your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact Mikaela directly (mikmillyoga@gmail.com). She would be happy to discuss the possibility of setting up a customized payment plan that better aligns with your preferences.

FAQ