STRENGTH IN BALANCE - Handstands, Rings & Ocean

June 12-19, 2027 ||| Cyclades, Greece

SOMATIKA/soʊ-MAH-ti-ka/ - ‘A movement philosophy or practice centred on embodied awareness, physical expression, and the cultivation of balance, strength, and presence through the body in an artful way.’

A Handstand Retreat with Coach Chala … and so much more!

Join Coach Chala, Founder of SOMATIKA™, for 7 days of Handstands, Strength, Ocean Immersion and Connection in the magical Cyclades of Greece!

After our 2026 retreat sold out in just 4 days, this next edition returns with an expanded program and very limited spaces.

This all-levels retreat is designed for anyone ready to build real foundations in Handstands and Upper Body Strength, while reconnecting with their body through Mindful Movement. And on top of that we will immerse ourselves into the ocean with a breath hold free diving experience you are invited to experience.

Whether you’re just beginning your handstand journey and unsure where to start, or working to refine advanced skills, you’ll be supported every step of the way. Chala’s coaching approach meets you exactly where you are, helping you build strength, technique, and confidence in a progressive and sustainable way.

Throughout the week, you’ll explore a powerful combination of Handstand Training, Ring Strength Foundations and Mobility Work designed to unlock new levels in your movement practice.

Expect sunrise meditations overlooking the Aegean Sea, theory sessions that reveal the why behind each movement, focused skill development, and nourishing Mediterranean meals shared in community.

This retreat balances focused training with restoration, community with solitude, and discipline with play, giving you the time and space to deepen your practice while experiencing the magic of the Greek islands.


Where technical Precision meets Strength & Inner Stillness - Gravity becomes your Teacher.

Who This Retreat Is For?

This retreat is for movers who want to build skill and understanding in their practice.

You might be:

  • A yogi ready to finally unlock your handstand

  • A yoga teacher wanting to deepen your inversion knowledge

  • A calisthenics or CrossFit athlete building strength and control 

  • A movement enthusiast ready to explore new skills in a supportive environment

  • A beginner curious about handstands and bodyweight training

Whether you are just starting out or refining advanced skills, the training will be adapted to meet you where you are.

You’ll learn within a supportive, international community while balancing focused training with time to rest, reset, and explore the stunning landscapes of Amorgos.

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Retreat Benefits:

  • Build real foundations – Learn how to break down complex gymnastic movements step by step so you can develop the foundations needed to unlock your skills.

  • Train smarter – Identify weak links or imbalances so you can overcome mental or physical blocks.

  • Accelerate your progress – Understand technique, alignment, and control through theory sessions and progressive training methods.

  • Deepen mind–body awareness – Cultivate mindfulness during training to strengthen body awareness and movement quality.

  • Experience the Greek islands – Swim in crystal waters, enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, and watch unforgettable sunsets.

  • Prepare in advance – Get 30 days of free access to the Somatika App before the retreat.

  • Find your community – Connect with a global group of dedicated movers.

  • Treat yourself – Enjoy 10% off face and body treatments at Lalon Idor Spa.


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Practices You’ll Experience

Throughout the week you’ll explore a diverse program designed to support both skill progression and recovery.

  • Handstand Foundations to Mastery: From your first wall handstand to kick-up accuracy, press to handstand progressions, and one arm foundations

  • Ring Strength & Muscle-Up Foundations: Build the pulling strength, stability, and control required for ring muscle-ups and advanced bodyweight training

  • Movement Theory Sessions: Deepen your understanding of technique, biomechanics, and the training principles behind advanced skills

  • Mobility Training: Develop flexibility, stability, and range of motion to support stronger, more resilient movement

  • Meditation & Mindfulness: Begin your mornings with guided practices to ground your focus and connect with the present moment

  • Ocean Exploration: Experience the beauty of Amorgos through guided ocean activities such as freediving and snorkelling

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The SOMATIKA™ Philosophy

SOMATIKA™ is more than a training method — it’s a conversation between your mind and body.
By blending athletic movement and technical precision with somatic awareness, you’ll learn to listen, adapt, and unlock new strength from the inside out.
You’ll leave not only stronger, but more deeply attuned to your body’s intelligence.

SOMATIKA. Stronger. Moves.

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And now, EXHALE with us…

Your Greek Home for the Week

Our retreat takes place at Aegialis Hotel & Spa, a beautiful wellness retreat venue overlooking Aegiali Bay on the island of Amorgos.

Known as one of Europe’s leading retreat destinations, the venue has hosted international yoga and wellness retreats for over a decade. With multiple ocean-view practice shalas, sunrise meditation terraces, and peaceful surroundings, it provides the perfect setting for focused training, recovery, and connection.

You’ll enjoy fresh Mediterranean meals onsite at the Ambrosia Restaurant, relax by the pool or beach nearby, and unwind at the Lalon Idor Spa, which includes a sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, indoor seawater pool, and fitness centre.


Weather in Amorgos – June ☀️:

June is one of the best times of year to visit Amorgos. Expect long sunny days, warm ocean water, and perfect training conditions.

Typical June weather:

  • Daytime: 24–28°C

  • Evenings: 20–23°C
    Sea temperature: ~22–24°C

  • Rain: extremely rare
    Sunshine: 12+ hours per day

This is the sweet spot of the Greek summer, warm but not peak-season crowded, with ideal conditions for training, ocean swims, and our planned freediving + snorkelling day excursion.

Getting There

Traveling to Amorgos is part of the adventure and a beautiful way to experience the Greek islands.

Most guests travel via Athens International Airport, then take either a short domestic flight or ferry to Naxos or Santorini, followed by a ferry to Amorgos.

Ferries arrive at Aegiali Port, located just 1 km from the retreat venue.

Round-trip group transfers between the port and the hotel are included on arrival and departure days.

We recommend checking travel routes and ferry schedules in advance to plan your journey comfortably.

For detailed travel guidance, please see our FAQ section.

SOMATIKA handstand retreat
SOMATIKA handstand retreat
SOMATIKA handstand retreat
SOMATIKA handstand retreat

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Sample Itinerary:‍ ‍

(Schedule subject to small changes based on weather and group needs)

Day 1 | June 12: Arrival & Welcome

Arrival day, no training scheduled.

We recommend planning your arrival between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM so you don’t miss the welcome circle and dinner.

  • Arrive at the retreat venue and settle into your room

  • Free time to unwind, explore the property, or enjoy the pool and sea views

8:00 PM — Welcome Circle & Dinner

Days 2–7 | Training, Skill Development & Island Exploration

Below is a typical daily flow during the retreat. Exact program will be confirmed closer to the retreat date.

  • 6:15 AM – Sunrise Meditation (on meditation terrace) (roughly 15-20min)

  • 7:30 AM – Coffee & Buffet Breakfast

  • 8:30 AM – Alternating Sessions: Mobility, Handstands & Theory (90 min)

  • 10:00 AM – Break

  • 12:30 PM – Lunch

  • 2:00 PM – Alternating Sessions: Handstands, Ring Strength & Muscle-Up Foundations

  • 4:00–6:30 PM – Free Time (swim in the Aegean Sea, relax by the pool, explore the island, or unwind at the Lalon Idor Spa)

  • 7:30PM – Dinner

Excursions & Special Experiences:

Two days during the week will include an afternoon ocean excursion where we explore the waters surrounding Amorgos.

Planned activities will include:

Freediving & Snorkelling Experience
Discover the island’s crystal clear waters and underwater landscapes with experienced local guides.

(Final excursion details will be confirmed closer to the retreat.)

Day 8 | June 19: Departures

  • Buffet Breakfast

  • Morning goodbyes & Departures

  • Check out by 11am

  • Group transfers to the port will be arranged according to ferry schedules.


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What’s Included ✅:

Your SOMATIKA Retreat experience is designed so you can focus entirely on training, recovery, and enjoying the island.

Your booking includes:

7 nights accommodation at our ocean view retreat sanctuary in Amorgos.

Daily Mediterranean meals prepared by the venue’s chefs. All meals are enjoyed together as a group at the Ambrosia Restaurant.

  • Buffet Breakfast

  • Lunch

  • Dinner

Please Note: filtered water and herbal tea included with lunch and dinner- other beverages not included.

  • Daily training sessions with Coach Chala & her assistant coaches including:

  • Handstand beginner foundations to advanced progressions

  • Ring strength & muscle-up foundations

  • Mobility and movement preparation

  • Theory sessions and coaching

  • Sunrise meditation sessions overlooking the Aegean Sea

Access to the Lalon Idor Spa Facilities, including:

  • Sauna

  • Hammam

  • Jacuzzi

  • Indoor seawater swimming pool

  • Fitness centre

  • 10% off spa treatments

Round-trip transfers on Amorgos
Group transfers between the Amorgos port and the retreat venue on arrival and departure days.

AND ALSO: 30 days complimentary access to the Somatika App before the retreat so you can prepare your body and get the most from the experience!

An immersive ocean excursion during the week (freediving and snorkelling day trip will be confirmed closer to the retreat).


Not Included ❌:

The following are not included in the retreat price:

  • Flights and international travel

  • Ferry or domestic flights to Amorgos

  • Climate Resilience Tax - this is a government tourism tax payable directly to the hotel at the end of the retreat

  • Optional spa treatments or private services

  • Travel and health insurance - all guests are responsible for arranging their own insurance coverage.

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Pricing & Accommodation

Our 2026 retreat sold out in just 4 days! Early booking for our 2027 retreat is highly recommended.

All rooms offer panoramic sea views over Aegiali Bay, creating a peaceful environment for rest and recovery between training sessions.


Option 1 |‍ ‍Double Room - Standard △

Early Bird Discount applied at checkout - €200!

Perfect for couples or friends who are happy sharing a bed.

• Shared with one other retreat participant
• One king bed in the room
• Best suited for couples or friends travelling together
• Sea view
• 1 Bathroom with shower

DOUBLE ROOM Deposit

€499 p.p.

DOUBLE ROOM Full

€2,499 p.p.


A spacious shared room with separate sleeping options.

• Shared with only one other retreat participant
• One double bed and one single bed
• Ideal for guests attending solo who are open to sharing
• 1 Bathroom with shower

Optional Add-On:
Double Bed Priority Upgrade +€200

If the upgrade is not selected, bed allocation within the room will be assigned by the retreat team. If you are travelling solo and select a shared comfort room, we will do our best to match you with another participant of the same gender.

Option 2 | Double Room - Comfort △△

Early Bird Discount applied at checkout - €200!

Double Villa Deposit

€499 p.p.

Double Villa Full

€2699 p.p.


Option 3 | Private Junior Suite - △△△

Early Bird Discount applied at checkout - €300!

Very limited availability!

Your own private space for the week.

• Private king bed with double shower and private steam room

• Sea-front veranda with outdoor seating

• Ideal for guests attending solo who prefer their privacy

The Junior Suites offer extra space and comfort, with a spacious bedroom and sitting area, plus a large veranda overlooking the sea.

Private Junior Suite Deposit

€499 p.p.

Private Junior Suite Full

€3699 p.p.

Booking & Cancellation Policy

We understand that life can be unpredictable, so please review our policy carefully before booking:

Payment Schedule

  • €499 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot
  • €1,000 second non-refundable deposit due by 20 July 2026
  • Final remaining balance due by 20 January 2027
Both deposits are strictly non-refundable, as they are used to secure the retreat venue.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel, the following applies to the remaining balance only (deposits excluded):
  • More than 90 days before the retreat: 100% refund of remaining balance
  • Within 60 days: 70% refund of remaining balance
  • Within 45 days: No refunds available
No refunds or credits will be given for late arrivals, early departures, or missed sessions.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing travel and cancellation insurance.
If the retreat must be cancelled by the organizers, participants may transfer their payment (excluding deposits) to a future retreat or request a refund of payments made (excluding deposits).

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FAQ

FAQ

  • This retreat is designed for all levels and anyone who wants to build strength, develop skill, and deepen their connection with movement.

    Whether you’re a yogi wanting to finally unlock your handstand, a CrossFit or calisthenics athlete looking to refine technique, or simply someone curious to explore new skills in a supportive environment, this experience is designed to meet you where you are.

    Both beginner and advanced progressions will be coached throughout the week.

  • No. Many participants join without having a consistent handstand yet. The retreat focuses on strong foundations, mobility, alignment, and skill progressions, so beginners and experienced practitioners can train side by side.

    If you’re already comfortable in a handstand, you’ll work on advanced progressions, alignment, control, and endurance.

  • Not at all. The ring muscle-up sessions focus on foundations, safe progressions, and technique so you can safely work toward this skill over time.

    Even if you’re starting from zero, you’ll learn the building blocks required to develop the movement.

  • The retreat takes place at Aegialis Hotel & Spa on the island of Amorgos, Greece.

    Located above the beautiful Aegiali Bay, the venue offers sea views, peaceful surroundings, and dedicated movement spaces, making it an ideal environment for a focused training retreat.

  • Amorgos does not have an airport, but it is easily reached by ferry.

    The island has two ports:

    • Aegiali – the closest port, located 1 km from the hotel

    • Katapola – approximately 22 km away

    Most guests travel via Athens, Santorini, Naxos, Paros, or Mykonos, and then take a ferry to Amorgos.

    A popular route is to fly to Athens, take a short domestic flight (about 50 minutes) to Naxos, then a 1.5–2 hour ferry to Amorgos.

    Alternatively, ferries depart directly from Piraeus Port in Athens, with a travel time of around 7 hours, depending on the vessel and route.

    From late April through early October, regular ferry connections operate between Amorgos and nearby islands. Ferry travel times from neighbouring islands typically range from 1–4 hours. Schedule of the ferries can be found online: www.openseas.gr

    Our retreat venue, Aegialis Hotel & Spa, is located above Aegiali Bay, just 1 km from Aegiali port and the main beach.

    Round-trip transfers between the port and the hotel are included for retreat participants.

    We strongly recommend checking ferry and travel logistics before booking to ensure the journey aligns with your travel plans.

    Check-in available from 3:00 PM
    Check-out by 11:00 AM

  • Your retreat includes:

    • 7 nights accommodation at Aegialis Hotel & Spa with daily housekeeping

    • All rooms include tea and coffee facilities, which are replenished daily

    • Daily training sessions with Coach Chala and her assistant Coaches

    • Handstand foundations and progressions coaching

    • Ring Pull-up & Muscle-up strength training

    • Mobility, theory, and skill development sessions

    • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner including herbal teas and water. Other drinks can be purchased at your own expense.

    • An ocean excursion during the week (freediving and snorkelling day trip will be confirmed closer to the retreat).

    • Access to Lalon Idor Spa facilities (sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, indoor seawater pool)

    • Access to the hotel gym and training spaces

    • Round-trip port transfers on Amorgos

    • 30 days access to the Somatika App before the retreat

  • Yes! daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Filtered water and herbal tea are included with meals and extra beverages are available for your purchase.

    Meals are served at the hotel’s Ambrosia Restaurant, featuring fresh Mediterranean cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients and vegetables grown on the island.

    Vegetarian, vegan, and dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

  • We recommend bringing:

    • Comfortable training clothes

    • A reusable water bottle

    • Swimwear

    • Sunscreen and a hat

    • A light layer for evenings

    • Training grips (optional for ring work)

    All training equipment and props will be provided at the venue.

  • Absolutely, and many participants do.

    Our retreats attract a friendly international community, and it’s very common for people to arrive solo and leave with new friendships.

    If you book a shared room, we will do our best to pair you with another participant of the same gender.

  • Expect a balance of training, learning, rest, and exploration.
    Mornings include meditation and movement, afternoons focus on skill work, and evenings are for connection, beach time, and recovery.
    You can check out our Sample Itinerary for full details.

  • Prices range from €2,499 to €3,399 depending on your room choice.

    To reserve your place, simply secure your spot with a €499 non-refundable deposit through the booking page.

    Spaces are very limited, and our 2026 retreat sold out in just 4 days!

    • €499 deposit and €1,000 second payment are non-refundable

    • More than 90 days before retreat: 100% refund of remaining balance

    • 60–90 days before retreat: 70% refund of remaining balance

    • Within 45 days: No refunds available

    We strongly recommend purchasing travel and medical insurance.

  • Once you register for the retreat, you’ll receive complimentary access to the SOMATIKA App 30 days before the event.

    Inside the app you’ll find Coach Chala’s mobility, strength, and handstand preparation programs designed to help you arrive ready to make the most of the week.

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About

COACH CHALA MOVES

Founder of SOMATIKA

Movement Coach Chala is the founder of SOMATIKA™, a health focused handstand, strength and mobility training combining goal and skill orientated athletic movements with conscious somatic techniques to reconnect to your body as a whole being and unlock new, pain-free strength and dream skills.
Chala’s approach to coaching and training, whether it's handstands, gymnastics, CrossFit or strength conditioning, is not just physical, but also connecting to your mind and body from the ground up and learning to listen to its needs to know when it can be taken to new levels. Through her SOMATIKA App or  1:1 Online Coaching Chala teaches how we can become teammates with our body and together reaching new highs and goals in your training.
Her signature method, Somatika™, combines goal-oriented athletic training with somatic awareness techniques. This unique approach helps both athletes and beginners build whole-body strength, prevent injury, and reconnect with their bodies as conscious partners in movement.
Chala’s passion was born from her own story, as a former competitive gymnast who walked away from the sport’s destructive culture, she created a new path rooted in building proper foundations, body awareness, play, and longevity.
She now coaches clients around the world, has trained CrossFit™ Games athletes, taught workshops across Europe and the U.S., and inspired hundreds of thousands through her online community.
  • Founder of SOMATIKA™
  • 14 years experience as Mobility, Handstand & Gymnastics Coach
  • Personal Handstand Coach for Crossfit™ Games Athletes
  • Strength Conditioning Expert
  • CrossFit™  L1 Coach
  • USAG Gymnastics Coach
  • CPD certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher
  • 200 hour Yoga Teacher

A week of Strength, Connection and Play?

Your New Community Awaits You at SOMATIKA!

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