Fuerteventura changed me. On retreats, it changes you too.

That Fuerteventura is beautiful and peaceful: everyone knows that. That not much happens here: everyone knows that too. Which is probably why, every time I return to a big city after being here, my heart starts racing at something as ordinary as a pedestrian crossing.

Living on this island has taught me something I first discovered during longer travels and my time in Costa Rica: there are no perfect places. The grass is always greener on the other side, and there will always be something we miss. So that age-old, almost clichéd advice to appreciate what you have? Absolute truth: trust me on this one.

On Fuerteventura, I mostly miss my family and friends, most of whom are back in Warsaw. I miss culture, which is why, when I travel to Europe in summer, I throw myself into cinema, opera and events. Do I miss the food? Honestly, not that much. Let’s be real: this island has plenty of its own delights, with fresh seafood, great Italian coffee and brunches leading the way.

What I do have here, though, is priceless. I’ve grown used to the ocean being everywhere: I fall asleep to the sound of waves outside my window, and during a break from work I go and cleanse myself in the salty surf. People who smile and don’t rush, a small community where — yes — everyone knows each other. Sunshine all year round, because seasonal depression simply doesn’t exist on Fuerteventura. Sand under my feet.

And then there’s what I hear from you, when you arrive for a retreat and suddenly start sleeping well, breathing more slowly, smiling: this island is a natural remedy for the fever of our times. For the rush, the anxiety, the overstimulation. We all have too much of everything. Fuerteventura gives you space and breath. And through that, freedom.

I always say it: on this island I feel more like myself, because I have the space to be present: to truly see myself. I’m not distracted by the city, the crowds, the noise. I simply am. And that’s exactly why yoga here does in one week what it might take much longer to achieve back home. It’s why you tell me that you go through real processes on these retreats, make important decisions afterwards, and come back changed.