Rebirth in Bali: A Spiritual Retreat and Water Purification Ceremony Over Easter
This Easter, instead of the usual chocolate eggs and family brunch, I found myself on the sacred island of Bali, immersed in something far more ancient and transformative—a spiritual retreat that included a traditional melukat, or Balinese water purification ceremony.
The retreat was nestled in the middle of rice fields, where the air feels softer, the trees seem to breathe with us, the birds sang to us and time slows to a pace that invites presence. Mornings begin with mindful breathework followed by a guided meditation before days full of healing workshops, soulful journaling, and connection with others on the same journey of self-discovery.
We are mid-retreat and for me so far, the most profound moment came during the water purification ceremony at Tirta Empul, a holy spring temple that has been used for ritual cleansing for over a thousand years. Dressed in sarongs, we entered the cool, sacred waters in silence. One by one, we moved through the fountains, bowing our heads beneath the flowing streams, each one representing a prayer, a letting go, a rebirth.
The symbolism of Easter—the death of the old and the resurrection of the new—was not lost on me. In those moments under the sacred waters, I felt myself shedding layers I didn’t even know I was carrying. Loss, guilt, fear… all seemed to dissolve into the waters.
What struck me most was the blend of ritual and nature. The offerings of flowers and incense, the chant of the priest, the presence of the community, and the sounds of water and wind created a sacred moment that I won’t soon forget.
This retreat wasn’t about escaping life—it was about remembering who we are beneath the noise, connecting to our inner self.
Easter in Bali gifted me something no holiday ever had before: a sense of true renewal.
If you’re ever called to reset your spirit, reconnect with your heart, and let go of what no longer serves you, I can’t recommend this experience enough.
This transformational retreat is led by Charmaine, a globetrotting adventurer with over 25 years of coaching and facilitation experience. Passionate about bridging cultures and creating spaces for healing and growth, she brings deep compassion, authenticity, and a global perspective shaped by leading groups and traveling to nearly 50 countries.
Reach out if you are interested in joining us for our next retreat in Bali.
In love and light, 💫🦋💕
Nat