Alchemy of Earth 2025: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat

Nevada City, CA, USA

GC
Gaby Colletta
  • Email address verified
26 reviews
May 22 - 25, 2025
Group size: 4 - 16
Alchemy of Earth 2025: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat
Nevada City, CA, USA

Gaby Colletta
  • Email address verified
26 reviews

May 22 - 25, 2025
Group size: 4 - 16

About this trip

Led by Ayurvedic Health Counselor + Yoga Instructor Gaby Colletta E-RYT 500 and Natural Dye +  Textiles Artist Kristin Arzt RYT 200


Journey to the Yuba River in the heart of Northern California for a 4-day wellness retreat and discover the art of creative living. Reconnect to body and soul through daily yoga practices rooted in the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. Discover self-care rituals that align with the rhythms of the Earth. Nourish your creative potential with a workshop series on the art of natural dyeing. Join for a gathering of connection, intuition and inspiration.

A Wilderness Immersion to the Yuba River

Explore the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the sacred Yuba River. If you ask any local, they’ll tell you the Yuba is a place like no other. Come to be cleansed, inspired, or simply soak the crystal clear waters for rejuvenation. We believe Nature is medicine and beneath all our conditioning, it’s our inherent state of being. Through wilderness immersion, we reconnect with the land, the plants, the animals, and the subtle rhythms of the river to strengthen our intuition, creative flow, and connection to life. A return to nature is a way home to ourselves. 

  • Excursion to the Yuba River at our private swimming hole
  • Workshop on Ancient Ayurvedic rituals of self-care + medicine making 
  • Workshop Series on Natural Dyeing using plants such as Indigo, Madder root, and more.

The Movement

Enjoy daily yoga, intended to inspire embodied awareness and personal expression. Each class is guided with mindfulness, alignment focus, and Ayurvedic principles to integrate body, mind, and heart. Morning Asana is inspired by solar energy, a Vinyasa class unfolding consciousness through the dance of breath with movement. In the afternoon, we wind down the day with a lunar-inspired practice such as Restorative, Aromatherapy Grounding Flow, or Yoga Nidra. One can expect meditation, pranayama, breath awareness, mudra, and mantra. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, instruction and modifications are given for each individual to explore one’s potential.

Workshop Series: Natural Dyeing

Enjoy two thorough and fun natural dye workshop days! We will go in-depth with natural indigo dyeing and resist techniques and immersion dyeing mordant dyes. Using only organic plant matter, you will gain knowledge and experiment with the art of natural dyeing. You will take home samples in a variety of colors and fibers.  Our first workshop day will be totally focused on natural indigo dyeing, and our second workshop day will dive into mordant dyes, allowing us to create a full rainbow of color using plants.


All workshop materials are included, but you are also welcome to bring your own small, natural fiber items to dye!

The Nourishment

Enjoy a retreat menu intentionally crafted to nourish and heal. Each meal is made with Ayurvedic principles that align with the transition of seasons and the local harvest. We believe food is medicine and our chef prepares each dish with enthusiasm, mindfulness, and love. All meals are plant-based with organic ingredients that are sourced for their high quality, nutrient-dense, and nourishing essence. We support our local farmers when possible. If you have any special dietary needs or restrictions, we can happily accommodate them. 

The Retreat Space

Our home away from home is located on a habitat preserve; adjacent to 650 acres of state parkland, along the beloved Yuba River. Explore creek waterfalls and private trails along the Yuba River. 


With the backdrop of nature’s sounds, the aromas of old pine and oak trees, the medicinal plants that live in the winding trails, our getaway is the ideal place for rejuvenation, rest, and reconnection. There is ample space to spread out and enjoy each other’s company safely. 

Intentional in design, the home itself holds an artistic aesthetic. With a big, sunny deck overlooking the forest, it’s easy to bathe in the simple luxury of feeling the warmth on your skin and attuning to the subtle rhythms of nature around. Every bedroom is made up with organic linens. Each bathroom features organic towels with natural products. 


You may book a private king bedroom with your own bathroom, a private queen bedroom with shared bathrooms, a shared queen bedroom {shared households only—please message us to arrange}, a private cabin near the river, or pitch on one of our campsites. WiFi is available at the main retreat house but is very limited in the surrounding area.


If you have any questions about the accommodation, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

WHERE: NEVADA CITY, CALIFORNIA

Explore the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the sacred Yuba River. If you ask any local, they’ll tell you the Yuba is a place like no other. Come to be cleansed, inspired, or simply soak the crystal clear waters for rejuvenation. We believe Nature is medicine and beneath all our conditioning, it’s our inherent state of being. Through wilderness immersion, we reconnect with the land, the plants, the animals, and the subtle rhythms of the river to strengthen our intuition, creative flow, and connection to life. A return to nature is a way home to ourselves. 

Meet your Guides

Gaby Colletta 

Gaby is a Yoga Instructor, Ayurvedic Health Counselor and Somatic Therapist with over 15 years of practice in integrative wellness. She facilitates nature-based retreats, guides mind-body courses, leads teacher trainings and coaches individuals on how to create an ecosystem of internal resources that support resilience, connection and awakened potential. Her teachings weave together the Ancient wisdom traditions of Tantra and Buddhism with modern-day neuroscience and somatic psychology. Reverence for nature and ritual, embodied presence and deep intention are at the heart of her practices. Gaby is a registered E-RYT 500, YACEP and holds a Masters in Integrative Counseling Psychology.  


Website: www.gabycolletta.com IG: @gabycolletta


Kristin Arzt 

Kristin is a natural dyer, educator, gardener, and designer based in Maryland. She has taught workshops and led retreats all over the country, served on the board of Local Cloth, and been involved in Fibersheds from Northern California, to the Mid-Atlantic, to the Blue Ridge Mountains. By exploring the collision of textiles, plants, and sustainability, her goal is to help make the study of natural dyes accessible to everyone through education and enthusiasm. Kristin is a lifelong learner, a student and teacher of yoga (RYT 200) and is currently enrolled in her third Yoga Teacher Training program, often combining elements from these teachings into her creative workshops.


Website: www.kristinarzt.com | IG: @kristin.arzt


Cancellation Policy

We understand that unexpected events can arise that can affect your plans. Kindly note, deposits are non-refundable.


If you cancel more than 60 days before the retreat start date and you have paid the full booking amount in addition to the deposit, you may request a refund for your payment minus the non-refundable deposit. If you cancel your booking less than 60 days prior to departure, the penalty is 50% of the trip price. If you cancel your booking within 45 days of departure, the penalty is 75%. If you cancel within 30 days of departure, the penalty is 100%. 


We recommend you purchase travel insurance. 


For complete policy, please visit: https://gabycolletta.com/alchemy-of-earth-retreat-booking-terms-and-conditions

What’s included

  • Welcoming Circle Ritual
  • Daily Yoga
    Element-inspired, solar + lunar practice
  • 3 Meals Ayurvedic Meals
    3 full meals per day and nourishing snacks
  • Accomodation
    For 3 Nights and 4 Days
  • Ayurveda Workshop
    Rituals for Self-Care, Herbal Healing + Folk Remedies
  • Natural dye workshops
    Learn to dye with plants to create vibrant colors and patterns on natural fiber
  • Indigo Dye Workshop
    Dye with an organic indigo vat and shibori resist techniques to create patterns on natural fibers
  • All workshop materials
  • Sound Meditation Journey
    A soundscape of Tibetan Singing Bowls
  • Yuba River Excursion
    Guided hike and river cleanse

What’s not included

  • Transport to Retreat
  • Travel Insurance

Available Packages

Campout
Deposit:$350
4 left

Make it a campout and pitch a tent in one of our dedicated campsites! If you don't have a tent, we can provide you with everything you need to be comfortable for a $30 rental fee. You will still have access to the house, the shared bathrooms, hot showers, and all the comforts of the common space! 

$975
Deposit:$350
Private Queen with Shared Bath
Deposit:$350
Sold Out

Enjoy your own room with a comfortable queen-sized bed with organic cotton linens and access to any of the 4 bathrooms in our main homestead. 



If you'd like to share this option with a friend it is $1200 each. Please select "Shared Queen Shared Bath" or message us and we'll make sure to set up that option for you! 

$1,400
Deposit:$350
Shared Queen with Shared Bath
Deposit:$350
Pre-registration

Enjoy a comfortable queen-sized bed to share with a partner or friend!  You will have access to any of the 4 shared bathrooms in the homestead. Organic cotton sheets.


SHARING OPTION: Please specify who you'd like to book with in the registration notes. Thanks!

$1,200
Deposit:$350
Private King with Shared Bath
Deposit:$350
Only 1 left

Brand new king-size bed - a private room for yourself or to share with a friend/partner. Organic cotton sheets.


$1,500
Deposit:$350
Shared King with Shared Bath
Deposit:$350
Only 2 left

Brand new king-size bed - a private room at our Homestead property for you and a friend/partner to share! Organic cotton sheets.


SHARING OPTION: Please specify who you'd like to book with in the registration notes. Thanks!

$1,275
Deposit:$350
Private King with Private Bath
Deposit:$350
Sold Out

Enjoy the private king bedroom with your own private en suite bath in our main house. This bedroom overlooks the trees and is artfully furnished. Organic cotton sheets.


To share this option with a partner of pal, price per person is $1350 each. 

Let us know and we can set up this payment option for you. 

$1,600
Deposit:$350
Private Cabin with River Views
Deposit:$350
Only 2 left

Off-the-grid, solar-powered cabin perches just overlooking the Yuba River. The cabin is equipped with a queen-size bed, organic cotton linens, artistic stonework and wood-carved furniture. The cabins share a sun deck and a bathhouse that boasts an indoor shower, an outdoor shower that overlooks the river, and a state-of-the-art composting toilet. This is the perfect option for those seeking more quietude on retreat (there is no reception or WiFi here, making connection to nature imminent). The biggest perk is the easy river access and peace and quiet.


We recommend this for folks with a vehicle as it is a short 5-minute drive to the main retreat house where yoga, dyeing, and meals take place. 


To book individually $1450

If you'd like to share with partner or pal, $1250 per person. 

$1,450
Deposit:$350
Shared Cabin with River Views
Deposit:$350
Only 2 left

Off-the-grid, solar-powered cabin perches just overlooking the Yuba River. The cabin is equipped with a queen-size bed, organic cotton linens, artistic stonework and wood-carved furniture. The cabins share a sun deck and a bathhouse that boasts an indoor shower, an outdoor shower that overlooks the river, and a state-of-the-art composting toilet. This is the perfect option for those seeking more quietude on retreat (there is no reception or WiFi here, making connection to nature imminent). The biggest perk is the easy river access and peace and quiet.

We recommend this for folks with a vehicle as it is a short 5-minute drive to the main retreat house where yoga, dyeing, and meals take place. 


$1,250
Deposit:$350

Available options

Camping Gear Rental
$30
Only 2 left

Camping Gear Rental includes: 2 person tent, 1 sleeping bag, 1 sleeping pad, 1 inflatable pillow, and a solar light.



Your Organizer


GC
Gaby Colletta
26 reviews
E-RYT 500, YACEP, AHC. Gaby is a Meditation and Yoga Instructor and Ayurvedic Health Counselor with over 15 years of practice in integrative wellness. She facilitates transformational nature-based retreats, guides mind-body courses, leads teacher trainings and coaches individuals on how to create an ecosystem of internal resources that bring forth one’s greater potential.

Reviews

RB
I attended the Alchemy of Earth Retreat for the past several years and I am never disappointed. It is always such a sweet group of people in a sweet and relaxing spot in nature by the river. Gaby and Kristin always make this experience just what I need when it comes around. The food is always nourishing and amazing. I highly recommend this retreat if you are thinking about it.
By Rahmat B for Spring Alchemy of Earth 2024: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat on Jun 25, 2024
KM
Absolutely wonderful experience! This was my first yoga retreat and first real getaway since becoming a mom, and I felt rejuvenated afterward, making it a worthwhile investment in my health and mental well-being. Gabby and Kristin were lovely hosts and made us feel welcome when we arrived. The retreat house was secluded and comfortable, and our chef, Kaori, made delicious, nutritious meals that left us happy and full. There was the perfect balance of activities and rest incorporated into the weekend, with a calmness in all transitions that made the relaxation feel real, even if we were hiking up hills or warding off mosquitos in Shavasana. We're already planning our next trip and can't wait to see where Gabby might go next.
By Kelly M for Spring Alchemy of Earth 2024: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat on Jun 07, 2024
Exceeded all expectations. I signed up for the yoga which was beyond amazing per usual with Gaby at the helm, but was pleasantly surprised by the botanical fabric dyeing and the introduction to Ayurvedic diet and living. Food was nourishing and delicious and the group of women friendly and funny and creative and warm. A much needed retreat! Totally recommend!!!
By Leane V for Spring Alchemy of Earth 2024: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat on Jun 05, 2024
I had a fantastic time. Intentionally prepared and led by knowledgeable and fun leaders. The schedule was really tight so the days felt very full but everything was so enjoyable I don't want to complain about any of it. Gaby and Kristin create a welcoming and creative environment that sets the stage for you to engage in whatever way that serves you. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an active respite from their regular schedule.
By Emily F for Spring Alchemy of Earth 2024: Yoga + Ayurveda + Natural Dye Retreat on Jun 04, 2024
JE
This was an amazing experience and highly beneficial to my personal yoga practice, creative process and overall wellbeing. Gaby and Bevie were so lovely to learn from and be around. The professional chef, Bella, was also brilliant and the food was so good. The entire event was smooth, with enjoyable organic transitions as well as ample time for socializing and free time. Thanks to all involved, can't wait to do it again. ✨
By JANET E for Creative Roots Retreat 2024 - Yoga, Process Art + Nature in Sedona on Apr 26, 2024
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