About Ananda's

Founded in 2017, the ethos of Ananda Yoga Retreats is to provide a safe place for students around the world to take time out in a relaxed environment without a need to please anyone else other than themselves. An escape that is purely based around the individual's needs with no strict rules or expectations in place. Total freedom, whilst being nurtured by soul cleansing food, and most importantly exceptional yoga in a purely breathtaking locations.

Our programs dive deep into the holistic essence of yoga, going far beyond just physical postures! Get ready to explore the philosophical foundations, embrace mindfulness, and reconnect with your true self through invigorating dynamic practices, restoratives, breath work, and sound.

I'm Madeline Diaz Meiners, also known by my spiritual name "Ananda" and I'm the founder of "Ananda Yoga Retreats".

My yoga practice is a daily commitment to reconnect with the light within—the source of my compassion, clarity, and connection. It allows me to move through life with greater presence, to meet each day with an open heart, and to respond from a place of love rather than be guided by past wounds. Like many, I’ve experienced suffering. For a long time, avoidance felt like a form of protection, but true healing began when I chose to face life’s challenges with self-understanding and compassion.

Yoga continues to teach me that behind hatred, jealousy, anger, or fear, there is often pain—and that beneath it all, there is always light. My purpose is to support others in reconnecting with that light within themselves, so that together we can begin to heal, grow, and live more fully from love.

I’ve been practicing yoga for 28 years, teaching for 14, and have had the privilege of facilitating retreats for the past 9 years. My teachings are deeply inspired by the wisdom of Western Buddhist philosopher Tara Brach, spiritual teacher Ram Dass, and the work of Michael Singer. These influences are woven into my approach to yoga, blending authentic, breath-led Ashtanga Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, Kundalini, and meditation—each practice enriched by the transformative potential of sound healing.

Join us for an unforgettable retreat experience where you will have the opportunity to explore our most treasured places and experiences on the island!

Trainings include -
Satyananda Yoga Teacher Training, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, TCM Meridians, Kundalini Yoga, Rocket Yoga, Mandala Vinyasa, Hatha Yoga, Gong Sound Healing Practitioner.

MADELINE

AMY FARNWORTH

I cannot begin to describe the effects each yoga practice had on me, and being a seasoned yogi and a teacher myself, the curation was profound... "I have just returned from a truly exceptional weekend away with Ananda Yoga Retreats. This is the second time I have retreated with Madeline and her team and I have to say, this time was even better than the first. I cannot begin to describe the effects each yoga practice had on me, and being a seasoned yogi and a teacher myself, the curation was profound - each class carefully created to fit with the seasonal shifts, speaking to every individual on a physical, mental, emotional and energetic level (yes there were tears, but oh my, there were plenty of laughs and smiles too). Ananda's retreats are a work of magic for the soul and the spirit. I can't wait to return." Amy Farnworth - Google review

WILLIAM LUFF

Her insights, philosophy and ability to communicate and challenge we yogis to better ourselves was incredible..... This was my second retreat with Ananda because the first was quite simply, amazing. This year it was a joy and privilege to take part in Ananda’s Ibizan retreat. Madeline's a truly brilliant and inspiring teacher who creates a dynamic, tranquil and uplifting yoga experience. Her insights, philosophy and ability to communicate and challenge we yogis to better ourselves was incredible. The food was stunning and the location was a wow. I’m already looking forward to our next retreat. William Luff - Google review

KATE WAPLES

I felt held and inspired throughout, the experience and authenticity of the guidance shone through.. I have just returned from an Ananda retreat in Ibiza and the first word that springs to mind for me is WOW! The venue, food, people and general vibe were gorgeous. However, the stand out for me were the beautifully constructed practices. I felt held and inspired throughout, the experience and authenticity of the guidance shone through. I’ll miss the morning breath work so much, although the intention is to continue with the practices I’ve learnt, and going forward I hope to recreate some of the Ananda magic in my own classes. Kate Waples - Google revies

AMRITA SINGH

Madeline was absolutely incredible; authentic and led from the heart, she’s the real deal. I spent an amazing weekend with Ananda Yoga Retreats in The Lake District for a friend’s birthday. It was beautiful from start to finish, every detail; from the breathtaking location overlooking Coniston Water, to the spacious accommodation, and delicious nourishing wholesome food. The yoga with Madeline was absolutely incredible; authentic and led from the heart, she’s the real deal. We soaked up her energising mandala practice, soothing yin, breath work and sound healing. I left feeling so calm and centred. I also enjoyed a gorgeous relaxing massage with Mel. Highly recommended! Thanks, Team Ananda, I’ll be back. Amy Singh - Google review

SUSAN KENNEDY

The Yoga teaching was just outstanding, second to none! Ananda Yoga Retreats, you surpassed all my expectations! You are Amazing! The staff could not have been anymore helpful, each and everyone made you feel welcome and special. The Yoga teaching was just outstanding, second to none! The YIN was luscious, so much knowledge about around energy channels etc, The sound bath was out of this world and just so unexpected! So intelligently integrated into the class, it left me wanting more. The food utterly scrumptious! I will 100% be returning as a forever fan. Thank you all . Namaste 🙏 Sue Kennedy - Google review

SIOBHAN DILLON

This is by FAR the best - and most authentic- retreat I have attended here in the UK... Madeline is one of the most generous and thoughtful people I’ve ever met- pair that with exceptional knowledge, skill and kindness… this is by FAR the best - and most authentic- retreat I have attended here in the UK. I was going through a big health crisis when I attended this retreat and Madeline not only accommodated my dietary requirements but reignited my passion for yoga and meditation. I turned a corner during those few days. I released so much from my body during her Yin practice and sobbed through her sound bath… my body and mind needed this retreat and having studied these modalities myself in LA I can say without a shadow of doubt that you are in very, very safe and loving hands with Madeline. There were lots of elements of my life that had to change when I received my diagnosis in order to heal and I believe this retreat was what reminded me of my body’s innate healing abilities. It was also these practices that allowed me to release the anger and sadness that was necessary to move forward. If you’re unsure about any element of this retreat I would say trust that you’ve been directed to Ananda Retreats for a reason. You won’t be disappointed. Picture attached is from my bedroom window x 🙏🏼 Bliss. Siobhan Dillon - Google review

CHEF CESAR GASTARDELLI
The revolution starts with food....

The Ananda kitchen is managed by Chef Cesar, partner of life and business with Ananda. Originally from Argentina, Cesar trained as a chef 15 years ago in the Hoffmann Training School in Barcelona. As a Michelin trained chef, Cesar's meals in the Ananda kitchen focus on vegetarian ingredients, fostering compassion, connection, and creativity through nourishing cuisine.

Chef Cesar’s dishes allow people to discover the joy of healthy, intentional eating. Our meals are crafted to promote well-being, happiness, and a deeper connection with ourselves, each other and our beautiful planet. By embracing a more mindful relationship with what we consume and how we interact with the earth, we elevate health and vibration for everyone.

CESAR

SARAH HOCKLEY ~ Retreat Coordinator

After moving to Ibiza in 2016, Sarah co-founded a stand-up paddleboard business with her then-partner, leading SUP tours and teaching paddleboard yoga—a practice that wove together movement, breath, and connection to nature.

In 2018, Sarah trained in vinyasa flow and hatha yoga, expanding her commitment to holistic well-being. Over the years, she has supported clients in a variety of roles—hosting yoga retreats, working as a client care manager, and running a successful property business.

In 2023, Sarah began a MA in psychosynthesis psychology, a holistic and transpersonal approach to psychology that honours the whole self—body, mind, soul, and spirit. Currently working with clients as a trainee counsellor, she is devoted to supporting others on their own journeys of growth and transformation.

Passionate about the healing power of nature, Sarah focuses her work around outdoor and personal development pursuits - hike guiding, paddle board and kayak instructing, yoga and meditation teaching and counselling. Her work is grounded in presence, purpose, and community—empowering others to reconnect with themselves, each other, and the natural world, and to live lives of greater joy, clarity, and meaning.

BELEN ~ Ananda's Retreat Therapist

Belén has been a vibrant force in the Ananda Yoga Retreats holistic therapy team at our Ibiza Yoga Retreat centre for over five years. With over 14 years of expertise as a professional acupuncturist and massage therapist, her inspiring journey began in 2008 in Santiago, Chile, where she delved into the wonders of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Since then, she has passionately embraced integrative therapies, committed to guiding each individual on their unique healing adventure.

Belén believes that every mindful touch not only provides physical relief but also unlocks emotional blockages, helping the body release and let go. Her focus is to a safe and nurturing space where everyone can reconnect with their bodies and their true selves!