Transformation in the Heart of Georgia: How the First Eco Retreat in Batumi Went
- 14 июн.
- 3 мин. чтения
20 participants. 7 days of travel. 5 countries. And an endless number of discoveries.
From April 29 to May 5, 2026, Batumi became home to Vladimir Azarov and Sergey Sotnikov's first joint retreat. From the very first day, it was clear: here, amid the mountain air, sea salt, and warm Georgian walls, something truly special was being born.
Twenty people of varying ages, backgrounds, and experiences came from Ukraine, Russia, Europe, the UAE, and the Baltic states. They were united by a quiet but profound desire: to be fulfilled, to know themselves, and to return to happiness.
The Beginning of the Journey: When 20 Souls Meet in One Place
The care began even before the participants stepped foot in the retreat house. Organizer Vladimir personally met each participant at the airport, ensuring that the first joy began while they were still on the road.
Upon arrival, everyone was treated to a warm lunch from Chef Anton, who prepared meals according to the principles of Vedic cuisine: purity, mindfulness, and love. Food at the EkoRetreat is more than just fuel for the body; it's the first step toward illuminating oneself from within.
"Our goal is to heal every soul. Through good cuisine, clean space, and each other's living presence." — Vladimir Azarov , retreat organizer
Day by Day: Seven Steps to Yourself
The retreat's itinerary and schedule weren't just a series of excursions. Each day became a step toward inner transformation:
Day 1: A warm introduction. The first hugs, a delicious lunch, and a gentle introduction in a circle where everyone could say as much about themselves as they wanted. A quiet feeling arose: it's safe here .
Day 2: The Joy of Being Yourself. The morning began with qigong breathing practices at dawn led by Elena Sotnikova. Then, Sergey gave a daily tune-up on the theme "Returning to a State of Happiness" and introduced us to the vibrant energy of Batumi.
Day 3: Inspiration and the Temple of Transformation. A meeting with Father Vasily, a hereditary priest. His words about faith deeply touched the participants' hearts. The day concluded with a climb to a mountain spa with panoramic views of the sea.
Day 4: Empowered. Meditation in the ancient Gonio Fortress, whose walls are over two thousand years old. The silence of the stones and Sergey's revelations helped me feel the earth giving up its power.
Day 5: Awareness and Film Therapy. A day of transformational games and sincere communication. Film therapy took place in the evening—through on-screen destinies, participants saw their own, let go of the old, and embraced the present.
Day 6: True Support. Pilgrimage to the Erketi Forest Monastery. The sisters greeted the group warmly, and Mother Maryam's blessing and a visit to the holy spring of St. Andrew the First-Called were the highlight of the day.
Day 7: Bon voyage. Last breakfast and a round of summaries. Tears, smiles, hugs. Twenty people went home changed—more themselves .
Retreat Team: People Who Cared
Behind every well-timed word, every practice, and every warm breakfast were those who made this retreat truly come alive:
Sergey Sotnikov - Mentor and psychologist.
Vladimir Azarov - Organizer and producer.
Elena Sotnikova - Nutritionist, guide to qigong practice.
Anton Filimonov is the chef responsible for pure Vedic gastronomy.
"Everyone was happy. Everyone got something they needed at that moment in their lives." — From the final group of participants
What's next? The next step is Mtskheta.
After visiting Tbilisi and receiving many blessings, we decided on the next step.
In the fall, we travel to Mtskheta , an ancient city home to a great number of sacred sites. A pilgrimage to places of power, elder guides, and revelations from ancient sites await those ready to continue their journey.
Dates: October 7–14, 2026
Location: Mtskheta, Georgia
🌿 Find out more and book your spot. Experience transformation with us. We look forward to seeing you at EkoRetreat!