Book: Making Peace Before You Eat
We might be a little bit biased, since Angie used to be a chef at Billabong, but we think that this is one of the best cookbooks out there. More than just a cookbook, Making Peace Before You Eat inspires the reader to connect with their meal, eating with mindfulness...
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Don’t search for happiness, create it!
I remember a few years ago walking past a colourfully painted mural of a rainbow sitting in a blue sky with a quote saying, “Don’t search for happiness, create it!” and I just stood in front of that mural thinking about what happiness means to me and whether I was...
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Moving from “Health” to “Wellness”
As human beings, we have always been aware that it is important to be healthy but it is only in recent times that we have had such a big focus on wellness. So what does that actually mean? Personally, I think that when people think of being healthy they think more of...
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Five reasons why parents should go on retreat, without the kids!
I am not going to lie, I don't have kids. So perhaps I am not the best person to be writing this article. But, I have supported many students who are parents and I feel like I have a pretty good understanding of what it means to be a parent. You know: the guilt, the...
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Book: Recovery – Freedom from Our Addictions
When you think of 'addiction', what do you think of? Addiction comes in many forms, from the more obvious and in your face like drug addiction and alcoholism to the more subtle forms of food addiction, materialism and addiction to technology. Russell Brand has...
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How to Surrender to Uncomfortable Feelings
Feeling our emotions can be scary. Many of us are not afraid of our emotions themselves, but of experiencing them. We may have a resistance to the vulnerability that accompanies emotional expression especially when, during our most influential years of life, we were...
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Documentary: Willandra Wisdom Walk
Walking has been used as a way of contemplation for thousands of years, a path for uncovering the wisdom embedded in the Earth, our bodies and spirits. Here is a short and sweet documentary exploring what wisdom means across different cultures and eras:...
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The Ethics of Yoga: The Yamas
Although yoga has been around for thousands of years, it has evolved in the West to often be nothing more than a form of exercise that incorporates breath. Although this is great for some and is the reason why most people come to the practice, we are missing some of...
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Book: Ishmael – An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit
The thing I love about Ishmael is that it is written as a novel which means it is so easy to read! Too often I buy books that are full of wisdom but I struggle to sit down and actually read them. But not Ishmael. Daniel Quinn finally got this book published in 1992...
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Tips for a Conscious Christmas
Somehow 2018 has whizzed by and we are jetting towards Christmas at lightning speed. Given the state of our environment, the effects of the boom in social media and the increasing busy-ness of our lifestyle, it is more important than ever to be conscious of what we...
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A Buddhist Practise to Awaken Compassion – Tonglen
It takes courage to face our thoughts and emotions with gentle honesty. The parts of ourselves we’d prefer to deny and cover up with our well perfected strategies of escaping. Some are rather benign like going for a walk or watching a movie whilst others can be quite...
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What are Whole Foods and why should you care?
Eating healthy can be tricky. For most of us, the discourse around nutrition and diet has come a long way since we zoned out whilst being fed the importance of the food pyramid or meat and two veg. Yet somewhat lucky and unlucky for us, many people are now zoning...
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Meditation According to Tash
It feels like such a buzz word at the moment. Before I did a meditation course, to me, it felt like yet another thing to add to the to-do list. Meditation (according to Buddhism ideology) is basically focusing on one thing. When practiced regularly, it enables the...
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Nourishing Sweet Potato, Zucchini and Spinach Dhal
Gluten free, refined sugar free Dhal is a highly regarded meal in Ayurveda due to its gentle and soothing effect on our digestive system. It has been used in India as medicine for thousands of years, being the first food babies are given due to the gentle nourishment...
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Book Review: Everyday Blessings – Mindfulness for Parents
it is no secret that Jon Kabat-Zinn is one of our heroes! He was the real powerhouse behind getting mindfulness out of temples and into everyday homes and his program "Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction" is helping thousands of people around the world. Jon and his...
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Watch your Words
I mean really watch them. What are you saying to yourself over and over again on a regular basis? Notice if we say I don’t have this or this always happens to me. I can’t do this or perhaps I can do that. What happens? Does it ironically always happen to you? If we...
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Self-Abdominal Massage: Why and How?
Self-abdominal massage can encourage digestion and ease stomach discomfort. Essential oils such as peppermint, ginger, lavender and fennel are great for digestive issues. Combine a few drops of essential oil to some warm carrier oil. Massage the belly in a circular...
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Book Review: Lost Connections
If you haven't already heard of Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions, you should have. For me, it has been one of the most insightful books that I have read for a long time. Written by Johann Hari, this book is...
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Edamame and Brown Rice Salad
Vegan, gluten free, refined sugar free This is a super easy recipe and perfect if you have left over rice. It can be easily changed to whatever veggies you have at home! INGREDIENTS: 250g x brown rice - cooked 1/2 bunch x mint 1/2 bunch x coriander 1 x bag frozen...
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Self Love with Larissa
So many are constantly looking outside themselves for love. In the next relationship, chocolate bar, cigarette, drugs, sex, what ever it might be, take your pick. There is a feeling you are seeking whether you realise it or not in everything we do or purchase. Love...
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Three Easy Breathing Techniques to Calm Your Mind
Breathing techniques (also known as pranayama in traditional texts) have been around for thousands of years. The breath is such a powerful tool because it can be both automatic and controlled. See "Pranayama: What is it and why should you include it in your daily...
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Pesto Mushrooms with Herbed Chilli Oil
Vegan, gluten free, refined sugar free This recipe is so versatile. I make both the pesto and the herbed chilli and just keep them in my fridge and add them to anything really. Dip fresh bread in the oil or add to a salad. Add the pesto to pasta (I recommend buckwheat...
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The Best Rumi Quotes for Inspiration
It is no secret that I love Rumi. I read his quotes and poems in my yoga classes all the time because I find that he has such a knack for explaining something deep and profound in one short sentence that makes so much sense! If you are sitting there wondering "who on...
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Tash’s Ratatouille
Vegan, gluten free, refined sugar free My Mum finally shared her ratatouille recipe and now I am sharing it with the world! A french classic and a dish I lived on growing up. It's packed with so many veggies and is great as a main or a side dish. INGREDIENTS: 8 x...
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Raw Vegan “Joyous” Jaffa Balls
Gluten free, vegan, no added sugar A quick word: Here is a simple little treat that brings a vibrant joyous aroma and taste. Filled with 100% wholefood goodness and natural sweetness, they bring an uplifting zing while satiating that inner cry for a sweet treat (but...
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Book: Wholesome Child
A fantastic book for all parents out there that would love to incorporate more healthy food into their child's diet. Mandy Sacher is passionate about feeding whole foods to even the fussiest of children. Even if you don't have children, the recipes are delicious for...
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Why guys should be going on retreat
Statistically, women are much more likely to go on retreat than men. There seems to be a stereotype that retreats mean eating rabbit food, talking about your feelings and getting pampered. Although you can talk about your feelings if you want and, of course, we can...
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Spring Rejuvenation Retreat
Sunday 2nd to Wednesday 5th September 2018 Spring is about to arrive and we want to celebrate! Join us for our special Spring Rejuvenation Retreat to welcome the end of winter and the start of spring with open arms. Spring is a time when we awaken from the winter...
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End of Winter Wellness Ritual
The cold of winter is lingering a little longer than we may have hoped. Once winter sets in it’s easy to let health slide as we indulge in rich foods, slow down our outdoor activities and basically bunker down until the cold passes. Winter is actually a beautiful time...
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Activated Buckwheat Granola
Gluten free A quick word: We hear a lot about activated nuts and seeds today, and for good reason. By activating our nuts and seeds we “switch on” the beneficial enzymes within them to allow them to be more digestible. Activating our nuts and seeds also gives our...
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Ten Ways to Practice Self Care in Spring
Spring is almost here! This is very exciting news as it means longer days and more importantly, warmer weather. Spring is traditionally a time of new beginnings and fresh starts. Did you know? In Australia we classify seasons in terms of calendar months which means...
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Billabong Mighty Spread
If there’s one food that most Australians hold close to their hearts, it’s Vegemite. The savoury spread represents a metaphorical black and gold of Australian culture being enjoyed by countless Australians since it’s introduction to our shelves in 1923. Throughout...
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Book: The Untethered Soul
A fantastic book encouraging you to explore who 'you' really are. Are you the voices in your head? Are you simply a body? Are you something more? Michael A Singer explores the notion of consciousness using methods of meditation and mindfulness. We really recommend...
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Caramelised Pear and Almond Cake with Rosemary and Winter Spices
Gluten free, dairy free Creating a healthy food culture is all about balance, and allowing a little time for some of the sweeter things in life from time to time plays a big part in this. It’s not often we use sugar these days in the Billabong kitchen, but if we do,...
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Dark Jaffa Cacao Sponge Cake with Raw Cacao Fudge Sauce
Gluten free & Dairy free Sometimes only a chocolate cake will satisfy our taste buds’ silent cries for some sweet attention. As someone who prefers not to consume dairy or gluten, I decided to create this dark cacao sponge so that is was gluten & dairy free as...
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Meditation for Sleep
Sometimes it's hard to fall asleep, the body and mind probably feel tired, but once in bed, the mind continues to race and keep us awake. For those times, try this meditation which can be done in bed, with the intention to fall asleep. While it is a meditation to help...
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Documentary: Brain Games
Brain Games is a Netflix documentary looking at how our brains affect our reality. We recommend Season 4 Episode 1 which is a brilliant short film aimed at kids and adults alike about how our brains are wired for compassion. Check it out on...
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Book: The Mind Workout
A really simple and user friendly book that was recommended by a recent guest that explains basic mindfulness practices in ways that are really easily digested and put into practice in every day lives. Mark talks about learning to notice urges, break compulsive...
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Spicy Baked Eggs
Si’s amazing spicy baked eggs with beans and toasted sesame recipe. Serves about 4. INGREDIENTS: Extra virgin olive oil (enough to thinly coat your pan or tray) 1/2 clove x garlic (roughly chopped) 1/2 x medium leek (roughly chopped) 1 tsp x fennel seeds 1 tsp x...
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Understanding Meditation
A brilliant TED talk by Andy Puddicombe founder of Headspace talking about meditation and how to observe the mind, observe thoughts and emotions.
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Roast Pumpkin Hummus
Ingredients 3/4 cup ice cold water 400g of cooked chickpeas 200g of cooked white beans juice of 1 lemon 1 clove of garlic tsp of cumin tsp of turmeric 1/3 cup of tahini 1 cup of roast pumpkin 1 tsp of salt Method Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Place sliced pumpkin...
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Mindful Eating
Mindfulness is a very practical way to bring meditation into your everyday life. It’s a technique that can be practised at any time of the day, wherever you are and what better activity to practice it than when you are eating a meal or a consuming food. When we bring...
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Jill Bolte Taylor: Stroke of Insight
Incredible story of a neuroscientist who had a left brain stroke and experienced what is what like to inhabit a pure right brain consciousness. This gives an amazing insight into the right brain's connectedness with the energy all around us and as humans become...
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Books: A New Earth and The Power of Now
Here are 2 books we would recommend to everyone! A New Earth and The Power of Now, both by Eckhart Tolle. “Time isn’t precious at all, because it is an illusion. What you perceive as precious is not time but the one point that is out of time: the Now. That is precious...
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Visualise your day meditation
This is a short 6-minute meditation to do in the mornings. It’s a meditation which envisions your day and the way you would like to feel during the activities you have planned. There is a lot that is out of our control in our days but how we perceive and therefore how...
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Moroccan spiced pumpkin with cauliflower/cashew cheese sauce
This is a beautiful, simple and very tasty way to cook pumpkin for a small group or to a family. It saves time cutting and presents really nicely and creates a great sharing atmosphere while everyone has to scoop into the golden, caramelise wheel in the middle of the...
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Zesty Basil & Almond Pesto
I love vibrant, bright and full flavoured sauces and dressings like this! They make the best accompaniment to balance slightly sweet, rich and full-bodied offerings like pumpkin, sweet potato, polenta, eggplant, lasagna thick vegetable stews. This pesto is also an...
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Meet our new Retreat Host Phoebe
Q. What's one piece of advice you could give to someone to transform or take their yoga practice to the next year ( from a beginner to an intermediate) Pheobe: Oh! that's a tough one. I would say, listen to your body, but also challenge yourself. Flirt (don't push)...
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Seeded loaf
This bread is packed full of nutrient-dense fibre, protein, healthy fats like omega-3 & omega-6, carbohydrates (from nuts + seeds), vitamins and minerals. Free from gluten, dairy, eggs and refined sugar. Ingredients: 1 cup of quinoa or brown rice 1/2 cup ...
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Stuffed eggplant on leek puree
Stuffed eggplant on leek puree makes 8 serves Ingredients 2 large eggplants 1 cup cooked quinoa (make sure you have soaked before cooking to aid digestion) 1 small red onion diced and sautéed in coconut oil 6 medjool dates pipped and chopped 1 capsicum diced 1/4 cup...
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Yoga Dad presents What is Yoga?
Short video from Billabong Retreat founder Paul aka 'Yoga Dad' explaining why we all need to do yoga!
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Farm Shop with a Heart
Warrah Biodynamic Farm at Dural supplies all of our organic fruit and vegetables and are a registered charity providing services to adults and children with disabilities in Sydney’s North West. They grow a wide range of certified biodynamic/organic seasonal produce,...
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Balancing Kitchari
A balancing comfort food, filled with fibre, protein and complex carbohydrates. Kitchari is often given as an Ayurvedic remedy to people who need rejuvenation from chronic exhaustion, poor digestion, or an over-toxic system. This seriously tasty kitchari offers warmth...
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Si’s Mediterranean Spiced Olives
Love olives? Try this next time to add some extra flavour. Ingredients: 2 cups of unpitted kalamatta or Sicilian olives.(drains and rinsed well) 1 clove of garlic (roughly chopped) 1 Tablespoon of fennel seeds 2 bay leaves 1/2 teaspoon of cracked black pepper 1/2...
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Morning Elixir
Starting your internal fire with a bang in the morning. Have this hit of health (preferably half an hour before you eat) every morning to help boost start your metabolism, boost your immune system, aid digestion, repair cells, balance your pH, cleans your urinary...
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Book: Loving What Is
This book is extremely helpful if you ever find that you have disturbing emotional thoughts that are very hard to ignore or to get rid of. In this book Byron Katie gives format and formula for conversations which create breakthroughs and transformation.
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Ten Minute Morning Practice
Simple morning routine from Billabong Retreat founder Paul suitable for all ages and middle aged men as well!
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Vegan Salted Caramel Slice
Using all Natural Sugars. Dairy Free, Gluten free and Vegan Ingredients: Base 1/2 cup of almonds 1/2 cup of cashews or macadamia (or mixture of both) 1/2 cup of cacao powder 1 cup of soaked dates (soak in boiling water) pinch of salt (preferably celtic or pink salt)...
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Golden-Spiced Coconut Chai Elixir
Creating healthy habits and rituals are the fertile ground for a happy & joyous life. I personally love finding ways to include potent, life-enhancing Ingredients to my personal food culture that enrich my life and my senses simulataneoulsly and one of the easiest...
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Thai Sweet Potato Patties
Thai Sweet Potato Patties Ingredients 3 x medium sweet potato grated (skin can be left on if organic) 2 tablespoons x coconut oil zest x 1 lime 2 x large leaves of silverbeet finely chopped 2 x organic free range eggs beaten 1 tablespoon x fresh chopped coriander 2...
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Raw Tiramisu
Makes 12 slices Biscuit layer 1 cup almond meal 1 cup dried macadamia 1 cup cashews 1 cup pitted soaked dates with 1/4 cup of date water 1/4 tsp celtic salt 2 tbsp melted cold-pressed coconut oil 1 tbsp maca powder 1 tsp of wattle seed powder 2 shots of espresso Cream...
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Top Three Books: Pregnancy Yoga
Here are 3 books our yoga teachers recommend for all the pregnant goddesses Yoga Mama, Yoga Baby: Ayurveda and Yoga for a Healthy Pregnancy and Birth by Margo Shapiro Bachman M.D Yoga Mama: The Practitioner's Guide to Prenatal Yoga; by Linda Sparrowe Yoga for...
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Film: The Science Behind Yoga
We highly recommend this great short film featuring many of our teachers from the lovely people at Uplift... Watch it on Uplift here.
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Book: We’re All Going To Die
This is a beautiful joyful book that understands one of the keys to enjoying life is to come to terms with our own inevitable death. Written by an Australian medical doctor this book explains the wisdom that comes from reconciling ourselves with death, a skill that...
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Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad with turmeric and mountain pepper dressing Salad (makes 6 serves) 2 capsicum 1 fennel with long tips if possible 1 cup of cooked quinoa (soaked first and then cooked) 6 generous hand full of fresh organic greens half a purple cabbage 1/4 cup of finely...
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Befriending Your Breath
Podcast about connecting to your breath in meditation.
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Altered Traits Book Review
This book is amazing. For those of us who like a bit of science with our ancient wisdom then look no further than 'Altered Traits' by Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson. Both these authors are well know and are well established within the mindfulness and neuroscience...
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Short film when we were featured on Channel 9's "Destination Happiness'
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Book: Sapiens
This book gives a great understanding of how us humans evolved and the biological and cultural history that has shaped each and every one of us today. Once you fully understand where you come from and the forces that have created you it is far easier to break free...
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The Divided Brain
I am fascinated by this TED discussion by Psychiatrist Iain McGilchrist how our brain fundamentally works in two different ways yet this duality is often masked by our mindlessness. Our left brain is good are knowing defined detail yet this often delivers a...
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Video: Spiced Pumpkin & Quinoa Loaf
Here is beautiful and simple recipe from Billabong chef Simon Favorito for anyone wanting to create a rustic gluten-free loaf full of flavour and whole food goodness. This is lovely hearty bread alternative to serve with breakfast, afternoon snack or as a side with...
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Apple & Cinnamon Chia Porridge
Ingredients Serves 4 ½ Cup Chia Seeds 500ml Almond Milk (Liquid of your choice) 2 Green Apples 2 Cinnamon Sticks 1 Star Anise 2 cloves Water Method Soak Chia seeds in a bowl with 500ml of Almond Milk and stir with a whisk. Let sit for 5 minutes and give it another...
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Metta Meditation by Basia
This technique is a method of developing compassion - essentially about cultivating love. A love that is unconditional, inclusive, and with no expectations of anything in return. It can be helpful when there is a concern about someone and the continuous worrying is...
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Trigger Happy by Paul von Bergen in CEO Magazine
Paul's article entitled Trigger Happy as featured in CEO Magazine feb17-ceo-magazine
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Raw Carrot Cake
This raw carrot cake is GF, DF, Sugar free and packed with veggies, nuts and natural fruits. Plus its delicious! Ingredients Make 16 serves Carrot cake layer 1 1/4 cups of almonds 1 1/4 cup of cashews 2 cups of shredded coconut 1 1/2 cups almond meal (or pulp from...
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Book: Wherever You Go, There You Are
"Wherever you go, there you are. Whatever you wind up doing, that's what you've wound up doing. Whatever you are thinking right now, that's what's on your mind. The important question is how are you going to handle it?" Jon Kabat-Zinn This book is great for those new...
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Book: You Can Heal Your Life
This book is designed to help anyone come to the realisation that we are the creators of our own suffering and we can be the creators of our own joy. This book has sold 50 million copies - think of all those lives helped. What a woman, what a life. Here are some of...
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Dal-licious Dal
Ingredients 500g of moog dal Home made vegetable stock (or water) Half medium size pumpkin cubed about 1cm 2 carrots diced 1 leek diced 1/4 cup of fresh grater ginger (loosely packed) 2 teaspoons of coriander seeds 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds 2 table spoons of coconut...
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Podcast: Prerequisite for Mindfulness
In this podcast Billabong Retreat teacher Basia Nowacki looks at our tendency to have busy minds and provides some simple tips for how to reduce any negative effects from this. Basia is a yoga and meditation teacher, known for her down to earth kindness, warm and...
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Video Recipe: Berry Cashew Slice
Quick four minute video recipe from Billabong chef Simon Favorito. About The Chef: Simon Favorito comes from a lineage of wholefood chefs & has spent over half his life helping people to discover the magic of wholefood medicine through the culinary arts as a chef,...
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Zucchini, Fig and Apple Loaf
Makes 1 large loaf Ingredients 1/2 cup of coconut oil, melted 1/2 cup honey 3 eggs or 3 flax eggs (3 tablespoons of flax to 2 tablespoons filtered water) 2 teaspoons vanilla powder 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate soda 2 1/2 teaspoons aluminum free baking powder 1 teaspoons...
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Cacao, Berry and Quinoa cake
Another amazing cake from Billabong chef Tash Burbury Ingredients 1/3 cup milk (I used almond) 4 eggs (can also use chia egg replacements) 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cups of cooked quinoa (make sure you soak your quinoa before cooking for better digestion) 1/4 cup melted...
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Tea Time Meditation
How to Transform Your Tea Time Into A Meditation Practice by Billabong Retreat Basia Nowacki. Basia is a yoga and meditation teacher, known for her down to earth kindness, warm and calming spirit. She teachers and inspires acceptance of what is, living in the present...
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Meditation 101: Can You Stop Those Pesky Thoughts by Paul von Bergen?
Introduction to meditation by Billabong Retreat founder Paul von Bergen
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Nik Toth Video Review
Check out this great video review from health coach Nik Toth. You can find out more about Nik at www.theleanbodycoach.com
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Forest Bathing is Scientifically Good for You!
We were fascinated by this article about some scientific research in Japan that actually explains why hanging out with trees improves your immune function! The Japanese practice of forest bathing is proven to lower heart rate and blood pressure, reduce stress hormone...
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Toni’s Veggie Curry
Check out Billabong chef Toni explaining how to make her famous veggie curry! You can enjoy Toni's cooking every Wednesday to Friday at Billabong Retreat and she also offers a catering service. See her via...
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Kiwi, Avocado and Lime slice
Base 1 cup desiccated coconut 1 cup of walnuts 1 cup cashews 1/4 tsp salt 2 tbsp melted coconut oil 2 tbsp cacao Centre 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup 2 cups of soaked cashews 1 ripe avocado juice of one...
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She Said June 2017
This Is What Really Goes On At A Yoga Retreat by Sarah Friggieri PR - shesaid - july17...
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Harpers Bizarre July 2017
Bazarre explores the most luxurious getaways including Billabong...
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Women’s Fitness June 17
A retreat for parents as WF’s Brooke Lyons heads to Sydney’s zen hideaway for some R&R... with her husband in tow....
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Womens Day June 17
Women's Day tried a Weekend of Wellness "No longer just for celebs, wellbeing breaks are more a ordable and accessible than ever...
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Weekend Australia June 2017
Read Weekend Australia article "How's The Serenity" by Penny Hunter ...
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Australian Traveler June 2017
Read article by Lara Picone "Our journey to find mindfulness in two days at Billabong retreat"...
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Tash’s Breakfast Frittata
You can't beat a frittata for breakfast - this is Tash's version and serves around 6 Ingredients: 8 beaten eggs 1/2 cup of milk of choice 3 cups of chopped veggies of choice. I used sweet potato, carrots, zucchini, carrot and sweet corn. 1/2 fine chopped onion 1 glove...
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How to Ease Your Stress by Paul von Bergen
Interview between Dr William De Jean and Billabong Retreat founder Paul von Bergen about how to reduce stress.
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Instinct vs Impulse by Paul von Bergen
On first look, an impulse can feel very much like an instinct. It comes from inside and seems to drive you to do something. Instincts also come from inside but are more a general gut feeling that you should follow a particular path. Impulses are not always good for...
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On Being with Krista Tippet
We highly recommend these series of podcasts particularly Becoming Wise. In their words... Becoming Wise is an inquiry into the mystery and art of living. Peabody Award-winning journalist Krista Tippett engages wise lives of our day — from Brian Greene and Jon...
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A Nourishing Food Philosophy by Angie Cowen
Billabong Retreat chef Angie explaining why nourishment is more than just the food!
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Vanilla Custard
We had the honour of welcoming Lee Holmes to the retreat recently, not only did she write a great review she kindly left us a great recipe! GF WF SF makes 375 ml (13 fl oz/11/2 cups) There’s nothing more soothing and indulgent than rich, velvety custard, but...
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Film: The Living Matrix
An oldie but a goldie! Great film that explains the importance of understanding the power of placebo and the energetic field that we all inhabit. Features interviews with leading scientists including one of our heroes Bruce Lipton. View the trailer AND then support...
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What is healthy food by Simon Favorito
Kindness is King
By Paul von Bergen Compassion and kindness starts with the self. This is not narcissistic or self-centred but the best contribution you can make to the universe. When you love yourself you will project love to others. When you hate yourself this is what you will...
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Jaffa Almond Cake With Chocolate Sauce
If you have a kids party with 16 hungry children coming this is a great healthy recipe to feed them. Otherwise just half or quarter the ingredients to serve less. BOIL ORANGES for : 30-45 Minutes PREP TIME : 15-20 Minutes BAKING TIME : 45-60 Minutes INGREDIENTS...
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Activated Savoury Seed and Nut Loaf
Recipe by Billabong chef Si Favorito GF, Paleo, Vegan, Sugar free, yeast free This loaf is beautifully satisfying and is loaded of wholefood goodness and nutrition. It makes a perfect breakfast loaf with some avocado, fresh herbs, lime & chilli or even an...
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What Are Your Wellness Goals?
We just did some great research to find out what bothered people in their lives and we had nearly 5,000 submissions. It really seems that in today's world many of us want to find a way to calm our busy minds, reduce the effects of stress and improve our energy levels...
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Cauliflower Fried Rice
The use of cauliflower instead of rice brings a lightness, as well as a unique flavour and texture. It is great as a side or a main dish. Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ghee or coconut oil 1 Spanish onion finely chopped 1 medium cauliflower in chunks 1 carrot, peeled &...
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Easy Vegan Pancakes
This is one of the guests favourites here at Billabong Retreat. A simple and delicious vegan breakfast. Ingredients (serves 4) 1 cup of buckwheat 1 banana 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1 cup of almond milk (or coconut, soy, rice milk) 1 heaped tablespoon of ground flax...
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Our Food Philosophy
We believe that good nutrition is one of the foundations of good health and longevity and that it should not be complicated. We serve wholefoods, as nature produced them, free from artificial pesticides, chemicals and antibiotics. We serve vegetarian food not because...
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Our Pillars of Health, Wellness, Longevity & Joy by Paul von Bergen
1. Eat Well Eat the right foods. Look after your gut biome. No processed foods – just eat real food and slowly so it can be digested properly. No antibiotics if at all possible. Lots of natural probiotics. Minimise or avoid alcohol and caffeine. Avoid anything with...
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Life After a Retreat – What Now?
How many of you have been on a retreat, especially a Yoga retreat, experienced breakthroughs, learnt skills and come out revitalised and inspired to practice on the ‘outside’? In reality, this often proves more challenging than that first day you go back into the...
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Summer Avocado & Herb Dressing
What is Yoga by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen Yoga is an ancient guide to bringing joy and contentment to human beings. It originates from the Vedas, one of the earliest sources of human wisdom that is over four thousand years old and was chanted from generation to generation before the written...
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What Is Mindfulness by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen Mindfulness is quite simply the biggest revolution in health and wellness but not because it is new, it is not. The concepts and ideas of mindfulness have been around for thousands of years. It is because the concept of mindfulness has captured the...
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Setting Quality Intentions: Top Eight Tips by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen, Founder, Billabong Retreat Learning how to set high quality intentions rather than poor quality resolutions is an essential skill for anyone who wants to create change in their lives. How many times have you or someone else set a new year...
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Paul von Bergen’s Article in CEO Magazine
Check out Paul's recent article in this months CEO magazine. Paul (our founder) is now a regular featured health & wellness contributor....
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Travel Insider Best Retreats
We are pleased to be featured on Travel Insider as one of Australia's best retreats!...
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Archie’s Raspberry & Coconut Cake
This is Archie's first contribution to the Billabong recipes! Ingredients 3 eggs 3 cups desiccated coconut 1 cup almond meal 100g butter 1 cup rice mil 1/2 cup coconut oil 1/2 cup coconut oil tablespoon vanilla essence table spoon bicarb tablespoon beetroot powder...
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Spiced Chai
“This spiced-chai is made out of using the poaching liquid for the spiced-stewed apples I serve on Sunday breakfast. It’s a very warming drink, perfect for the winter season. Doing it this way we don’t waste any of the liquid goodness by throwing the liquid out after...
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Creamy Sweet Potato Dahl
GF, DF, NF, VEGAN I love this recipe in winter, it’s warming both in spice and heat, nurturing and just tastes wonderful. The sweet potato gives this dish such a lovely texture as well as adding a delicious sweetness. Enjoy! Serves 5-6 Ingredients 1 cup split red...
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Winter Pumpkin and Chicken soup
Why not combine our two favourite winter soups to create one delicious soup. Inspired by trying to please everyone at meal times I did just that. This recipe uses a whole chicken and creates a large batch of soup to freeze. Halve the recipe if you only want to feed...
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Delicious Fudge
A delicious and easy healthy alternative for afternoon tea for the kids or a pick me up for yourself. With the addition of protein rich nuts and energizing coconut oil you don’t have to feel guilty. Ingredients ½ cup of liquid coconut oil, 1 tbsp cacao powder 1 cup of...
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Angie’s Video
CEO Magazine June 2016
A wellness sanctuary just outside of Sydney provides all the right ingredients to help guests reassess the way they’ve been hurtling through life. PR -...
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Raspberry Choc Coconut Spelt Slice
Great for school lunches or an afternoon snack or with tea for you and friends. Ingredients ½ cup dessicated coconut 1 cup spelt flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ cup melted coconut oil 3 tblsps rice syrup or honey 3 organic eggs ½ cup almond milk or milk of your...
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Pumpkin Soup
GF, DF, NF, SF, GRF, VEGAN Anti-inflammatory through the addition of ginger and turmeric, this soup is truly warming and satisfying. Serves 5-6 Ingredients 1.2 kg pumpkin (such as Jap), peeled and diced 300 g sweet potato, peeled and diced 1 medium brown onion,...
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Dear Body
By Charlotte Thaarup-Owen We protect what we fall in love with– fall in love with your dear body. Sometimes I think that the relationship we have with our body is like a veil that stops us from stepping fully into life due to feelings of shame and ‘not good enough’....
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Lemon Avocado Pudding
This is such a fresh, light and delicious dessert. It’s quick to make and will delight your guests every time! GF, DF, NF, GRF, VEGAN Serves 3-4 Ingredients 3 large ripe avocados Juice of 1-2 lemons (depending on taste) 1/3 cup raw honey (or to taste) 2 cups coconut...
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How to Make New Year Intentions Stick
It’s that time of the year where new resolutions and intentions are set, but how do we actually make them stick? Here are some quick and easy tips. Limit how many resolutions you have to three (If you accomplish them early, then add more) Work out how you’ll deal with...
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Chocolate Sesame Cookies
This is a great go-to recipe for when a serious cookie is required. The sesame and chocolate combination is just lovely and the texture is solid, which for me is just perfect. GF, DF, VEGAN Makes 10-12 cookies Ingredients 1 cup sesame seeds 1 cup almond meal ½ cup...
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Parsley Tahini Dressing
Creamy and divine, this dressing has been a crowd pleaser since its creation many years ago. Serve it on roast vegetables, as a dip or as a creamy sauce on dairy-free pizza. GF, DF, NF, SF, GRF, VEGAN Makes approximately 2 cups Ingredients 1 cup hulled tahini Juice of...
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Top tips for practising mindfulness by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen Anchor each day with a meditation, however small Be forgiving with yourself & your mind first Sprinkle your day with short minute meditations Identify stress triggers and watch out for them Notice repetitive patterns of thought Tail each day...
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Choc-banana Cake
This delicious gluten and dairy free cake is so easy to make and great with strawberries piled on top for any special day. ingredients 3 cups blanched almond meal ½ teaspoon bi carb 3 medium size black bananas 4 organic eggs 2 tspns vanilla tspn of cinnamon ½ cup of...
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Massaged Kale and Carrot Salad
This delicious kale salad recipe is perfect for first time kale cooks and experienced kale lovers, a simple yet tasty combination we be sure to have yourself and your guests going back for more. Ingredients 1 medium bunch kale - stalks removed and shredded or sliced...
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Yours Magazine June 2015
They have "never felt so relaxed" Yours...
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Newcastle Herald Weekender
Inside the chill-out zone A collection of private treehouses overlooking two billabongs is the ideal set-up for a peaceful holiday, writes ALYSSON WATSON. pr-newcastle...
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Kale and Broccoli Soup
This soup is delicious, alkalising and ever so simple to make plus, with the addition of the unpastuerised paste at the end, the soup includes beneficial bacteria. Serves 4-5 Ingredients 1 medium onion, roughly chopped 1 tbsp ghee or extra virgin coconut oil 1 clove...
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Golden Milk
Turmeric has been used for thousands of years for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also known for it’s benefits to liver function, digestion, immune function and even protection from cancer. It’s great to put in curries, soups and fresh juices,...
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How to do Mantra Meditation
A mantra is a word or sound repeated to help in concentration and meditation. The yogic mantra Soham (Pronounced as So’ Hum) translates to I am that” (so = “I am” and hum = “that”). To practice this begin by bringing your attention to the rhythm of your breath,...
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Flourless orange and chia seed cake
So easy and delicious especially with some local or organic oranges. A healthy gluten free version on the old orange and poppyseed cake rich in good fats, fibre and protein. Ingredients: 3 organic eggs ½ cup of cold pressed olive or macadamia oil juice of 2 oranges...
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Blueberry Chia Porridge
Serves 2 Ingredients 1/3 cup chia seeds 1 ½ cups almond milk or coconut milk (or a mix of coconut rice milk) ½ cup coconut cream (check the label when purchasing) to ensure there are no preservatives) 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries Pinch of...
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Lemon & Spice Carrot Soup
Serves 3-4 This is a wonderfully spiced soup that will definitely raise the temperature of the bodies delighting in it. Ingredients 550g carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 1 brown onion, roughly chopped 1 tbsp ghee or extra virgin coconut oil for cooking 1 ½ tsp...
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Chocolate Avocado Pudding
Gluten free, Nut free, Vegan Blender required (Serves 6) A surprisingly decadent taste and texture, this is a long-standing crowd pleaser. Enjoy it as a simple chocolate mousse or as a soft vegan icing. Ingredients 2 ripe small/medium avocados ¾ cup real maple syrup 1...
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The New Year: Are we evolving?
For many of us, the start of a new year usually marks the beginning of a new cycle. It is often a time of reflection on the various events that have happened in the prior year, what we have achieved or not, and the setting for new resolutions based on what we would...
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Quinoa and roast vegetable salad with parsley tahini dressing.
This is a delicious recipe for a hearty salad that goes with many different meals. Using seasonal local vegetables will give you a far superior result; your vegetables will generally be fresher and, being in season, they will taste better too. Ingredients 2 cups...
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Celebration Chocolate Beetroot Cake
This is a seriously delicious and earthy chocolate cake. This recipe has been used for many a wedding, engagement party, birthday or baby shower and is a perfect treat for Christmas! it never fails to impress. Ingredients: 3 medium beetroots 2 cups brown rice flour ½...
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Easy Lemon Curd Cheese Cake
This scrumptious creamy cake is high in healthy fats and virtually fructose free. It is Gluten and grain free too. Its super easy and looks really special too You will need 1 x 12 inch spring form cake tin lined with baking paper Base 2 ½ cups almond meal ¾...
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Pumpkin Frittata
Serves: 4 Time to make: 40 mins Ingredients: ½ a pumpkin 1 red capsicum 2 cups chopped spinach 5 eggs 150g cottage cheese salt and pepper Instructions Preheat the oven to 200°C. Have a large baking dish ready, lightly greased. Dice pumpkin into little squares. Place...
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Beetroot Salad
A Super simple salad! Ingredients: 2-3 Beetroots 2 Stocks of Spring onion Dressing: 250 ml Apple Cider Vinegar 250ml Olive Oil 2 table spoons Honey Mix the Apple cider vinegar, olive oil and honey in a 500ml glass bottle. Shake well. Keep in fridge for later use....
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Spicy Pumpkin & Apple Cake
Ingredients: 4 eggs (free range) 2/3 cup of olive oil ½ cup of honey (to taste, can add a little more) 3 cups spelt flour 1tsp bicarbonate 1tsp baking powder 2tsp ginger powder 2tsp cinnamon ½ nutmeg 1 ½ - 2 cups grated pumpkin...
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Big Fat Lies by David Gillespie
By Paul von Bergen There is a lot of confusion out there at the moment about what exactly is causing the high rates of cancer, heart disease, obesity and diabetes that we are seeing particularly in the Western world. Certainly the trend over the past fifty years of...
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Apricot, Coconut & Almond Meal Bliss Balls
Makes around 15 Bliss Balls are such a wonderful treat and super-food snack. You can put almost anything in them, nuts seeds, dried fruit, peppermint or orange oils! And it’s so easy too. 2 cups almond meal 200 g of dried apricots (soak over night) 11/2 cups...
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Gluten Free Banana Muffins
with Coconut, Vanilla, Honey. Dairy, Wheat & Gluten Free. Recipe: Makes at least 68 mini muffins. Ingredients: 4 Bananas 100grams of Desiccated Coconut 3 table spoons of Honey 1 table spoon of Vanilla Extract ½ cup of Almond Milk (room temperature) 3 Eggs (room...
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Biology of Belief
By Paul von Bergen We have been fans of Bruce Lipton for a while now and the more we read and absorb, the more obvious and simple his teachings become. His core statement is that our thoughts affect our genes. We think thoughts which create emotional chemicals that...
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How to Set Intentions or Goals by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen With the new year firmly established it is appropriate to reflect on the direction of our life and whether we are creating the reality we want. It is also a time when a lot of us set goals with the belief that this will more likely make them happen....
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Cookies with Macadamia Nuts
(courtesy of the Merrymaker Sisters ) We have forever been searching for the perfect paleo cookies. Several faileos (too hard, tastes like cardboard, crumbles + falls apart = gross) later, here it is! Our (to date) favourite paleo cookies! We like ours soft + chewy...
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Billabong Retreat – A yoga and meditation holiday in Sydney by Love Swah Blog
http://loveswah.com/2013/10/billabong-retreat-a-yoga-and-meditation-holiday-in-sydney/
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Top Tips Supporting You Through Chemotherapy
Embarking on the road of chemotherapy treatment for cancer can be a difficult and trying time for anyone to endure. Having gone through chemotherapy and radiation for breast cancer just over 5 years ago, here are some tips that I can offer to support you through...
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Review from Total Travel at Yahoo7
Avocado cacao mousse with raspberries and coconut cream
serves 6 2 large avocados 1tsp vanilla 3 tblsp sweetner of choice, honey or coconut syrup (or equivalent stevia if avoiding sugars) 3 tblsp cacao powder 1 cup of fresh or frozen raspberries 6 individual glasses Use a food processor or stick blender to combine all...
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Raw Gluten free muesli
Ingredients ½ cups sesame seeds ground ½ cups linseeds ground 1/2cups sunflower seeds not ground ½ cups almonds, raw or baked ½ cups of coconut flakes or shredded. (optional) ½ cups pepitas ½ bag brown rice puffs 2-3 tblsp cinnamon Combine all ingredients well,...
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Coconut Flour Blueberry Muffins – gluten, dairy & sugar free!
Will make about 10 muffins or the ingredients can be successfully doubled. Great for school lunches with no nuts, packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats for brain power. ½ cup coconut flour ¼ teaspoon baking powder ¼ cup coconut oil ¼ cup coconut syrup or rice...
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Black Sticky Rice and Spinach Pie
Serves 4-5 125 gram cup brown rice 75gram black rice 1 x lg cottage cheese 1/8 small block cheddar 1-2 pkts chopped spinach, Seasoning 2 sheets filo Black sesame seeds Veg stock 1 onions 1 cloves garlic Basil 1 teaspoons Dill 1 teaspoons Nutmeg 1 teaspoons Tamari...
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Billabong Vegetable Curry
Serves four This is a really simple delicious curry, you can use whatever veg you like, I love sweet potato as it thickens and sweetens the curry adding loads of fibre without being too starchy 1 tblspn of ghee or coconut oil 1 large onion 2 garlic cloves 2 tsp of...
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Gluten Free Buckwheat Pancakes
(makes about 16 pancakes) Tory has made these pancakes for years with just the buckwheat flour, they are delicious and so easy. The rule of thumb with pancakes is often the first one is not so good, so don’t worry, the rest will be great. The flax seeds add fibre and...
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Daddy’s Special Eggy Breakfast
(serves two adults and 3 kids) 10-12 organic eggs clump broccoli 1 x cob sweet corn 1 x carrot any other veg you desire This is so easy and the kids love it with all it’s different and bright colours. Appearance is a big thing when getting kids to eat vegetables! Mix...
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Shape Magazine October 2013
Bliss by The Billabong! Shape OctNov...
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Best Meditation Retreat Body & Soul
Sydney Morning Herald – Best Retreats
Billabong Toasted Granola
Makes a medium sized jar or store in a plastic container in the fridge. 3 cups of mixed rolled grains, oats, barley, rye, amaranth, quinoa…or simply just oats. ½ cup chopped almonds 1 cup sesame seeds ½ cup pepitas ½ cup sunflower seeds 1 cup spelt flour 2-4 tbl...
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Creamy Breakfast Porridge
Serves 6 Ingredients 1 ½ cups of oats (oat flakes) 400ml can of coconut cream 3 cups of water Honey Vanilla pods Instructions: Soak oats overnight. Combine oats, coconut milk and water in a saucepan or pot. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and...
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Stewed Organic Pears
Serves four 4 organic pears 2 tablespoons honey cinnamon stick star anise ginger cardamom Peel the pears then add the spices and pears to a pan of water. Cook for about 30-45 minutes. Remove the pears then reduce the syrup to a thickness of your choosing serve the...
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Organics at Billabong Retreat
The Billabong Kitchen and recipes were inspired by the personal health issues of owner Tory, who undertook vigorous research and experimentation to bring herself back to perfect health, as well as understanding that the journey continues as we change and grow, ebb...
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Red Kidney Bean Stew
Serves 16 5 lrg onions 4 tblsp olive oil 4 sm cans chopped tomato 1kg red kidney beans, black eyed beans and cannelloni beans Season 3 tblsp of tomato paste Paprika 1 teaspoon Barley soaked 2 cups Carrots 1kg Veg stock 11/2 litre Lemon zest and juice of one lemon...
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Haz’s Coconut Dahl
1 tblsp ghee 2 cups Red lentils soaked over night 1 garlic cloves small Knob ginger grated 500mls veg stock (herbamare is good) ½ can Coconut cream Lemon juice Fresh coriander leaves In a heavy based pot gentle fry ginger and garlic in ghee until soft. Add half the...
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Healing from Cancer
My Understanding During the time I was having chemotherapy, I attended a local movie premiere of Sex In The City. The evening was a fundraiser for breast cancer. Given the nature of the movie, the cinema was naturally full of women with the odd token male. As I looked...
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Free Guided Meditation by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen A counting meditation is designed to improve your ability to hold the mind steady, without wandering. Listen to our guided counting meditation here taken from our mindfulness training...
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Rainbow salad
Serves 4-6 ¼ white cabbage or Chinese cabbage shredded finely Half a purple cabbage shredded finely Half Celery chopped quite finely 1 carrot sliced finely 3 Green apples chopped in small squares Black or white sesame seeds 2 or 3 Red yellow or green capsicum A...
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Coconut Cacao Brittle WOW!
Ingredients 1/3 cup coconut oil 2-3 heaped tblspns raw cacao powder 50gms cacao butter (loving earth brand) Coconut sugar (it’s like brown sugar but much better for you) Stevia powder and drops (only a tiny amount is needed, add more if u want a sweeter version)...
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Lotus Dreaming Poem by Tory
Arriving, perfect timing. Late, fate hesitate Coming here to mediate Quiet night, dream inside others moving different tides. Sitting breathing frogs I’m hearing, listening and learning ancient dreaming Outside stillness inside stirring New ways to be, I am learning...
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Billabong Supercharged Alkalizing Tonic
…for one person We recommend everyone to regularly drink apple cider vinegar ( the good organic stuff with the mother still intact) Anecdotal evidence indicates that ACV relieves joint pain, headaches, arthritis, headaches, fatigue and more. It is highly alkaline and...
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Back to our roots. Wise traditions.
With so much conflicting information around about diet and what to eat or not to eat it is best to try to ignore or not take to seriously information in the media. Simply ask yourself. “Would my ancestors have eaten this food” If not..leave it where you found it, it...
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Raw cacao and almond meal bliss balls
…makes around 15 Bliss Balls are such a wonderful treat and super-food snack. You can put almost anything in them, nuts seeds, dried fruit, peppermint or orange oils! So so easy too. 2 cups almond meal 2 -3 heaped tblspns raw cacao 1 ½ cups pitted dates 11/2 cups...
read more10 helpful hints for gut health and strong winter immunity
Prebiotics and probiotics (prebiotics feed the probiotics) Fermented foods, kefir and saukraut. Make sure to start with small doses. Gluten free and wheat free diet Try a sugar free diet. Use stevia or Xylitol instead Cook with coconut oil, it is full of...
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Background to Mindfulness by Paul von Bergen
By Paul von Bergen Inspired by John Kabat Zinn If you were part of the London Philharmonic Orchestra you would not dream of using your instrument without tuning it first yet. The mind is our instrument of running our life yet most of us don’t spend even a moment of...
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