You are worth much more than your productivity
Imagine a day — no, a week — with no list of things 'to do', where your only task is to embrace the sweetness of doing nothing.
Time slows down as you rest under the Tuscan sun, listening to the hum of the cicadas, gaze melting into the terraced hillsides with their softly swaying olive trees. Sip a glass of Chianti in the courtyard, smell the scent of fresh rosemary on your fingertips, and surrender the impulse to be productive.
Every exhale is an invitation to let go, just be, turning presence into a masterpiece.
This is the sweetness of doing nothing.
It isn't laziness. It isn't lethargy. It is a sensual engagement with all that is. A deep, embodied appreciation of the beauty bursting open in the palm of your hands like a sun-ripened peach plucked right off the tree.
Il dolce far niente isn't really about doing nothing. It's about engaging fully with everything that you oh, so, intentionally choose to do.
'If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon
in a perfectly useless manner,
you have touched the art of truly living.'
Have you been feeling
Trapped in the relentless culture of hustle and grind?
Exhausted by the constant need to be doing a dozen different things at one time?
Over-Stimulated by the incessant onslaught of notifications, messages, and breaking news?
Disenchanted by the lack of reward for your years of self-sacrifice?
Do you identify as
a Creative missing that spark of inspiration due to chronic stress?
an Entrepreneur ready to call in more abundance and a healthier dance between life and business?
a Caregiver required to constantly prioritize the well-being of others over your own?
in Transition navigating a significant change in life — either do to sudden loss or sudden gain?
Are you ready to
Shift from Dreaming to Deciding
Growth requires a willingness to ease out of stagnant routine, identify what is misaligned, and welcome change like a spring breeze.
Embody your Beliefs
Invite the sweetness of the Tuscan countryside to seep into your soul one slow meander, soft sigh, and gentle sip at a time.
Nurture Belonging
Retire from the path of the solitary seeker. Bond with devoted practitioners and reaffirm the inherent value of simply being alive.
Be Surprised
Let life reveal its magic by setting aside expectations long enough for wonder and delight to arise spontaneously.
Experience the inexplicable bliss of doing nothing at all.
il dolce far niente
a week of deep rediscovery through slowing down, growing quiet, and embracing the magic of every moment.
21- 27 June, 2027
Rufina, Tuscany, Italy
The sweetness of doing nothing
...or at least very little
prayers of the tradition
meditation
tantric yoga āsana
slow walks through the countryside
quiet time poolside
meals prepared and enjoyed in community
summer fruit harvest
exploration of medieval hilltop towns
horse riding through vineyards
wine tasting in a castle
sunset dinners
fireside ritual
another way to be
There is more to life than productivity, performance, and efficiency. The value of a day is not determined by how much 'doing' is crammed into it. A life well lived is marked by the way you feel and the feelings you've inspired in other people. These feelings come from sacred moments in time when you are fully present to yourself and your surroundings. When the world and your mind grow quiet enough for the magic to become apparent. When the senses were so attuned that your heart aches with raw, tender, beauty of the world.
This — this — is il dolce far niente.
Your Host & Guide
Natalie Backman
Tantric Yoga has given me a beautiful lens through which to experience myself — and the world. It has provided me both a belief in the inherent goodness of human beings, and a system of practice which transforms that belief into a lived reality.
I practice and teach this sacred system for the same reason — to help myself, and others, realize the gift of our humanity by laying claim to uncompromisable freedom and fulfillment that is everlasting.
Tantric Yoga is a spiritual path which requires our willing participation. It is something we do, as well as ascribe to. It asks us to take responsibility for our experience of life and gives us the tools to do so. This is how we determine the nature of our reality and become creators of our destiny.
As a teacher and guide I utilize Vishoka Meditation, Mantra Japa and recitation, Prāna oriented āsana, philosophical study, and community contemplation.
I have been practicing yoga for over twenty years and teaching for twelve. My teachers have been Tracee Stanley, Rod Stryker, and Pandit Rajmani Tigunait. Everything I practice and share is from my personal embodiment of the philosophies and methodologies stewarded by the Himalayan Tradition. I hold the status of 500-hour E-RYT, which barely reflects the countless hours and years of continuous practice and study. I run both a 200 and a 300-hour virtual Tantric Yoga Teacher Training, guide virtual daily meditation sādhanās every other month, offer professional mentorship to fellow teachers as well as private guidance for dedicated students. I host retreats, workshops, and practice intensives around the world, though predominantly from my home in Tuscany, Italy.
My passion lies in empowering myself and others to take responsibility for our experience of life — to realize that we hold the power to create the life of our dreams or to stay stuck in our suffering. Tantric Yoga of Himalayan Tradition provides the means for joy and liberation. I would love to share my passion for this wisdom, the system, and the total-life benefits with you. Together we can heal not only ourselves, we can heal the world.
Together WE RISE.
Natalie is a devotee of the Himalayan Tradition guided by the wisdom of Pandit Rajmani Tigunait.
The Himalayan Tradition is an ancient, unbroken lineage of yoga, meditation, and spiritual philosophy originating from the masters of the Himalayan Mountains. It seamlessly unifies the practical system of Patanjali’s Yoga Sūtras, the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, and the internal practices of Tantra into a comprehensive path to self-realization. Rather than using rigid dogmas, this lineage encourages us to 'love all, hate none — embrace all, exclude none.
In the Himalayan Tradition, human birth is considered the greatest gift — and not realizing this gift, the greatest tragedy. The Tradition invites us to thoroughly explore our inner landscape while navigating the outer world through selfless service — fully engaging our humanity, while remaining untarnished by it.
We are a Śakta Tradition of the school of Śrī Vidyā — meaning we experience absolutely reality as a wise, compassionate, and ferociously loving — Divine Mother.
Jai Mā
Unrest gives way to Inner Peace
Do you ever feel as though your mind is the field on which warring factions of yourself battle one another in an eternal conflict which will never yield a clear victor?
This is a very common experience of the human psyche.
We are taught and conditioned to believe that there are parts of ourselves which are ‘acceptable’ and parts which should be rejected, repressed and denied.
This creates an inner experience devoid of harmony and trust.
la vita è bella
If you are looking for an action packed, Instagram-able overview of Italy, this is not what you are seeking.
If, instead, your soul craves a chance to
reset your inner rhythms to the steady humm of the cicadas
unfurl your bound up roots and commune with ancient oak and olive trees
drop your shoulders and melt under the Tuscan summer sun
expose your tongue to the sumptuous sweetness of tomatoes fresh from the garden
snooze in the afternoon lulled by the stream on the floor of the valley
sip and savor life rather than gulp it down
meet yourself in an entirely new way —
fully grounded, fully opened, fully rested, fully awake.
This retreat was designed especially for you.
be embraced by
The Magic of Tuscany
The Journey Home
Pilgrimage to Māheśvar, Vārāṇasī & Khajurāho — home of the Śrī Vidyā Shrine
14 Nights | 12-26 January, 2028
Māheśvar and Vārãṇasī | 12 - 19 January
Khajurāho | 19 - 26 January
Beginning at the Delhi airport, and ending at the Khajuraho airport.
Two room options | Shared and Single
Shared room cost — $3,800
Single room cost — $5,000
$500 non refundable deposit to reserve your space
Balance due in full 12 July, 2027
Begin Your Pilgrimage Today
Embark on a life-changing pilgrimage to India to awaken your spirit, walk the sacred lands of the Himalayan masters, and discover the profound peace within you. Book your journey today to experience the transformative power of ancient rituals, sacred rivers, and timeless wisdom firsthand as you journey from the serene, historic riverbanks of the Ahilya Devi Maheshwar Fort in Maheshwar to the intense śakti of the temples and ghats in Varanasi, to the breathtaking, intricately carved ancient temples of Khajuraho, and the heart of the Himalayan Tradition, the Śrī Vidyā Shrine.
Pilgrimage Itinerary
Māheśvar | Find deep meditative stillness at the majestic Śrī Māheśvar Fort. Nestled right on the northern bank of the sacred Narmada River, this peaceful town lets you wander tranquil ghats, explore the beautifully carved Ahilyabai Temple, and immerse yourself in a timeless, pranicly charged atmosphere.
Vāranasi | Absorb the intense spiritual energy of Vāranasi, home to more temples and shrines than any other place in the world. The city of Shiva, it is the optimal place to die and let your soul be ushered into its next incarnation. Visit sites cherished by our tradition, including the Shiva Temple and Lalita Ghat, explore the Ganga Dwar Corridor, and experience the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti rituals over the sacred river.
Khājuraho | Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Khajuraho Temple Complex. These structural masterpieces beautifully intertwine architectural brilliance, cosmic philosophy, and deep spiritual symbolism chiseled into stone. Khājuraho is the location of the Himalayan Institute's Campus which houses the heart of our tradition, the Śrī Vidyā Shrine. This will be the hub of our sādhanā for the entirety of week two.
Māheśvar
Vārnasi
Kājuraho
The Pilgrimage Includes
3 Nights in Māheśvar
Day trip to Omkareśvar
English speaking guide in Māheśvar
Flights from Delhi-Indore, Indore-Delhi, Delhi-Vāranasi
Train from Vāranasi-Khājuraho
English speaking guide in Vāranasi
Day trip to Vindhyachal
Full-time trip leader from Delhi Airport to Khājuraho
7 Nights in Khājuraho at the Himalayan Institute
Daily Guided Practice & Mahāvidyā Course Content
Trip to the Khājuraho Temple Complex
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner every day
All entrance fees for boat rides, temples, heritage sites, etc.
All bus transportation
Māheśvar & Vāranasi | 12 - 19 January
12 January — Meet at Delhi airport, Fly to Indore, Bus to Maheshwar
13 January — Full day to explore Maheshwar
14 January — Day trip to Omkareshwar
15 January — Drive to Indore, fly to Varanasi via transfer in Delhi
Overnight in Varanasi
16 January — Explore Varanasi
17 January — Explore Varanasi
18 January — Day trip to Vindhyachal
19 January Vande Bharat ‘high end’ train from Varanasi to Khajuraho
Khājuraho | 19-26 January
5:30 Chai
6:00 Morning Prayers
7:00 Guided Vishoka Meditation
8:30 Breakfast
10:00 Course Content
12:00 Śri Sūkta in the Shrine
12:30 Lunch
3:00 Āsana or Outting
4:30 Chai & Community
6:00 Evening Prayers
6:15 Dinner
Flexible Payment Plan Options
Secure your space with a $500 non-refundable deposit. The remaining balance is broken down into interest-free monthly installments. Lock in your current rate by paying in full before the January 2027 price increase.
All balances must be paid in full by July 12, 2028.
Step 1 | Secure Space Pay $500 deposit
Step 2 | Monthly Installments Spread the remaining cost over equal monthly payments
Step 3 | Final Balance Complete final installment by July 12, 2028
Give Yourself Something to Look Forward to
Take the first step toward reclaiming the sweetness in your life — or perhaps discovering it for the first time. This simple step may be the start of a journey toward a whole new way of being. Slow down. Breathe. And start visualizing yourself in beautiful Tuscany.
Reserve Your Room
In a world driven by productivity and hustle, il dolce far niente is a quiet rebellion. It invites us to choose to remove ourself from daily stress to enjoy life simply as it is.
Lean into the simple beauty and joy your soul is calling for.
Spaces for this intimate retreat are limited to keep it cozy.
Place your deposit of $500 to secure your space today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travel to Tuscany
What airport should I fly into?
You should book your international flight into Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), which is the closest airport to our venue. Alternatively, you can fly into Pisa International Airport (PSA) or Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) and take a train into Florence. Private group shuttle transfers to our retreat venue in Rufina will be coordinated by our team from the Rufina train station on arrival day.
How do I travel by public transit from Peretola Airport to Rufina?
The trip takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes and consists of two straightforward legs:
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Step 1 (Airport to Train Station): Board the T2 Tram Line directly outside the airport arrivals terminal. Ride it for about 20 minutes and exit at the Alamanni - Stazione Santa Maria Novella stop. Tickets cost €2.00 and must be purchased from the platform machines before boarding.
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Step 2 (Train Station to Rufina): Enter the Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN) main station and board a direct Trenitalia Regionale (REG) train heading toward Rufina. The direct train ride takes between 33 and 53 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €3.80 to €6.00.
Are local transfers within Tuscany included in the package?
Once you arrive at the train station in Rufina, all of your transportation is covered. You are responsible for your journey to that point, then we'll take over! We will travel in air-conditioned cars for our day trips to nearby medieval hilltop towns and the surrounding Rufina region.
Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
Travelers from outside the EU/Schengen Area require a valid passport and may need an ETIAS travel authorization. We will send you a step-by-step European entry guide 6 months before departure.
Accommodations
What are the accommodations like?
We stay in a beautifully restored, historic estate nestled in the hillside of Rufina, a region world-renowned for its distinct Chianti wines. The property features authentic Tuscan stone architecture, panoramic views of the Sieve River Valley, an outdoor swimming pool, and dedicated spaces for our daily practice.
How does roommate matching work for the 'Shared Room' option?
If you travel alone and select a shared room, we will pair you with a fellow participant of the same gender. We host a virtual meet-and-greet before the trip so you can get to know each other. You are welcome to request a specific roommate in advance.
Can I upgrade from a shared room to a private room later?
Upgrades depend entirely on availability. La Fontaccia has limited rooms and this retreat is quite popular, so I cannot guarantee availability. I highly recommend booking the Private Room tier immediately if you require privacy.
Is it safe to drink the water and eat the food?
Absolutely. Tap water in Rufina is perfectly safe and clean to drink. Our farm-to-table meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients specializing in clean, nutritious, and predominantly vegetarian Tuscan countryside cuisine.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes. Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free options are fully available. Please ensure you submit your dietary requirements to our team with at least one week prior notice before the retreat begins so our private chef can prepare the menu accordingly. [1]
Practice & Physical Fitness
Do I need advanced yoga or meditation experience?
No, though if the retreat inspires you to commit more fully to your practice before arriving, that is great! I am very happy to meet you wherever you are in your practice, from absolute novice to advanced. Daily yoga and meditation will be curated for you.
How physically demanding is this retreat?
This retreat requires mild to moderate physical fitness. You should be comfortable walking 1 to 2 miles through cobblestone streets, navigating inclined gravel paths and vineyard terrains in Rufina, climbing villa stairs, and standing during wine tastings.
What should I wear during the retreat?
Bring comfortable, breathable layers for yoga practice. For excursions, casual chic layers are ideal. Please note that modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is strictly required when entering historical churches and cathedrals in Florence and surrounding villages.
Payments, Cancellations & Safety
Can I change my payment plan details later?
Yes. While the final balance cutoff date is strictly fixed, you can pay your remaining balance early or adjust your monthly automatic billing date at any time by contacting our support team.
What is the cancellation policy?
The initial $500 deposit is non-refundable as it immediately secures your room at our Rufina estate. Cancellations made at least 6 months prior to the retreat start date receive a 50% refund of the total cost, minus the non-refundable deposit.
Is travel insurance required?
Comprehensive international travel insurance is strongly encouraged. To protect your investment, we highly recommend a policy that covers unexpected trip cancellations, flight delays, baggage loss, and international medical emergencies.
Pro-Tips for Your Travelers
Ticket Validation: Paper tickets for the tram and regional train must be validated in the yellow or green stamping machines on the platforms before stepping on board to avoid severe local transit fines.
Digital Tools: Guests can easily view live platform numbers and purchase tickets instantly on their phones using the official Trenitalia app (for trains) or the At-bus app (for local city transit).