Breathe In with This Moon Retreat in Minya’s New Hermopolis

In ancient times, Minya was the site of scholarly knowledge and the spiritual arts, where Ancient Egyptian priests worshipped the god of wisdom, Thoth. Now, a private social enterprise called New Hermopolis pays homage to a heritage of introspection with sets of domed buildings that serve as eco retreats, organic farms and cultural centres. Here, 320 kilometres from the bustle of Cairo, Zamalek yoga centre Nine Healing Vibes is tapping into the area’s mystique with a retreat of their own, titled ‘MOON: Medicine for the Modern Mind.’

“Our practice is divided into moon, sun, and fire. Moon is stability of body and mind. If your practice is stable, your mind is stable,” sound therapy practitioner and yogi Chérine Samir - who organises the retreat alongside Samir and Seba Khanna, a yogi and pranayama practitioner - tells #SceneTraveller. “That’s why it's a moon retreat— stability is the goal.”

Running from March 11th to March 14th, the retreat is an invitation into the spiritual realm, situated in a destination with energy unlike any other. New Hermopolis is located right next to Tuna El Gabal, an ancient historic site that is brimming with history, even if it is often overlooked.

“Minya comes second to Luxor in terms of history,” Samir says. “The energy of the place is amazing, that’s why it is the perfect place for us to practice tantra hatha yoga, meditation, yoga nidra and sound healing.” Perhaps it is no coincidence that Thoth is also the god of the moon.

Trip-goers will have the chance to visit Tuna Al Gabal, Akhenaton city in Tel El Amarna, and the gallery of the renowned artist Hassan Al Sharq. They will also be treated to an exclusive dinner and tahtheeb show by the famed Hassan El Grietly Troupe.

Prices for the trip begin at EGP 10,480 per person for a double room, which includes half board (breakfast and dinner) for three nights and four days, transportation by bus, all practices and facilitation, and all excursions.

For more information, contact Nine Healing Vibes at 01001003937