Since the economic slowdown, holistic retreats have reported a surge in popularity.

This trend has been underlined by the global success of autobiographical novel-turned-film Eat Pray Love, which charts American author Elizabeth Gilbert's post-divorce journey towards spiritual enlightenment as she meditates her back to happiness.

top ten yoga holidays

For a spot of holiday pampering as well as a jolly good stretch, a yoga holiday can take you to places you never knew you could reach, both physically and mentally.

Could you benefit from a week of soulful reconnection? Take a look at Huffpost Lifestyle's fantastic selection of breaks...

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  • Orphic Yoga Experience, Bulgaria

    This eight-day yoga tour offers a variety of activities across a number of different locations. Highlights include daily outdoor yoga classes in the stunning Belogradchik Rock Phenomenon, hot mineral water and a SPA retreat in Varshets SPA village, home-made dinners and wine tasting. For more information visit <a href="http://www.hiking-bulgaria.com" target="_hplink">hiking-bulgaria.com</a>

  • Lumeria Maui, Hawaii

    With just 24 rooms, this new resort may be little but has just received an award from the Historic Hawaii Foundation. It offers free yoga every morning in addition to surf lessons, cycle rides, hiking and Hawaiiana culture classes. Through August 2012 Lumeria room rates are 30% off (£190 per night). For more information visit <a href="http://www.lumeriamaui.com" target="_hplink">lumeriamaui.com</a>

  • Scuba Yoga, Caribbean

    Located in picturesque St George, luxury-inclusive spa resort LaSource offers the first ever scuba-yoga programme, which includes three morning dives balanced with Pranyama yoga techniques, meditation exercises and underwater buoyancy lessons. Visit <a href="http://theamazingholiday.com" target="_hplink">theamazingholiday.com</a>

  • Dragon de la Patagonia. Patagonia

    Head to Patagonia for a relaxing blend of yoga, meditation and hiking. The retreat offers up to two yoga sessions a day, trips to National Parks, and panoramic views of Patagonia's rugged landscape. For more information visit <a href="http://www.dragondelapatagonia.com" target="_hplink">dragondelapatagonia.com</a>

  • Yoga Safaris, Phinda, South Africa

    Recently launched by &Beyond, the yoga safari takes place at Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. A typical day includes a morning yoga class followed by high tea, an afternoon game drive in Phinda's Big Five wilderness, and dinner of fresh Pan African food at the lodge. For more information visit <a href="http://www.andBeyond.com" target="_hplink">andBeyond.com</a>

  • Tatra Yoga Holidays, Slovakia

    Nestled in the heart of Slovakia's spectacular Tatra Mountains, this retreat includes two guided mountain walks, meditation and six yoga sessions. The break, from 20-23 September, costs £650 per person including return flights and full board at the mountain cottage. For more information visit <a href="http://www.tatrayogaholidays.com" target="_hplink">tatrayogaholidays.com</a>

  • COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali

    Dedicated Retreat Weeks with the world's leading yoga teachers are held here throughout the year. The estate also boasts a pool, sauna and a resident yoga and Pilates instructor. Five nights on a half board basis starts from £1270. For more information visit <a href="http://www.cse.como.bz" target="_hplink">cse.como.bz</a>

  • Yoga and Wellness Retreat, Koh Samui, Thailand

    This retreat, which boasts luxurious surroundings in Koh Samui, offers daily morning and evening yoga classes. The retreat also offers seven wellbeing treatments including a variety of massages, from Thai foot massages to Ayuverdic treatments. On the menu you'll find herbal tea, healthy brunches and nutritious dinners. During the evenings you can meditate, socialise or simply relax! The retreat is alcohol and smoke-free, and prices start from £799 per person. For more information visit<a href="http://www.golearnto.com" target="_hplink"> golearnto.com</a>

  • The Dune Eco Village Resort & Spa, India

    This resort boasts 35 acres, 30 unique villas, 700m of seafront and a Paradise Spa offering Avurvedic treatments, yoga, meditation and alternative therapies. Other facilities include a swimming pool, organic farm, tennis court and two restaurants serving healthy, organic gourmet fusion food. For more information visit <a href="http://hotelsunder100.co.uk" target="_hplink">hotelsunder100.co.uk</a>

  • Midnight Sun Ashtanga Yoga Retreat, Finland

    A simple two-storey house situated on a rock overlooking the sea, this retreat is situated on the wild, untouched island of Kadermo. Ashtanga vinyasa yoga is practiced during the programmes and guests can visit for a minimum of five days from £351 to 26 days from £1211 (price includes yoga tuition, food, accommodation and arranged transfers). For more information visit <a href="http://www.yogaartsmagic.n" target="_hplink">yogaartsmagic.n</a>