The Best of Bali & Lombok: A Journey That Nourishes Body, Heart & Soul

The past 12 days have been nothing short of a dream come true—not only for me, but for every heart we connected with along the way.

Our journey began in the lush embrace of Ubud, Bali, as part of my husband Brad’s heartfelt Kaizen Property Mastermind retreat. We were blessed to stay at the soul-soothing sanctuary of Padma Ubud, where every detail felt designed to support deep rest, family joy, and meaningful connection.

We explored the lush jungle together, supporting one another across narrow bamboo bridges and gently encouraging friends who had never walked through a rainforest before. We passed through local villages and witnessed the simplicity and beauty of daily life—an unforgettable experience of connection, courage, and shared humanity.

One evening, we sat beneath the stars to witness the hypnotic rhythm of the Kecak and Fire Dance—a chorus of chanting men, flickering flames, and ancient Balinese mythology that stirred something primal and powerful within us.

We also gathered under the golden dome of the Pyramids of Chi, and journeyed inward. We grounded together in a private group sound healing session—its soothing frequencies attuned our bodies, minds, and hearts, softening us into presence. It created the perfect foundation for the shamanic breath-work ceremony, which unfolded like a powerful homecoming for my soul.

But the moment that touched my heart the deepest? Our visit to a rural kindergarten, where Brad had pre-organised for our group to paint every classroom wall—infusing the space with vibrant colours and symbols of hope. Watching the children’s faces light up and knowing we had helped create a warm, welcoming space for learning… it’s a memory I will carry with me forever.

I felt so honoured to teach the group yoga in the incredible bird’s nest, floating high up amongst the canopy—surrounded by exotic birdsong, the hum of insects, and Balinese music playing softly in the background. It was a deeply grounding way to begin the day, connecting breath and body with the living forest all around us.

In the afternoon, we cruised through the countryside in a convoy of vintage open-top VWs, their cheerful colours and breezy design adding a playful spirit to our sacred journey. We were on our way to the most informative and inspiring Balinese water blessing I’ve ever experienced—made even more meaningful by sharing it not only with our group, but with our children. It was the twins’ first time taking part in a water blessing, and witnessing their wonder and reverence filled my heart to overflowing.

One teaching from our guide still echoes within me:

 1. Be Ready

 2. Be Aware

 3. Always Fight to the End

After this sacred time in Ubud, we flew to Lombok, where we stayed at the stunning Amber Beach Resort—a coastal haven tucked between jungle and sea. Our days were filled with family adventures: surfing gentle beach breaks at Selong Belanak, where Brad and I took turns pushing the kids into their first waves, and snorkelling the Secret Gilis, immersed in crystal-clear waters and surrounded by the generosity of local fishermen who prepared fresh-caught fish for our group.

And yet, it was a small, unplanned moment on our first day in South Lombok that stirred something deeper. We were walking along the beach when we saw two local boys kicking around a broken ball. Without hesitation, Brad and Kobe joined them. Soon, laughter and barefoot joy transformed the shore into a makeshift beach soccer match.

Later that day, Brad said, “Let’s find them a real ball.” So we visited the town’s only soccer shop, then drove through winding rural roads until we found the boys’ village. Kobe handed over the ball, and their faces lit up with a joy so pure it brought tears to my eyes.

I’ve always loved the saying: “Do small things with great love.”

We wrapped up our trip with a few final days at Padma Legian, a vibrant contrast to the forest stillness of Ubud—full of waterslides, tropical pools, and the buffet breakfast our kids adored. I also cherished a heart-filled day in the pool with one of my dearest friends and her young family, who now live in Bali—a joyful reunion of like-minded soul sisters. It’s the kind of friendship where years can pass, but the moment we’re together, it feels like no time at all.

Though, if you asked the kids, I think they’d still say nothing beats feeding the animals at Padma Ubud—a daily ritual they could have happily done for hours on end.

This trip reminded me of the power of presence.

Of how joy lives in the simple moments.

Of how giving, connecting, and being immersed in culture and nature can expand our hearts in the most unexpected ways.

It wasn’t just a holiday.

It was a pilgrimage of the heart—and I’m so grateful we got to live it, together.