Free Flow: A Qigong and Chinese Medicine Retreat

Free Flow is a qigong and Chinese medicine retreat at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, led by holistic lifestyle coach Radoslav Detchev. It is a weekend for anyone who wants to slow down, reconnect with the body, and meet the wisdom of Chinese medicine in a practical, approachable way. No previous experience is needed.

What to Expect

The teaching centers on simple qigong practices that pair mindful movement (yang) with intentional stillness (yin). Flowing, gentle exercises alternate with quiet, and the aim is to improve mobility, circulation and body awareness, to cultivate the kind of relaxation that restores the nervous system, and to make space for deeper healing.

Alongside the movement, Radoslav introduces foundational principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and how they can help you understand pain, stress, energy and overall wellbeing. You will also learn practical acupressure points for easing common aches and pains, releasing tension, and supporting emotional and mental balance. The approach is to work with the body and encourage the free flow of qi, rather than only managing symptoms. You leave with techniques you can use in everyday life.

The retreat runs across three days. Opening day begins with check-in from 2:00 pm, followed by a Kripalu Yoga class, dinner, and an evening program session from 7:30 to 9:00. On the full day, an optional short session at 6:00 am starts things before a silent breakfast. Program sessions run from 9:00 to 11:30 am and again from 1:30 to 4:00 pm, with lunch between them, a yoga class at 4:45 pm, and dinner after. On the closing day, a morning yoga class is followed by silent breakfast, a final program session from 9:00 to 11:00, and lunch before departure. Times can shift, so the schedule given at check-in is the one to follow.

About Radoslav Detchev

Radoslav Detchev is a holistic lifestyle coach who teaches qigong and Chinese medicine as practical tools for everyday wellbeing. His focus here is on making these traditions approachable, so that beginners can feel the benefits of movement, stillness and acupressure without needing any background.

The Setting

Kripalu sits in Stockbridge, in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, and a stay includes access to the grounds and other amenities. Accommodations are intentionally simple, meant to help you unplug and feel grounded. Options include a private single room for solitude, a shared room, and a community-style dormitory. Rooms are ready by 4:00 pm, and a luggage room is available if you arrive earlier.

Three nutritious meals are served each day, and breakfasts are taken in silence. Over 10 yoga classes are offered daily across the campus. On departure day, room check-out is at 10:00 am, though you may stay on campus and take part in workshops until 2:00 pm.

Before You Go

This retreat is open to all levels. Beginners are welcome, and those with prior qigong or Chinese medicine experience will still find it engaging. It is taught in English.

Your stay includes the program sessions, the optional early morning session, daily yoga classes, three meals a day, access to the grounds, and your accommodation. Healing Arts sessions and purchases from the Kripalu Shop and Cafe are separate. Online booking covers one or two guests, and if the program is full, a waitlist is available.