Welcome to the first weekend of February 2012! We hope that you have found joy and abundance in the new year thus far, and continue to enjoy every beautiful moment that it has to offer. We have selected a few of our favorite events going down around the world to help you kick off this  new month with a bang! Check out our weekend picks below, and get out there and have some fun!

Don’t see events listed in your city? Want to submit an event of your own? Email us at Submissions@yoganonymous.org and let us know the deal!

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Montego Bay, Jamaica

Thursday, February 2nd – Sunday, February 5th

Get ready for the 1st Annual Caribbean Yoga Conference in Montego Bay, Jamaica this weekend!

The conference lineup includes workshops for all abilities with world-class instructors including Toni Bergins, Gaia Budhai, Kathryn Budig, Jeffrey Cohen & Andrea Boyd, Seane Corn, Sharon Feanny, Scott Feinberg & Amy Lombardo, Moses Jas Jeet, Noah Levine, Nadine McNeil, Sadie Nardini, Jason Nemer & Jenny Sauer-Klein, Simon Park, Stacey Shanks, and MC Yogi & Amanda G.  Topics range from Vinyasa Flow and Journey Dance to Core Strength and Kudalini.  The conference will offer two 2.5-hour sessions each day with opportunities for morning meditation and Noon yoga on the beach.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Philadelphia, PA

Friday, February 3rd – Sunday, February 5th

The Gravity Cowboys are heading to Philadelphia this weekend – don’t miss Brock and Krista Cahill at Dhyana Yoga!

Lift Off! | 2/3 | 6:30pm – 8:30pm: “Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking.  We’d like to thank you for joining us as we fly the friendly skies.  En route this evening we will be crossing over many points of interest, including the grand handstand, oceans of navasana, mountainous arm balancing postures, and rivers of vinyasa.” Enough said.

Buoyancy Control | 2/4 | 12pm – 3pm: Brock & Krista will take the principals of basic arm balancing techniques, and refine them using cultivation of bandhas (energetic locks). You will learn how to tap into the subtle energy in the body and explore how the blending of physical strength and energetic power can create a state of weightlessness.

One Giant Leap | 2/5 | 12pm – 3pm: One small step for man, one giant leap for your practice! We will investigate the jumps in this workshop, including jump throughs and jump backs, jumps to handstand, jumps into arm balances, jumps into standing poses…and more! Take a leap, and the landing will appear…if you want it to.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, February 4th – Sunday, February 5th

Alanna Kaivalya will be teaching her Art of Adjustments workshops at Pure Yoga this weekend!

Explore the principles behind save and transformative hands-on assists and effective adjustments to convey technique, sublety and mastery. All types of adjustments will be covered, and an understanding of how to “see” the body and optimize students’ freedom in asanas will be examined.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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New York, NY

Saturday, February 4th

Also at Pure Yoga this weekend – Arm Balancing + Gravity Surfing w/ Kay Kay Clivio!

Join Kay Kay as she guides you through a broad range of playful and safe poses, step by step. Build strength, courage, and connection in a graceful arm balance practice.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Newburyport, MA

Saturday, February 4th

Join Ame Wren for her ‘Hot Core Cool Sequencing’ workshop at Repose Yoga Studio on Saturday afternoon!

In this 2-hour workshop, Ame will lead a 90-minute open level class focusing on smart and creative sequencing and the firing up of agni, or core strength to create internal heat. Through bandha work, core transitions, and specific anatomical and breathing cues, you will sweat your way into a deeper understanding of how to move  fluidly, fiercely, and intelligently from your core self. Following the asana practice Ame will open the space for questions about how to greater utilize your core throughout your practice.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Venice, CA

Saturday, February 4th – Sunday, February 5th

Head over to the Exhale Center for Sacred Movement for a meSheeky trunk show!

meSheeky takes you from studio to street, looking fit, fab and full of sheekitude. Our line of yoga-inspired skirts, pants and tanks is designed to accentuate your best parts and cover up the stuff you’d rather not display to the world. We’ve got leg-lengthening, hip-hiding and booty-boosting in the bag with mixable, matchable pieces to flatter every body. It’s no wonder Sheekynistas are effortlessly stylish wherever they go. Featured everywhere from the Today Show to Health Magazine, this is way more than well-crafted fitness wear, it’s a shot of confidence. meSheeky is yogi-owned and operated by Flowmotion yoga founder Sarah Tomson Beyer in Park City, Utah.

Click here for the Full Scoop!

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Wishing you a safe & wonderful weekend,

With LOVE,

YOGANONYMOUS

Join Will Duprey this April in beautiful Guatemala for the first module of his 300-hr advanced teacher training! More information below from the training website:

Fire of Purification: 300-hr Advanced Teacher Training

April 21st – 29th | Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

NOW you are ready to immerse yourself in the practice of yoga and live in it. As we integrate into the philosophies that enrich our living we begin to observe directly through contact with like-minded practitioners. If one is born with all the tools to obtain a state of yoga then certainly being around others with the same goal allows for certain discovery of that spark within.

The Advanced Training will take you deeper into the integration of practice to enrich the living experience. Even though we commonly view Hatha Yoga as being a physical practice involving multiple styles it is a distinct science referred to as Shadanga Yoga. This distinct path focuses particularly on prana and awakening the divine energy.

Essentially we practice a way to develop that burn for living, teaching and creating.

Comprised of three distinct modules – JOURNEY TO SELF, FIRE OF PURIFICATION, and SONG WITHIN – that fulfill 300 hours of Advanced Training and are a registered program with Yoga Alliance.

Fire of Purification or Journey to Self are required before attending Song Within. Fire of Purification and Journey to Self can be taken in any order.

Completion of all three modules acts as a bridge program bringing a 200 RYT to a 500 RYT. Enrollment in each module is limited to offer a better student to teacher ratio and to keep the quality of the program at it’s highest standards. Certification for 500 RYT will be given upon completion of all course requirements.

Curriculum

~ Use of Dinacharya and sadhana for awareness of one’s own potentiality

~ Purushathas and their role in yogic thought

~ Basic mantra theory with relationship to daily living

~ Nadi, chakra, and bandha theory

~ Mantra and asana: access to energy

~ Kriya, mudra, kosha, and psychology

~ Identifying the true nature of specific asana and pranayama for practical use

~ Prana and psychic development

~ Learn to access energy in asana

~ Ayurveda complex and yoga for preventative health

~ Bhagavad gita, yoga sutra, and hatha yoga pradipika

Included in your tuition: 90 hours of accredited Yoga Alliance study, 8 nights lodging and three delicious meals daily at Villa Sumaya, 2 sessions with a local shaman and all training materials provided by William Duprey.

Click here for more information on this and the other modules, and to register today!

Join Kia Miller for a YogaWorks Certified 200-hr teacher training at Blue Spirit Retreat Center in Nosara, Costa Rica this July! More information below from YogaWorks website:

One Month Immersion 200-hr Teacher Training

Nosara, Costa Rica | June 30th – July, 28th

Join Kia for a YOGAWORKS CERTIFIED 200 HOUR TEACHER TRAINING at Blue Sprit Retreat Center in Costa Rica. Take a month to hone your skills as a teacher and deepen your practice in an environment conducive to the spirit of immersion! This foundational (200–hour) program is ideal for serious students of yoga and aspiring teachers. It is recognized by Yoga Alliance and comprises three areas of study: The Theory and Practice of Yoga, Yoga Philosophy and The Art of Teaching.  Break up the teaching sessions with a walk on the beach, surng, or sitting quietly in one of the Blue Spirit’s many contemplative settings.

This residential programs allow you to travel for a month in an exotic location while you complete your 200 hour yoga teacher training. Housing and other amenities are included as part of the price of your training. The foundational 200–Hour yoga teacher training program is ideal for serious students of yoga and aspiring teachers. It is recognized by Yoga Alliance and comprises three areas of study: The Theory and Practice of Yoga, Yoga Philosophy and The Art of Teaching.

What You Will Cover

The Theory And Practice Of Yoga

The 200-Hour yoga teacher training program will deepen and build your personal practice as you embark on a transformational journey toward becoming a yoga teacher. To facilitate a more scientific understanding of the body, you will study functional Anatomy, as well as the physiology of inversions, breathing and the nervous system. Moving beyond the physical, you will learn yoga philosophy, rooted in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Finally, you will begin to learn the fundamentals of meditation, Pranayama, Ayurveda and the chakra system.

The Art Of Teaching

Our programs are aimed at developing teachers who encourage and inspire, who demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of individuals as well as the group. Build the foundation to teach skillfully – with compassion, integrity and safety – as you discover your own unique voice and style.

Students who complete the 200-Hour Teacher Training program will:

~ Deepen their practice and understanding of yoga

~ Know how to structure and create a cohesive, well-rounded class

~ Acquire an understanding of yoga philosophy

~ Become a member of the YogaWorks alumni association

~ Have the confidence and tools to begin teaching yoga

Students will also receive a diploma and Letter of Completion which they can use to register with Yoga Alliance at the RYT-200 level and share with prospective employers. Completion of this program will also qualify students for admission into YogaWorks’ 300-Hour Professional Program and open the door to career opportunities at YogaWorks and studios in the YogaWorks affiliate network.

Click here for more information and to register today!

Muriel Murphy and Sanjivani are leading a Moon Goddess & Yoga Retreat to beautiful Nosara, Costa Rica! More information below from the event website:

Moon Goddess & Yoga Retreat

March 4th – 9th | Nosara Retreat Center – Nosara, Costa Rica

~ Yoga & Ayurveda ~ Sacred Chanting ~ Shamanic Journeying ~ Healing Ceremonies ~

You are being called, Amazing Women all over the world, to take a week for yourself and meet together in a peaceful setting, on a beautiful tropical beach.

Allow yourself to be Inspired & Renewed.

In this retreat,  Sanjivani & Muriel bring together a synthesis of powerful healing modalities:

Yoga, Pranayama, Mudra, Mantra, Tantra, Yantra, and Meditation; Goddess Puja, Chanting, Dancing, and Pranic Movements; Massage Therapy, Ayurvedic Medicine, Shamanic Energy Medicine; Soul Journeying, Healing Ceremonies, Mythic Mapping; Journaling, Insight Sharing, Goddess Gatherings, and much more…

Wake up each morning with a rejuvenating Yoga flow & Sacred chanting, and complete the evening with nurturing restorative Yoga & guided Meditation.

The Moon regulates the tides of the ocean, the cycle of our hormones, and the balance of our emotions. Since ancient times, women have gathered together in ceremony to receive and integrate the blessing power of the Full Moon.

Learn key principles of Ayurveda to balance your inner feminine cycle as Sanjivani guides you through the morning practice of the Moon Salutation (Chandra Namaskar)—a graceful flow of Yoga postures, attuned with the rhythm of your breath.

This devotional prayer in motion honors the cycle of the moon, as she enhances her qualities within you… calming, cooling, nurturing, grounding, rejuvenating, and healing…

Following morning Yoga, with a deepened sense of calm and wellbeing, we will move into awakening the divine energies within, as Sanjivani guides you through a spiritual practice of the Sri Vidya Tantric lineage of Ancient India.

Sanjivani has been with this practice since receiving it 9 years ago from Her Divine Grace Gurumatha Amma from India.

This ancient ceremony is referred to as the Sri Chakra Puja (Sri Yantra Puja), during which we make sacred offerings to the different aspects of the Goddess, as we chant Her seed mantras within each one of our chakras. This practice creates a protection of positive vibration around you, which can change your destiny, and be a doorway to realizing yourself.

Click here For the Full Retreat Description

Dates/Pricing/What’s Included

Retreat Dates

March 4th-9th

For more info and to register ~ Click here

Goddess Accomodations:  Nosara Retreat Center ~ Villa Cortes ~ www.nosararetreatcenter.com

Pricing:

Single Occupancy: US$1,795.00*

Double Occupancy: US$1,595.00* (per person)

Triple Occupancy: US$1,495.00* (per person)

Quadruple Occupancy: US$1295.00*(per person) limited to

Friend Discount ~ $100 cash back upon arrival if you bring a friend

Early bird special ~ $100 off when your registration is paid in full by February 4th

What’s Included:

~ 5 nights accommodation
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~ Healthful & fresh breakfasts and dinners

~ Daily yoga & meditation

~ Goddess gatherings

~ A transformative massage session
or one alternative healing session of your choice

About Your Teachers:

Muriel Murphy

Muriel Murphy has been in the healing arts field since 1992. She began studying the body as a Fitness Instructor/Health Sciences major at the University of California, San Diego. She graduated from the Phillips School of Massage CMT in 1995. Completed a 500 hours of intensive study with certified Rolfer, Bill Sitkin, in 1997, then trained in Neuro-muscular Reprogramming at the Alive and Well Institute 2003. To date she has 700 hrs of yoga teacher training from 2003-2007. Most recently she studied Touch for the Health, Rieki and Thai massage.

Muriel began her training as a yoga instructor in 2003 at the Nosara Yoga Institute in Costa Rica, completing the 200-hour certification program with Don and Amba Stapleton.  She has trained at the Iyengar Yoga Institute of San Francisco, completing the 500 hour Advanced Studies Teacher Training in December of 2006. Completing the Relax and Renew certification with Judith Lasater, in 2005. Traveling to India in 2007 to study with the Iyengars, she integrates these teachings into each class. Rodney Yee and Colleen Saidman are her newest teachers and interest of study, as they venture deeply into the healing art form of  yogasana. The rhythm of her life inspires her to live the summer months in Long Island, NY and winter months, Nov-April in Nosara, Costa Rica. In each place she enjoys a thriving practice of transformative integrative bodywork sessions and innovative style of yogasana in each class she offers.

Muriel’s experience as a body worker and yoga instructor shine through in the knowledge she so openly shares with others. She believes that the lineage of yoga, and the healing path of the Great Goddess is a gift to be shared for the health and well being of all who choose to take the journey.

Sanjivani

Founder of Sanjivani Healing Medicine, a health consultation practice in the ancient healing wisdom of the world, for our modern lifestyle.

Sanjivani offers integrative healing sessions, in the emerging fields of Shamanic Energy Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, and Yoga Therapy.

Sanjivani brings to her work a clarity of perception and a depth of understanding that emerges from the wisdom of the divine feminine as experienced and acquired through her personal soul healing journey.

She has devoted her life to spiritual awakening and freedom, and she shares freely with open-heart and pure love.

Sanjivani shares ancient Yogic & Ayurvedic wisdom for women’s health and hormonal balance, including spiritual practices to purify and awaken the pranic energy body.

She facilitates Shamanic Journeying & Ceremonies, guiding people into deep soul healing transformation, and propelling them towards their divine destiny.

Sanjivani is internationally recognized as an exceptionally gifted intuitive and healer, with a wealth of wisdom to share. She has 12 years of professional trainings and experience in Ayurvedic Medicine, Yoga Therapy, Vidya Tantra, Vajra Yogini Tantra, Qi-Gong, and Shamanic Energy Medicine.

Please visit her website to know in more details, and feel welcome to contact her directly by email with any inquiry. www.sanjivanihealing.com

Click here for more information and to register today!

Salutiamo il Sole: A Tuscan Yoga Holiday

July 2nd – 6th, 2012

Salute the Tuscan sun this summer. Stroll the Riviera and watch the sun melt into the Mediterranean.  Practice under the full moon sky.  Marvel at ancient architecture and revel in  vibrant village life. Wander through medieval hilltop towns and walk along historic city walls.  Cross the impressive Devil’s Bridge, climb a tower crowned with oaks, and traverse the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Journey into the Apuan Alps and explore an awe-inspiring limestone cave. Savor the regional food, sip the local wines, and connect with the community.  Deepen your practice. Expand your boundaries.  Play. Discover. Laugh. Breathe.

Join Liisa Walimaa, of Brilliant Yoga, Chandler, AZ, as your daily yoga guide. Enjoy a week of exploration, movement, fresh food, and great company.

Accommodations

You will stay at Casa La Pace Bed and Breakfast in Ghivizzano, Italy, in the verdant Serchio valley, the heart of the Garfagnana, a fertile land known for delicious cuisine, abundant natural beauty, and hillsides dotted with charming villages. Each day begins with a rise-and-shine yoga practice and a buffet breakfast featuring regional specialties from local producers.  Then you’ll embark upon a daily adventure uniting yoga with a customized tour,  allowing you to explore different aspects of Tuscany and of yourself.  Each evening, we’ll return to Casa La Pace for a restful night’s sleep:  “La Pace” means Peace.

Indulge your curiosity on this 5-day/6-night holiday, and reveal your brilliance under the Tuscan sun.

Salute the Sun. Salutiamo il Sole.

What’s Included

~ Six nights accommodation at Casa La Pace Bed & Breakfast

~ Six buffet breakfasts, featuring local, seasonal fare

~ Daily yoga practices, suitable for all levels

~ Customized tours of a different area of Tuscany each day

~ One picnic lunch

~ Entry fees to attractions and events as stated on the itinerary

~ All transportation to tour destinations

Reserve before February 14th and receive 250 Euros off the total cost of the retreat!

Click here for itinerary and registration information

Join David Romanelli for 4 days of yoga and relaxation in one of the most beautiful places in the world! More information from David’s website:

Yoga & You Retreat to Tropical Tulum

May 2nd – 6th

Join David May 2-6, 2012 at the Amansala Resort in Tulum, Mexico. For more on the warm and delicious details, read below or register now. The price includes all meals, beachside accommodations, and yoga.

“A warrior feeds her body well. She trains it, works on it. Where she lacks knowledge, she studies. But above all, she must believe in her strength of will and purpose and heart and soul.” -David Gemmel

Much has been said about the year 2012 as a year of transformation and change. And it all started in the heart of Mayan country at the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Their prophecy:  that the world will come to an end on December 21, 2012.

“The End” doesn’t have to be a scary thing. It can be The End of a bad relationship, or The End of worrying too much, or The End of watching Housewives of Beverly Hills on the Bravo Channel because it rots your brain.

Join David and Vyda Bielkus May 2-6, 2012 at Amansala Resort in Tulum, Mexico to celebrate The Beginning!

This 5 day and 4 night retreat to one of the most tropical and spiritual spots on the planet will focus, not on the hard core yoga tradition, but rather on those aspects of YOU that feed the ego and make you chunky in the ways of spirit.

As Iyengar said, “One who can put aside his every identity can access places where no plump ego could squeeze through.”

It’s time for THE END of that which that weighs us down… and for THE BEGINNING of those emotions, dreams and habits that leave us with a sleek, fit, revitalized spirit!

Dream Days, Starry Nights

Who doesn’t love long naps in warm ocean breezes, flowing through vinyasa yoga set to tropical music, and sipping on a cool one (iced tea or margherita) in a hammock as the sun dips over the Caribbean Sea.

The days will begin with my flowing vinyasa yoga classes, lighthearted inspirational messages, and sweet tunes…

…you’ll spend the afternoons resting on the white sandy beaches or venturing to the ancient Mayan ruins…

…before savoring Vyda’s late afternoon deeply relaxing yoga that will set you at ease for the warm starry nights to follow.

Join us May 2-6, 2012 for a vacation to soothe the body, revitalize the soul, and scintillate the senses!

Email Dave with any questions and for additional details on booking airfare to Cancun.  Airfare and ground transportation are not included in retreat price. We will be there every step of the way to make this experience AWESOME and seamless!

Click here for more information and to register today!

Alan Finger and Sarah Platt Finger will be leading a week-long retreat at the luxurious Hawks Cay Island Resort this March. Mention YOGANONYMOUS and receive $200 off the cost of the retreat! More information below:

Ishta Yoga Hawks Cay Island Retreat w/ Yogiraj Alan Finger & Sarah Platt-Finger

March 10th – 17th

Immerse yourself in ISHTA philosophy, meditation, and asana in the sunny Florida Keys. Enliven your practice and your life through in-depth, tailored study with yoga master Alan Finger and Sarah Platt-Finger at the luxurious Hawks Cay Island Resort. Discover ISHTA, the Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra, and Ayurveda, with us in paradise!

Price: $2,700

Includes:

~ Seven nights stay

~ Three daily meals

~ Four daily yoga classes

~ Invigorating morning asana class

~ Centering pranayama and meditation session

~ Afternoon satsang offering in-depth discussion on yoga philosophy

~  Relaxing late afternoon restorative class

~ Membership to Hawk’s Cay health club

For more information on this fabulous getaway, email Sarah Platt-Finger.

Mention YOGANONYMOUS to receive a $200 discount!

www.facebook.com/ishtayoga

Shari Hochberg & Melissa Ferrer will be leading a week-long retreat to San Pedro March 3rd – 10th. More information below from the retreat website:

Yoga to Go: Retreat to Belize w/ Shari Hochberg & Melissa Ferrer

March 3rd – 10th | San Pedro, Belize

What better place to spend a week of dynamic yoga and powerful Pilates then in one of the most spiritual places in 2012, Belize.  This week-long retreat with Yoga To Go Vacation takes place at Ak’Bol Eco-resort, a beachfront Mayan-inspired sanctuary perfect for daily practice overlooking the warm, blue Belizean water. 2012 is an incredible year to be in Mayan territory and manifest intentions. Escape the winter chill and experience yoga in this inspiring and magical place. We will also hold a special full-moon celebration on March 8 on the beach with drumming and chanting and manifesting our wishes and intentions. What a special and unforgettable experience.

This all-inclusive** Winter Holiday takes place at beautiful Ak’Bol, located on the tranquil North side of Belize’s largest island, Ambergris Caye, just a quarter mile from the second largest Barrier Reef in the world, and a bike ride away from the old fishing village of San Pedro, Isla Bonita.

Twice daily, powerful, strengthening Ashtanga yoga and Pilates will take place outdoors under a palapa or on the pier right over the crystal, blue water. Enjoy delicious Belizean cuisine and local tropical fruits and smoothies. During your free time, snorkel, swim, paddleboard, get a massage or just relax in a hammock with the warm breezes surrounding you. The schedule has been created to allow for midday excursions and exploration of the surrounding areas. Or perhaps it’s the perfect time catch up on that book. Go ahead, it’s your vacation, so do what you like!

Accommodations are charming and quiet in the yoga barracks. A Maya ruin-inspired three-story structure positioned on the lagoon looking out to the calm backside of the island. A serene setting with mangroves, extraordinary sunsets, bird watching and peaceful, quiet nights. There are lovely, winding pathways through a natural garden of palm trees, seagrapes and colorful flowers that lead to your room. The naturally lit, shared bath & shower areas are beautiful with the wooden sinks carved by local Rastas, faucets made of conch shells from the sea and the awesome, refreshing rainshowers covered with bamboo, all private with plantain shuttered doors.

Travel to and from Ak’bol is simple. Fly into one of the main airports, San Pedro or Belize City and we can arrange a water taxi to Ak’Bol. Or, if you are coming from other destinations in Guatemala, let us help you. We want your week in paradise to be hassle-free!

Other amazing activities include diving, fishing, kayaking, massages, facials, sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding. Special rates for our Yoga To Go Vacations guests.

**all-inclusive vacation: 7-nights accommodation, twice daily yoga/pilates, 3 meals per day, snorkeling adventure trip, airport transfer from San Pedro (airfare, additional travel costs, not included)

What’s Included

~ Daily Ashtanga yoga practice (2x) outdoors

~ Daily Pilates session

~ 7 night accommodations

~ 3 delicious vegetarian meals daily (light breakfast, brunch, dinner)

~ Snorkeling Adventure

~ Full-moon Mayan celebration

In addition, you will get…

~ Discounts for diving

~ Discounts for Spa

~ Fly fishing excursions

~ Shade Bar & Restaurant for extra food/drink

~ Childcare options

~ Wifi & Internet access available

~ Hiking paths around area

~ Swimming pool

About the Instructors

Melissa Ferrer and Shari Hochberg are two friends with a shared love of yoga, Italy, travel and the simple pleasures of life. With over 15 years of combined yoga studies, certification, practice and teaching, we decided to share our passions with others seeking similar adventure. All of our instructors are yoga alliance certified. When not exploring and leading retreats in gorgeous destinations, Melissa and Shari are instructors at 19r Yoga & Pilates in the center of beautiful Florence, Italy.

Price of Retreat: 1475 -1575 USD

Click here for more information and to register today!

Mantrology presents Basking in the Oean of Bhava – a beautiful retreat experience in a beautiful location! More information below from the event website:

Mantrology Presents: Basking in the Ocean of Bhava

March 24th – 31st | Nosara, Costa Rica | With Shyamdas, Jivamukti Yoga with John Smrtic, and Evening Kirtan with Deva Premal and Miten

The bhava is the enlightened devotional mood and to the bhakti yogi, is the prize to be relished. In this rare opportunity, we will journey to a lush, tropical setting to cultivate, embellish and bask in the nectar of divine love. This sacred retreat will touch on all aspects essential to the intoxicating feeling of being in love, and being loved, by God: association with the seekers, daily kirtans, afternoon bhajan and discussion of the lilas of Shri Krishna and insight into the profound devotional scriptures and mystic poetry, and a daily 2 hour Jivamukti Yoga asana practice focused on obtaining the prize – devotion to God and ecstasy.  Additionally, attendees of this retreat will have special evening access to evening kirtans with Deva Premal and Miten!

Retreat Includes:

~ Daily kirtan and satsang with Shyamdas

~ Special access to evening kirtans with Deva Premal and Miten

~ Daily 2 hour Jivamukti Yoga class with John Smrtic

~ 7 nights’ accommodations

~ 3 meals per day

~ Full beach access

~ Use of the infinity swimming pool

~ Wi-Fi access throughout the main building

About your Teachers

Shyamdas

Shyamdas has lived in India for nearly 40 years exploring the arts of puja and celebration. A prolific translator and writer, he has more than 20 books on bhakti yoga—the yoga of devotion—and sacred chant, divine service, puja, and Vedanta. He originally studied with Neem Karoli Baba and later with His Holiness Goswami Prathameshji. Shyamdas has also studied classical Indian music and specializes in classical dhrupada music of the mystic poets of North India. He teaches and performs internationally and his numerous CDs include Beloved Chants and Cool Dual.

John Smrtic

John Smrtic, J.D., E-RYT, is an Albany, NY based Jivamukti Yoga teacher who has spent a rare 600+ hours in front of his teachers and Jivamukti founders, Sharon Gannon and David Life. Soaked in this direct transmission, John is passionate to convey their teachings and method as purely as possible. Using these teachings and traditional yogic scripture as a foundation, John blends wit, music and challenging, intelligently sequenced asana from a vinyasa format to make each class a unique experience.　 John has gained acclaim for his class music mixes, affectionately referred to as Bhakti Groove.

Click here for more information and to register today!

In this Yoga Alliance certified 200-hr program, you will not only learn the fundamentals of teaching yoga, you will also travel to Nepal as part of your service project. The program will run from March 23rd – October 21st, and will be led by Brittany Policastro and Maura Manzo. Learn more about the service project in Nepal below from the training website:

Beyond Asana: Service Project

Raise $5,000 and Travel to Nepal to help Build a School!

At Beyond Asana we believe that the experience of engaging in a project of service can be life changing. Both Maura and Brittany have extensive experience in fundraising and humanitarian travel. These experiences have transformed their lives and offered insight into their purpose on this planet. Every student that participates in this 200 hour training will automatically be involved in this service project with buildOn.

About buildOn

buildOn’s Global School Construction Program provides rural communities in developing nations across the globe with access to education. They break ground on a new school every six days with the help of U.S. afterschool program members, donors and parents who have provided over 700,000 volunteer work days to build schools for their children. Through a methodology that puts gender equality at the forefront and villagers in control, they provide not only schools, but the knowledge and the power to change entire communities.

About your Project

For the 2012 teacher training, students will be raising funds to build a school in Nepal. With the support and guidance of Brittany and Maura, each participant will raise $5,000 for the project and will have the duration of the teacher training to do so. Upon completion of the training our group will travel to Nepal to help break ground on the school we raised the funds for.

Each weekend time will be spent on your fundraising efforts, discussing your progress, answering any questions and supporting you in this process. We will create a steady foundation within the training to help keep your efforts sustainable and focused in order to achieve the goal of raising the $5,000. Support will also be provided by the experienced staff at buildOn.

The money you raise goes ENTIRELY to this project. Approximately $3,000 will go directly to the help build the school and the other $2,000 will pay for your flight and accommodations while in Nepal. Participants will be paired up and living with a host family for the duration of your 10 day stay. Every day there will be time to practice yoga, work in the village and process the experience.  All meals and activities are included. The purpose of this trip is to allow you to connect with the product of your fundraising efforts, to experience life in a poverty stricken area and to be a part of creating sustainable education for the inhabitants of this land. As a result you will strengthen your interpersonal and communication skills, become engaged in a project that connects local and global communities and embark on a once and a lifetime travel experience.

Click here to Learn more about the project and to register for the teacher training today!

Jen Guarnieri is leading a retreat with Pravassa to Aruba May 2nd – 6th! Check out all the information below from the event website:

Paradise Found! Retreat to Aruba w/ Jen Guarnieri

May 2nd – 6th

Start your summer vacation early and end up in paradise! Pravassa and Jen Guarnieri invite you to escape to Aruba and spend 5 glorious days on the largest stretch of white sand and waves in Eagle Beach. You’ll delight in the outdoor yoga pavilion, revel in the warm Caribbean breezes and bliss out under your private beach palapa. Sun & sand required! The exotic beach front Balinese inspired spa offers a variety of massages and body treatments in cabanas with uninterrupted ocean views. Water baby? Take a dip in the chrystal blue waters or choose your own adventure: paddle boarding, snorkeling or kite surfing are all at your finger tips.

Open your day with a green smoothie and a vigorous morning vinyasa yoga practice to build heat and stimulate your organs. Fuel up at brunch when you have your choice of eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, oatmeal pancakes and more. Afternoons are yours. Sit on the sand, swim with the fish or venture to the other side of the island and explore the natural pools. Sunset yoga brings us together again to give back to our bodies and cool us down from the heat of the day.

Retire to your room for the evening to unwind and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. Choose a lush tropical garden view or a pristine beach view as your landscape. Rinse off the salt and sand in your waterfall shower while enjoying your own soundtrack from the room’s iPod docking station. Thinking of sneaking a midnight snack? Not to worry, the room’s mini fridge is a good place to stock up on water and fruit. Drift off to sleep and dream of another day shaded by the towering palm trees, scented by hot pink frangipani and serenaded by the trade winds of the Caribbean.

Packages Include:

~ 4 nights/5 days accommodations at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa

~ twice daily yoga led by Jen G

~ all yoga mats, blocks and straps provided

~ a group welcome dinner

~ daily brunch at Giorgio’s

~ local Aruban dinner at the island’s best restaurant, Yemanja

~ fresh water swimming pool

~ airport transfers in Aruba

~ free Wifi

~ spa discounts

~ all taxes & service

~ sailing & snorkeling (additional charge)

Prices do not include: airfare to Aruba, any food outside the vacation package, any additional activities you wish to participate in.

Sample Daily Schedule

~ 8am – morning yoga

~ 10am – brunch

~ afternoon – beach and spa time

~ 4:30pm – evening yoga

~ 7:00pm – dinner

Early Bird Pricing

~ $1,325 – shared garden room – rooms have 2 full beds or 1 king bed

~ $1,425 – shared ocean room – rooms have 2 full beds or 1 king bed

~ $1,865 – private garden room – 1 king bed

~ $2,050 – private ocean room – 1 king bed

Payments: All prices include a $400 non-refundable deposit. *Deposit to secure EARLY BIRD pricing required by March 1, 2012. All payments are non-refundable after March 15, 2012. Payments plans available.

Cancellation Policy: A $400 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your space and is to be paid no later than March 15, 2012. For more detailed information, please read the Pravassa Terms & Conditions at the end of the page.

Final Payment Due: April 4, 2012.

Click here for more information and to register today!

Simon and Jo will be co-leading a Yin & Prana Flow retreat at the luxury resort, Uma Ubud from July 22nd – 28th. All the info & registration is on the flyer below:

Yoga Vida teachers Zoe, Kyle, and owner Mike Patton are leading a week long retreat to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica March 9th – 15th. The deadline for registration is 1/15, so be sure to register soon! More information below from the retreat website:

Retreat to Santa Teresa w/ Yoga Vida

March 9th – 15th, 2012

Join Zoe, Kyle & Mike for Yoga Vida’s first Costa Rican Adventure! Voted one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, Santa Teresa is known for it’s laid back vibe, beautiful beaches and world class surf.  Join us for what will surely be a magical trip, filled with tropical yoga, beautiful waves, happy people & lasting memories. Prices, lodging and travel information is found below:

Departure: Friday March 9th, 5:05 am departure from JFK airport.

Return: Thursday March 15th, 6:46 pm departure from San Jose airport

Destination: Santa Teresa, Costa Rica–Hotel Tropico Latino

Pricing Schedule:

Single Occupancy – $ 3,800

Double Occupancy (2 beds*) – $ 2,800 each

Triple Occupancy (2 beds*) – $ 2,600 each

Quadruple Occupancy (2 Queen beds) – $ 2,400 each

* one Queen/King sized bed & one single bed.

What You Get:

Airfare & Travel: from JFK airport, to the hotel in Santa Teresa, and all the way back to JFK!

Food & Lodging: 3 meals a day in Costa Rica, and a beautiful beachfront bungalow style hotel!

Yoga: 1 or 2 yoga classes per day in Santa Teresa on our own private yoga deck! Special yoga theme TBD…

Payment Deadlines:

$500 Deposit Due by 12/31/11 and Full Payment Due by Friday, January 20th, 2012. Special exceptions may be possible.

Space in the program is limited.  Email doyoga@yogavida.com to arrange payment and reserve your spot in this adventure!

Click here for more information and to register today!

Jocelyn and Adam will lead you through a week of ecstatic movement and music at Michael Franti’s Soulshine Retreat Center in Ubud! More information below from the event website:

Bhakti Boogie® Dance Meditation Immersion

March 10th – 16th | Ubud, Bali

A Retreat for those who Like to Shake IT!
Those who Need to Shake IT!
And those who would benefit from Sitting IT down and
Focusing on the Inner Dance of Stillness

Bhakti Boogie® ~ Dance Meditation allows for full on booty shaking and contemplative meditation as complementary paths to empowerment and liberation. Experience an accessible practice that illuminates Heaven on Earth.

This is Your Ideal Vacation & Retreat Experience IF…

~ YOU Live in Your Head and you want to experience the Wisdom of Your Body

~ YOU want to Align the Outer Expressions of Your Life with the Inner Desires of your Heart

~ YOU want to Deepen your Relationship to Self, Nature & Spirit

~ YOU want to Experience Life as a Conscious Party

~ YOU are curious about Tantra, Meditation & Embodiment

~ YOU are ready to create a regular practice of Self-Inquiry, Self-Study, Self-Expression & Spiritual Devotion that’s FUN, TRANSFORMATIVE, SENSUOUS & SWEATY

Experience

~ Daily Ecstatic, Sweaty and Calorie-Burning Dance Jams with a Live DJ

~ Daily Meditations to Shift Your Awareness from Egocentric to Ecocentric to Universal

~ The Awaken, Celebrate & Inspire Arc of Transformation

~ GuiDANCE from your Heart & Innerstruction on Seated Meditation

~ Body-Centered Coaching Inquiries to Support Decision Making

~ Authentic Movement as a Path to Authentic Living

~ An Expression of Your Spirit through Dance, Rhythm & Presence

~ The Revelation of YourSELF

Investment/What’s Included

Double Occupancy Shared Bath
Regular Boogiesattva Rate ~ $1675

Double Occupancy Private Bath
Regular Boogiesattva Rate ~ after January 1, 2012 ~ $1875

Cost Includes:

-Accommodations at the gorgeous Soulshine Retreat Center
– Daily breakfast buffet & dinner, plus three lunches
– Sound-healing evenings with live music
– Bhakti Boogiesattva Yum Bag valued at $250

Special Offer!

The next six retreat registrants will receive a complimentary 60 minute Collaborative GuiD.A.N.C.E (Daily Actions Ensuring Conscious Evolution) & Coaching Session with Jocelyn Gordon, Ecstatic Embodiment Expert.

About Your Teachers

Jocelyn Gordon

Jocelyn Gordon is an Ecstatic Embodiment Expert and the creator of Bhakti Boogie®, HoopYogini™ and Lovers Rock® – Sensuous Partner Yoga & Massage for Couples in Love. She offers coaching programs and retreats facilitating transformational and fun dance experiences that inspire women out of procrastination and into a passionate and embodied life. A lover of holistic fitness and authentic self-expression, Jocelyn is excited for the release of her HoopYogini™ DVD available Spring 2012.

Adam Dreisler

Adam Dreisler aka DJ FyahLuv is a traveler in culture, spirit and sound. His upbringing in Africa established a firm connection to the earth and to the heartbeat that pulses in all. Later journeys to Bhutan, India and Nepal inspired explorations in meditation, yoga and comparative studies of the mystical traditions of the world. Spirit and music are central to Adam’s expressions as a DJ, musician, producer and movement instructor. His wish is to encourage joyful self-expression and re-connect humanity to the rhythm of Divine Love.

Click here for more information and to register today!

Ken and Lina will be leading a retreat focusing on dream yoga April 5th – 12th. More information below from the retreat website:

Portals of Power: Skanda Yoga Retreat to Teotihuacan, MX

April 5th – 12th

Are you looking to…

~ Develop your ability to Dream Lucidly through Dream Yoga?

~ Learn how to use the Maya calendar as a daily oracle?

~ Practice yoga asanas in sacred settings?

~ Explore the mystical Toltec ruins of Teotihuacan and Tula?

~ Participate in shamanic ceremonies?

If so, please join us for 7 days of empowerment at La Casa de Suenos (the House of Dreams) at Teotihuacan, Mexico for a magical experience! Each day Skanda Yoga teachers Ken von Roenn III (ERYT 500) and Lina Vallejo will guide you through the Mayan Oracle and its physical and spiritual embodiment in yoga asana. There will also be classes and meditations on Dream Yoga ( and Lucid Dreaming) with emphasis on techniques from the Toltec esoteric tradition. Each class will empower your spiritual path with wisdom and inspiration.

Skanda Yoga is the integration of many spiritual traditions. It is the co-creation of Ken and Lina after years of exploration that led to the manifestation of a system that enhances the experience of synchronicity and magic. They are excited to lead a transformative and empowering retreat in Teotihuacan, Mexico. It is the perfect setting to enhance the spiritual path while exploring the Toltec mythology.

Highlights of Your Adventure

~ Deepen your yoga and lucid dreaming practices in a mystical setting.

~ Increase your strength & flexibility

~ Explore the sacred sites of Teotihuacan and Tula with our local guides

~ Clean, energize & detox the body through yoga & vegetarian food.

~ Participate in a cave ceremony with shaman

~ Relax & rejuvenate: emotionally, physically and spiritually

~ Connect with a great group of inspiring people!

~ Spiritually expand in a Temazcal (healing sweat lodge) ceremony

~ Watch a traditional Aztec Dance of power

The Magic of the Dreaming House

Behind a gated wall in the village of San Sebastian Xolopan, adjacent to the ancient city of Teotihuacan, lies the Casa de los Sueños. Within its spacious compound are a dozen rooms decorated with the art of Mexico’s past, both recent and distant. Meals in the spacious and gracious dining hall are miraculous in themselves, country Mexican food prepared with skill and love. The traditional kitchen is staffed by family members, led by your hostess, Veronica Contla Galicia. Two meals (breakfast and early supper) with set menus and bottled water (for rooms and day excursions) are included as well as a light evening snack.

Pricing/Whats Included

Pricing:

Double Occupancy: $1845.00 USD per person
Single Occupancy: to be announced USD

(a $500 deposit is due by February 1st, full payment is due by March 1st)

What’s Included:

~ Eighteen meals are included in this itinerary as marked on the itinerary in brackets next to the date. But if you want to eat at any of the local restaurants, you probably will need to pay in cash so plan accordingly!

~ 7 nights double occupancy at The Dreaming House

~ All spiritual teachings, and yoga classes with Ken and Lina

~ Daily Dream Yoga and Lucid Dreaming practice

~ Visit to a local sacred cave and ceremony

~ Special temazcal (healing sweat lodge) ceremony

~ Entrance fees to the ruins of Teotihuacán for 3 days

~ Day trip and entrance fees to the mysterious Toltec ruins of Tula

~ Traditional Aztec Dancers show

~ All spiritual teachings for our intensive are included

~ All tips for our bus drivers and baggage handlers (one bag per person) are included

~ Round-trip group transportation from the Mexico City airport (unless you do not arrive with the group and separate transport is required)

~ Medical insurance for the duration of the trip

About Your Teachers

Ken Von Roenn III

Ken von Roenn III is the creator of Skanda Yoga, and is a former affiliate of Anusara Yoga. A practitioner for 13 years, Ken presents a dynamic synthesis of attributes from many Hatha Yoga systems. Ken holds a B.A. in Philosophy, and was an honors graduate in 2000 from the Yoga East Teacher Training program. He has since then studied alignment and therapeutics extensively.

Ken is determined to advance the potential of humanity, and is deeply committed to Divining a higher form of practice, one that embraces advanced techniques and extreme methods for a complete transformation of mind, body, and spirit. Ken is certified as a Level III Reiki Master and has been practicing for over 10 years. He uses stones and crystals to amplify the energy and to clear the field of heavy vibrations from negative past experiences. He concludes the session while playing crystal bowls.

Lina Vallejo

Lina is a gifted and refined yoga teacherpracticing her art and teaching for over 10 years. She began studying all forms of Hatha yoga, and received her certificate specializing in Ashtanga vinyasa yoga. She later directed her studies in Anusara, and was an inspired-Anusara teacher before the creation of Skanda Yoga.

Now she pursues the evolution of Skanda with Ken von Roenn III combining her vast knowledge of many diverse spiritual traditions with the playful art of yoga asana. Lina’s classes will guide you through a strong, challenging practice, with spiritually inspiring instruction. She is a transformational healer and life coach, that is committed to healing through asana, nutrition, detox, numerology, iridology, and Thai massage. Lina is also available for private lessons and life coaching.

Click here for more information and to register today!