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 Jeffrey Duval for Sonic Yoga’s Rejuvenation  & Retreat to Iceland June 11th – 17th. More information below from Sonic’s website:

Sonic Yoga Rejuvenation & Retreat to Iceland w/ Jeffery Duval

June 11th – 17th | Reykjavik, Iceland

Enjoy yoga in a pristine environment just before the Solstice where there is almost 24 hours of sunlight. Includes 6 days of daily yoga with Jeffrey and a special midnight Surya Namaskar to receive the full Dharsan or Blessing of Solar energy. Explore the cosmopolitan and unique city of Reykjavik and experience the vibrancy of volcanically and geo-thermal Reykholt. The air and water here is among the cleanest on the planet. This is the closest you might ever get to the Arctic Circle.

Itinerary/Pricing

Itinerary

Monday, June 11: Reykjavik Hotel: House of the Spirit. Early evening travel cleanse to *Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa. Dinner at Blue Lagoon’s Lava Restaurant.

Tuesday, June 12: Reykjavik. Morning yoga. Breakfast. Explore Reykjavik on bikes. Dinner & live music in the city.

Wednesday, June 13: Reykjavik. Breakfast. Whale Watching Excursion. Afternoon yoga. Dinner: explore on your own.

Thursday, June 14: Morning yoga. Breakfast. Travel to Reykholt. Hotel: Foss. Excursion to Morgarfjordur Waterfall. Dinner at hotel. Evening celebration in honor of the Midnight Sun.

Friday, June 15: Reykholt. Breakfast. Excursion to Langjokull Glacier. Afternoon yoga & soak in hot tubs . Dinner at hotel.

Saturday, June 16: Morning yoga. Breakfast. Return to Reykjavik. Hotel: House of the Spirit. Shopping at The Kolaportid Flea Market. Dinner: Group or on own.

Sunday, June 17: Morning yoga. Breakfast. Check out. Depart.

Pricing

Double occupancy: $1299.

Private accommodations available: $1599 early bird, $1699 after March 1, 2012.

Click here to learn about the House of the Spirit

Click here for more information and to register today!

Enter discount code: YOGANONYMOUS to receive 10% off of the adult ticket price, click here to purchase your tickets today!

Rasa-Lila Fest: Play, Dance, Love

March 30th – 31st | Odessa, FL

Whether you can hold a strong Scorpion pose, or are working on perfecting stillness in Savasana, join Tampa Bay’s leading yoga and holistic practitioners at Rasa-Lila Fest March 30 and 31^st.  The event will take place at Camp Brorein in Odessa, Florida.

Beginning on Friday night, this two day event will be full of yoga and meditation, sound healers, musicians, holistic workshops and lectures, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and rock climbing.  Attendees are welcome to bring tents and camp out Friday night, at the beginning of the weekend’s festivities.

If a festival like Rasa-Lila Fest seems too good to be true, take it from Rasa-Lila Fest Founder Nathan Bangs, “I started Rasa-Lila Fest with a simple vision of bringing the local yoga community together.” He has made this possible through his vision, inspired as yoga continued to expand its horizon throughout the United States. “Rasa-Lila Fest is a celebration of that vision, uniting our growing community at one location, for one great event.”

With Rasa-Lila Fest meaning “the dance of love” in Sanskrit, Friday night’s Pre-Fest activities start with a yoga class to the sound of live music, with “I LOVE YOGA” instructor, Moses Love.  Local recording artist, musician and radio personality, ELUV, will indulge the senses on a sound journey, while festival-goers enjoy the relaxation of nature.

After a night in the great outdoors, or arriving to enjoy the party Saturday morning, yoga and wellness enthusiasts are treated to over a dozen yoga classes, including kids and partner yoga.  Six master classes offered every two hours, will take place on the main stage, featuring instructors: Nathalie Croix, Karina Hahn Harrison, Will Duprey, Jaye Martin, Tymi Howard, and Eric Wheeler.  Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local yoga teachers and studio owners.  In addition, the lucky festival-goers will enjoy musicians, over 28 workshops with Tampa Bay’s most respected healing practitioners, and a vendor village.

You can choose to bring your own treats to snack on, or indulge your taste buds with healthy options, provided by local vendors along the wellness trail.  Take a break to leisurely shop for items made by local artisans.

All proceeds from the Pre-Fest event will be donated to the non-profit, Rasa-Lila Cares, a public charity created to support yoga teachers and their immediate families with hardship as a result of sudden emergencies.  Rasa-Lila Fest will seek to serve a higher purpose through charitable giving in the yoga communities where Rasa-Lila Fest will take place around the country.

Pre-Fest adult admission is $20.00, Adult Fest admission is $45.00 before the festival.  Admission for teens (ages 13-17) is $20.00, and children 12 and under are free.  Camping is $15.00.  Mention discount code: YOGANONYMOUS at time of checkout and receive 10% off your adult ticket price! For more information, visit www.rasalilafest.com.

We hope you decide to join us in our weekend of relaxation and peace.  Namaste.

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!

Get ready for a great weekend of yoga, workshops, lectures, concerts, and much more! Even better? We are here to hook you up with an exclusive discount! Enter promo code NY19 for an additional $50 off your main conference pass! Early-bird pricing ends March 2nd, click here to get your tickets today!

Featured Presenters

This year’s NY Conference features some of today’s greatest yoga teachers including: Elena Brower, Seane Corn, Sharon Gannon/David Life, Dharma Mittra, Sadie Nardini, Aadil Palkhivala, Tao Porchon-Lynch (93 years old!), Shiva Rea, David Romanelli, Desiree Rumbaugh, Colleen Saidman Yee/Rodney Yee, and more!

Conference Highlights

Special Events:

Get Your Dance On | Friday, April 13th | 7:30pm – 11:30pm

Get Your Dance On is a high vibe dance party that welcomes absolutely everyone. Born in NYC, we are festival, house party, tea lounge, and temple. The night begins with a yoga class led by Elena Brower and Dana Flynn, featuring the legendary India-infused beats of DJ Drez, and continues with a trance dance lead by Shiva Rea and Da’Riddim INya Drum Ensemble. Then the party opens up into two rooms: Drez and Da’Riddim INya will keep the high energy dance room going while the Didge Project and House of Waters play mellow grooves andCraig Anthony Miller whips up live paintings in the chill space.

Click here for more information.

In addition, Yoga Journal will offer free community classes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, as well as free meditations and panel discussions!

Featured Classes:

Yoga for Dudes w/ Nikki Costello | Saturday, April 14th: 3:30pm – 5:30pm

Stabilize and stretch. Move and breathe. Unwind and soften. The components of this class are like all yoga classes. So why is it so special for men? Come find out how men learn, improve at, and get hooked on yoga when the class is focused on their strengths, challenges, and a little friendly competition.

Hip/Hop Asana w/ Jules Febre | Saturday, April 14th: 3:30pm – 5:30pm

Hip-hop asana is Jules’s union of Jivamukti Yoga and hip-hop culture. Finding ways to creatively bring yoga to the community that you are from will be emphasized. Fun sequencing distinct to the Jivamukti Yoga method will warm you up and keep you cookin’. Come prepared for an upbeat session with great music and sequences. Music will be provided by DJ Derek Beres of EarthRise SoundSystem. A hip-hop dance teacher will warm us up for the asana practice. This is classic Jivamukti: original, sequential, inspired with spirit, and a little wild. A vigorous Jivamukti Yoga class for all levels.

Yoga & Steve Jobs: Unlocking the Collective Consciousness w/ Dave Romanelli | Sunday, April 15th: 8am – 10am

The late cofounder of Apple Computers, Steve Jobs, studied and traveled in India before his revolutionary career. His otherworldly vision and tenacity to stick to his guns stem from an ancient Eastern embrace of simplicity, meditation, and purpose. In this vinyasa flow, you’ll explore how a relaxed body frees a connection to the collective consciousness and how other great innovators, from Einstein to Mozart, sensed the treasures that await us if only we can unlock the code and free the mind.

Check out this awesome video below, just in case you weren’t already excited enough:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Don’t forget – early-bird pricing ends on March 2nd – and enter promo code NY19 for an additional $50 off your main conference pass – Click here 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

Spend 3 days enjoying music, yoga, and community in beautiful Cannon Beach, OR March 2nd – 4th! More information below:

The 2nd Annual Cannon Beach Yoga Festival

March 2nd – 4th | Cannon Beach, OR

A health and wellness destination, as well as a natural scenic treasure, Cannon Beach, OR will host the second Cannon Beach Yoga Festival, March 2-4, 2012.  The small coastal town welcomes yoga practitioners of all levels for a weekend of yoga, meditation, music, art, dance, food, massage & body work, shopping, and celebration.

“Cannon Beach is a perfect location to cater to the active lifestyle traveler. We have one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.  The area offers great accommodations for every pocketbook, from luxury hotel suites and oceanfront homes to quaint cabins and pristine RV parks.  We are known for our friendly hospitality, unique galleries, and a diverse selection of shops and eateries,” says Festival Director, Christen Allsop.

The esteemed faculty of yoga teachers include Aadil Palkhivala, known as the Teacher of Teachers, founder and director of Yoga Centers and The College of Purna Yoga in Bellevue, WA.  Julie Gudmestad, PT, a certified Iyengar Yoga teacher and a licensed physical therapist, director of Gudmestad Yoga Studio, and author of Yoga Journal’s anatomy column for seven years.  Sarahjoy Marsh, founder of Amrita: A Sanctuary for Yoga in Portland, OR; founder and director of Living Yoga, a non-profit outreach program teaching yoga in prisons, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers, and battered women’s and homless youth shelters.  Betsy Allen, a yoga teacher and physical therapist specializing in the treatment of chronic pain.  Uma Kleppinger, yoga and meditation teacher, author, and developer of Bike Yoga in Bend, OR.

The festival offers yoga workshops and a full range of events starting with Friday’s Welcome Registration Gathering and Yoga Marketplace; Saturday and Sunday Morning Meditations, Saturday night Community Dance Party featuring Sarah Slifer and Obo Addy & Okropong; concluding with a Closing Ceremony on Sunday night.

Festival Happenings

A wide array of optional events and classes will be held throughout the weekend and include:

~ Yoga Figure Drawing with Tolovana Arts Colony painting and drawing instructor, David Kinhan.

~ The Science of Meditation: Evidence-Based Wellnes with Assistant Professor of Nursing at Linfield College in OR and meditation teacher, Kathleen Bell.

~ Lecture: Addiction, Recovery and the Psychology of Yoga with Sarahjoy Marsh.

~ Balance the Five Elements through Ayurveda and Foods with Ayurveda lifestyle counseller, Dana Dupont.

~ Dance Connections: Move the Body, Open the Mind with dancer, choreographer and professor from Salem State University in Massachuesetts, Sarah Slifer.

~ iRest:  Yoga Nidra for Personal Transformative Inquiry with yoga therapist and teacher, Suzanne Bigelow.

Community

Local Cannon Beach businesses are pulling out all the stops with special offers and discounts on lodging, food and beverages, spa treatments and shopping throughout the weekend.  Please see all the specials and the full schedule on the website:  http://www.cannonbeachyogafestival.com.

Friends of Haystack Rock, a nonprofit environmental protection and education organization, received a grant to help fund the festival through the Cannon Beach Tourism and Arts Fund from a local lodging tax.  FHR and yoga instructor, Christen Allsop’s vision is to create a small, robust festival that offers excellence in teaching and hospitality to the Northwest yoga practitioner. With help from enthusiastic volunteers and local businesses, they hope to create a rich and lively experience.

Click here for more information and to register today!

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!

Nicki will be teaching a 5-day asana intensive focusing on honoring your intentions at her Maya Yoga Studio on Maui. More details below from the event website:

Asana Intensive: Honoring Your Intentions

February 12th – 17th | Maui, HI

At the beginning of every year, we are always full of intentions and plans for how we are going to change in the coming year and get back into our Yoga practice. We call them our New Year’s resolutions and these intention are sincere. But honestly, how many of us stick to those resolutions and stay committed to our practice?  If this sounds like you, come to this workshop! During this week we will focus on methods to help us sustain our practice, not be so hard on ourselves, and get reinspired about Yoga in general! Remember “Shtira Sukham Asanam”- we want to be strong and stable in our practice and also find joy in it!

Click here for more information and to register 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!

It’s all going down February 25th – March 3rd in the heart of New Orleans, LA! More information below from the band’s website:

BHAKTImmersion: Bhakti Yoga, Kirtan Training, & Soul Celebration

New Orleans, LA | February 25th – March 3rd

Enhance your connection to Life through bhakti yoga and kirtan. This 8 day intensive is for anyone who wants to steep in bhakti- the yoga of the heart; for yogis who are seeking to deepen their practice; yoga teachers who want to learn how to share more singing and bhakti in classes; and people who are interested in learning more about the art and practice of kirtan music.

The week opens with a full-on kirtan celebration with Sean and the Wild Lotus Band playing in their own backyard. The rest of the time is filled with ecstatic interactive chanting, dancing, storytelling, mythology, bhaktiful asana practice with live music, journaling, and love poetry from the Bhakti tradition. In a supportive and loving environment, options include: chanting and basic harmonium lessons with Sean; rhythm and drumming workshops with Gwendolyn; guitar-and-bass-for-kirtan lessons with Alvin; an exploration of the archetypes of gods and goddesses; guidance on how to bring more bhakti into your life; house party with live local music, and more surprises in the soulful and magical city of New Orleans.

Location/Investment

Location:

Sessions will be held at Wild Lotus Yoga-Downtown.

Investment:

$875. Register with non-refundable deposit of$500. Full balance is due by February 15th, 2012. Price includes BHAKTImmersion experience plus binder/guidebook, daily snacks, and two dinners. Some discounted housing opportunities ($25 per night) in the community will be available for earliest registrants.

Testimonials

“I feel I received so much, each day was so full and satisfying. My experience was nothing short of amazing and as it continues to unfold and flourish in me I realize the many implications of all that you offered.” – Jeannie, Hilton Head, SC

“I was truly impressed and appreciative of how much thought was given to each element of Bhakti, and how to share it with our group. I loved the blend of learning scales, morning singing, encouraging each one of us to sing or lead a chant, the sharing of the band’s chants each day, and I have to say most especially the story-telling. Sean you are such a wonderful story teller, and with a live sound track included, how can it be beat? I really appreciated learning the meaning behind many of the symbols or characteristics of the deities, the relationship between them. I also thought it was wonderful for us to get to choose a different musical focus each day between the three of you to get a taste of which instruments might or might not call to us. In addition to this I think the inclusion of evening social events and dinners really allowed all of us to get to know one another better and relax outside of sessions and absorb in the joy and magic of the Bhaktimmersion.” - Vanessa, Portland, MN

“The Harmonium lessons were critical for me . I was stuck on just a couple of chords and the lessons again gave me the bravery to go beyond and try something a little deeper. I learned alot from how you kept reviewing from the previous day and then took us a bit deeper. The immersion was beyond my expectations. I went there so open and ready to receive. I could feel that you were sincerely supportive of each and every person in that group. You provided a space for me to discover more ways of singing, playing and writing. I am grateful to you, Gwendolyn and Alvin. I could feel the authenticity and careful consideration of making this event special. The group around my studio keep telling me I am glowing. Sometimes I find myself at a loss for words when asked how it was. You are an inspiration and I thank you so very much.” – Vicki, Hilton Head, SC

“I really loved every aspect of the Bhaktimmersion. All the singing and voice training we did every morning helped me find my voice and feel the joy in letting it come through. I knew virtually nothing of the deity stories, so enjoying the sweet gift of your storytelling, along with the ambient music of the band, helped me enter into the story, which is way different from reading it in a book. It brought it to life for me. The binder is packed with incredibly useful information that I continue to use daily. All the percussion and rhythm sessions with Gwendolyn were fantastic. The meditation from Alvin was really beautiful and helped me open my heart even more. And all of the things you guys did outside of class inspired me hugely. You and Gwendolyn opening up your homes and all three of you being so giving of your time to keep the community experience tight was very important to me and taught me so much about service. This was a life-changing experience for me. My heart is open so wide and filled with deep gratitude for all you guys did to make this experience possible for me.” – Carie, College Station, TX

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: