Author Archive
Sweat, Stretch and Share… Bike. Yoga. Eat. Event
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Sweat, Stretch and Share this Memorial Day at Wild-Soul’s Bike. Yoga. Eat. Event
By – Laura Matteliano
May is national bike month and what could be a better way to celebrate than hopping on your two wheeler, stretching it out afterwards with David Moreno then eating your heart out with delicious food provided by Gospel Farm Flat this Memorial Day Weekend?
That’s right, you get all three adventures packed into two days at WIldSoul’s Bike. Yoga. Eat event on May 26-27th. If you live in the Bay area and never experienced a yoga class with David Moreno, the beautiful hills of Bolinas or a farm to table event, what are you waiting for?!
Yoga, cycling and food are a trifecta of sensory explosion waiting to happen. The idea behind Bike. Yoga. Eat. is to bring together community and ignite the five senses. Whether you are new to yoga, an avid cyclist or just plain love food, this event is sure to provide something for everyone.
I had a chance to sit down with David after one of his Saturday morning classes at Namaste in Oakland. It was a particularly warm, sunny day amidst the Grand Lake Farmers Market. As we sat and talked about yoga and cycling, David’s passion about food quickly became evident. Showing off his canvas tote full of fresh veggies, he mentioned this was the perfect time of the year to hold an event like this. “All cyclists want to do the minute they get off their bike is eat. So, it is great that this is built into the retreat.”
Originally, what drew David to cycling was seeing numerous students getting injured from long hours on the bike, without proper warm up or cool down. Unlike yoga, where sequences build upon a slow progression to more intense postures, cyclists “hop on their bike and go.” By the time the ride is over, a cyclist’s one and only goal is…food. Food is definitely a part of this getaway, along with yoga classes to help avoid injury from tight muscles, not to mention it just feels great!
Bike. Eat. Yoga promises two days of adventure with gregarious David Moreno, the breathtaking landscapes of Bolinas including plenty of sweating, only to eat your heart out with fresh spring food grown by Gospel Flat, prepared by chef Erin Merhar. So grab a few friends, or plan to meet some and come out this Memorial Day weekend. Check out wild-soul.com for more information and to reserve a spot. See you there!
*LAST MINUTE SPECIAL – SIGN UP WITH A FRIEND FOR $25 off!
Sign-up at:
wild-soul.com
8 Things You Should Know about AcroYoga
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By Daniel Scott via www.danielscottyoga.com
It’s very possible you’ve seen a few students playing around after class or watched a few videos online. Maybe you’ve seen some epic photos in a yoga magazine of two smiling yogis balancing effortlessly on each other’s feet and/or hands in some exotic location. Perhaps, upon seeing this, you’ve thought to yourself, “That’s impossible! I could never do that.”
Please allow me to let you in on a little secret: Yes, you can!
My name is Daniel Scott, and I teach the Yoga of Trust. For the past six years, I have been blessed to teach thousands of people worldwide to literally turn their lives upside down while loving every second. As a certified AcroYoga instructor and movement therapist, my life is dedicated to helping others answer the question: Are you moving or being moved?
Like any physical practice, yoga or otherwise, AcroYoga is a dynamic offering that can seem both simple and complex. My journey didn’t begin with gymnastics or circus arts. Wandering aimlessly in the labyrinth of corporate life, I ran marathons and partied ruthlessly in my “free” time in hopes of an escape before finding yoga as a true way out. I didn’t do my first free handstand until I was 27, and even then, I was better at falling down then getting up.
Upon truly embracing the practice of AcroYoga, my understanding and appreciation of yoga—and through that, life—has deepened with immense passion and gratitude. Whether you’ve tried it or not, please enjoy these following tips as guides for the path towards building trust… within the body, the community, and the true blessing of divine partnership.
1. AcroYoga combines yoga, healing arts, and acrobatics. It’s good to mix things up, even if it sounds like an odd recipe. All three styles truly balance each other out (pun intended). Let’s drink straight from the source at AcroYoga.org: “AcroYoga blends the wisdom of yoga, the dynamic power of acrobatics, and the loving kindness of healing arts. These three lineages form the foundation of a practice that cultivates trust, playfulness, and community.” Who can say no to that?
2. You don’t need a partner to find partnership. Flying solo? No worries—you’ll find someone to soar with once when you arrive! While you are welcome to train with a dedicated partner, there is much knowledge to be gained in mixing it up from time to time. This partner-based practice develops your skills to work with a wide variety of people… no matter the personality, shape, size, or skill.
3. AcroYoga is for Every Body. You need not be a master gymnast, circus acrobat, or seasoned yogi to enjoy. Can’t do a handstand, or even touch your toes? No big deal. AcroYoga is a practice of substance, not flash. You’ll learn necessary building blocks to literally take whatever physical skills you have to new heights.
4. Size matters not. You may think big people do the lifting, and tiny people do the flying. This is not the case. AcroYoga doesn’t defy gravity, it honors it. Technique is more important than strength. You’ll quickly learn that muscles tire while bones don’t—whether lifting someone above your head, pouring weight through hands for a healing touch, or counterbalancing someone twice your size.
5. One must give to receive… and vice versa. When was the last time you let someone else physically move you? A good AcroYoga class creates a safe container in which participants learn the art of allowing movement. Depending on the material taught, this could mean total engagement, utter release, or some degree of both. Everyone in class goes through the same experience. As you learn to support others, you end up allowing yourself to be supported. This is a fundamental of trust: take control by letting go.
6. Get what you need by asking for what you want. Unlike practicing alone, where we spend a lot of time in our head, partner work is deeply rooted the shared experience. In addition to honing the skill of sharing a physical practice, AcroYoga helps to develop open, direct, and compassionate verbal communication with whomever we’re paired with. Try giving someone directions while in handstand. Up becomes down. Left becomes right. Things can get mixed up when life gets flipped asana over tea kettle. Work together or fall apart. You decide.
7. In order to know one, you must truly experience the other. The practice of AcroYoga is split into two parts, Acrobatic (Solar) and Therapeutic (Lunar). Each side explores the relationship between the mover and those being moved. In the dynamic Solar practice, participants learn three different roles: Base (mover), Flyer (being moved), and Spotter (knowledge of both). Lunar theraputics embraces the deeply healing connection to metta—loving kindness. Here, the Giver is the mover, and the Receiver is the one being moved. Balance is the midpoint between extremes, so it’s best to explore this practice from all sides to know where your grounded passion truly lies.
8. Trust Communication = Community. Amazing things happen when one steps outside the box, and there is no coincidence that a yoga mat is rectangular. Don’t confine yourself to the soft routine of this non-slip comfort zone. AcroYoga creates a tangible sense of tribe and celebration which is hard to find anywhere else. Remember, it is entirely up to you how high you want to soar or how slow you want to enjoy the process of getting there. May these tips help further your existing practice or inspire you to give it at try… with love, light, and flight.
Bhakti in Bloom – A Review of our Northern California Yoga Retreat
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Bhakti in Bloom/Sierra Hot Springs Review
By Lian Walden, Oakland California
The weekend yoga retreat in the Sierra Hotsprings was exceptional. I arrived feeling broken, distraught, and unsettled, and I left feeling healed, rejuvenated, and centered. The retreat was everything I could have hoped for and more. It helped me reconnect with myself, with others, and with the divine. Rachel Meyers is an extraordinary yoga teacher whose unique blend of humor, music, and philosophy helped me deepen my practice in unexpected ways. I could derive greater life lessons from the lessons I learned on the mat. Rachel’s approach to teaching is extremely thoughtful and creative. She took great care to make each of the four classes a unique experience with a special theme. Both Rachel and Ben’s appreciation for the details was apparent throughout the weekend. From the appropriately themed art-cards Rachel subtly placed on our mats to surprise us after meditation to the beautiful journals wrapped in twine that Ben thoughtfully distributed at our opening circle, the details made the experience that much more intimate and special. We all felt taken care of, and free to take care of ourselves in whatever way we so needed or pleased. There was a perfect balance between free time and structure, laughter and tears, socializing and alone time. Some people came seeking community and found it. Others came seeking solitude and self-reflection, and found the space they needed. Solyoga tends to attract some extraordinary participants, and we all learned from and valued one another’s presence. Many of us made lasting connections in the brief time we were there. The retreat consisted of seasoned attendees as well as first-timers; all agreed that Solyoga is something special. No other organization in the Bay Area or the country is facilitating the kind of quality, low-key, unpretentious retreats that Solyoga is becoming known for. Ben’s recipe for creating the perfect yoga experience is almost alchemic. I highly recommend treating yourself to a weekend retreat or weeklong excursion. It won’t feel like an indulgence; it will feel like a necessity. And it will continue to fuel and inspire you long after it ends.
Like Water for Chocolate
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ACRO YOGA + HOT SPRINGS + FOOD + CHOCOLATE
Join us for this special yoga retreat at Avalon Hot springs Northern California. Take yoga classes, learn Acroyoga, nourish yourself with delicious food, soak in healing waters, indulge in raw chocolate from our friends and have the best weekend EVER.
Located in a magnificent location just north of Calistoga, your days will be filled with inspiring yoga classes with Daniel Scott, soaking in Avalon’s healing hot springs, relaxing and hiking in mother earth and being nourished by our onsite therapeutic chef.
Avalon’s pools feature pure mineral spring water, flowing from our three distinct hot springs sources, with no chemical treatment whatsoever.
Relax and unwind in the Magnesium-rich Medicine Spring Water. Experience the skin-softening effects of the Boron-rich Mother Spring. Melt away tensions while feeling the strengthening effects of the Iron-rich Dragon Spring. And stay hydrated with your choice of seven different mineral drinking springs, flowing fresh and clean straight from the earth.
The healing waters are the heart of the Avalon Springs experience. The mineral hot springs of Avalon have been honored for centuries for promoting harmony and wellness.
About Daniel Scott
Daniel Scott is yogi provocateur offering a fresh alternative to the traditional “yoga voice”. His classes are a lively mix of balance and improv, strength and flexibility, breath and body. With light heart and open mind, Daniel focuses on moving into postures, not through them. An E-RYT 500 globally renowned ashtanga-vinyasa teacher and Certified Level 2 AcroYoga instructor living in San Francisco Bay Area, Daniel enjoys barefoot running, street art, good coffee, large quantities, and great qualities. As a Wellness Expert for MindBodyGreen and inspirational columnist for the Huffington Post, he is deeply dedicated to sharing in the immense journey from self-conscious to self-aware. With every breath, Daniel Scott strives to answer the ever-present question:
Are you moving or being moved?
Daniel’s Website: http://www.danielscottyoga.com/
Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/daniel-scott
MindBodyGreen: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/wc/daniel-scott
Mineral Drinking Springs
In addition to the soaking springs, Avalon boasts a variety of special mineral drinking waters which can be enjoyed straight from their place of emergence in the rock. One drinking spring is high in Lithium – a mood elevator commonly used to treat Bipolar Disorder. Other springs include a bubbly iron soda drinking spring, a Magnesium-rich “laxative” spring historically named “Dynamite Spring” and Bohemia Spring, which was considered a hang-over tonic to cure the effects of over-indulgence!
The Land
The land of Avalon Springs commands panoramic views beyond Big Canyon’s wooded valleys and into the Mayacamas Mountains. The wind blows soft and steady from the ocean across the tops of the foothills to the West. A majestic rock face stands guard over the plateau where future guest residences are to be built.
The lodge, spa bathing area, and wellness center are shaded in the hot summer months by the hilltop we call the Tor of Avalon (a tribute to Avalon in Glastonbury), which sits on the south side of the property. The view plateau commands a breathtaking panorama of Boggs Forest, Big Canyon Valley, and the Maycamas mountains beyond to the east.
Across the road, Avalon Learning Village, the related non-profit educational organization, will be home to the gardens and intensive workshops that complement and literally nourish the resort.
It is no surprise that this land has been held sacred by the local community, both modern and native. Avalon’s development seeks to honor this land with conscious design, inspiring programming, and responsible ecological stewardship.
Dining
The kitchen at Avalon Springs will draw ingredients straight from the garden, offering an ample buffet-style meal plan with large meals twice daily (lunch and dinner) and a juice and snack bar available for breakfast and between-meals needs.
Entrees for meals at Avalon will include some organic local meats, fish, and poultry as well as ample fresh vegetarian fare sourced from local farms and Avalon’s own gardens. Raw food delights will also be showcased on occasion to feature the potency and taste of the freshest produce available.
With every meal introducing healing foods preparation including raw food delicacies, superfood juices, and healing teas, dining at Avalon will be a healing experience. Unlike many healing resorts, Avalon Springs will have no dogmatic restrictions on diet, allowing the guests the freedom to explore options and choose their own ways to nourish themselves naturally, with everything from raw chocolates to hearty meats and local wines.
Avalon’s Spa is centered around the healing waters.
Since early times, people have gathered around natural springs to access their healing power. Many believe that the word “SPA” originates from the Latin “Salus Per Aquam” or “Wellness Through Water.” The resort embraces this approach by offering various treatments that utilize the natural healing waters that are abundant at Avalon Springs.
Avalon Springs is already connected with the originators and masters in various aquatic therapies including: Waterdance™, Watsu™, Water-Chi, and other rehabilitative therapies especially useful in recuperating from surgery, spinal injury, and illness. Richard Bock, one of the founding partners of Avalon Springs, is one of the earliest and best-known Watsu™ practitioners, a founder of Waterdance™, and an internationally renowned teacher and practitioner of various forms of aquatic bodywork for almost twenty years. Aquatic therapies have been more successful in Europe until this point. There are very few centers for aquatic bodywork that feature mineral springs in the United States. However, these effective and deeply healing therapies will inevitably become more popular in the United States. Avalon Springs will become the premiere center for Aquatic Bodywork and water therapies.
While water-based therapies will be what Avalon Springs will be known for, the resort will also offer a full complement of spa services. These will include massage, herbal and organic healing skin treatments, integrative and alternative treatments, and cleanse and detox support. Avalon’s approach to healing is one of empowerment and education, offering a variety of choices and healing experiences for guests.
READY TO RETREAT? CHECK IT OUT:
We use a trust based payment structure. This means we’ll give you 3 payment options based on what you’re able to afford due to your current financial situation. We’re putting our trust in you that you’ll choose the right payment. Those of you that choose to pay the regular price of Option 3 are making it possible for us to offer a reduced price for those that are “just gettin’ by”, so we (and they) thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
How to pay:
Pay in full now (includes $150 non-refundable deposit)
*If you can’t pay in full now – please contact us to work out a payment plan
Ways to pay:
1. Credit card via Paypal (you don’t need an account)
2. Pay by check (no processing fee) *contact for details.
Includes:
~4 yoga classes
~Friday Dinner, 3 meals Saturday, Brunch Sunday
~Accommodation of your choosing
~Use of Hot Springs and Facilities
Not included in price
~Transportation
~Massage/bodywork
PRICING
Option 1 – Biggest discount – Just gettin’ by
I am just scraping by, but what I really need right now in my life is this yoga retreat
Shared – $449 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $565 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 2 – Slight discount – Not too bad/pretty good:
I’m doing alright financially, and although I’m not scraping by, this is still a pretty big purchase for me.
Shared – $499 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $615 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 3 – Full Price – I’m doing well right now
I’m doing pretty well for myself now and can afford to pay the full price so that others who aren’t as fortunate can afford a yoga retreat
Shared – $549 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $665 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Italy
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Energize the Body, Clear the Mind and Awaken the Palette.
Yoga and Culinary Adventure in Northern Italy
Energize the Body, Clear the Mind and Awaken the Palette.
Yoga and Culinary Adventure in Northern Italy
Sip, savor, and stretch in Fobello, Italy. In this less-traveled gem of Northern Italy, enjoy a daily feast of yoga, hiking, and food adventures. Friends for over 20 years, Alice, award-winning chef at Erba Brusca restaurant, and Sadie, In-house Yogi at Clif Bar, will host this week of nourishment. Each day will start with a invigorating yoga class. Spend afternoons meeting the local baker, learning to cook risotto from the local master, hiking in the surrounding hills, or visiting the nearby, famous wine region In the evenings we will learn from local wine experts and relish shared meals.
The recently-renovated, boutique hotel sits among the mountains in the small hamlet. The 20 unique, bright rooms offer comfortable accommodations. The jacuzzi or sauna will unravel your travel aches and a spacious room will serve as our yoga studio. The restaurant serves three slow, delicious meals a day.
Link: http://www.albergodellapostafobello.it/index.html
Meet your yoga teacher and host:
Sadie Chanlett-Avery, holistic fitness trainer, yoga instructor, and writer, was named a 2013 Athleta Sponsored Athlete. As the In-house Yogi at Clif Bar & Co. she directs the yoga and perinatal programs, trains with kettlebells, and serves on the Wellness Team.
Sadie received her teacher certification from Ana Forrest and has immersed for months in the jungles of Costa Rica with Master Yoga and Meditation Teacher, Glenn Black. Her M.A. in Holistic Health Education and multiple fitness certifications lends antomical depth to her innovative and playful classes.
She appreciates the diverse expression of the human genome with the belief that people of all ages and sizes can benefit from exercise and heal with yoga. Teaching for over ten years, she applies ancient yogic principles to individual needs and modern lifestyles.
Sadie blogs at www.activebodystillmind.com
Meet Alice Delcourt, Chef at Erba Brusca
Alice Delcourt, american-born chef of Erba Brusca in Milan will be curating our journey through food.
From “The American in Italia” about Alice’s restaurant- by Eleanor Shannon
“We sat in the back terrace overlooking the garden, where an unexpected breeze took the edge off the city’s sweltering heat. The overall feeling combined earthy California, rustic France, and chic Italy. Flowers and vegetables bloomed in the garden, whose red lounging chairs and bright red cushions were a nod to Italian design. The restaurant’s tables and chairs had a Parisian café flavor.
None of this is by chance. Alice was born in France to a British mother and a French father. She grew up and attended college in the United States and worked in restaurants in New York and London before moving to Milan eight years ago. Since then, she’s fully embraced Italy’s “zero kilometer” philosophy (which favors so-called low impact foods, including meats, cheeses, grains, and honeys) and the organic food movement that began with Alice Waters. She bases her cooking on what’s fresh and available, adding her own flair to whatever she finds.
Each dish has something local and seasonal, but with a twist. As a starter, I ordered an apricot, rucola and Parmesan salad. Rucola and Parmesan salads are plentiful in Italy. But the unexpected apricots added pizzazz. Delightful…”
Read more HERE:
*photo brambilla – S. Serrani
Our Schedule for the week:
(If you’ve arrived early – come take an excursion with us to the rice farm/eco farm)
*Lodging in Milan is on your own however will suggest hotels
Monday, September 16
Small welcome hike/walk to get acclimated
First Yoga Class
Cooking Class with Alice
Tuesday, September 17
Morning Yoga
Afternoon Yoga
Cooking Class + Wine Class
Wednesday, September 18
Morning Yoga
Thursday, September 19
Morning Yoga
Optional Half Day Trip – Nearby Village and beautiful hiking
Afternoon Yoga
Friday, September 20
Morning Yoga
Visit the local bread maker
Saturday, September 21
Morning Yoga
Last day to enjoy Fobello or Optional excursion day (rafting, fishing, hiking)
Sunday, September 22
*We highly recommend coming early or staying on to travel and are happy to give you suggestions or refer you to our travel partners in the area.
This trip includes
1-2 yoga classes daily with Sadie
1 wine class with Sommelier Danilo Ingannamorte
All meals in Fobello, not included on some optional activities or where meals are eaten elsewhere
(also included in the price of optional activities and visit to nearby village)
Not Included
Transportation to and from the airport on Arrival
Optional activities
Wine (even at meals)
Massage or Spa Treatments
*We suggest renting a car if you feel moved to go exploring by yourself, or plan to travel before or after our retreat
READY TO RETREAT? CHECK IT OUT:
We use a trust based payment structure. This means we’ll give you 3 payment options based on what you’re able to afford due to your current financial situation. We’re putting our trust in you that you’ll choose the right payment. Those of you that choose to pay the regular price of Option 3 are making it possible for us to offer a reduced price for those that are “just gettin’ by”, so we (and they) thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
How to pay:
Pay in full now (includes $150 non-refundable deposit)
*If you can’t pay in full now – please contact us to work out a payment plan
Ways to pay:
1. Credit card via Paypal (you don’t need an account)
2. Pay by check (no processing fee) *contact for details.
PRICING
Option 1 – Biggest discount – Just gettin’ by
I am just scraping by, but what I really need right now in my life is this yoga retreat
Shared – $1995 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $2345 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 2 – Slight discount – Not too bad/pretty good:
I’m doing alright financially, and although I’m not scraping by, this is still a pretty big purchase for me.
Shared – $2195 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $2595 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 3 – Full Price – I’m doing well right now
I’m doing pretty well for myself now and can afford to pay the full price so that others who aren’t as fortunate can afford a yoga retreat
Shared – $2395 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $2745 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Hot Springs Retreat with Pedro Franco
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YOGA + HOT SPRINGS + NATURE + FOOD
Join us at a unique hot springs retreat in Northern California. Located in a magnificent location just north of Calistoga, your days will be filled with inspiring yoga classes with Pedro Franco, soaking in Avalon’s healing hot springs, relaxing and hiking in mother earth and being nourished by our onsite therapeutic chef.
Avalon’s pools feature pure mineral spring water, flowing from our three distinct hot springs sources, with no chemical treatment whatsoever.
Relax and unwind in the Magnesium-rich Medicine Spring Water. Experience the skin-softening effects of the Boron-rich Mother Spring. Melt away tensions while feeling the strengthening effects of the Iron-rich Dragon Spring. And stay hydrated with your choice of seven different mineral drinking springs, flowing fresh and clean straight from the earth.
The healing waters are the heart of the Avalon Springs experience. The mineral hot springs of Avalon have been honored for centuries for promoting harmony and wellness.
About Pedro
Pedro Franco is a Yogi, Physical Education Professional Physiotherapist, Yoga therapist, and Personal Consultant. Pedro has practiced Martial Arts for 22 years. His Yoga journey started in 1992 and since then he has practiced, studied and is certified by Teachers and Masters from various lineages and traditions around the world. Pedro also carries certifications in Pilates, technical skills for rehabilitation, wellness, and fitness. He has developed a practice that blends effective tools with a broad holistic perspective, and has a teaching style that adapts to all levels for the maximum development of students’ inherent abilities.
Yoga Teacher Training Certification Coordinator · at San Francisco State University
Yoga teacher at Namaste Lakeshore
Yoga teacher @Yoga Society of San Francisco Brahmananda Ashram
Yoga teacher @ Bay Club – San Francisco
Mineral Drinking Springs
In addition to the soaking springs, Avalon boasts a variety of special mineral drinking waters which can be enjoyed straight from their place of emergence in the rock. One drinking spring is high in Lithium – a mood elevator commonly used to treat Bipolar Disorder. Other springs include a bubbly iron soda drinking spring, a Magnesium-rich “laxative” spring historically named “Dynamite Spring” and Bohemia Spring, which was considered a hang-over tonic to cure the effects of over-indulgence!
The Land
The land of Avalon Springs commands panoramic views beyond Big Canyon’s wooded valleys and into the Mayacamas Mountains. The wind blows soft and steady from the ocean across the tops of the foothills to the West. A majestic rock face stands guard over the plateau where future guest residences are to be built.
The lodge, spa bathing area, and wellness center are shaded in the hot summer months by the hilltop we call the Tor of Avalon (a tribute to Avalon in Glastonbury), which sits on the south side of the property. The view plateau commands a breathtaking panorama of Boggs Forest, Big Canyon Valley, and the Maycamas mountains beyond to the east.
Across the road, Avalon Learning Village, the related non-profit educational organization, will be home to the gardens and intensive workshops that complement and literally nourish the resort.
It is no surprise that this land has been held sacred by the local community, both modern and native. Avalon’s development seeks to honor this land with conscious design, inspiring programming, and responsible ecological stewardship.
Dining
The kitchen at Avalon Springs will draw ingredients straight from the garden, offering an ample buffet-style meal plan with large meals twice daily (lunch and dinner) and a juice and snack bar available for breakfast and between-meals needs.
Entrees for meals at Avalon will include some organic local meats, fish, and poultry as well as ample fresh vegetarian fare sourced from local farms and Avalon’s own gardens. Raw food delights will also be showcased on occasion to feature the potency and taste of the freshest produce available.
With every meal introducing healing foods preparation including raw food delicacies, superfood juices, and healing teas, dining at Avalon will be a healing experience. Unlike many healing resorts, Avalon Springs will have no dogmatic restrictions on diet, allowing the guests the freedom to explore options and choose their own ways to nourish themselves naturally, with everything from raw chocolates to hearty meats and local wines.
Avalon’s Spa is centered around the healing waters.
Since early times, people have gathered around natural springs to access their healing power. Many believe that the word “SPA” originates from the Latin “Salus Per Aquam” or “Wellness Through Water.” The resort embraces this approach by offering various treatments that utilize the natural healing waters that are abundant at Avalon Springs.
Avalon Springs is already connected with the originators and masters in various aquatic therapies including: Waterdance™, Watsu™, Water-Chi, and other rehabilitative therapies especially useful in recuperating from surgery, spinal injury, and illness. Richard Bock, one of the founding partners of Avalon Springs, is one of the earliest and best-known Watsu™ practitioners, a founder of Waterdance™, and an internationally renowned teacher and practitioner of various forms of aquatic bodywork for almost twenty years. Aquatic therapies have been more successful in Europe until this point. There are very few centers for aquatic bodywork that feature mineral springs in the United States. However, these effective and deeply healing therapies will inevitably become more popular in the United States. Avalon Springs will become the premiere center for Aquatic Bodywork and water therapies.
While water-based therapies will be what Avalon Springs will be known for, the resort will also offer a full complement of spa services. These will include massage, herbal and organic healing skin treatments, integrative and alternative treatments, and cleanse and detox support. Avalon’s approach to healing is one of empowerment and education, offering a variety of choices and healing experiences for guests.
READY TO RETREAT? CHECK IT OUT:
We use a trust based payment structure. This means we’ll give you 3 payment options based on what you’re able to afford due to your current financial situation. We’re putting our trust in you that you’ll choose the right payment. Those of you that choose to pay the regular price of Option 3 are making it possible for us to offer a reduced price for those that are “just gettin’ by”, so we (and they) thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
How to pay:
Pay in full now (includes $150 non-refundable deposit)
*If you can’t pay in full now – please contact us to work out a payment plan
Ways to pay:
1. Credit card via Paypal (you don’t need an account)
2. Pay by check (no processing fee) *contact for details.
Includes:
~4 yoga classes
~Friday Dinner, 3 meals Saturday, Brunch Sunday
~Accommodation of your choosing
~Use of Hot Springs and Facilities
Not included in price
~Transportation
~Massage/bodywork
PRICING
Option 1 – Biggest discount – Just gettin’ by
I am just scraping by, but what I really need right now in my life is this yoga retreat
Shared – $449 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $565 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 2 – Slight discount – Not too bad/pretty good:
I’m doing alright financially, and although I’m not scraping by, this is still a pretty big purchase for me.
Shared – $499 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $615 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Option 3 – Full Price – I’m doing well right now
I’m doing pretty well for myself now and can afford to pay the full price so that others who aren’t as fortunate can afford a yoga retreat
Shared – $549 – (Shared twin,or Couple in a private room)
Private – $665 – (Private room for 1 person)
*we can pair you up if you are coming solo
Meet Our Crew: Meredith Rom
Posted by: | CommentsWe are so lucky to have had Meredith Rom join our SolYoga team and thought we should get to know her a little better!
Where are you from, where do you live now and where are you going?
I’m from the East Coast. Before moving to California, I lived in DC, the suburbs of New York City and the East Village in Manhattan. Now, I live in a cottage near Sebastopol, CA. I’ve also lived in San Francisco and Berkeley. I moved around a lot in my early twenties. Now, the Bay Area feels like home. I hope to maintain a life where I travel often and have a base to come back to that always feels like home.
Why do you practice yoga?
I practice yoga to connect to my heart, remove stress and tension in my body, feel aligned, open, compassionate and full of love.
Why do you teach yoga?
I teach yoga to help others feel the same. I also teach to challenge myself. To bring my full self to the classroom, vulnerabilities and all, and step into a graceful flow.
Who is your favorite yoga teacher in the Bay Area?
My favorite yoga teacher in the Bay Area is Kimber Simpkins. She sings and plays the harmonium to start and end her classes. I always learn a new alignment and feel rejuvenated after her class. There’s also a great Iyengar teacher in San Francisco I used to go to – Tony Eason. He’s a no-excuses kind of guy in class, but will surprise you with a hug full of so much love afterwards.
What is your favorite yoga studio in the Bay Area?
The studios I find myself at most often in Berkeley are Yogakula and Namaste.
What is your favorite yoga pose?
Handstand. It reminds me of my strength. And you have to be fearless. I’m almost away from the wall…
What is your favorite Ice Cream place and Coffee Shop in Berkeley?
My go-to ice cream and coffee place in Berkeley is Cafe Gratitude. They make all their ice creams with almond and hazelnut milk, and the smoothies are divine. I also just found a cool tea and chocolate shop in downtown Sebastopol called Infusions.
What are your favorite yoga books?
“The Power of Now” was one of the first books I found when I developed an interest in yoga and meditation. It provided a lot of realizations for me early on. Right now I’m reading “Autobiography of a Yogi” ~ stories from Yogananda’s magical pilgrimage across India. For a book more focused on asana, I love Doug Keller’s “Hatha Yoga in the Anusara Style.” That one is available free online. It’s really changing how I teach and practice yoga.
What’s your favorite recipe?
My favorite recipe is the most simple green smoothie recipe:
1 banana
A couple leaves of dino kale
Juice of half a lemon
1/4 of an avocado
Half a glass of water
Blend it up!
You can also add more banana or experiment with more fruits to make it sweeter. It’s so easy and gives you a huge energy boost.
Who would you go on a yoga retreat with if you could choose anyone?
Anyone? Hmm probably Sianna Sherman or Dina Amsterdam. I’d love to go to Esalen or Costa Rica.
Meredith Rom is a yoga instructor, blogger and photographer. She loves sharing her own life lessons and insights in her yoga classes and writing. She encourages you to live a healthy, lifestyle, manifest your dreams, heal through yoga and speak your authentic truth. She enjoys instagramming, making green smoothies, teaching the benefits of raw, organic foods and coming up with new “raw goddess desserts.” She recently moved to Sonoma county, CA with her boyfriend Michael where she teaches yoga and writes from a sweet country cottage. More info at Meredithrom.com.
FAQ: Paradise on the Playa
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I’VE NEVER SURFED BEFORE/I’M AN EXPERIENCED SURFER
We offer classes for all levels, beginner to experienced. If you know what you’re doing already, feel free to join a class or do your own thing. Boards will be provided for our classes (even if you do your own thing) and rentals will be available for the other days.
I’M NEW TO YOGA/I’M AN EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONER
Our yoga retreats are open to all levels of experience. Classes will be accessible to beginners and challenging for experienced practitioners. We will take the time to work with the needs of the group, offering extra evening workshops and special attention when needed.
DO THE ROOMS HAVE AC?
The rooms at Maderas Village don’t have airconditioning however they were sustainably designed to invite good airflow for a peaceful cool night’s sleep.
WHAT AIRPORT DO I FLY INTO?
Managua. Also called Augusto C. Sandino.
HOW FAR IS THE TRANSFER? HOW DOES IT WORK?
The airport is about 2.5 hours away from Maderas Village. We are providing 1 free transfer upon arrival and departure.
To catch our free shuttle upon arrival to Nicaragua, please arrive between 12:00-3:00pm on the start day of the retreat.
To catch our free shuttle upon departure from Nicaragua, please depart after 12:00pm on the last day of the retreat.
If you arrive outside of our designated transfer window we can set up a shuttle for you.
Rates: One way – $100/2 people, $120/3 people, $140/4 people
WHAT IMMUNIZATIONS DO I NEED?
Please see the CDC for the lastest immunization suggestions and consult your local travel clinic.
DO I NEED A VISA OR JUST A PASSPORT?
To visit Nicaragua you only need a passport. If you plan on staying longer than a month please check this website for more details http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_985.html
I DON’T HAVE A SURF BOARD CAN I RENT ONE?
Surf boards will be provided to you for lessons and they will be available for rent throughout the retreat.
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE OR AFTER THE TRIP?
Granada – Stay at Casa San Francisco (most are good though)
Laguna De Apoyo – One of our favorite spots, stay at the Monkey Hut on the lake.
Omotepe – An island in Lake Nicaragua with two perfectly coned volcanoes – Visit our friends at Project Bonafide or stay at the Totoco ecolodge.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES?
During the week you will be able to participate in the below activities. This is your trip, we’d love for you take all the yoga classes and surf lessons, but if something moves you, even if it means missing class, go do it!
- Visit Granada and hike on mombotombo
- Visit the turtles (august only)
- Visit Masaya, Catarina and Laguna de apoyo
- More activities available upon arrival
DO I NEED AN ADAPTER OR CONVERTER?
Nicaragua uses the 2 blade American style plug at 120 volts 60 hz. so the only things you may need are a 3 prong American to 2 prong American adapter(only if any of your stuff has a 3 prong plug). We recommend you take a good surge protector as third world countries have notoriously flaky electrical systems.
SHOULD I BRING MY LAPTOP?
We strongly recommend leaving your laptop behind and treating this retreat as a chance to get away from it all. But, if you do need to stay connected, you will have access to wifi. We are not responsible for any stolen items though we do our best to ensure all accommodations and lcoations are as safe as possible.
IS IT SAFE?
Nicaragua is now one of the safest countries in the Americas and is becoming even safer. Where we go is a small beach town where most of the crime is petty theft. We always encourage all of our participants no matter where we are traveling to be extra catious and smart about where they go and when they go. Taking a taxi in Managua can be dangerous. Make sure to have someone at the airport or hotel call you a taxi, don’t hail them on the street. If you are feeling nervous about getting into a taxi, we advise faking a phone call and reading the license plate number out loud so the driver thinks someone is expecting you.
WHAT FLIGHT DO YOU SUGGEST?
Participants fly from around the world so if you are in need of a flight suggestion please email us and we can help you out.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY YOGA MAT AND PROPS?
Yes. Please bring a yoga mat as well as any props you typically use.
WHERE DO I PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE AND WHAT KIND?
Travel insurance is mandatory for all our trips. Most providers are about the same but we tend to use. We only require you to purchase the basic packages which will cover all medical issues and expenses.
We highly suggest purchasing “cancel for any reason”, for a small fee you can get most of your money back even for airfare.
Suggest Plan: World Nomads. Explorer Plan.
*Check with the credit card you used to purchase your travel to see if you are already covered.
I’M COMING EARLY/STAYING ON
You can stay at Maderas Village.
Inquire for rates and availablity.
The Flow of Yoga with Aarona Pichinson
Posted by: | CommentsWhat does the slow, mesmerizing flow of yoga look like at 12X speed?This is an hour-long class compressed into 5 minutes to find out. It’s mesmerizing.
LovelyHealthyTV – Smudging for Dummies
Posted by: | CommentsHow to Clear a Space of Negative Energy
Giuliana Hazelwood
Giuliana Hazelwood is a New York City-based yoga teacher, wellness crusader, and tomboy at play. Her life motto? “No yogi left behind.”
She is also the creator of Lovely Healthy a health + wellness resource for cool kids everywhere dedicated to taking over the world with good vibes and high fives. She is also a contributing writer for Greatist, and an ambassador for Urban Detox Club.
www.giulianahazelwood.com
www.lovelyhealthylife.com
www.youtube.com/lovelyhealthytv
