"As above, so below, as within, so without, as the universe, so the soul." ~ Hermes Trismegistus

 

The spirit of this retreat is to support the cultivation of relaxed, lucid quality of awareness in various guided activities. Movement and Asana activities will be guided in a meditative, rhythmic and deliberate pacing in modular formats to accommodate all levels of practitioners. Guided breathing and Yoga Nidra practices will further help to cultivate a state of consciousness that is both deeply relaxed and highly alert. The outcome of the combined practices will be an imprint of wakeful openness and natural awareness we can access at any moment.

 

Please join me at Itha108, a yoga resort of discreet luxury beautifully curated for practice, relaxation, reflection and sharing community.

 

This retreat will guide you through an alchemical journey of engagement and surrender while exploring the interwoven rhythms of the macrocosm of the universe and the microcosm within us. The setting in Ithaca, one of the Ionian island constellation blessed with natural beauty, will support our exploration of the interplay between macro and micro elements.

 

Whether you are looking to elevate your practice to a more potent level, immerse in restoration and renewal, or both, this retreat is designed to meet your specific needs. We will take turns practicing in two yoga shalas - one outdoor wooden platform shaded by trees and overlooking the sea; and another nestled cave-like beneath the main house.  Morning practice will be dynamic activity suitable for all levels.  Afternoon practice will comprise gentle movements, therapy ball release techniques, restorative yoga, and yoga nidra (yogic sleep).  There will be optional additional daily sessions dedicated to experienced Shadow Yoga students.  One also has the option to participate in the restorative afternoon practice only.  

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In between yoga sessions, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the many indoor and outdoor gathering spaces and private nooks.  Rotate choosing a view of the Ionian sea or wild oak trees; soaking up the sun or the shade; lounging in plushly cushioned Rajasthani swings or Indian Charpoy daybeds; cuddling up with a book of your own or one from the resort's well-stocked library.  You will also have 3 beaches within a ten minute walk, each with a different character - the biggest one with parasols and sunbeds, and the smaller two with plenty of hidden coves that feel like your own private beach.  Or take one of the many optional guided walking tours of Ithaca.  For the more adventurous, kayaks, SUP, scuba diving, scooter, and mountain bikes are available for rent at participant's expense. 

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Accommodation is split between a Venetian-style house of discreet luxury and five Mongolian-style yurts staggered up between rocks and winding walkways.  Rooms will be assigned on a first come first choose basis - http://itha108.com/rooms-yurts/ .  You will also enjoy vegetarian Mediterranean infused meals made with mostly organic, local and seasonal products and aimed at creating a happy balance between deliciousness and healthiness. 

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Part of the draw of Ithaca island is that there isn't much in the way of distraction other than the beauty of nature itself, which makes it the perfect place for a retreat.  However, there are a few pretty harbor towns and fishing villages for meandering about, sipping cocktails at harbor-front cafes, and shopping.  There will be one free day (after the morning practice) for an optional excursion to explore this aspect of the island for those interested.

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Retreat pricing includes all yoga sessions, room of your choice (first come first choose basis), 3 daily meals, and one group transit from and to the airport EFL Kefalonia by bus/taxi, sea taxi or ferry.  It does not include airfare, other land transfers, island excursions, guided walking tours, sporting equipment rentals, wine, sparkling beverages, or massage.  If registering singly for double occupancy, double occupancy rate is guaranteed once  paired up with another participant with the same requirement.  First come first serve on room assignment with a non-refundable deposit.  Please register early as space is limited.

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Double Occupancy Pricing (Add $500 for Single Occupancy Premium*):

• $1,699 pp for Yurts 1 & 2 by 10/30/2019; $1850 pp thereafter

• $ 1,799 pp for Yurts Sanda & Amara by 10/30/2019; $1,950pp thereafter

• $1,999 pp for Raas, Mango, White & New York by 10/30/2019; $2,150 pp thereafter

• $2,199 pp for Stone House Studio and India by 10/30/2019; $2,350 pp thereafter

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$500 Non-Refundable deposit at the time of registration

Balance due by March 15, 2020

*  All rooms can be converted to single occupancy except Stone House Studio, India and Raas

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Tentative Schedule, subject to change, is as follows:

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May 23 (Saturday):

3:00 pm:  Check-in

5:00 - 7:00 pm:  Practice

7:15 - 8:30 pm:  Dinner

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May 24 - May 29 (Sunday - Friday):

7:00 - 8:15 am:    General Morning Flow Practice

8:15 - 9:15 am:    Optional Shadow Yoga Practice

8:15 - 10:00 am:  Breakfast

12:30 - 1:30 pm:  Lunch

4:30 - 5:30 pm:    Optional Shadow Yoga Practice

5:30 - 7:15 pm:    Restorative Practice

7:30 - 8:30 pm:    Dinner

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May 30 (Saturday):

8:00 am:  Breakfast

9:00 am:  Checkout