Aine Dorman - Yoga, Movement for Empowerment

Aine Dorman is Founder of Nirvaine Yoga Studio, situated in the heart of Co. Down, boasting panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Bay.  Married with two adult children the bespoke clinic is on a small holding with rare breed cows, pigs, dogs and bees, from which the family produces their own honey and products.

She has been practicing yoga for over twenty years and teaching for over ten years. 

Aine has extensive knowledge and has trained in an eclectic mix of traditions including Iyengar, Forrest, Qi Gong, Aerial Yoga, Yoga for Cancer, Yoga for Special Needs, Acquired Disability including Brain Injury, MS, Rheumatoid Arthritis Yoga for Mental Health, Chair Yoga including Wheelchairs and she weaves her knowledge as a therapist and healer into her classes.

Aine has been a holistic therapist for twenty-five years.and has trained in multi-disciplinary healing practices, including Reflexology, Soft Tissue Release Massage, Reiki Master, Shamanic Practitioner and Moon Mother.

“My commitment to you will mirror the commitment to yourself. We are all part of the weave of life, one medicine strand.” (Aine Dorman)

Alex Reed - Hatha Flow Yoga

I’m Alex Reed and I started Good Life Yoga in 2013 in order to share my passion for yoga with people who need some balance in their busy lives.

It is my secret weapon against stress, anxiety and aging! Keeping strong and flexible in mind and body is proven to help us live longer and more fulfilling lives.

In my practice and classes I try to bring a fresh thought to each session – to find curiosity and genuine interest in what is happening in our minds and bodies on the mat.

My personal practice is influenced by some incredible teachers who were students of an innovative Italian yoga teacher called Vanda Scaravelli. She took traditional yoga practices deep into her own body and guided her students to do the same. Inspired by the youthfulness, joy for life and twinkle in the eye of these teachers

I try to practice and teach with fresh eyes and an open mind each time, guided by the bodies and personalities in the room.

My goal is to stay young as long as possible and help my students find their joy and youthful spirit too.

What to expect on a yoga break with Alex:

This is a holiday rather than a retreat so while the focus of the week is yoga, there will be plenty of time to relax, socialise and enjoy the local surroundings and on-site activities.

On offer will be two yoga sessions on the majority of days, an energising morning session featuring flowing sequences and a relaxing evening session prior to dinner; this could be restorative practice using bolsters or gentle postures, breathing practice and meditation.

One day will feature an optional silent group walk.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy and make the most of this special time you've set aside for yourself. 

 Allison Alexander Hatha Flow and Yin Yoga

Allison Alexander is passionate about all aspects of yoga, and knows from her own experience how life enhancing and transformational this practice can be.

She loves to share the potential of yoga, believing it can help each of us cultivate deep inner fulfillment, a greater sense of meaning & freedom and a stronger connection with the natural rhythms of life

Her thoughtful teaching encourages you to find the joy of deep connection with the body, the heart, the mind and the soul.

Allison teaches a flow style practice, using the integration of breath and body to move from one wonderful posture to the next, holding the poses long enough to experience them deeply and uniquely for each person. In this way the practice becomes a moving meditation which has the potential to enhance physical strength & flexibility, improve psychological focus & concentration and create emotional peace & tranquility.

Allison has been influenced by the wisdom and experience of many wonderful teachers, and is fortunate to have been trained and encouraged by many knowledgeable yogis who have guided her and continue to do so.

For Allison yoga is a joyful  life long practice to which she is dedicated. She is continually expanding her knowledge and experience. She is an experienced 500 hour Yoga Alliance teacher, teaching Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra.

All practices of Yoga will include asana, pranayama, meditation, and relaxation.

Start your day with an energising, joyful practice.

On this retreat the morning practice will be a grounding and energising Hatha Flow which will include asanas, pranayama, and meditation.
We will create strength & flexibility for the body, focus & concentration for the mind, peace and tranquility for heart and soul.

The evening practice will be a relaxing and restorative Yin and Yoga Nidra.

We start with a slow flow sequence, using the integration of breathe and body to move from one powerful posture to the next.

We will create warmth and heat for the body, focus & concentration for the mind, peace and tranquility for heart and soul.

Once the body is warm and supple we are ready to glide into the slow, held postures of the yin sequence.

Flowing Hatha Yoga with Andi Theophilou

Andi has been practicing yoga for over 20 years and has been teaching for 8 years.

She is a 500hr qualified teacher having trained with Yoga London and Jason Crandell Yoga, pre-natal training with Yogamama and she has recently completed Gary Carter's Anatomy and Movement training.  

She teaches mindful, Flowing Hatha Yoga. Her style is down to earth, playful and explorative, focussing on mindful movement, strengthening the body and calming the mind.

Slowing down the flow allows her students to become aware of their bodies and move with more control - it's challenging! One size doesn't fit all and Andi encourages individuals to adapt the practice to their own bodies and ranges of motion.

Andi also teaches relaxation sessions which are gentle and restorative, incorporating pranayama, myofascial release, meditative movement and somatic movement flows, which help to release tightness and tension in the whole body.

Andi will be offering two yoga sessions per day.

Classes will be flexible depending on the participants and will progress through the week as we build awareness, strength and stamina.

Typically the morning session include pranayama (breathing techniques), a warm up, flowing hatha yoga and will end with relaxation.

Classes will be themed focusing on concepts (e.g. Finding Balance, Effort and Ease), or in groups of asanas (e.g. backbends, forward bends, twists, balance),  the format will be flexible, according to the needs of the group.

The early evening session will be relaxing. This may focus on exploring groups of postures or parts of the body, somatic movement or myofascial release and end with a long relaxation to leave you feeling restored and revived.

www.yogabrockley.co.uk/about

Hatha Yoga with Andrea Turnball

Andrea, after practising yoga for many years and realising how transformative the practice was and how it alleviated the stresses of her busy lifestyle, was well and truly bitten by the yoga bug. She subsequently completed her yoga teacher training withthe British Wheel of Yoga.

For Andrea, yoga is about health and happiness, cultivating balance and living with your heart wide open. 

She teaches Hatha yoga, combining creative sequencing, mindfulness, connection with the breath and relaxation, plus a dose of inspiration to help her students deepen their practice.

Happiness, peace, love and calm already exist within you.  Yoga is a personal journey that allows you to shine through, both on and off the mat.  Our practice will stretch and strengthen our bodies, teaching us to move mindfully and connect with our breath.  It will nourish our souls and teach us the freedom to be still.

Your Yoga Holiday

Our morning practice will be a balanced and holistic flow of sequences to energise you for the day.

Our evenings will be Zenyoga - to unwind with more restorative and relaxing Hatha Flow focusing on healing and letting go.

We will learn and practice pranayama and simple meditation techniques that will help to create a calm, creative and peaceful state of mind. 

We will also include yoga nidra and sleep preparation sessions.

"The Heightened awareness I experience through my practice is what continues to draw me to my mat.  My passion is to share the positive effects yoga has had upon my life in the hope of spreading this positive effect onto others"

" Hi Jilly, I wanted to let you know what a fabulous 2 weeks I had with Andrea and the group in this great location at Palm Tree Lodge.
Her teaching and dedication to the group were outstanding. From our gift at the beginning of the first lesson, all the way through to the beautiful closing class with decorated yoga shala and personalised cards. I have been doing yoga for 20 years and still learnt so much from her teaching and her kind hearted way of being. That so many of the group have already rebooked with her for next year says it all ! Wow.
Thank you"   Melanie - Palm Tree Yoga, Kerala, India January 2020

Anna Georgiou (BWY Dip)

Anna began practising yoga in 1999, and qualified with the British Wheel of Yoga in 2007, followed by a further month's study at the Khrisnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai, India in Feb 2008. 

Prior to her yoga training, Anna studied Reflexology, Massage and Dance. She has also studied with some of the world's leading teachers: Sarah Powers, Donna Farhi, Paul Grilley and Max Strom.

Anna's teaching is influenced by different styles of Hatha yoga.

Her approach is creative and welcoming and she delivers a safe and well rounded class which can be enjoyed by all levels and ages.   With attention to alignment and a focus on breath and movement co-ordination, her class caters for the individual, allowing to build strength and flexibility, promoting a healthy, happy and balanced life!

This retreat will be the perfect opportunity to enjoy two yoga sessions per day, allowing the individual  to build and take their yoga practice to a deeper level. We will explore different types of Asana, pranayama, meditation, and Yoga Nidra (deep yogic relaxation).

The morning session will be dynamic and energising, while the evening session will include more restorative and rejuvenative  work with some Yin postures to help balance the Yang active posture work of the morning. 

There will also be plenty of time to relax during the day, helping to bring harmony back to mind and body!

Anne Lawless -  Iyengar Yoga

A Fully Certified and Insured Iyengar Yoga Teacher with many years experience with all levels of students.

Anne is a very experienced Level 2 Iyengar Yoga teacher and has been teaching since 2007.

She visited and studied yoga at RIMYI in Pune, India, with the Iyengar family and has been studying Iyengar yoga for 28 years. 

Anne teaches community classes, online classes and workshops in South London and Surrey and has been leading small group yoga holidays since 2019.

Dedicated to teaching the Iyengar Yoga method Anne welcomes yoga students of all ages and backgrounds to her classes and holidays.

She will meet you where you are and teach you correct alignment and action in asana which in this method is the gateway to the other 7 limbs of yoga. Growth and learning is encouraged and the practise is adapted to each individual so all can benefit from this wonderful practice. 

Morning classes will be energising and evening classes more restful and restorative. 

Come with an open mind and heart and enjoy your yoga with Anne in the most beautiful setting.

Annie Hayes-Pantony Vinyasa Flow Yoga

My mission is to help people on their journey to find the best version of themselves, finding strength mentally, physically and emotionally.

My hope is that I will inspire even those new to yoga, with my enthusiasm and energy.

I will always adapt and modify my teaching to allow everyone to feel included and welcome in my class, without exception.

“We can only do what we can do in this moment and that is enough”

My practice
I specialise in vinyasa flow, focusing on the breath(pranayama) through the fluidity of the postures (asanas)

Focusing on our breath helps us be in the moment while helping our body transition through a sequence of postures.

My practice will help you build body strength along with the core focus always being on the mind.

My mindful approach using yoga philosophy in my classes will help you delve deeper into your practice, and my well-being approach will serve to feed your heart, body, mind and soul.

In a loving, kind way I will lead you through stretching, strengthening and toning your body, giving gentle adjustments to allow you to deepen your practice.

Qualifications
RYS 200 yoga alliance in Greece
RYS 300 yoga alliance in Turkey
Pregnancy & Postnatal Yoga with Yoga Mammas Putney
All qualifications meet required standards of Yoga Alliance UK

Website   www.letlifebeyoga.com

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Babs Lehner-Platts
  
You can choose to transform anything in your life and a yoga retreat with Babs provides a great environment to make a start!

Having successfully led numerous international retreats, Babs teaches in a holistic and very intuitive way. Every retreat is different, as are her students. She creates a unique program, which allows everyone to learn at their own pace whilst experiencing Yoga as part of a group.

   
   
Babs teaches Vinyasa Flow, a purifying and re-balancing practice where breath and body movement are one.

She encourages you with clear instructions, giving detailed explanations and corrections on alignment throughout.

The class is designed for any age or fitness level and make it the perfect program from the beginner to the more experienced student.  Babs invites you to learn more about philosophy and the spiritual aspects of Yoga, such as meditation and self enquiry, to help you deepen your understanding and practice.

Babs understands her student's need to have a 'good time'  so there is always time to chill out and have a laugh as well!  You can enjoy your private space and/or being part of a group. 

          
A typical Vinyasa class will start with Pranayama (breath control), followed by flowing sequences of standing postures, incorporating balances leading into mat work to focus on core stability, stamina and flexibility.

Deep stretches, relaxation and meditation will bring the class to a close

   .

For more details on Babs visit her website at  www.isvarayoga.co.uk

Becky Crepsley-Fox (formerly Spooner)

Becky was born in Somerset and always dreamed of becoming a dancer. At age 18 she gained a place at Stella Mann professional dance school and trained for 3 years to become a professional dancer.

Upon graduating, Becky started working front of house at a gym and attended her first yoga class.

She started using yoga as a tool to increase her strength and flexibility for dancing but the more she practised yoga the less she wanted to dance.

Becky soon took her first of three (so far) yoga teacher trainings and started teaching yoga right away. Alongside the yoga training, Becky also trained to become a personal trainer and a children's yoga teacher.

Now Becky loves yoga for the physical and mental benefits, she has taken meditation courses and is a tantra practitioner.

Becky now lives in north London with her partner and 3 cats. teaches 5 styles of yoga; Hatha, Vinyasa, Rocket, Ashtanga and Yin and teaches full time in yoga studios around North/East London.

In Becky's classes, you can expect creative sequencing and a strong emphasis on the breath. Becky is very good at  adapting a class to mixed level groups, always teaching with many variations so everyone in the class can practise to their own abilities.

Becky uses her knowledge of the body from her dance and personal training schooling, her knowledge of the mind from meditation and tantra education and her knowledge of yoga from all the many styles she practises and teaches.

She uses all of this information to create inventive and inspiring yoga classes.

On the retreat, the morning classes will be based on uplifting energetic energies giving you the vitality you need for the day and the evening classes will be based around grounding energies to get you relaxed and ready for a good nights sleep.

Bella Somerville

Bella’s yogic path has led her from a tea estate in Sri Lanka where she was born and where she spent her early years surrounded by eastern philosophies and spiritual practices, to the present day as an adopted ‘Brightonian’, coming to this vibrant city to visit friends in between her travels, and never leaving.

She experienced her first yoga class in 2000 and she’s not looked back since, subsequently spending the last 17 years dedicating herself to developing her spiritual practice both on and off the mat.

She is registered with Yoga Alliance UK having completed her training with Allie Hill and teaches full-time in Brighton and the Sussex area where she is a popular instructor within the local community. She has taught at the Brighton Yoga Festival for the last 2 years as well as regularly donating her teaching skills to charities and local events.

Bella teaches hatha and vinyasa flow, as well as more meditative yin and restorative practices.

Her classes are creative and playful with an emphasis on strengthening the body, calming the mind and staying centred because as she says: “nothing is more precious than being in this present moment, fully alive, fully aware”.  

Her teaching is compassionate and honest, always inviting students to be curious in their practice, weaving inspirational quotes and yogic texts into her classes, yet always relating to the bigger picture by encouraging students to be in harmony with themselves not just on their mats but also in their lives.

Added to this is her contagious energy and deep passion for sharing the benefits of yoga with all ability levels, no matter what age, size or experience so students leave her classes feeling inspired and alive!

About the Kerala Retreat

India is the home of yoga and what better place to experience this spiritual practice than in the tropical warmth of Kerala in early April. It seems natural that we associate feeling warm with a sense of well-being and relaxation, and when the body is warm, the muscles and connective tissue become more elastic allowing you to go deeper into a yoga pose as the body opens and becomes more flexible.

This retreat is open to all levels as modifications and variations will be given throughout so beginners as well as those with a more skilled practice will be safely challenged.

Each class will be an eclectic hatha experience, with a focus on the fundamentals of a structurally sound yoga practice. Precise alignment in standing, seated and reclined poses are woven together by a slow flow, and each session focuses on a unique foundational movement pattern and is sequenced to steadily build those movement patterns into more challenging asana.

The morning classes will start with centering and pranayama (breath work) to cleanse, ground and energise us, before moving into a deeper, invigorating combination of hatha and vinyasa flow yoga. With a sense of playfulness and exploration, each student on their individual level will work on improving flexibility, strength, stamina and balance, delving deeper into postures empowered by their breath.

The late afternoon sessions will be a yin-yang practice, a more explorative and workshop-style class, bringing into balance the passive and active aspects of yoga with energising yet restorative asana, holding postures longer to allow a deeper release both in the mind and body.

Bella makes an ideal host for our retreat to Kerala having travelled extensively in India, and through her upbringing feels naturally at home on the subcontinent. A great listener, with an infectious laugh, and zest for life, she intends her retreats to be fun and uplifting, a chance to make new friends and discover the amazing culture of India, and above all, a transformative yoga journey into the self, by the self, for the self.

“The Yoga retreat in Turkey with Bella was an incredible experience and I am still buzzing from it!  The hotel staff were all so professional and kind, everything was at hand, the food, pool, and all the facilities, just superb. What made the holiday sublime, however, was the incredible yoga we shared.
Bella set such an inclusive tone where all levels were able to access the practice in their own way. The excursions were wonderful and I still smile when I remember swimming next to the waterfall after our into the mountains. I would recommend Free Spirit with Bella to anyone who is a seasoned yogi or even a complete beginner.  Bella is a very special teacher indeed and her experience in running retreats certainly shows.  The sense of warmth and cohesion in the group was something very special.  I will be booking again, of this I am certain. Thank you for some very special memories as well as the fantastic yoga.”

Mary-Lou - September 2022

I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful Yoga holiday I had with Bella in Ischia. Her yoga as always was inventive, stimulating and sensitive to all the Yogi's on the holiday. Her passion to make the holiday (we call it a holiday rather than a retreat!) a wonderful experience for all of us, was embraced by open arms by the Yogi's. The group bonded extremely well and we spent most of the time in each other's company. The hotel with Michele as our main point of contact was perfect for this week - he looked after us very well.  The food (delicious), accommodation (simple but clean) and surrounds ...breath taking ... were a delight Thank you!

Lisa Baderoon - September 2017

Dear Bella, Thank you so much for such a positive and uplifting experience in Kovalam, and for your wise counsel. I have not felt so calm and relaxed for a very long time. I feel so very privileged to have been part of this retreat, meeting such a great group of people and the yoga. I already knew you were a good yoga teacher but the thought and planning which you had clearly put into each session was exceptional! Thank you and love,

Alison McMillan-Puri - Palm Tree Kerala April 2017

Beverley Hetherington - Yin & Yang Flow Yoga

Hello, I’m a Naturopathic Nutrition Therapist and Yoga Teacher and I live in Brighton.

I have been practicing yoga since being introduced to it by my mum when I was 8 years old . I completed my 200 hour teacher training with Allie Hill and Toni Ann Roberts and have been teaching since 2012.

My  post graduate yoga includes training with  Ellen Lee, John Stirk, Gary Carter, Amarjeet Bhamra, Jim Tarran, Marc Aquaviva, Tabitha Tarran and Ben Wolff to name a few, along with completing a Partner Yoga Teacher Training with Sevanti of Unity Studio Brighton.

Classes begin with a question to the students; is there any specific area you would like to focus on for your practice today?  Once the areas of focus have been established if requested the class begins, which often includes learning the mechanics of the postures as we transition and the opportunity for students to ask questions.

This way the class can be offered to benefit all levels giving each student the chance to do as much or as little as their breath, body and practice requests.

In addition I often relate to how we function internally, enabling us to gain a deeper awareness of how the postures help us to connect.

For me yoga offers the time to become aware of how the breath leads the body into movement whilst the mind observes, this gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and expand the space between our thoughts, inviting us to delve deeper into the moving meditation that is our yoga practice.

Our Weekend Of Wellness at Champneys Spa Henlow

We meet our fellow yogis and introduce ourselves.
Following getting to know each other a little we move towards our opening Hatha flow practice and observe the connection between breath, body and brain.
Our yang approach invites us to be aware of the superficial muscles in the body, which love warmth and movement enabling us to ease our journey away and settle into our body and surroundings.

After practice we freshen up and meet for dinner, if you wish to dine alone you are most welcome.

Saturday Sunrise Practice; we begin sitting in contemplation and meditation. Slowly we invite an awareness of the breath rhythm and this guides us towards our solar powered practice, we finish with pranayama (breath control) to cleanse and prepare the body for the day.

Afternoon Yin/Yang Practice; we begin with yin, slowly transition into yang and return to yin. Yin yoga gives us the opportunity to sit with ourselves and explore, as we hold the asanas (postures) for longer periods of time this evolves into a deeply meditative practice. Our yang practice by contrast to the earlier stillness will invite mantra (chanting) and mudras (hand gestures) both empowering the exit of obstacles from mind, body and soul.

Sunday Sunrise Practice; we begin sitting in contemplation and meditation. We find a friend and invite the awareness of the breath rhythm together. This offers the practice of partner yoga to unfold as we are able to support and surrender with trust at the same time. This fun, playful practice offers the opportunity to learn about our partners practice as well as our own and how some asanas are far more accessible with the support of another.
We move towards closing our practice together with hand massage and giving thanks to each other for our weekend.

During our time together I will be teaching techniques for continued self regulation so when we return home we may use these to remain grounded and calm.

Carmen Dolz
Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner
Qigong teacher
Natural Nutritionist

Carmen is a Brighton-based holistic therapist who offers Jin Shin Jyutsu, Qigong and natural nutrition.

She is interested in promoting self-care for health and wellbeing. She treats people on a one-to-one basis and teaches both Jin Shin Jyutsu (self-help) and Qigong.

She has been practicing Qigong for the last 12 years and last year she qualified as a Qigong teacher so that she can spread the word even further.

Qigong for yoga holidays

This year Carmen is working with our yoga teacher Kathryn Banks for a week of yoga , qigong and optional classes of the other therapies Carmen teaches. They are teaching at Dalyan Delta in Turkey and this is a fantastic opportuinty to combine your yoga practice with some additional skills.
The Qigong we will be practicing is called Yuan Gong. It can activate and promote the energetic flows in the body. Qi (pron. ‘Chee’) -life force, vital energy- and blood will flow more smoothly and harmoniously. This will not only make one feel refreshed and light but also improve health. It can also strengthen the physical structures such as the skin, muscles, tendons and extremities. It will combine beautifully well with Kathryn’s yoga class.

We will be doing around 4 hours of practice (one  class of yoga and one class of Qigong) a day.

Please visit www.yuantzecentre.com for more information on the type of Qigong that Carmen will be teaching in the retreat.
 

Nine Lives Yoga with Cat Duval

Nine Lives Yoga is all about living every breath with presence and playfulness.  Experience how yoga can inspire you to live life passionately, playfully and fearlessly with an open heart, a free mind and a strong, flexi and capable body. 

The only one who has the power to give you that permission is you

 
About Cat Duval
Yoga is my life and Acroyoga is my passion.  I take a multi-disciplinary approach and am trained in Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Flow Yoga, Unity Partner Yoga, Sun Moon Partner and Community Yoga, Acroyoga, Thai Yoga Massage, Yoga Nidra, Meditation, Positive Visualisation, Hypnosis and NLP as a Practitioner.  I completed my first teacher training qualification in 2010 and have been continuing my training regularly ever since.

  
My intention is rooted in engaging with people of all shapes and sizes and abilities and making yoga accessible.  Yoga is for everybody with every body type and is a pathway for growth and expansion in ourselves, so we can be empowered, confident in our skin whatever our shape and fully present in our lives.  
There are so many wonderful techniques that help us carve our own way forward.  I love working with people individually, or in partners and groups, to create programmes that suits personal motivations and aspirations. Helping yoga students develop and wholeheartedly embody their own practice.

 
For more information visit my website
ninelivesyoga.co.uk

Catherine Gallagher - Hatha Flow & Restorative Yoga

Catherine completed her teacher training at "Be-Yoga" in May 2016 and completed another 200 hour qualification with Rachel Brathen "yoga girl" in Aruba in October 2017.

Catherine's advanced teacher training qualification is why Vidya Heisel at Frog Lotus Yoga International, Spain

Catherine has worked extensively in this industry since initially qualifying and beginning her yoga teaching career as the residential yoga teacher within the London headquarters of a global corporation.

Since leaving London, Catherine has run her own classes, workshops, private sessions and led daily classes at commercial studios and spas around Sussex.

Catherine now specialises in running international and UK yoga retreats. Her classes and retreats focus on compassion, acceptance and self-love combining both dynamic asana practice, pranayama, meditation and deeply restorative relaxation techniques, taught truly from the heart.

  
Retreat classes:
·    Progressive themed and thoroughly planned 90 minute morning Vinyasa Flow classes
·    Deep 90 min evening Restorative yoga classes to find your Zen
·    One guided yoga nidra session
·    Extra Private tuition available

For more information, please visit Catherine's website www.yogawithcatherine.com

Celia Caplan Flow Yoga

Celia has been a yoga teacher since 2014 and completed her advanced yoga teacher training early 2020.  Over the years her motivation for practising yoga has changed from a physical necessity due to years of running and tennis, to a lifestyle choice.

Celia completed her yoga teacher training with Brian Cooper of Union Yoga. She teaches Ashtanga yoga, Flow yoga and Chair yoga in the St Albans and Harpenden area. She continues to regularly attend yoga teacher training classes in many diverse areas of yoga to enhance her yoga knowledge and teaching.

This week will offer students not only the opportunity to relax and de-stress in  beautiful surroundings but develop their yoga practice.

Celia approach is strongly influenced by anatomy studies to help all students of varying experience, body structures and physical history to move forward in their yoga in a mindful way.

Each morning will begin with pranayama, followed by an Flow based class.

The class will be adapted to the students requirements, focusing on  precision in poses and on the development of breath work. There will be a high level of individual help.

The early evening class will take the form of a workshop, looking more closely at particular asanas and using a combination of short sequences and partner work to help students move more deeply into the poses.

These workshops will also use restorative yoga, meditation and yoga Nidra to bring the evening session to a close.

Charlotte Watts and Leonie Taylor

Charlotte and Leonie will be teachng together at Beach Road, Dalyan, Turkey in 2023. TGhey wil divide the classes between them.

About Charlotte Watts

"I am a Senior Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance UK, practising since 1997, teaching since 2007 and trained with the Vajrasati School of Yoga (RYT500) in Brighton. I teach with an emphasis on mindfulness so depth and strength can be fostered within yoga practice as your body needs -  helping release stress, not adding to it

I have continued to explore this essence of finding our authentic selves through yoga, with further training with teachers including Judith Lasater, Donna Farhi and Tias Little and Mindfulness and Yoga training with Cathy-Mae Karelse.

As a Nutritional Therapist and Yoga Teacher in Brighton and London, I specialise in stress-related issues such as anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, depression and burnout. This has culminated in my latest book The De-Stress Effect (Hay House 2015).

Yoga’s focus on calming the nervous system, attuning to our mind-body needs and dropping beneath brain chatter perfectly complements my nutritional therapy work, especially with an emphasis on mindfulness within both.

In this way I can work with clients in well-rounded and truly holistic mind-body health programmes."

About Leonie Taylor

"I am a Senior Yoga Teacher within the Vajrasati school of yoga, accredited with Yoga Alliance 500-hour Teacher Training Plus, teaching since 2006, practising since 1998.

Inspired by a desire to work deeply and therapeutically, both in classes, workshops and 1-2-1s as well as in applied bodywork.

I have also studied extensively as a Therapeutic Thai Massage practitioner. "

What actually happens in a class?

Sessions on retreats can vary in tone, energy and emphasis, depending on the time of day and the needs of the group.

We always start by arriving and connecting with the breath though. From there we can then start mindfully loosening the body, usually either lying or sitting.  

In a morning class, we can then use this to move into a stronger asana (posture) practice to open up tight upper spines, compressed front bodies, tight thighs, hamstrings and psoas muscles so common in the modern body. This will be wherever we need to safely and effectively encourage postural conditions and habits as our bodies are designed but may not always achieve.

In the afternoon, we will move into a more grounding and relaxing practice – this may be somatic, restorative or yin, but usually melding elements of each to balance movement and stillness, opening and recovery.

In all sessions, we lead back down to a restorative and relaxing practice at the end; to assimilate energy we have created, fully release any stress moved out and to prepare us to take this attitude of non-reaction into our daily lives

Yoga & Pilates with Claire Pestaille

Claire has been working within the health and fitness industry for the past 20 years as well as being a practising and exhibiting artist.  

She became interested in yogic philosophy when studying for a fine art degree at Chelsea College of Art in 1998 and her yoga teacher training began in Mysore, India studying Hatha with Noah McKenna.

She has since trained in Yin Yoga with Norman Blair at Yoga Campus, explored the elements of Pranaflow from Shiva Rae and has also studied with Alessandra Pecorella at Aditya Vinyasa school.

Alongside her love of teaching and practising yoga Claire is also a personal trainer and a mat and reformer pilates teacher.

You can expect her yoga and pilates classes to be creative, alignment based and a lot of fun.

Morning Yoga  will involve an open level dynamic vinyasa flow class. Vinyasa' simply means 'placing with awareness' where you synchronise breath and movement as you flow through the postures and the transitions. The morning class will focus the mind, build strength and flexibility and leave you feeling energised and inspired.

Evening Pilates  is an all level class which will include sequences designed to focus on increasing strength, endurance, mobility and flexibility with an emphasis on the importance of the core.

.

Sun Power Yoga with Clare Waldron

Daniel Gelblum

Dan classes are much-loved and students feel immediate and long-term benefits

Dan focuses on fine movements resulting in rapid progress in flexibility and strength. Students remark at the ease with which they can achieve challenging postures at the end of each class. Dan has been teaching yoga since 1996

He trained in yoga and massage at the Limaye Clinic, Pune, India and the British Wheel of Yoga. He is a well-established yoga teacher in North West London. Dan is also a highly regarded Feldenkrais Practitioner.

Feldenkrais for Yoga at Kissamos in Crete, annually

This is what Dan says about Feldenkrais:-

" I can’t stress enough how useful Feldenkrais is for Yoga teachers and practitioners.
Through Feldenkrais I found I could do postures that were normally difficult with extreme ease as if something woke up in me, whether it was Yoga enlightenment or higher/deeper levels of consciousness developing or just removing the rust in my joints in a practical way.
From here the fun began - I started to introduce some of the techniques into my Yoga classes and was surprised to see how my students shared similar experiences to me and were suddenly more able not just in achieving Yoga postures, but overall improvements of better organisation, posture, mobility, flexibility, coordination and overall well being.
As a result of introducing Feldenkrais method to my classes, yoga students reported great improvements in other Yoga classes they attended, dance classes, martial arts classes, running, swimming, climbing, coping with stress, improved sleep and the list goes on.
More and more yoga teachers began attending my classes and told me how they were “stealing” my moves for other classes. I was and still am just so happy to spread something so wonderfully beneficial.
As I trained in the Feldenkrais method, I went onto do advanced training and made further self-discoveries in the infinite ways Feldenkrais can be a perfect accompaniment to Yoga and more."

Dan continues to develop this method. Yoga is like a flowing river, running workshops, Yoga holidays, classes in Triyoga, the Life Centre,  sharing this amazing method with enthusiasm.

Somatic Yoga - at Palm Tree Yoga Centre, Kerala, India annually

Somatics is about body-mind integration. Our muscles can become tight or restricted due to development reasons, habitual patterns, emotional stress, injuries or trauma.

Small, slow and gentle movements are used to re-educate the brain so that it can relax and move these muscles more functionally.

Somatic yoga combines principles of body awareness with gentle yoga movements to help you connect with your body, reduce tension, and improve overall well-being.

It's all about feeling and sensing what's happening inside your body as you move..

India is highly suitable for this form of yoga which is gentle and the extra heat will help the muscles to relax.

" I am happy to share this incredible knowledge...thanks for the opportunity.."

Daniel Gelblum
Feldenkrais Practitioner
Yoga and meditation Teacher
 Feldenkrais for yoga and beyond!
hathadan.wordpress.com
Feldenkrais.co.uk

Daria Germondari - Vinyasa Flow Yoga

My teaching incorporates the classics of yoga: philosophy, meditation, mantra, pranayama and healing fluid asanas aiming to generate awareness, spiritual and emotional growth as well as physical strength.

I come from a dynamic Vinyasa background but prefer to teach a strong, yet slow flow, with room for creative movement, exploration of pulsations, and free form yoga (sometimes taking you off the mat).

Taught to fresh soundtracks, with a focus on getting the basics right, my teaching offers an appreciation for flowing movement, integrating breath and intention for a wholehearted breath and movement experience.

I like to lead a diverse and balanced existence, with yoga acting as my internal compass and guiding me through the wondrous river of life. It’s the truth between it all.

Through my teaching of yoga, I hope to provide a safe space for your own river to flourish and flow.

The morning class will focus on journeying through the 5 life-giving Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether) deconstructing a different Element each day through a slow but strong Vinyasa practice.

The afternoon class will focus on embodying the relevant Element through a combination of Meditation, Yin and Restorative practices. There will also be time for journaling.

Denisa started training Kung Fu at he age of 7. She discovered yoga at the age of 13 and quickly integrated both practices.

She spent several years studying all four paths of yoga and attended courses and trainings with Anusara yoga, Sivanada yoga, Jivamukti yoga,  Donna Farhi, Clare Missingham, Shiva Rea, Rod Stricker, Julie Gudmestad, Catherine Annis and many more before she decided to become a yoga teacher.

Currently Denisa teaches adults classes across London, runs regular workshops and retreats and dedicates 60% of her time teaching therapeutic yoga to children and young adults with Special Needs.

  
Denisa's classes are strongly physical and yet very meditative, creative and inspiring. The focus falls on recognizing and developing a crystal clear sharp and alert mind which allows for a state of heighten awareness and concentration to occur so the student can then experience the asanas by feeling the inner alignment and pranic flow as suppose to just do the asanas.

Mastery of breath - conscious, specific application of pranayama, pinpoints every single movement in the class and makes Transcendence possible. Hands on adjustments, meditation, reflection on Vedanta and deep relaxation are weaved into the class structure. 

Her retreats are reflective, creative, invigorating, challenging and yet calming and centering. Denisa creates a space that allows the students to immerse him/herself into their yoga sadhana on all levels of existence physical mental emotional spiritual.

One is welcome and invited to softly unfold into luminous stillness and center back in the core of his/her being.

Denisa believes that:
"Through the continuous questioning and unraveling of the 'I' over the years of practice I have come to believe that Every moment is tremendously precious and unique, every moment is the perfect opportunity to learn, grow, expand and progress. Every moment can be a moment of Liberation we just need to look for the courage to take the first step. To me the practice of Yoga is exactly that the path towards Liberation"

www.denisanenova.com

Sivananda Yoga with Diana Shipp

Diana Shipp, has over eleven years experience and specialises in the Sivananda style of yoga.

Diana teaches integrated breath and posture work, with spiritual awareness, based on classical Sivananda yoga and other traditions. 

Diana is an experienced teacher who has been teaching for the past 15 years. She has taught in the UK, Turkey, Bali, Crete, Spain and India. She holds teaching diplomas from the British Wheel of Yoga and the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram in India.

On this holiday you will experience asana, pranayama, meditation, visualisation and relaxation in two classes daily.

The yoga will improve your strength and flexibility and guide you to the calm centre of Being within.

This yoga will be suitable for beginners as well as more experienced students. Diana's approach is both joyful and imaginative, with emphasis on raising of consciousness through breath and body awareness, to bring you a feeling of well-being.

This holiday is suitable for all standards of yoga practitioner

Dynamic Flow Yoga with Dina Cohen

Dina is accredited as a Senior Teacher and Teacher Trainer by Yoga Alliance both here and in USA and and has been practicing and teaching yoga and Mindfulness since the 90s, promoting these as tools for a healthy, toned and supple body, as well as a deeper and more expansive outlook on life.

Her teaching is inspired by the fluid, breath-synchronised dance of Vinyasa Flow, the precision and integrity of Iyengar, and the deep lake of meditative stillness that is Yin and Restorative Yoga.
Dina has been a mentor on the Yoga Campus and Embodied Dancer Teacher Trainings, is registered with British Wheel of Yoga and has her own studio, Goldendoor, in London.

 
Our Yoga Week

Gathering in silence before breakfast, a wake up session of cleansing and stimulating breathing techniques will prepare us for an introduction to Mindfulness practices, setting us up for the rest of the day.

A long dynamic Vinyasa Flow Yoga practice is scheduled each morning, synchronising breath and movement, this will be offered in a step-by-step format, starting with a slow and easy warm-up and gradually building in intensity to incorporate more challenging poses as the week progresses. We will work on building strength, stamina and flexibility, allowing everyone to progress at their own pace.

After a delicious brunch and a free afternoon to lounge on the beach, or visit the local shops and cafes, we will regroup for a gentler, more relaxing session of Yin and Restorative yoga early evening. I will try to accommodate everyone's needs and preferences, offering a supportive environment for both beginners and more experienced practitioners alike.

   
" Yoga connects us to the rhythm of the breath, drawing us ever more deeply into the recesses of our physical and emotional bodies, allowing us to soften, release, surrender and let go. Dropping all that baggage leaves us feeling calm, energised and lighter, creating a spaciousness into which our innate healing potential can be revealed.

Studies suggest that practising Mindfulness can increase feelings of happiness, alleviate anxiety and depression and aid stress management, improving our ability to concentrate, sleep and make decisions, as well as the quality of our relationships"

www.dynamicflowyoga.com

Mindful Yoga and Meditation with Divya

London based and a dedicated practitioner since 2000, Divya has been a full time senior level teacher since 2006, offering drop-in classes, retreats, courses and bespoke tuition to help the individual on their path. A community has grown organically through her time in teaching, connection like-minded souls.

Divya offers a mindful practice of Asana (the physical postures), accompanied by breathing techniques (Pranayama) and Mindfulness-meditation guidance

Her inspiration is drawn from eastern sources as well as modern psychological thought. Her own teacher training spans the strong discipline of classical Indian yoga and meditation traditions, as well as the evolved approaches to the body and mind in the West.

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Through a deep practice of Yoga, Divya aims to help her students develop a stronger body, calmer mind and liberating sense of self.

Yoga is an ancient practice and philosophy designed to touch and balance all parts of our being.

Yoga sages and philosophy say we are each made of our: body, mind, wellbeing, emotions, consciousness, relationships, actions and path in the world. They also say we carry an energy around us and a vital spirit that is beyond the changes and ups and downs of life. Yoga, which translates as ‘union’ or ‘to unite’, connects all these parts of our being and our awareness of our spirit that is not limited by personality or circumstance.

For us today, Yoga can provide a set of tools and wisdom for the following, which is what
Senior Yoga Teacher Divya offers through her teaching:

• feeling well in our bodies and minds`
• handling the stresses of modern life`
• healing, personal growth and development
• feeling free from within`

" I teach in a way so that Yoga's physical, philosophical and spiritual benefits can be felt as we practice. We are doing yoga so that we can find and experience an optimal state of being and inner stillness.  From this we can live in a more peaceful flow state that helps us navigate the ebbs and flows of life and to connect with others in a natural, non-stressful and fulfilling way."

"May peace find you. May you find peace."

For further info on Divya's Yoga classes in London, visit:

www.yogawithdivya.co.uk

Hi Divya, Thank you again for sharing  such a wonderful weekend with us. I truly felt I had come home with your teachings.  I didn't want to take too much of your time, but just to say as it was my first "class" for a least six weeks I felt "held" and safe and now feel really ready again to return to my teachers.

That aside I also feel relaxed and ready to return to normal life, I do so with a clear mind and a better connection to my self.

Such a pleasure to spend time with you and your amma, it added a certain something, a grounding, an appreciation of relationships and support.

I wish you well, and I am glad our paths finally crossed. I realise I am already on your mailing list!

Namaste xxxxx
 

Emily-Clare Hill

Coming to dance late, she fell in love with it, dance became her mediation, an escape into oneself, a journey of being free of all barriers and insecurities, a chance to express everything through the body.

It wasn't until stage school that her Yoga journey began and the revelation of meditation through movement was revealed.

It was the complete polar opposite to the industry that came with dancing,  allowed to look and feel however she wished on that day, the body and posture didn't need to be perfect or look like everyone else's, there is a freedom to being your own person when on the mat, this drawing her in to learning more.

Emily's passion for yoga is ever present and evolving, her journey as a teacher has been very active from the word go, she's excited by the fact that you can always continue to learn and loves the quote;

"Once you stop learning, you stop living" 

Emily's Classes

Emily's ability to offer a fun dynamic stretchy practise with fluid mindful technique, a lot of love and a little banter stands her aside from the crowd. Her knowledge of anatomy allows her to weave together a creative sequence that will leave you feeling inspired, fearless and ready.

Classes are themed around an inspirational topic to offer an intention for practise...supported by the breath and always encouraging, Emily installs a mindful, conscious practise of being in the moment.

"Yoga is the union of mind, body and spirit." 

Accessible Ashtanga & Hatha Yoga with Emma Conally-Barklem

Emma is an experienced 8 limb yoga teacher and practitioner, poet and writer.

Having completed her initial 500+ Teaching Diploma she has since gone on to multiple trainings in Ashtanga, well woman and Yin yoga. She has a daily practice of yoga both on and off the mat which directly informs her teaching.

Her classes are creative, fun and with plenty of options to facilitate everyone’s practice. She believes strongly in Krishnamachariya’s words, if you can breathe, you can do yoga’. As such all are welcome, particularly the stiff, inflexible and those managing the vagaries of the body and mind!

On this holiday 

Morning sessions will be an enlivening and accessible journey into ashtanga yoga taught with plenty of humour and compassion. The focus will be on creating prana and feeling better through movements which are kind and therapeutic to the body.

Afternoon sessions will be a creative blend of hatha, restorative and yin yoga with some meditation and relaxation. Emma will combine readings, movement and breath work to produce feelings of relaxation and peace.

www.emmaliveyoga.com
IG @emmaliveyoga

Hi, just wanted to send you a bit of feedback from our fab retreat with Emma at DalyanLiveSpa.
Emma is a fabulous teacher, offering plenty of modifications to ensure every member of her class feels included in the practice.  It wouldn’t matter if you had been practicing for a week or for years, Emma makes her practice totally accessible and enjoyable for all.  I certainly felt the benefit, relaxed, stretched and invigorated following our week away.  The hotel, staff and food were all spot on, as was the location.  There is plenty to do whilst not practicing, and the range and quality of the organised trips offered lots of options.  Local beach is easily reached , as is Dalyan town.  I can thoroughly recommend this retreat, Thanks Si - Oct 2024

Kissamos May 19th  -An excellent retreat. It was a pleasure meeting Emma and being in her class, I enjoyed her plan of the week and I felt the yoga sessions offered challenge in a safe environment, a lovely balance.  The venue was perfect, and our hosts were so considerate, add to that Emma’s teaching and the lovely group and it gives a special memory to take away.
Linda Finney - May 2015

Kissamos May 2015 with Emma Connally-Barklem
Big thank you to Free Spirit Travel, the lovely Mike, Maria and staff and last but not least the very inspiring teacher Emma.  It was my first Yoga holiday and am looking to book again next year it was truly an amazing experience.  I wasn't expecting one week out of my normal routine to make such a difference to my wellbeing.  Location, accommodation, weather, food, people, sea view and the waves as our music during yoga practice - all just perfect.
Namaste
Jeannette Hall

Dynamic Slow-flow/Vinyasa Yoga and Meditation with Erika Tourell

Our Yoga Retreat in India at Palm Tree Yoga, Kerala

This retreat is a wonderful opportunity to slow down and re-connect ourselves to our hearts and to Infinite Source in a safe and nurturing environment.
We shall be gathering twice or three times a day to engage in lots of different practices together: yoga, pranayama (breathwork), silent and guided meditation, 

This is precious time to set aside for yourself for healing and reflection at this stage of your life's journey.

You are encouraged to bring a journal to record your dreams, insights and inspirations or write poetry. You may also like to bring some art materials; a sketch book, coloured pencils or paints to allow your creative juices to flow!

 There will be plenty of free time for rest and renewal, swimming and sunbathing as well as excursions in the locality.

      
Erika Tourell has been holding retreats in the UK and internationally for over ten years and teaching yoga for over 15 years. It is her greatest joy to work in this way with people and many past guests have reported huge life changes and return year after year to re-inspire themselves.

   
Erika teaches a slow flow/vinyasa class integrating her experience of Iyengar, Astanga, Hatha and Kundalini yoga by emphasising awareness of mind, body and breath, whilst focusing on correct alignment

She teaches regular, weekly classes at The Life Centre Notting Hill, TriYoga Primrose Hill, TriYoga Chelsea and BodyWorksWest Notting Hill, all in London and runs workshops and yoga retreats in the UK and abroad.

She also sees clients privately for yoga and massage therapy in the London area.

Fiona Agombar and Energy Yoga

  
Energy Yoga has been developed to increase vitality, space and health in the physical body, whilst also working with the psycho-spiritual connection to quieten the mind.    

Using gentle flowing movement, mantra and pranayama (yoga breathing),  yoga releases knots and held patterns  and invigorates the whole being as energy (prana) can then flow freely.

Students are guided towards the  Presence of their authentic nature as they become  conscious of what is happening in the body in each moment, working at their own ability (there is no competition in yoga).
     
Fiona  has been studying yoga since 1993. She originally trained with the Yoga for Health Foundation.   She teaches in the tradition of Krishnamacharya and is accredited as an advanced teacher by the British Wheel of Yoga. Her mentor is Gill Lloyd, who is a student of TKV Desikachar.

Fiona also studies Vedanta, the science of self-realisation. She is currently studying yoga in the Krishnamacharya tradition (Khyf) under Sarah Ryan and Liz Mutha.       

Fiona originally studied with the Yoga for Health Foundation from 1993 and she now spends much time in India studying yoga in depth. She is a regular contributor to Yoga and Health magazine.

In 1997 Fiona wrote the definitive book on yoga, fatigue and M.E: 'Beat Fatigue with Yoga' (Cherry Red Books) having had had chronic fatigue for 15 years and then made a full recovery thanks to following a yoga lifestyle.

    
More on Fiona can be found on  www.fionaagombar.co.uk

Geny Caloisi

Geny’s Yoga teaching style blends traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Hatha yoga with Iyengar alignment techniques.

She also teaches Yin Yoga, mindfulness and meditation and places a strong focus on to physical adjustments to improve alignment through a precise yet dynamic practice.

Through Yoga and Ayurveda we are able to achieve our highest potential and live a long, healthy and happy life. For this reason, Geny is a Ayurveda practitioner and consultant as well as a Yoga teacher.

Nourish the nervous system and feed your soul
A Yoga and Ayurveda retreat
Geny Caloisi

A healthy state of the body, mind, and spirit is the first step in building a peaceful, productive, and happy society. I firmly believe that being healthy extends beyond the realms of physical wellbeing. My focus is on total health, which encompasses physical, psychological, and spiritual wellness.

Nourish the nervous system and feed your soul is a Yoga and Ayurveda Retreat, which offers body, mind and soul nurture, an essential for a profound healing experience. The Retreat is perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome rejuvenating experience on a holy-day.

The retreat concept revolves around creating relaxed optimum health using the principles of Yoga and Ayurveda. From what and when you eat and exercise to how you can digest the food and experiences to rip the most profit from it and achieve the most beautiful rest.

Participants will walk out of the Retreat feeling rejuvenated.

Typical day

7:00 am - 1/2 hour Meditation and Pranayama
7:30 am Tea and a snack
8:00- 9:15 Yoga class, Ashtanga yoga.
10:00 Breakfast
Free time/ treatments
17:00-18:00 Yoga class (Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra or gentle Hatha Yoga)
19:30 dinner
10:00 pm Sleep

 http://www.cheyoga.co.uk/

Hatha and Scaravelli Inspired Yoga with Gillian Russel       

Scaravelli practice: ‘in this practice we access the deeper movement felt in our bodies, the movement of life, fuelled by breath and born from the spine. Not training but discovering strength in vital softness, exploring freedom and playfulness in our movements. Integration and expression take the place of stretching and holding. In surprise and delight we come home to our bodies’.

This nourishing retreat will provide a combination of fluid playful posture work, breath and body awareness, meditation and deep healing rest. Give yourself permission to rest, balance, and restore, bring real relief and joy into your body's natural ability to move with freedom and space."

Gill has been teaching yoga for over 25 years her qualifications include British Wheel Diploma Course Tutor, Yoga Biomedical Trust Yoga Therapy Practitioner and FRYOG teacher. In addition she has explored Feldenkrais, Rolfing movement and Body Rolling and some concepts from these disciplines will be included in her sessions.

Latterly she has been working with various students of Vanda Scaravelli and this approach greatly influences her teaching and practice. Gill’s sessions will be gentle, rhythmic, and extremely soothing enabling your body’s innate ability to release tension and unwind.
This week is suitable for beginners, more experienced students and yoga teachers each exploring the practices at their own pace. If you are looking for a holiday with a deep but gentle approach this week should be right for you.

"I have been running yoga holidays in Portugal for the last five years and weekends in the UK for over 10 years. I am looking forward to teaching in Crete especially so close to the beach and sea!

This nourishing retreat will provide a combination of fluid playful posture work, breath and body awareness, meditation and deep healing rest. Give yourself permission to rest, balance, and restore, bring real relief and joy into your body's natural ability to move with freedom and space."

  For more about Gillian please visit her website www.yogill.com

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Ginny Dean
 

Ginny has practiced yoga for over 30 years and has taught since 1998.

Her teachers have numbered some of the world's most respected yogis including Derek Ireland who introduced her to Astanga Vinyasa Yoga, and Sri K Pattabhi Jois who then enabled her to deepen her practice.

Whilst this is her background her own teaching style is more influenced by her more recent female teachers Dona Hollemann (Centered Yoga) and Chloe Fremantle (Scaravelli Yoga).

Our morning session will consist of a led Vinyasa Flow class taught so that different aspects of the practice can be explored. This invigorating practice is an ongoing exploration of our awareness of the relationship between our physical movements, our breath, the ground and the space around us.

The afternoon session will be less structured and the emphasis will be not on achieving postures but on using the journey into them to undo tension and reveal a sense of integration. In these sessions we will gradually focus our attention so that we can feel more, impose less, and allow the intelligence of the body to reveal itself.

Whilst suitable for all levels this holiday is most suited to those with at least one year's grounding in a regular yoga practice. However, all students will gain from each session irrespective of their level of experience.

Posture adaptations will be offered so that everybody will benefit including those just beginning their yoga journey through to the more advanced students.
 

Jilly in the Free Spirit office attends Ginny's  classes in Brighton so if you have questions do chat with her

Hatha Yoga with Heather Hill

Helen Say - Anusara Inspired Yoga Teacher

Helen has been practicing yoga for 12 years, teaching for 4, studying with many different teachers & styles (Hatha, Astanga, Iyengar, Anusara).

Having trained in alignment-based Hatha Yoga at TriYoga in London she has gone on to complete teacher trainings in the uplifting, flowing style of Anusara Yoga.

As an Anusara Inspired teacher she is passionate about sharing yoga with everybody, yoga to benefit all using the Anusara Universal Principles of Alignment and incorporating Shiva/Shakti Tantric philosophy into the classes.

She sees yoga as a tool for expansion and freedom in every aspect of life. Since Oct 2009 she has been on the road travelling and teaching, mainly in India, Thailand and Bali.

Helen's own self practice is a way to deepen her knowledge and exploration of yoga both on and off the mat.

She has been fortunate enough to have studied and assisted with Anusara teacher, Bridget Woods Kramer during her classes, immersions in London, the Bali Spirit Festival 2010 and 2011 and at Bridget's Yoga Teacher Trainings in Bali.

Our week of yoga

Morning: Following the Anusara principles throughout and weaving in a heart theme, the morning class will be based on a dynamic practice to revive and awaken our spine, heart and mind; allowing us to start the day with a feeling of lightness & freedom.

Afternoon: Through a playful dance of asana, restorative yoga, Thai yoga massage, chi gong & meditation, incorporating breathwork throughout. The therapeutic afternoon class will be a chance to explore our bodies: bringing back mobility in our joints, restoring the natural rhythm of our spine and the free flow of energy, whilst getting in touch with our inner essence of being

Helen teaches from the heart in a playful, joyful and fun way focusing on helping everyone express their own beauty and using Partner work to help students support one another in order to reach their true potential and push each others boundaries.

Hatha Yoga with Jackie Coulson

Jackie has studied many forms of Yoga over the last 12 years, including Hatha, Iyengar, Vajrasati, Astanga, Sivananda & Scaravelli.

She holds teaching certificates in Hatha and Vajrasati Yoga and is Yoga Alliance 500hr accredited. She has taken great joy from inspiring her students in Brighton for the last 4 years.

Jackie's teaching style is creative and fluid, partly due to her broad inspiration across disciplines.

Her Vajrasati training helps bring in a meditative feel to her Hatha flowing practise, incorporating the core principles of Sthira Sukham (finding the balance between strength or effort and ease) as well as an emphasis on postural awareness. 

Jackie's interest in the body also took her to India to study Yogic massage.

The morning classes will have a fluid, playful nature, incorporating some gentle sequences, flowing through postures with deep breath awareness, to invigorate the body and mind.

The evening practise will generally be more restorative and meditative. Even when the practise is challenging it will be deeply relaxing. We will also be exploring Pranayama (breathing techniques) and simple Mantra (chanting).

     
Jackie is known for her nurturing and supportive style that welcomes all abilities.

www.exhalebrighton.co.uk

Jacky Lampl

Jacky's passion for movement evolved from her study of dance, she began practicing yoga 15 years ago and is teaching for over six years now.  Her motto is "Movement is a great medicine for the body".

Her teaching style offers an alignment-based yoga, slow moving, with a great focus on core stability.  Jacky completed two 200 hour teacher training modules. The first was an Ashtanga Vinyasa training while the second concentrated on an Anusara teacher training. Anusara yoga is a modern-day Hatha yoga system focusing on a positive mindset. In 2015 she completed a 500-hour teacher training with 3 Internationally renowned teachers. She continues to be an avid student of yoga.

   
During the weekend at Champneys Jacky will explore how to embrace your practice.  By surrendering, one opens the mind and allows new opportunities to flow.

   
This weekend is for everyone from a careful beginner to an experienced warrior. Jacky will offer guidance and encouragement to each yogi, so the retreat is enjoyable and suitable for all.

The classes will help you build strength, gain flexibility and help bring an inner calmness and tranquility. The mornings will be more energetic while the evening practice will be more reflective.

Jacqueline Wigglesworth - Hatha Flow & Yin Yoga

Jacqueline experienced her first yoga class in 1997 whilst at Drama school and has since trained in London (at Triyoga,) India and LA, studying many styles of yoga including Vinyasa Flow with Shiva Rea, Yin Yoga and Mindfulness with Sarah Powers, Ashtanga with Pattabhi Jois, Restorative with Judith Lasater, Yoga Therapy with TKV Desikachar and Iyengar Yoga.   

Her own style of teaching is fun, relaxed, safe and joyful, always relating to the bigger picture; both dynamic (solar/yang) and relaxing (lunar/yin) and always includes quotes, breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditations to inspire and uplift.          

Jackie sees yoga as a wonderful tool to enhance every aspect of life and adapts her yoga classes to cater for all levels of whoever is present.   

She worked for many years teaching clients at London's prestigious private member's club Home House and is currently based in Sussex. She's just happy to share the many benefits yoga brings, wherever she finds herself and particularly enjoys leading retreats in beautiful locations.   

Her goal is that you return home with a healthy body, a peaceful mind and an enlightened spirit.      

Jacqueline is a global adventurer and trip leader who has worked on 6 continents and travelled to over 90 countries. She  also has a degree in English and Drama from Exeter University and has just finished a book called World of Wonder

Jagoda Buchala - Hatha Yoga

Jagoda is a certified 400 hour Hatha yoga instructor with over 3 years of experience in conducting yoga classes for students of all ages. 

Currently Jagoda is taking an Advanced 600 hour Teacher Training Course in Hatha yoga. 

With her extensive knowledge of yoga and meditation, she is passionate about helping others achieve their personal goals through mindful practice.

.

"I would like to invite you to a Yoga and Wellbeing Retreat focusing on your inner space. This is a great opportunity to experience the benefits of yoga and body, mind, and inner spirit under my experienced guidance.  Our yoga week will include all aspects of yoga and is suitable for every level of practice.

I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all students and I am adept at creating personalised plans that meet each individual's needs"

During our week you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself and surrender into a gentle flow into yourself, meditation practice and breath techniques followed by delicious food.

This retreat will naturally incorporate traditional techniques including pranayama and restorative yoga, which will help to take you to a state of deeper focus, calm and stability.

Mornings: 

The morning class is based on an uplifting practice to revive and awaken our spine, heart, and mind.

Our sun salutation practice will help us energise and tap into that solar energy, to help you kickstart your day!

Evenings:

We will practice before dinner. This is the time when you want to wind down after your day to really stretch your fascia and connective tissues that you’ve been using throughout the day. Calm candlelit yoga, meditation, Nidra yoga, breath of fire (Kapalabhati), in a cosy candlelit atmosphere.

Over the course of the week, we will improve our yoga practice, feeling healthy and vital with improved flexibility and well-being.

This retreat is suitable for all, regardless of age and yoga experience.

Vinyasa Yoga with Jane Cornwall

Jane has been a practicing yoga teacher for over 10 years, building on a previous background of dancercise, Qui Gong and Pilates Instruction. All this experience has resulted in a Vinyasa style of yoga, which she believes brings focus, fun and variety to the practice, without losing its deeper meaning and authenticity.

This has led to consistently high attendance and a faithful following from her students. Her teaching style has evolved and developed through her interaction with both class members and many inspiring teachers over the years.

She has an approach which roots yoga in people's everyday lives, with an emphasis on the significance and benefits of synchronising movement and breath. She is always keen to incorporate a pranayama element in her classes to help her students to cope with life's many challenges and to be able to use the gift of yoga as a fundamental part of their being.

Her maturity brings with it considerable experience and she has a zest for life which results in a strong personal engagement with her class members. Her love of yoga inspires her to want to share her knowledge and help enhance the lives of others!

About this holiday

This week will be all about the benefits of self nurture and 'going with the flow' whilst realising the importance of being strong, yet flexible, in body and mind. My aim is that participants have fun, get the opportunity to switch off from their everyday life and end the week feeling invigorated, refreshed, revitalised and with a wonderful sense of wellbeing.

Morning sessions will be invigorating Flowing Vinyasa Yoga, creating heat and energy. It will incorporate breathing exercises and finish with relaxation.

The afternoon class will consist of gentle yoga postures, incorporating elements of Chi Gung and Pilates - leaving everybody stretched, soothed and contended.

Classes are suitable for all levels,

newcomers to yoga are welcomed so long as they have a core fitness

Hatha Yoga with Janet Southworth
Janet as been practicing yoga since childhood, she trained with the British Wheel of Yoga and has been teaching in the Lancashire area since 1990. Currently she is teaching yoga classes, running themed yoga days, holidays and retreats as well as working with her husband in their natural health & back pain clinic in Lancashire. She is also a qualified Yoga assessor and has tutored and assessed trainee yoga teachers. In 2016 she graduated from Manchester with a BSC Hons in Nutritional Science & practices Naturopathic nutrition with Ayurveda.

Janet has a unique and creative style of yoga, interweaving Taoist and Tibetan influences among others with traditional hatha style. Yoga sessions usually include postures and flowing sequence as well as deeper aspects of pranayama, meditation, creative visualisations, mantra and yoga nidra relaxation.

Janet’s teaching is intuitive, empathic and she and enjoys having fun in the yoga sessions. She has trained with many inspirational teachers including; Pranayama expert Philip Jones, Indar Nath, Swami Neel Kamal and respected teachers from Traditional Taoist and Tibetan backgrounds.

During Janet’s Yoga holidays, you will be able to relax and release tensions, as well as the opportunity to deepen your yoga practice, working within your own level of experience/ability, adaptation or progression may be offered. The yoga holiday with Janet is aimed at you feeling recharged and revitalised with better quality sleep and happier within your own skin. The emphasis will be on healing body & mind, discovering the beauty within.

Morning classes will be themed and include pranayama, joint release, flowing sequences, holding poses with awareness on the subtle energy body, meditation, guided relaxation.
The evening session will be more gentle and include floor based postures and pranayama, followed by Janet’s inspirational yoga nidra to facilitate deep relaxation and revitalisation.

Strong Hatha Yoga with Jean Hall

Jean has been practicing yoga for over 19 years and has been teaching yoga for 12 years. 

She teaches open yoga classes in London, mentors yoga teachers in training & leads yoga retreats in the U.K and throughout the world. She is the author of several books including::-

Yoga, a practical guide to yoga postures - Abbeydale Press

Astanga Yoga, a in-depth guide to the primary series - Anness Books  

After working as a professional dancer she qualified as a Iyengar yoga teacher in 1995 & since has continued to study different forms of yoga, namely Sivananda Yoga in Trivanadram and Astanga Yoga in Mysore with Sri K Pattahbi Jois.
Her teaching focuses on developing healthy body mechanics, awareness and flow of breath, energy and alignment to balance & strengthen the body, while deep stretching and relaxation helps to release tension from within.

Jean Hall and Liz Lark have known each other since university and often run retreats and holidays together, most notibly the weekends at Oxon Hoath in Kent. There they teach concurrent classes and yoga students have the choice of which one they attend at any point in the weekend.

Jenny started teaching yoga fourteen years ago; it has become a way of life both on and off the mat, helping her to stay positive in the world and finding more peace.

She has completed five Yoga Training and Anatomy courses, studying with top teachers in London, San Francisco, Las Vegas and New York.   As a student of Bridget Woods-Kramer she has developed an understanding of the alignment principles and philosophy of Anusara Yoga.  She has also trained in Anusara Yoga Therapeutics - a way of healing the body through intelligent movement.   
Because of her ongoing Pilates Rehabilitation training she is keen on teaching strong core awareness for optimal alignment.

Her classes are taught with a sense of compassion, lightness and play. Working intuitively to create practices which support individual requirements.  On her week in Turkey she will teach a varied yoga programme including Yin Yoga and Meditation, Dynamic Flow Yoga, alignment based Hatha Yoga and heart opening Yoga Nidra.  The morning class will be yoga based and the afternoon class will be Pilates.   

For more information about Jenny go to her website:  www.uloveyoga.co.uk

Flowing Hatha Yoga with Jill Hurley

Jill has been practicing yoga for forty plus years. She is a member of The British Wheel of Yoga and a qualified BWY teacher.

She teaches holistically, using movement, breath and awareness to bring about benefits for the body and mind: benefiting the physical, psychological and spiritual aspects of the individual.

Jill is a qualified beauty, massage therapist and counsellor and is now a full time Yoga teacher She has experience in teaching several styles of yoga but most enjoys teaching Hatha yoga flow. The practice is very versatile and can be adapted to suit all ages and abilities.

The practice of yoga asanas (postures) strengthens and tones muscles, develops flexibility, and can improve a variety of ailments. Psychologically yoga increases concentration, stills the mind and promotes wellbeing, tranquillity and contentment.

With practice the benefits of yoga are that the body becomes stronger and more flexible, stiffness and tensions are eased, breathing improves, energy increases, relaxation is easier

Yoga is about learning to come back to yourself. It's about expanding your boundaries, finding your limits and being able to truly relax and be yourself.

It's about taking time to remember who you are but have forgotten while being caught up in the whirlwind of a fast paced life.

   
www.exeteryoga.org

Hi JillI, thank you so much for the fantastic week we spent with you, it was lovely to meet you both. I gained so much from the yoga both physically and emotionally and  I have felt much better since.I also really appreciated how you set the tone for such friendliness amongst the group and for us to all to participate at our own level.

Since being back I have continued with the stretches that I found most beneficial and will now endeavour to find a local class.I also regularly hear your voice asking 'where are your shoulders now?' They seem very happy up by my ears and so I am working on my posture too!

Best wishes Karen (Casa Benedetto 2017)

Vajrasati Yoga with Jim Tarran and Khadine Morcom

Vajrasati Yoga was founded by Jim Tarran in 2000 and is a Yoga Alliance Professionals Teacher Training Plus 500 RYS course which is the highest accreditation available for a teacher training course. In truth the course outstrips even the new high standards required by teacher training plus accreditation with over 1000 hours of training between the contact and non-contact aspects of the course. The course has been co-run by Jim and his partner expert yoga teacher Khadine Morcom - since 2014.

Khadine Morcom - With two decades of teaching experience, continued self-study and a deep embodiment of the core principles of yoga, Khadine teaches straight from the heart with clarity, humility and warmth, supporting students to use the tools of authentic yoga for modern life.

Khadine has been practising yoga for over 25 years, teaching for 19 years and training yoga teachers for 9 years.  She lives her practice, and there is no-one more qualified or able to guide you towards finding your own heart-centre. Her teaching benefits beginners and experienced students alike.

Khadine is a Yoga Alliance Professionals senior teacher and a senior Vajrasati teacher and teacher trainer, and has written for Yoga Magazine UK. She is currently completing a masters degree in yoga and meditation traditions at SOAS University London.

Her teaching style is calming and focused with particular attention given to breath awareness, and the cultivation and recognition of energy and inner states of being. Her classes incorporate practical yoga philosophy in ways that are clear, relevant and useful. Khadine’s classes include instruction in the practices of āsana (yoga posture), prāṇāyāma (breathing practices), dhyāna (meditation) mantra (chanting) and yoganidrā as tools for integration (yoga).

As well as being influenced by traditional yogic texts and traditions, Khadine’s classes take inspiration from anything and everything from being a mother to being an environmentalist or just simply being a being in the world!

Jim Tarran - has been practicing yoga since 1990 and teaching since 1992 after completing his first teacher training course in kathmandu in April 1992 and his second 2 year course in 1996. He devised the Yoga Alliance Professionals registered 500 Hour Plus teacher training course Vajrasati Yoga in 2000 and since then it has grown organically with the combined wisdom of the collective community.

He has been privileged to teach students ranging from total beginners to advanced and everyone in between over the last 30 years and has been so fortunate to have taught yoga in so many countries all over the world from Morocco and Mexico to Italy to India and so many more beautiful lands.

The focus of Jim's classes has been on yoga practices that are familiar to most; āsana (posture), dhyāna (meditation), pranayama (breathing practices), mudra (hand gestures and other'"energy containers" and mantra (chanting). Taking the lion’s share of these is āsana as meditation.

As per tradition he sees yoga essentially as absorption, a process familiar to all as a momentary (or longer) melting of the illusion of separation into the  ‘field’ of which all seemingly ‘separate particles’ from momentary thoughts to a whole sense of separate ‘me-ness’ are excitations. All the techniques are employed to serve the principal purpose of yoga - an awakening to the undivided holism of the nameless essence that forms the commonality and bedrock of all our existences.

Jim and his partner Khadine have been working together running the Vajrasati Yoga Teacher training together for nearly ten years in which time the teaching community has grown from strength to strength.

Joelle has spent her life exploring bodywork disciplines, initially coming to yoga to protect herself from injury whilst touring as a contemporary dancer.

She travelled to India in 2011 to explore its classical roots, completing her first TTC in Sivananda's beautiful Madurai Ashram, continuing onto graduate from Triyoga's 2 year Advanced TTC in 2018 with mentor's Jean Hall and Anna Ashby.

Joelle also works as a massage therapist and has trained in pre and postnatal yoga with Kirsteen Ruffle of Birthlight. Humbled by the experience of matrescence- becoming a parent in 2023 she is currently embarking on a doula training.

Whether you're in a strong, playful or gentle season of your life, Joelle is passionate about leading a soulful and inclusive practice.

Dropping into your flow state and stimulating the body's inherent self-healing and regenerative capacities through improved circulation, range of movement, postural alignment and soothing mantra with harmonium.

http://www.joellegreen.com

Yoga Classes:

90 minute Morning Flow Yoga mindfully sequenced to allow a deep dive into the day's anatomical and philosophical theme.  With options for differing energy levels and individual help offered to support progression.

90 minute Evening Restorative slow flow/yin yoga with sacred sound.
As a massage practitioner, Joelle will offer oils-based techniques for the neck and shoulders and close the practise with sacred sound to sooth the nervous system further.  Either mantra with harmonium or crystal singing bowls.

Julia teaches her own fusion of Yin yoga with Mindfulness and Yang yoga with dynamic Kundalini yoga influences.  This powerful combination releases deep seated tension, pushes through physical and emotional blocks and gives you a strong,balanced and healthy body inside and out.
     
A yoga retreat is a gift to yourself. It gives you the opportunity to completely let go in a beautiful environment away from the stresses of everyday life. It allows space and time for healing and renewal and gives you time to reflect, to focus on your own needs and discover once again your true passions in life. A retreat is also a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, eat delicious food, sunbathe,swim, explore and do anything that your heart desires, because it's your holiday!

    
  
On this holiday
The mornings will be dedicated to active and dynamic practices, which move stagnant energy, detoxify inner organs and build muscle, giving you strength and vitality.

The evening practices will be more yielding and nourishing, releasing stress and deep-seated tension, allowing your body and mind to completely let go and sink into total relaxation.

All practices end with a guided meditation. You will also be introduced to Yoga Nidra, Mindfulness and Kundalini Meditations.
         

No experience needed and you don’t have to be flexible. Suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities.

For more details go to Julia's website:

http://www.yogaloveliness.co.uk

The most relaxing, stress free and soothing yoga class I have been to, however still working all the right muscles! Julia's calming nature makes it so easy to unwind. 100% recommend to anyone!

Today was a new experience. Through this wonderful teacher's guidance the whole workshop just flowed exercising both my mind and body on a very different level. Every stage was fully explained so a deeper understanding was gained of the purpose and what was happening while holding the postures. The Nidra was bliss and took me into such a deep state of relaxation that nothing else mattered but that moment in time. I left feeling inspired and enthusiastic to practice what I had learned today. Thank you Julia..

Magical lesson. Julia's class was just mind blowing. Very good instructor. I felt so relaxed and distressed after that lesson. I would recommend Julia's classes to every one who is looking for fun, good spirit, energy and calm mind. I still feel floating

Well where do I start.....a truly lovely class, which suits all abilities, so you can go at a pace that suits you. Julia often gives information on the poses about the health benefits of the different positions, which I find really useful. The relaxation at the end is absolutely divine, melting away any stress. Since doing yoga, about 16 months now, I've lost inches around my body and have improved my strength, flexibility and tone throughout my body, I'm delighted with the results. I would thoroughly recommend this class to anyone, as it is great for fun, relaxation, fitness and health!

Julie Hemmings

I walked into my first Yoga Class back in 1993.  I was stressed out, burned out and exhausted.  I walked out feeling more whole, the pieces slowly being put back together.  My mind was calmer, my body felt great and I had the kind of energy I could only remember having as a child.  I went back to my second class the week after.  At the end of that class I decided I wanted to become a Yoga Teacher..........  

Although Yoga has been practised for over 2,500 years in India, we are only really beginning to explore the depths of what it can offer us here in the West.  Yoga here mostly focusses on the physical aspects - toning the body, strengthening and stretching the muscles and providing an opportunity for relaxation.  The deeper aspects of the practice are commonly overlooked.  Whilst Yoga is an amazing bodywork system, I feel its strength lies in the ability to overhaul the mind, bringing it to a place of stillness, and by asking us to enquire of ourselves on a more profound level.  Most of this work, interestingly, happens subconsciously.  We just become aware of the changes that are gradually taking place within our consciousness.   

Originally training with the British Wheel of Yoga in 1998, I have been lucky over the years to have studied, and been inspired by Iyengar, ViniYoga, Sivananda, Satyananda, Ashtanga and more recently, Kundalini styles of Yoga, Donna Farhi, Shiva Rea, Sean Corne, Sarah Powers, Paul Grilley, and Swami Nischalananda of the Mandala Ashram. 

I also studied a year-long Pranayama Module with Philip Xerri - breathwork always forming the core of my own practice and my teaching.

My main Yoga passion, however, is Kirtan - I love the energy, connection and stillness it creates.  I don't go far without a Krishna Das or Nikki Slade CD stashed somewhere.   

All of these amazing practices, teachings and teachers have merged into the big melting pot of my psyche and emerged to form my own unique style of teaching: blending vinyasa, Yin, breath, energy, sound and meditation.  

I feel priviledged to have both attended and taught several Yoga Holidays at Grenadine Lodge in Dalyan, and am looking forward to returning.    

The content of the Yoga Programme for week will be mostly led by yourselves, developed around your needs, your desires and your potential to explore new territory.    

With this in mind thi is the planned outline of the sessions:-         

Morning:   Vinyasa / Slow Flow / Kirtan, Chanting       

Evening:  Yin Yoga / Pranayama / Meditation   

I look forward to sharing a truly wonderful experience with you.   

www.divineworks.co.uk

Hatha Scaravelli Yoga with June Mercer

I went to my first yoga class when I was about 15 years old. Later as a student I read philosophy and studied different spiritual traditions. The seeds were sown for my developing interest in the philosophy and art of yoga.

When I was drawn to train as a yoga teacher with Yoga Scotland in 1991, it was to delve more deeply into the philosophy, to further my spiritual search. I had never been any good at sports and had no background in anatomy and physiology.

I could never have guessed that a few years down the road I would be teaching a practice very much based on the physical work....observing the body as it is, on the ground, being breathed. In particular, my studies over the last 14 years with yoga tutor and osteopath John Stirk have helped me discover the connection between body, mind and spirit. The experience in the postures brought an awareness I couldn't have found in any book. The meditation, the non-doing is there in the doing.

Lots of yoga students are drawn to the yoga for the benefits of the physical exercise and I am keen to present my classes so they are accessible to everyone, regardless of their fitness level. Many people find they benefit especially from the relaxation and many then go on to develop an interest in the spiritual practice  

My personal journey was from the spiritual search to the physical practice. Whichever way, I think there is no separation. The practice is the meditation. We use what we have, where we are.

These days I am interested in how science is proving what the yogis discovered through their efforts thousands of years ago. My daily inspiration comes from my family, my students, the music of Krishna Das, and the books of Osho. And of course the yoga!

Karen Calder Iyengar Yoga

Karen has practised Iyengar Yoga since 2000 and gained her teaching certificate in 2009. She really enjoys the challenge Iyengar Yoga gives her and has opted to carry on training and now holds the Intermediate 3 teaching certificate.

She has visited Pune to work directly with the Iyengar family and has attended conventions with both Geeta and Abhijata Iyengar - all deeply humbling experiences.

She has also attended workshops with  visiting senior teachers Glenn Cerescoli and Christian Pissano. "There is always so much more to learn, every time I return to my mat I make a new discovery, there are an infinite number of variables within every pose - it is an incredible journey".

A distinguishing feature of an Iyengar class is the use of props, e.g. blocks, belts and chairs so students with less flexibility or strength are able to work correctly and achieve their full potential.  This means everyone, from beginners to advancing students will gain something from the week.

During the course of the week we will explore the poses in detail and advance and develop practice to suit ability.

"I love meeting new students and introducing them to the joy of yoga and equally enjoy challenging those with more practice.  I look forward to meeting you!"

Feedback

Dear Debbie
I wanted to write and let you know that I had an amazing time in Kerala.  I loved Palm Tree Yoga Centre, the staff were wonderful and Halin was the perfect host.  Karen is a an inspirational yoga teacher: kind, knowledgeable and able to meet the needs of a diverse group of students. She is an exceptional person and teacher and I feel very lucky to have been there with her.  Thank you so much for organising the holiday.
Nicky - November 2022

Hello, I just wanted to leave a review for a fabulous holiday which my mother and I have just spent in Crete with Karen Calder.  This is our second holiday with her, as we were in Ischia last year - also a wonderful trip.Karen is an excellent yoga teacher, who has a lovely kind and caring manner when teaching.  My mother (80) and I (both Iyengar beginners) were gently encouraged into restorative and semi challenging poses by Karen, in relaxed and yet highly professional classes each day. We have returned home with improved posture, a sense of achievement and with a calmer frame of mind.  I would recommend Karen to anyone wanting to learn more and enjoy the process!  She also has a great sense of humour!
Many thanks Philippa

Flow Yoga with Kate Walker

A teacher asked me once what I liked about yoga. I said it gave me a chance to escape from myself. I didn’t like myself very much and those moments on the mat took me away to a peaceful place that the bullshit couldn’t penetrate. I’ve since realised that, of course, the peaceful place is me and all the bullshit is a construct of my mind. What a revelation…enlightenment here I come! Not surprisingly, the ‘little me’ was not going down without a fight and started throwing up all kinds of resistance to me getting downward dog with it.

It’s a process. Going beyond that resistance. And every day is different. But I learnt that listening to my body and practicing in accordance with what it needed at that point in time was the surest way forward (even if it was in a two steps forward, one step back kind of way). I had to let go of what I thought my practice should look like and howI thought I should be as an aspiring yogini and work with where I was at, at each moment. Maybe I never will be the bendiest pretzel in the packet but these days I would rather be the happiest and most compassionate.

I’m Kate, a Yoga Alliance qualified teacher. My yoga practice has been my solace, my teacher and often my greatest challenge as it encourages me to go beyond the safety and limitations of my mind and open my heart to myself and life. I encourage students to be their own teacher by reconnecting to the wisdom of their body by focusing on awareness and observation and allowing the process to unfold without force. I would rather know that you are smiling in child’s pose than see you going red in the face forcing your foot behind your head. I teach Hatha yoga and my classes include asana, pranayama and meditation. I also love, love, LOVE a good yoga nidra session.

I have had the honour of studying with some truly remarkable teachers. I am currently deepening my understanding of yoga by working with Chameli Ardagh and Sara Avant Stover to bring more of a feminine approach to my practice and teaching.

I am also studying Yoga Therapy with the Mohans of Svastha Yoga (long time students of Krishnamacharya). In the past I have worked with Sarah Powers, Simon Borg-Olivier of Yoga Synergy, Lance Schuler of INSPYA Yoga, Diane Long (long time student of Vanda Scaravelli) and Vedic meditation teacher Tim Mitchell.

I am also a certified health coach and offer one-on-one sessions during your yoga week.

www.harmonyxo.com.

Kathy Parsons - Vinyasa Flow Yoga

Kathy is a Toronto-based yoga teacher and meditation guide who specializes in helping people connect to themselves through movement and breath.

When Kathy is not leading yoga classes like Vinyasa Flow, Yoga for Athletes, Yin and Restorative, she is hosting Movement & Meditation Workshops across the city, and hosting retreats around the world

Having been on over 25 international health retreats over the years, Kathy is a self-proclaimed ‘retreat addict’ (and a type-A in recovery).  Kathy left the corporate world in 2014 to provide the ultimate energizing and balanced yoga and retreat experience for others. 

Her teaching specialty is vinyasa flow, and her classes incorporate creative movements that strengthen and lengthen the body while staying connected to the breath.

She also teaches pranayama (breathing exercises), moving meditation, restorative and yin yoga and mindfulness.

Classes are tailored to the students and include gentle hands-on adjustments and assists, inspirational music and a scented savasana massage

 “My philosophy is to provide the space for each student to connect with their mind, body and soul so they finish class feeling simultaneously lighter and more grounded. I encourage students to push themselves to their personal limits, while not taking themselves too seriously. Smiling and laugher is welcome!”

After a successful career in marketing and major gift fundraising, Kathy understands what it’s like to crave stillness and connection in a world that overvalues busyness.

She’s combined her love of business and wellness together with her company:- The Santosha Life:  Cultivating Contentment through Yoga • Meditation • Retreats • Style

www.thesantoshalife.com 

Testimonials:

"I've practiced various styles of yoga for about 13 years, but Kathy is the first teacher who ever made yoga personal for me. For the first time, I experienced the connection of mind, body, breath, and spirit, and it changed the way I view yoga forever. Kathy is so much fun, funny, and friendly in class, and at the same time, teaches in a very loving way".

Elizabeth, NYC

“Kathy has a very balanced and well rounded approach to yoga which can benefit anyone regardless of experience or fitness level. Her humour and relaxed approach creates a very comfortable atmosphere while her experience and knowledge of yoga helps each of her students grow and improve.

Peter, Germany

Hatha Flow and Yin Yoga with Kay Parker

With 10 years of practicing yoga, my teaching encompasses a wealth of knowledge and understanding of a variety of yoga forms.

My upbeat approach encourages students to connect body and mind through breath, with an emphasis on safe alignment.

I work with students to get the most out of their yoga practice, offering variations for the more advanced students, modifications for beginners and hands-on adjustments where appropriate.

I have studied anatomy, philosophy, yoga therapy, somatics and breath work and attend regular workshops with teachers from different yoga traditions, incorporating this learning into my classes in a way that compliments my own style of teaching.

Morning practice will start with centering and breath work. This will be followed by a theme based flowing practice sometimes incorporating yin yoga.

Evening sessions will be relaxing in nature and will generally focus on somatics, restorative or yin yoga as well as guided relaxation.

"Just back from a wonderful week at Mavros Malos with Kay Parker whose daily yoga was a exactly what I had hoped for. Mornings were Hatha, evenings Yin. The week was a perfect balance of stretch, breath, restorative and the teaching and facilitation was excellent. All with a perfect Cretin ocean backdrop, plenty of sunshine, lovely vegetarian food , wonderful hosts and a group that were just fab. Wish I could tap into Kay’s yoga in the UK.  I will definitely be booking with Free Spirit Travel again xx thankyou namaste "

"Thank you Kay for such amazing yoga, I really love your style of teaching.  I was concerned if I'd be able to manage 3 half hours a day, but you created a balance that was perfect.
It is also so lovely to come back home fitter than when I arrived, and with a nice tan ha ha  "

Ken Eyerman - Yoga with Feldenkrais Awareness

Ken Eyerman has more than 35 years experience teaching Yoga & Bodywork, is a trained practitioner of the Feldenkrais Method © and is author of 'Massage' published in 1987. An American based in London since 1980, Ken has developed his own style of teaching, bridging the space between flowing Hatha Yoga and the gentle understated, spiralling Feldenkrais movements. Ken teaches his unique 'Yoga with Awareness' holidays internationally.

Ken has developed a fluid technique that taps into your individual needs, releases energy and works to heal injuries or chronic discomfort. His retreat will introduce you to Ken's unique take on Yoga - utilising influences from Feldenkrais, dance and movement based bodywork - and promises to be a refreshing, inspiring start to the year and a lot of fun too!

Ken's intuitive and spontaneous, hands-on approach places an emphasis on using the breath, an awareness of your inner process and how to use your body efficiently. This combination of approaches will ease you into the postures and classes are suitable for all levels of experience, including those who have injuries or are restricted in their movement.

More information about Ken can be seen on www.keneyerman.com

The developmental movement technique, The Feldenkrais Method, has been Ken's lifelong study, especially in how it relates and is complementary to yoga, through the awareness of movement and being attentive to detail. For Ken, The Feldenkrais Method forms the bridge between hands-on healing, touch and the spontaneity of life as a dance.

The Feldenkrais Method named after its originator, Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, is an educational system that uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve posture and human functioning. One can increase the ease and range of motion, improve flexibility and rediscover the natural capacity for efficient movement.

"I can help people to think about their body, how it breathes and moves, how the structure connects, to develop a level of awareness..... so they are not only powering away at stretching but also learning to feel and think their way to a stronger more supple body. A goal being to get into the imagination, to find a more subtle approach, to excite the feelings as well as to power the muscles" Ken Eyerman

Laurie Blair  'Soul Connecting Yoga'

Laurie has practised various forms of yoga for around 30 years. She originally learned to teach Hatha yoga, with the Sivananda school, she was further inspired by David Sye's Yogabeats teacher training to teach more fluidly and authentically.

Her teaching includes some fascia releasing micro movements to music, to allow the body to happily release gently into deeper stretches.

The focus is on connecting the body and soul to quickly find a yogic state of mind.

Teaching is fully supportive and safe, allowing you to be comfortable, but challenged to your own capability, therefore suitable for all abilities. Classes are fun and lighthearted, but will also have you delving deeper within, to connect to your inner Self. Laurie believes that, "yoga is a journey to the soul, allowing us to connect to our authentic Self".

Laurie is a body and soul therapist, qualified in Kinetic Chain Release Therapy (KCR), a sequence of physio mobilisations aimed to holistically correct leg length. 90% of us have one leg shorter than the other, which causes misalignment of the body and thus various conditions, such as sciatica, backache, etc.

KCR has realigned and brought balance back to clients who have suffered from Fibromyalgia, ME, depression, PTSD, post-natal depression, post surgery trauma, etc. Guests can book for KCR during their stay.

One client with Fibromyalgia, ME and depression happily exclaimed, "Laurie has given me my life back through KCR. With one treatment I was able to walk my dog again, after 6 years of not making it past the garden gate!"

Leo is a Senior Yoga Teacher within the Vajrasati school of yoga, accredited with Yoga Alliance 500-hour Teacher Training Plus, and also a therapeutic Thai massage practitioner and has been teaching since 2006.  Both disciplines have their roots within the Buddhist tradition and Leo subsequently teaches from a perspective of compassionate enquiry and non-judgemental-awareness.

Her teaching is creative and playful,  she is passionate about supporting students to meditatively explore reconnecting body and breath as a way of practically calming the nervous system and a busy mind, and reducing everyday stress.

Leo has specialised in supporting women’s health over the years (often with restorative, somatic practises) but also teaches climbers how to integrate yoga into training to avoid injury, so is experienced at adapting teaching to be accessible and appropriate.Whatever your experience and physical ability, you are welcome. Leo’s classes are deep and therapeutic, but always with lightness and humour.

Inspired by yoga in a holistic sense: Leo encourages a deepening relationship between asana, mantra, pranayama and meditation (body, mind, breath and sound) practice on the mat and developing a deeper sense of connection, centre and space beyond.  Yoga, in this sense, informs the way she tries to live, parent and respond to the world; with open awareness, ease, generosity, acceptance and non-judgement.

Morning Sessions: Playful wake up, exploring movement, breath and expanding awareness.

Evening Sessions: Grounding somatics, resorative postures, meditation and yoga nidra to completely de stress.

www.centredspace.net

'What a treat to have recently attended a retreat in Dalyan Turkey with Leo Taylor (Centred Space) as teacher/guide in the company of other wonderful yogis. Leos approach was wholesome and nourishing, blending beautiful practice with meditation and mantra.  Leo is highly intuitive and professional with the ability to ’see’ everyone making you feel welcome and safe.  Lovely complex, food and cheery, helpful staff.  I would highly recommend.' Sue Harding

'I had such a wonderful time on retreat with Leo. Her natural warmth, generosity and sense of fun shines through into her yoga teaching and she worked hard to make sure we all felt included, loved and relaxed.'  Pip Western Wellbeing

'Leo's yoga retreat in Turkey was fabulous. A really magical experience. Leo's gentle, compassionate teaching allowed me to relax and unwind at my own pace, giving my mind and body respite from all the incessant demands of life. Lovely place, lovely people, lovely food too. Very special, and highly recommended. Thank you Leo!'  Ligia Kasanin

Hatha Yoga

Lindsay attended her first yoga class when she was 13 years old, which means she has practiced yoga for over 30 years.

She has been teaching yoga since 2002 continuously updating her qualifications. She additionally teaches yoga to children in schools since completing the Yoga*d Up training.

She has practiced many styles, including Hatha, Astanga, Sivananda and Yin Yoga and her main influence is Iyengar. Classes on this holiday will be a mix of yoga styles with importance placed on the postures.

Lindsay's classes are suitable for all levels as she encourages students to work within their own capabilities.

The week will offer a 2 hour morning yoga asana class suitable for all levels of students
and a short evening class.

Yoga with Lisa Gibbs

Lisa arrived in Spain fresh from training as an Astanga Yoga teacher in 2001.

Lisa brings an air of inspiration to the class and although trained in Astanga she is able to adapt the class for those who need a more gentle approach whilst still maintaining the synchronisation of breath and movement that has been her forte.   

Classes are adapted to each individual so that not one person feels stuck: bringing in new adaptations through her continual study of the yoga practice.

"Classes involve a series of moving and stationary poses, combined with deep breathing. Allowing the heart to open within each person, to move through creating a form (asana) continuing to flow through our connection with breath (Prana), generating an inner peace and balance which opens our path for spiritual growth. Each individual obtains confidence to love and be loved and to shine throughout their daily lives, creating a peace and harmony not just within each of us but in everybody we come in contact with"   

Lisa was certified to teach yoga from the Lay Buddhist monk Kisen whose own third lineage to Sri T Krishnamacharya made him such a sort after master in 80's and 90's.

She has also studied with Laura Henderson (Hatha yoga with Alexander technique) and Earnest Coates (Living Yoga).   

Classes with Lisa are pre-arranged with the client.

You may choose private classes at your villa, or you can join her drop-in classes held either in the yoga space behind the church ovelooking the sea, or, if weather does not permit this, then at her small yoga studio close to her home.

Creative Vinyasa Yoga with Liz Lark

Liz's passion for Yoga developed in 1990, studying as a teacher with the British Wheel of Yoga (1992), and exploring Astanga Vinyasa Yoga, a dynamic, dance-like style which led her to India and Crete through the 1990's. 

She has been teaching yoga for almost 20 years, developing from a British Wheel of Yoga Hatha Teacher Training  foundation, to Astanga Vinyasa Yoga; practising in mid 90’s under Derek Ireland (see Vimeo.com: Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Practice, Agios Pavlos, Crete, Teacher Training in Goa and Mysore (1995). 

Her inspiration comes from the Astanga Vinyasa tradition and other Hatha yoga practises.

Liz adapts yoga postures for each individual in order to ‘chisel' into the form and helps sculpt and free each unique body.        

   
A member of Yoga Alliance USA and British Wheel of Yoga, she is also a board member for The Life Centre Teachers Training Course, and runs retreats and workshops nationally and internationally.
She has been connected with The Life Centre London since 1995.
    
Her Thai Yoga Massage training in Chieng Mei has informed her hands- on adjustments; which Liz teaches along with Creative Sequencing, for the London Teachers Training Course www.yogacampus.com, on which she’s a board member.
  
Originally trained as an Artist, Liz has BA and MA degrees in 3D Design aqnd Performing Arts, with a central theme of The Body, Liz draws her inspiration from Nature, the Body, Poetry, Music and contemporary Bodywork.

She now fuses Yoga as Art in a series of Mandala Drawings, illustrating sequencing, layered with motifs for visualisation, contemplation and mudra (gesture) and mantra (heartsong). Her teaching draws on these inspirations, with a contemporary interpretation of philosophy (see her book: ‘1001 Pearls of Yoga Wisdom’).

Based in East Sussex, Liz runs classes and special workshops in Tunbridge Wells (www.pantilesyoga.co.uk).
   
Clients have included Conductor Sir John Eliot Gardiner & The Monteverdi Choir, English National Ballet, Indian Dance Company Sujata Bannerjee, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman, Mariel Hemingway, Peter Gabriel, Mariella Frostrup.

For information on her books, which include stunning photography by Clare Park, and inspiring drawings, CDs and DVDs please visit her website

www.lizlark.com

Louise Windsor - Hatha Yoga

I am passionate about yoga and helping people feel good. I used to run long distance and turned to yoga to help my very stiff muscles and lower back pain. I didn't realise at that stage it would completely transform my life!   

What I love about yoga is how it makes you feel; peaceful, centred, in the present moment and uplifted at the same time. I love how it can release emotions and open your heart. I also love the spiritual aspect of it. Yoga means union, that is the union of your mind, body, breath and spirit.    

My yoga journey began with Bikram which I enjoyed but it wasn't until I discovered Hot Power Yoga (Vinyasa Flow in a warm room) that I really understood what yoga was all about, it was a more spiritual, heart opening practice there.

Since then I have spent time living at the Sivananda Ashram in Kerala India learning their Hatha series and experiencing a full yogic life style. I have travelled around India extensively learning from different yoga teachers and I trained to teach Vinaysa Flow yoga in the foothills of the Himalayas.   

I love the creativity, movement and use of breath in Vinyasa Flow. In all my classes I have a strong focus of heart opening, releasing emotions, acceptance and being present. I set intentions and share learnings about life through the class which are drawn from my life experience day to day, what I have learnt over the years as a life coach and through the months I have spent in India.  

I am also trained in trauma sensitive yoga which brings the therapeutic and mindfulness aspect of yoga to help heal sufferers of trauma and stress. As well as vinyasa flow I also love to practice yin yoga to balance out the more dynamic aspect of flow with the slow mindfulness of yin.    

During the retreat I will run a gentle energising flow class in the mornings before breakfast and then a slow meditative yin based practice in the afternoon before dinner. Each practice will include pranayama and meditation. There will also be time each day for journalling if you'd like to join in and I will offer 1-1 yoga therapy/life coaching sessions as an optional paid extra.   

My intention for this retreat is that you enjoy some well deserved me time, relaxation and an opportunity to have time dedicated for your yoga practice. It will be suitable for all levels. I teach in a light hearted and flexible way, the most important thing is that it feels good for you.           

Aside from yoga I enjoy my work as a life coach, hula hooping, paddle boarding, travelling and dancing.   

www.yogaclassesinbrighton.co.uk/about-louise
https://www.facebook.com/louisegillespieyoga

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Lucy Courtney

Lucy's yoga journey started in 2002, when she was living in Perth West Australia. She took a 6 week Ashtanga Yoga course at the Cottesloe Surf Centre and that was when she fell in love with yoga.  In 2013 she completed her 100 hr Creative Vinyasa Teacher Training programme in California, with Janet Stone.

Lucy was then inspired to teach yoga and more recently she has completed her 200 hour certification, in Vinyasa Yoga at the Yoga Space in Leeds. She is inspired by teachers such as Stephanie Snyder, Shiva Rea, Janet Stone, and Nichi Green.

Teaching has now become her passion and her main occupation.  She finds yoga brings her confidence and a sense of inner peace. She loves music and  incorporates music into her classes, including singing yogic mantras.

Lucy mainly teaches a mix of Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga and Vinyasa infused Hatha, with an emphasis on the elements. Her style of teaching is dynamic, strong and fluid. "I teach from my heart, with a focus on the breath. I help people to tune into their innate inner wisdom through yoga and meditation, re-aligning the body, mind and soul through their practice."

What to expect on Holiday with Lucy:

Morning classes:  will be a wake up and move flow, to open up the body and get into the breath. This class will generally be a more dynamic class of flowing Vinyasa yoga.  As morning is a time of transition, we will be moving from stillness into a linked movement with breath practice, followed by a Savasana Mediation.

Evening Classes:  will be slower and more of a restorative flow, often holding some of the postures for longer, with some Yin incorporated into the session. Generally using bolsters, straps and props for comfort and ease, as we slow down before dinner.

 Yoga with Maku

Maku qualified as a yoga teacher in 2015. She is constantly updating her skills both in India and the UK..

Highly qualified she has 200 hours training with Deep Kumar and 300 hours training in multi style yoga, Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga with Vijay Amar, 50 hours Iyengar yoga with the nephew of Swami Laskmanjoo in India. She also holds 50 hours Yin Yoga training with Sarah Lo and 50 hours Advanced Practices with Norman Blair since 2021.

She is a Conscious Connected Breath worker and has studied with the Alchemy of Breath and The Four Winds Society, her teachers are Anthony Abbagiano and Alberto Villoldo

Maku has also studied Sound Healing Massage with the Tibetan Singing Bowls in 2016 with the Shiva Ghiri’s school in India and holds a Sound Healing Certificate with the Sound Healing Academy.

She offers Sound Baths with the Tibetan Singing Bowls as these are her passion. Her first singing bowl chose her when she was travelling in Nepal in 2002 and her singing bowls have been connected  with a ritual so all of the sounds are in tune with each other and to her.

Maku will combine all these skills on her yoga retreats. 

Morning yoga will be more energetic, whilst the afternoon classes will be relaxing and healing

Iyengar Yoga with Margaret Rawlinson

Margaret Rawlinson has been teaching Iyengar Yoga for over twenty years and holds a Senior Iyengar Yoga Teaching Certificate.

She is firmly grounded in the precision and depth of Iyengar Yoga and has studied with Sri B.K.S. Iyengar in India, the U.S. and Europe, and also with his daughter Geeta and son Prashant at the Institute in Pune, India.

She teaches regular classes in Berkshire, England as well as leading workshops and Yoga holidays at home and abroad. Margaret also brings to her teaching the richness of her experience in Chinese Medicine, which she has been practising for the last ten years, after qualifying in acupuncture and patent herbal medicine at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine.

Margaret believes that we can find self-healing for mind, body and spirit in the complete Yoga practice, which incorporates asanas, pranayama, and meditation. Her classes explore the asanas in depth to find new insights, openings and extensions - but always joyfully and with respect for the body and the great subject of Yoga.

For more details on the yoga visit Margaret's website - www.margaretrawlinson.co.uk

Vinyasa Flow with Maria Baranowski

Maria is a London based Vinyasa Flow teacher. Over the years Maria has found she was drawn to Vinyasa Flow Yoga, a beautiful flowing practice linking breath to movement.

Maria completed her teacher training with the renowned Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher, Claire Missingham and was honoured to be a mentor and assessor on Claire's 2012-13 Teacher Training programme.

Maria's physiotherapy background has given her that knowledge of the human body, which aids safe asana alignment and practice tailored to the individual.

 A retreat gives you that time and opportunity to engage fully with your own yoga experience. It provides that ultimate connection with yourself enabling you to discover a greater harmony and balance. Within this retreat a flowing yoga class, which also incorporates longer-held poses, pranayama and mediation will be offered with the aim to fully re-energise, re-balance and restore you for life off the mat. Come and enjoy.

For more information on Maria please visit her website:   www.jmbyoga.com

Maria Baranowski and Sarah Jettoo often teach as a team.

CLASS STRUCTURE:
The theme of the week will be "Balance." Balance is the key to opening that doorway to our more harmonious, inner self.

Morning sessions will be dynamic to sweat out any tension to help restore that sense of balance.

Evening sessions will be slower-paced culminating in a longer guided relaxation to create that sense of harmony and stillness.

As we are co-running this retreat we are delighted to offer Hands on Assist to enable full expression of the pose. The teacher who is not running the session will provide this.

Iyengar Yoga with Mary Niker

Mary Niker is a very experienced Iyengar Yoga teacher. She teaches class the Thames Valley and regulary returns to India to update her skills.

She has studied yoga for over 19 years and been trained by many of senior teachers in the UK. Mary is dedicated to teaching Yoga with care and respect. 

Students of all ages and backgrounds are welcomed on this yoga week. Growth and learning is encouraged at the pace you feel you are most comfortable with.

Mary quotes " Through the practice of Iyengar Yoga we can not only combat stress, but achieve positive mental, spiritual and physical growth."

Melanie Ashley

Melanie is a Yoga Alliance Senior Yoga Teacher and has been teaching yoga for over 8 years, she specialises in Ashtanga Yoga from a YogaTherapy perspective.

Her influences include the 'Jois' family, Danny Paradise, Paul Dallaghan and Lino Miele. 

She is also trained in Thai Yoga Massage and Ayurevedic Therapies. As a consequence, much emphasis is placed on the use of breath and adapting the sequence to suit the individual.  This make the practice accessible to everyone regardless of age, flexibility and fitness level.

Hatha  Flow & Yin Yoga with Meryl

Meryl is passionate about Yoga and the changes that she knows from personal experience it can make to people's lives - physically, mentally and spiritually. 

Meryl says; “It is inconceivable to me that I would ever be without my Yoga practice and the feeling of revitalisation, calm, grounding and equilibrium that it gives to me - my aim is to always teach in a way that embodies these qualities for my Students.”

Meryl teaches breath led Hatha Flow classes and Yin Yoga.  Hatha Flow sessions incorporate an initial centring/grounding, followed by a pranayama practice, warm up prep exercises, leading into a Hatha Flow asana sequence.

This is followed by a cooling down period, a final pranayama practice to end the physical aspect of the practice and then a Mindfulness meditation practice.

The Hatha Flow sessions will enhance energy and balance. Meryl’s Yin Yoga sessions will consist of a series of passive floor asanas held from between 2 - 5 minutes with the use of bolsters, these asanas will focus on the lower part of the body – the hips, pelvis, inner thighs, lower spine as these areas are especially rich in connective tissues, this will improve the energy flow and enhances the flow of chi in the organs, a Yin practice can also offer huge mental and emotional benefits too.

Meryl's aims for the weeks Yoga is that first and foremost it will be fun, non-competitive, safe and nurturing, with an overall theme of revitalisation, mindfulness, a sense of self and serenity.  The classes will be suitable to all levels of students, including beginners and modifications will be available to all the asanas that will be practised. Meryl will encourage Students to work totally within their own capabilities.

Morning session:  Before breakfast, the session will incorporate a vibrant Hatha Flow asana sequence, followed by a Mindfulness meditation, the aim will be to feel revitalised, balanced and open to the day ahead.

Evening session:  Prior to our evening meal, a lovely slow-paced Yin practice - with an extended meditation / relaxation period at the end of the practice leaving all feeling calm, grounded and balanced.

About Meryl

After spending many years working in incredibly stressful yet dynamic and fast moving environments, Meryl’s Yoga journey began over 20 years ago, initially with a weekly Yoga practice.  However, in a short space of time Meryl became acutely aware of the breadth of Yoga with all its many facets. Meryl’s interest deepened, strengthened and expanded, studying the British Wheel of Yoga Foundation Courses 1 and 2, after which she felt compelled to teach and gained her British Wheel of Yoga Teaching Diploma (500 hrs). 

Meryl has since undertaken numerous continuous professional development courses and additional training and is a qualified Yin Yoga (Yoga Alliance) and Mindfulness meditation instructor.

www.sattvahathayoga.com

Shiva Yoga with Mohan

This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the benefits of yoga to body, mind and inner spirit under the experienced guidance of Mohan, a hugely experienced senior yoga teacher with his own yoga school in Liverpool.

Mohan is an enthusiastic teacher who works hard to ensure that all his students - from beginners to the very advanced - have their needs catered for on his yoga holidays.He is qualified to teach in many styles including Dynamic Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Sivananda Yoga.

Mohan taught for fourteen years at the Sivananda Yoga Centre in Kerala, as well as in Ayurvedic centres, before moving in 2003 to Liverpool where he holds numerous regular classes throughout the city.

His Yoga Programme is broadcast on Indian television (DDK and Kairali cable channels). Mohan has been teaching for over 26 years and also organises Teacher Training courses and Yoga Wellbeing workshops Internationally.

He began his yoga life in 1981 guided by his uncle Swami Gaudapadananda Puri, director of the Vivekananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram in Kerala.

He then went on to train as a Yoga Teacher and as an Advanced Yoga Teacher at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram, also qualifying in Yoga Vedanta, Yoga Therapy, and in Yoga Instruction.

"Our time together will entail a week of energising yoga, beautiful walks and time dedicated to relaxing and re-energising. Yoga retreats can help you uncover unique holiday getaways to inspire and ignite your imagination."

Our yoga week will include all aspects of yoga and is suitable for every level of practitioner. After dinner on some evenings we will enjoy a yoga nidra class (Yogic sleep)

For more information on Mohan please visit his website at www.Shiva Yoga.org.uk

Feedback from his yoga holiday in Crete

We had a fantastic yoga teacher in Mohan - as a beginner I found him very easy to follow and his practice was incredibly focused. Although the program said there would be a free day, he held classes twice every single day & there was also the option for yogic sleep in the evenings and a silent meditation walk into the mountains one morning to see the sun rise. Thoroughly enjoyed the week and would wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone

Only praise for Mohan - he is a super lovely guy, happy to be sharing yoga with everyone.

Anne Davison

Flowing Hatha Yoga with Neville Cregan

Neville has been teaching Yoga and practicing Thai massage since 1997.

His primary teachers have been Mary Stewart, Peter Blackaby and Dona Holleman all of whom were inspired by Vanda Scaravelli. In recent years he has also studied with Donna Farhi and Shiva Rea. 

All these teachers share his own interest in offering intelligent, modern and realistic approaches to yoga whilst exploring the rich timeless wisdom of the tradition in their own ways.

He also teaches the history and philosophy of yoga on the London Yoga Teacher Training course and is working on a book in this area
   
His Asana (yoga postures) teaching style encourages a slow build up towards a flowing practice. It is slower than some of the dynamic forms and there is plenty of time to find your way within each pose during the flow, with adaptations where necessary.

During our yoga holiday the general teaching pattern will be a more active morning class and a slower more workshop orientated evening class.

Some Pranayama, body/mind centring practices and meditation will be included

Courses are suitable for beginners and more experienced practitioners alike as the core principles are the same for everyone. Courses are designed to help deepen experience of yoga on many levels and have fun!

Neville loves teaching and has found that both practice and teaching only get more interesting the longer he does it. He enjoys travel and, time allowing, exploring something of the area the course is in with any interested students.

He is also a freelance writer and his other interests include travel, literature, film and surfing. He looks forwards to welcoming you on his courses.

Further information on www.nevyogamassage.co.uk

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Nicolette Wilson-Clarke

Nicolette teaches both Yoga and Pilates. She is also a Master Coach to women entrepreneurs and created Embodied Entrepreneur to assist women in staying focused, powerful and balanced in mind and body so they can soar high in their business every day.

Nicolette is an award winning health and well-being coach, a qualified and accomplished Senior Yoga Teacher, a Mind and Body Consultant to dance artists and a passionate radio presenter on Wandsworth Radio, London.

She has over 25 years’ experience within the health, wellness and fitness industry, she teaches yoga, inspired by Astanga Vinyasa, Anusara, Jivamukti, Hatha, Iyengar, biomechanics and healthy living. 

She also teaches mat Pilates inspired by Classical Pilates and supports all of this with empowering coaching tools. Her teaching style is compassionate yet challenging, supportive, empowering, accepting and consciously delivered with love, joy and laughter.

On her yoga holidays, you’ll leave feeling grounded, centred and rejuvenated with a yoga practice that will include meditation, asana with integrity and plenty of time to restore throughout your stay.  

All levels are welcome and Nicolette welcomes the opportunity to guide men as well as women

The morning class will start with a morning practice consisting of short meditation and pranayama followed by a dynamic vinyasa flow practice and relaxation to close.

The evening classes will be much gentler and include long moments of stillness in poses and complete relaxation for tension release.

Throughout, there will be an emphasis on alignment and integrity of poses, with time to re-balance your mind and body, allowing space to return to or find your true self (Sat Nam).

You will leave feeling refreshed and ready to return to your daily activities.

 
www.embodiedentrepreneur.co.uk

Below pictures are of Nicolette's yoga holiday at Grenadine Lodge

Nikita - Traditional Hatha Yoga

Namaste! I’m Nikita and for as long as I can remember, I have been passionate about holistic healing, wellbeing & personal development.

I draw on my professional skills and personal experiences through Yoga, Meditation, Reiki and Coaching to enable people of all ages to develop a deeper connection with themselves.

I am looking forward to spending time with likeminded individuals, who are ready to bring positive change into their lives.

My retreats are a unique combination of Yoga sessions and mindfulness activities.

You will leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world!

"I just wanted to say how excellent the champneys retreat was at the weekend.  Nikita’s teaching was amazing and she has such a wonderful style of yoga and meditation. It was very traditional yoga and she adapted the classes to what everyone wanted from the weekend. I came away fully refreshed and ready to face the world again."  Anne - Aug23

"I just wanted to give you some feedback on the Champneys yoga retreat with Nikita that I was on this weekend. Nikita was an excellent teacher.  She had a wonderful approach and style. I feel so much better than I did when I arrived."  Lucy - Aug23

"Just to let you know, it was a magical stay at Henlow. The food was amazing. Our yoga classes were unbelievable, Nikita did so many different things for us and made us all feel soo well. Thank you to all staff and Nikita.  Hope to come again soon."  Surrinder-Aug23

"Thank you so much for organising the recent yoga retreat in Henlow.  Nikita was an exceptional teacher who exceeded my expectations with her skill, kindness and communication.  She managed to deliver to everyone's needs in the group and was just so welcoming.  I wanted to relax, take time out and nourish myself and this is exactly what I got.  Additionally the facilities were amazing, the pool and the spa were stunning, the rooms clean and restaurant great.  I would be very interested in attending anything Nikita does again."  Julie - Aug23

Vinyasa Flow & Hatha Yoga with Noemi Franco
Noemi is full-time Yoga teacher and yoga therapist devoted to the practice and study of Yoga since her first trip to India in 2004.  Her teaching is inspired by traditional Hatha Yoga and the Krishnmachrya lineage of Ashtanga, Vinyasa Krama and Viniyoga, which she combines with the modern innovations of Vinyasa Flow.
 
She holds a 500-hour teaching qualification from the British Wheel of Yoga, 300 hours Prana Vinyasa Flow with Samudra (Shiva Rea) and continues to study Yoga therapy and philosophy within the Viniyoga tradition at Sadhana Mala.
 
In accordance with Hatha Yoga philosophy, she integrates dynamic/invigorating  "solar"  Vinyasa with gentler "lunar" restorative practices, depending on the time of day and the flow of the class.
She pays great attention to the precision of the breath, the movement and the alignment.  Modifications and adaptations are always offered to suit the different needs of the class.
 
Sessions will be open to all abilities including beginners.
 
Please bring a notebook and pen to classes with Noemi

Morning sessions will  include energetic Vinyasa  sequences taught in a dynamic rhythm followed by pranayama (breathwork) and short meditation.

 
The evening class shall be devoted to a gentler slower vinyasa examining the different postures in more introspective detail and Restorative Yoga followed by pranayama, introduction to yoga philosophy and meditation.    

For more information about Noemi go to her website:
www.yogaparinama.org

I just wanted to convey my thanks for a wonderful yoga workshop at Henlow this weekend.  Naomi was amazing and such a lovely person, she truly embodied everything yoga.  Please feel free to convey my thanks to her, because I truly felt it was her style and approach that created such a wonderful atmosphere over the 2 days!  The yoga was fun and Naomi made it suitable for everyone too:)
With best wishes Radhika

Just a quick email to say that the weekend with Noemi Franco at Henlow was fantastic. Noemi was a really good yoga teacher - intelligent sequencing, reading the energy of the room, catering to thedifferent levels of students in the group - offering challenging poses to the more advanced whilst still engaging the rest of the group. Nice steady practice in the mornings, slower in the evenings. The venue is fabulous too, the food amazing. I had such a wonderful time.

Thank you. Monica Cafferky

Paula Inch - Hatha Flow Yoga

I have been practicing yoga for 15 years and have loved every moment of it! Yoga has changed my life in many ways, it has given me the tools to cope with what life throws at you.

I currently teach at the hot pod studio, Fitmk and xcercise4less gym. I also teach my own classes at big rock climbing centre mk. I  teach teenagers meditation and Hatha flow with lots of fun added in!

 
I teach Hatha flow yoga, restorative yoga and yin, and I love teaching meditation and breath work. I have trained over the years with Jason Crandell, Anodea Judith and Norman Blair, James reeves, Debra Berryman.

I'm a great believer in listening to your body and sitting in poses giving you the chance to connect with the physical body and the breath and then letting go of striving for the ultimate pose! I also love a flow to energise the mind, body and breath.

I believe that we should have some fun in the class as well as focus but keeping that connection with the breath and softening when needed.

On our Yoga week:-

The morning session will begin with meditation and breath work, we will then move onto a Hatha flow which will help wake up and energise the body and mind.

Over the week we will work through different parts of our body, hips, twists, grounding, inversions, heart opening until you feel cleansed and refreshed giving you clarity and peace of mind that anything is possible.

The 60 min evening session will work alongside the morning sessions and will be a mixture of Yin, Restorative and Yoga Nidra helping you to feel calm and relaxed.
 

Dear Paula just wanted to say what a superb week I had with you at Kissamos Mavros Molos.  Your approach to yoga is always dynamic and fun. 

A great balance of work and rest time. I felt an internal strength from the classes and a sense of empowerment from the company of such lovely ladies.  Everyone had time for each other.  It was such a 'Happy Place' to be.

Thank you for making it such a special week

Fran Grayxx

Rachel Barlow - Hatha Yoga

Rachel is a yoga teacher, sports massage therapist, movement coach and trainee Health Coach.  She has been teaching yoga since 2007 and offering treatments since 2009.

Rachel started practicing yoga in 2001 before heading to India to participate in her first teacher training in 2005.  After qualifying in Sivananda Yoga, she decided to stay in India for another 18 months to further her studies. 

In 2006 she qualified to teach Ashtanga Yoga from Brahmani Yoga, led by Julie Martin.  Since then, Rachel has continued to further her studies, qualifying from the London School of Sports Massage with a BTEC diploma in Sport and Remedial Massage in 2009; Yoga Nidra from the Satyananda School of Yoga in 2014 and adding various therapeutic tools to her toolkit, including NeuroKinetic Therapy and Anatomy in Motion to name but a few.  

Rachel has a compassionate, therapeutic way of teaching springled with a bit of light-heartedness along the way.   She has the ability to adapt whatever she is teaching to suit everyone she is working with.  Rachel teaches a creative, flowing class which can be gentle, dynamic or a little bit of both with therapeutic knowledge and experience thread throughout guided always by the breath.  

Rachel has worked with a wide variety of people from the very elderly with varying degenerative cognitive and physical ability issues to the young athlete, professional footballers and everyone else in between; has taught in many of the major yoga studios in London and continues to teach and treat privately at her clinic in South East London.  She is currently training to become an Adapt certified Health Coach from the Kresser Institute specialising in functional health and well-being in the USA and will be qualified later this year.  

“Since going to the Shala Yoga Centre I’ve always really enjoyed Rachel Barlow’s expertise and playful style of teaching. Rachel’s huge depth of knowledge, her passion and expertise will make you feel confident while she makes you focus on your core and breath.”
– Sarah Bennie, London

“I love Rachel’s vinyasa flow classes. The pace is just right, not too slow and not rushed, very grounding for the body and for the mind.  I have been experiencing lower back pain issues lately and her flow, with a focus on core and pelvis stability has been so good for my back! Thank you Rachel!”
– Cristina Berra, Italy

“I attend Rachel’s yoga classes regularly. They’re great. She’s an enthusiastic, intuitive and thoughtful teacher. She gets the tricky balance of focus and fun just right.”
– Rhodri, GP, London

Rachel Lovegrove - Iyengar Yoga

Rachel Lovegrove is a Senior Level 3 Iyengar yoga teacher and mentor with over 25 years of experience. She left her job in the Music Industry in 2005 to pursue her teaching full-time.

Rachel is passionate about helping people navigate through mental and physical health issues through the application of yoga in their daily lives. She cares deeply about the discipline that she has devoted herself to and knows personally about its transformational and curative qualities.

Beginning in 1998, she trained to a high level in the UK and India with senior Iyengar yoga teachers including BKS Iyengar, Geeta Iyengar and Prashant Iyengar. She later completed the 3-year Iyengar Yoga Therapeutics course with Iyengar Yoga Therapeutics in California.

Now she lives in Hampshire, UK and runs a small studio near Southampton for both online and face to face tuition, regular monthly workshops, annual retreats and mentorship programs (teacher training).

Her teaching style is warm, open and supportive and full of humour, and she is dedicated to helping people reach their full potential through the practice of yoga.

Students are welcome from all backgrounds and all levels of ability or experience.

This yoga holiday will offer students the chance to go deeper into their practice at a pace to suit individual requirements. It will include asana, pranayama, optional chanting and restorative work, with plenty of time inbetween to rest, reflect and enjoy the holiday.

www.orangetreeyoga.com

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with  Rebecca Keenaghan

The yoga journey you will take part in during this retreat is one of inner joy, balance and bliss.

Rebecca's compassionate way of teaching is influenced by many styles of yoga such as Hatha, Astanga, Kundalini and Prana Yoga to name a few.

Practice each day will work with the bodies Chakra energy system.

Morning practice will start with meditation and an energising solar Vinyasa flow to fuel your inner fire.

Evening practice will be a gentle flowing class to invoke a calming lunar quality of serenity. Each day we will work deeply on each Chakra in turn, balancing the body and leaving you more in tune with yourself and your surroundings.

Together these practices will promote inner quiet and de-clutter the mind and soul, leaving more space within to fill with positivity and creativity. Bliss is a state easily available to us once we have turned down the volume of our thoughts and realised we are more than our thoughts, way more!

Taking part in this joyous adventure will leave your body and soul light and happy.

Rebecca found yoga at a time when she needed it the most, it quickly became one of the cornerstones of her spiritual life. She finds true delight in sharing these ancient healing arts with others. Through her teaching Rebecca helps her students to unravel their own state of inner bliss through Vinyasa-movement and breath. She believes it is important for you to have the tools to help yourself. 

Her classes help you to feel refreshed, revitalized and renewed through asana, kind words and positive attitude.

Rebecca has practised and studied with David Swenson, Danny Paradise, David Williams, Jason Crandell, and Shiva Rea. Their influence continues to shines into her classes.

Robyn has been practising yoga for nine years and teaching for three.  She has studied  yoga with internationally renowned teachers and continues to develop her practice by attending local and national workshops which form part of her continuing professional development with the British Wheel of Yoga (BWY).
The yoga she teaches draws from all the different experiences that she has had, encouraging a creative and playful approach to yoga, developing an understanding of the philosophy through experiential learning that is grounded in a world that everyone can relate to.   
'My work experience without a doubt, underpins the yoga that I teach. I believe that we are all doing the best we can on any given day and thrive if respected, encouraged and nurtured'.

Morning classes will develop strength and flexibility using a staged approach (which is suitable for all levels) to achieve stronger and more complex postures as the week progresses, plus sequences to challenge the mind and body.

The later afternoon classes will explore the relationship between tension and effort, observing how the body can move deeply into postures without holding on to tension, using the breath to help with stretching and easing and the mind to release tension held in the body.
The body is an amazing machine, so peppered throughout the week will be a number of 'party tricks', a fun and playful way to notice what the body can do, how we can challenge our bodies, our mind and breath. Maintaining a balance between focus/calm and playful energy

Flowing Hatha Yoga with Rose Preston

A highly experienced teacher  Rose teaches Hatha yoga, meditation and relaxation, she originally qualified as a yoga teacher with Howard Kent at Ickwell Buy in Bedfordshire.

For the past 16 years she has also taught  tai chi and qi gong . She regularly leads weekend workshops in Germany and takes her yoga students on longer retreats to Greece Turkey and the Isle of Man

She is a theosophical speaker and member of the international Hermenutical Society      

On this holiday Rose will be teaching a gentle yoga with stretching combined with concentration on the correct breathing in postures; ending with a deep relaxation and sometimes yoga nidra.

Rose specializes in the knowledge of the correct postures for particular problems.  She can also talk in great depth on spiritual aspect of yoga,and encourages questions.

The week will also include guided meditations, qi gong breathing for the heart and lungs and and tai chi which is good for concentration, balance, strong bones and relieves arthritis                

Rose's yoga is great for all ages, from beginers to experienced students and teachers.

Flowing Hatha & Sivananda Yoga with Samantha Pitt

An experienced yoga teacher who originally trained in the Sivananda yoga style, Samantha lives and teaches yoga in Dahab so will also be able to give you an insiders guide to the area and the village.

On this yoga week she will teach an uplifting Flowing Hatha morning yoga class and in the afternoon a more gentle class based on the Sivananda style of Hatha yoga.

Each class blends pranayama (breath work) to quiet the mind with energizing and restorative asana (postures) to nourish and strengthen the body.

The class finishes with deep and peaceful relaxation to increase feelings of vitality and rejuvenation.

As well as teaching complete weeks  Samantha can also offer private classes to those people staying at the hotel who require fewer classes a week or who are travelling outside of the group yoga weeks.

Hatha Yoga with Sarah Jettoo

Sarah has been teaching in South London for the past ten years. 

Her focus is on synchronising the breath and movement to create a flowing yoga class with the aim of building strength and fluidity in all her students whilst paying careful attention to alignment for increased energy and improved wellbeing. 

She has a particular interest in the energetic systems in the body to create balance, ease and self-confidence, all within the confines of a safe, calm and enjoyable environment.  She has a hands-on approach to enable students get the most from their practice.

Sarah is also a Thai Massage therapist, a Homeopath and a Facial Reflexologist (Sorensystem┬®) and will be happy to book in individual sessions during the retreat for anyone interested.

For more information on Sarah visit www.Dulwich-yoga.com

Maria Baranowski and Sarah Jettoo will be teaching as a team this summer

CLASS STRUCTURE:
The theme of the week will be "Balance." Balance is the key to opening that doorway to our more harmonious, inner self.

Morning sessions will be dynamic to sweat out any tension to help restore that sense of balance.

Evening sessions will be slower-paced culminating in a longer guided relaxation to create that sense of harmony and stillness.

As we are co-running this retreat we are delighted to offer Hands on Assist to enable full expression of the pose. The teacher who is not running the session will provide this.
 

Astanga-inspired Vinyasa and Hatha  Yoga with Sasha Norton

Sasha is a Senior Yoga Teacher with over 25 years of practice and over 15 years of teaching experience.

She is strongly inspired by the Astanga yoga system, studying with many of the leading Astanga teachers around the world.
Sasha also practises and teaches Vinyasa Flow and Hatha Yoga styles.

Hugely experienced she has taught on dozens of retreats and workshops, plus festival classes for the World Yoga Festival, Om and Bass, and Yoga and Vegan festivals.
Currently she teaches mainly in the Oxford area in yoga studios and health clubs; with small, intimate classes through to large classes of up to 70 participants.

Her classes are suitable for all abilities, from complete novices through to advanced practitioners.

"She hopes to honour her teachers by inspiring others in the same way she has been inspired, to pass on these amazing yoga methods. She is aware that dedication to the practices of yoga can be challenging sometimes, but although Sasha takes yoga completely seriously, she attempts to convey the techniques in a fun, enjoyable, accessible way that inspires commitment and helps uncover inner strength on a previously unimagined level.

Classes are not suitable for pregnant ladies.

www.sashanorton.co.uk

"Just finished an Ashtanga / Vinyassa / Hatha yoga retreat with Sasha.  It was just perfect.  Being new to ashtanga I felt totally safe with Sasha, and able to push myself or give myself a rest as needed.  She planned calmer Hatha sessions for early morning, whilst still giving us plenty to work on, and more energetic Ashtanga evening sessions.  I loved the workshop aspect of the sessions too, where a pose was broken down so we could work on our own or with partners to really deepen our work.  I just wish I lived near Oxford to be able to go to her classes regularly."

Catherine - Champneys Henlow Grange Spa weekend May 2019

Flowing Vinyasa Yoga with Shamita Ray

A former dancer and choreographer, Shamita started practising Iyengar yoga as a means to increase flexibility and complement dance training. A chance wandering into an Ashtanga class one day turned what was, until then, a mere hobby, into a lifelong passion, rivalling her love for dance.

She went on to undertake 200 & 500 hour teacher training, eventually developing her own style of yoga that combines the precision and alignment of Iyengar with the breath and dynamism of Ashtanga. Ever curious to explore the many facets of yoga, she has also completed teacher trainings in Yin, meditation, Ashtanga, Forrest Yoga, and Gong meditation. She is currently studying towards a MA in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS

In this retreat, Shamita will be offering two yoga sessions per day.

The morning session will commence with pranayama (breathing techniques), which will lead into a flowing, dynamic yoga practice. Using her background as a dancer, Shamita will create imaginative sequences which move seamlessly from one posture to the next, in a dance-like flow of breath and movement. Practitioners will be encouraged to challenge themselves to discover what their bodies are truly capable of, while maintaining a sense of humour and playfulness throughout. The session will conclude with meditation or chanting, followed by a well-deserved relaxation.

The evening session will follow a 'workshop style' format exploring a different theme each day to ignite your curiosity, and encourage you to deepen your practice. Examples of things we could work on will be backbends, hip-openers, or arm balances. Feel free to suggest more themes you would like to work on! At least one of the evening sessions will be a blissfully relaxing Yin session accompanied by soothing gong vibrations.

This retreat will be suitable for practitioners of abilities from the relative newcomer to the seasoned yogi.

Anyone wishing to try out Shamita's classes beforehand would be most welcome to come to one of her many studio classes in London, listed at https://shamitaray.com/

Hi Debbie, Just a belated email to say how fantastic the yoga holiday was at Grenadine Lodge. The lodge was idyllic and the people running it lovely. The 12 island tour was amazing too. I already knew I would enjoy Shamita’s classes and they didn’t disappoint!  I'm very keen to go again next year if Shamita runs another either at the same location or elsewhere...Thanks for all your help , Sarah - June 2016
 

I just wanted to let you know that our stay at Grenadine Lodge was wonderful. It was a charming hotel with the most helpful staff I have ever met anywhere.  The yoga was fabulous; Shanita was an excellent teacher. All in all it was a wonderful holiday. Thank you so much  . Pamela - June 2016

Yoga with Simona Hernandez

She first came to Yoga as a way to help with stress and to recover from a whiplash injury! After her first class at Tooting Leisure Centre she was hooked! Initially, Simona trained as a Sivananda Yoga teacher in 1998, however, her love of yoga drew her to other styles of yoga including Iyengar, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Vinyasa Flow, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga and Myofascial Release.

Simona's professional background is in Psychology. Her studies in Dance Movement Therapy increased her awareness of how inextricably the mind, body and inner spirit are linked.

Over the last 25 years she has had the privilege of studying with Bridget Woods-Kramer as an Anusara teacher, along with many other inspiring teachers such as Shiva Rea, Norman Blair, Sarah Powers, Paul Grilley, Judith Lasater, Gary Carter and Donna Farhi.

Simona has been practising yoga for 28 years and teaching yoga for 25 years and has continued her yoga training and teaching whilst she was living in Sydney and the UK. Simona mainly teaches at Yoga Bodhi, a dedicated yoga centre in Bath that she established 14 years ago.

For many years, Simona worked as the Assistant Course Tutor and was responsible for teaching Subtle Anatomy and Children's Yoga on The Yoga Academy Teachers Training Course with Simon Low. Today, she teaches her own 200 hour Yoga Alliance accredited Course though Yoga Alliance at her studio in Bath.

Simona's passion for teaching yoga has spanned 25 years. When asked what type of yoga do you teach? Simona will say it is “Yoga”!

She enjoys weaving mythical story telling through her classes which are both fun and challenging and encourages playful exploration of both the spiritual and physical aspects of yoga.

Simona loves to lead people on their own personal journey of self- knowledge and self-healing and admits how wonderful it is to witness the flourishing of each person as their practice grows and they reveal the innate wisdom within.

“There is a light that shines beyond all things on earth, beyond us all, beyond the heavens, beyond the highest, the very highest heavens. This is the light that shines in your heart.” Chandogya Upanishad.

"I love Simona's classes. They are gentle yet so rich in content and inspiration. I always feel more grounded, calm and clear afterwards. Thank you Simona for such great classes particularly through the pandemic, they have been like an island amidst stormy seas." Lucy

Sue Lovell teaches Iyengar yoga as a unique process capable of transforming our lives by giving us a deeper awareness of our body , mind and spirit as well as increasing strength and flexibility.

She has been practicing yoga since 1990 and teaching since 1996 in Derbyshire where she runs with partner Peak Yoga Iyengar Centre. She holds a Senior Level 3 Iyengar Teaching certificate

Sue's approach to teaching on yoga holidays and workshops is to introduce a sense of serious fun generating an eagerness to learn, adding layers of understanding and clarity to students practise helping them to realise their full potential.

Her open and accessible style is geared to building confidence and poise in asana practice and deepening understanding of ourselves through pranayama (yogic breathing techniques).

The week will offer a 2 hour morning yoga asana class suitable to all levels of students and a short evening class. 

www.peakyoga.org.uk

Sue Royle & Sharon Buckley : Yoga and Healing

It’s never too late to catch your Dreams

We offer more than just a physical retreat. We understand that empowerment and connection extend far beyond the boundaries of a single gathering. That’s why we provide an array of activities that invite you to delve into the depths of your being, uncovering hidden talents, passions, and dreams that have been patiently awaiting your arrival.

Our experienced ‘Dream Weavers’, wise women who have traversed similar paths, will guide you along this transformative journey, instilling you with courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your innate power.

Dreamcatcher is a movement—a collective of women who share a yearning for something extraordinary. We will share with you a treasure trove of tools, wisdom, and inspiration that will gently nudge you towards wellness, connection, and empowerment. Embrace the stories of others who have walked similar paths, find solace in shared experiences, and unlock the magic that resides within your soul.

Trust in the whispers of your heart and join us as we embark on a journey that transcends age and time, where the extraordinary awaits your embrace. It is never too late to spread your wings and dance upon the winds of possibility. Step into the realm of Dreamcatcher and allow the captivating melody of your dreams to guide you towards a life of fulfilment and purpose.

During our Crete Retreat, you will have the option to enjoy a variety of experiences with us, including Yoga, Meditation and Creative Wellbeing activities.

We will start each day with a beautiful meditation and gentle yoga session suitable for all levels of experience and ability.

In the evenings we will close the day with a soulful circle gathering and relaxing Yoga Nidra or meditation.

Throughout the week there will be the option to participate in some soothing and inspirational creative healing and wellbeing activities.

Meet your Dream weavers

Sharon Buckley - Emotional Wellbeing Specialist & Creative Healer

I am a dedicated healer with specialised diplomas in Grief and bereavement Counselling, Menopause Awareness, Anxiety Management, Journal Therapy, and the Emotional Freedom Technique, I bring a holistic approach to mental wellness. 

I am also a certified Spiritual Coach and Therapeutic Art Life Coach, providing a comprehensive, creative, and compassionate path to healing, well-being and personal growth for my clients.

Life hasn’t always been easy but that has given me so much strength and allowed me to genuinely help others. I choose now to work with women who are experiencing similar challenges to me in their own lives, helping them to rediscover magic and live the life of their dreams.

Sue Royle - Yogi, Earth Goddess & Heart Meditation Facilitator

I am a qualified Yoga teacher and heart meditation facilitator. I aim to share Yoga and demonstrate the many yoga lineages making this mental and physical practice accessible to all whilst demystifying some of the beliefs, postures and philosophy to ensure every experience is engaging and enjoyable and sharing how Yoga and relaxation can be incorporated into our everyday lives, capturing the elegance of the postures, breath, and the positive influences a regular practice provides.

I come from a corporate background of 25 years and have experience in the ‘work hard play hard’ environment. I followed my dreams and moved away from working in the city and into the countryside to start a new way of living. I would love the opportunity to share what I have learned with you.

Susannah is a fully qualified British Wheel of Yoga teacher and has been practising yoga since childhood.

Her teaching style is intuitive and creative, drawing on her main influences of Hatha Yoga, Viniyoga and Astanga Yoga. Her dance background also brings into play a focus on alignment.

SusannahÔÇÖs classes have a meditative quality and work on the principles of ÔÇÿSthira and SukhamÔÇÖ - (form and experience, strength and softness). So although her classes can be quite demanding they are also deeply relaxing. Her years of dancing have given Susannah an invaluable knowledge of the body, which enhances her ability to teach yoga. In addition she has studied both holistic massage and herbalism - and therefore has a very broad and balanced view of the body.

For Susannah yoga is about breath and bringing a sense of space and freedom to the body. She teaches Hatha Yoga, inspired by the Viniyoga System with its one-to-one approach, with an emphasis on connecting the breath and movement, enabling her students to work with their bodies, get to know them and to take responsibility for their personal well-being.

She applies this approach to all her classes where she ensures that adjustments and modifications are made for individual students - after all every body is different

Susannah studied yoga as a child and grew up within the yogic philosophy.

Vinyasa Yoga with Tania Plahay

Tania is half-Indian and was born and raised in an artistic family in London.

She's now been practicing the wonderful techniques of yoga for over a decade and is passionate about sharing these tools with others. She started learning yoga aged 18 and since then it has become a source of strength through life's ups and downs.

She teaches a slow, mindful style of vinyasa yoga linking movement to breath, shifting from the internal space into graceful and flowing external asanas.

She is also interested in the contemplative dimension of yoga including pranayama (breath work), meditation and insights from yogic philosophical tradition.

Tania has studied with a number of teachers and incorporates what she's learnt into her own distinctive approach to yoga. She's particularly inspired by Emil Wendel, Liz Lark and Jean Hall and the Bihar School of Yoga.

During this retreat in the peaceful olives groves of Turkey we will focus on exploring the body's centers of energy (chakras), starting with early morning pranayama and meditation. After this there will be flowing vinyasa practice, building heat and strength.

The evening practice will be more gentle and nurturing. On three evenings in the week, Tania will lead a candlelit Yoga Nidra. This is a method of accessing the subconscious mind to implant positive intentions.

For more about Tania please see her website www.taniayogini.com

Tina & Samantha will be teaching at Palm Tree Yoga in Kerala, South India

Hatha Yoga with Tina Abbey

Tina's fascination with the practice of yoga started over 30 years ago, at that time having no idea that yoga is a spiritual practice that has the power to quite literally change our lives. Like most people new to yoga she thought yoga was just another form of exercise.
Over time with the help and guidance of a Swami (monk) Tina began to be aware of changes not only to her body but more importantly her mind and how she was choosing to live her life in a much more positive and loving way.
Then, with a serious illness she decided to take a yoga teachers training course with no intention to teach, but to develop her spiritual strengths, and whilst training realised to teach yoga was her destiny.  
Now 14 years on, her passion for the power of the practice has only grown and she is totally committed to passing these ancient teachings on, in a very practical and down to earth way.
Tina's classes take a slow but dynamic pace, coming from the Sivananda tradition, giving the student the time to explore, feel, and to grow.
On the yoga holiday meditation classes can be scheduled in, if that's what the group would like.

Tina will be assisted by Samantha Trinder

Samantha is passionate about sharing the transformational aspects of yoga.
She has trained with teachers from the Sivananda, and Iyengar traditions.
She holds a 500 hour Yoga Alliance accreditation, and has just completed a further 500 hours Diploma in Yoga Therapy with Yoga Campus.
In 2016 Samantha opened the hugely successful Bhuti Wellness and Yoga Studio, in South London, offering over 50 classes, organic body and face treatments, and a lovely Vegan Cafe.
Samantha will be available for one-one Yoga Therapy Sessions. ( additional cost will apply )

Hatha Yoga with Tina Abbey and Ann Reilly - teaching together at Tigmi

Tina's fascination with the practice of yoga started over 30 years ago, at that time having no idea that yoga is a spiritual practice that has the power to quite literally change our lives.

Over time with the help and guidance of a Swami (monk) Tina began to be aware of changes not only to her body but more importantly her mind and how she was choosing to live her life in a much more positive and loving way.

Then, with a serious illness she decided to take a yoga teachers training course with no intention to teach, but to develop her spiritual strengths, and whilst training realised to teach yoga was her destiny. 

Her passion for the power of the practice continues to grow and she is totally committed to passing these ancient teachings on, in a very practical and down to earth way.

Tina's classes take a slow and mindful pace, coming from the Sivananda tradition, giving the student the time to explore, feel, and to grow.

Ann began her yoga journey at the age of eighteen under the guidance of Senior Iyengar Teacher Ruth White. She then trained at the Iyengar Yoga Institute in London and qualified in 1993. 

She continues to gain knowledge and has gained qualifications in other areas such as back care and mental health.

Ann has taught yoga full-time since 1993, both group classes and one-to-ones. She specialises in helping people with back pain management and believes yoga is a wonderful tool for spinal health. 

"I love the process of yoga and how it evolves as we age, revealing a deeper understanding of who we are.  Yoga is essentially a practice of refining ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.  It is an honour to share this way of life to help bring peace and happiness to others.".

Our Yoga classes at Tigmi:

8am Class    75 mins Iyengar Based or Mindful Hatha Flow, depending on whose teaching
5pm Class     60 mins Yin/Restorative
Morning class only on one day mid-week to give students time to explore surrounding areas.
Please note there is no yoga on arrival and departure days.

Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Tracey Killengray

Tracey Killengray is a Senior Yoga teacher who has over 20 years of experience within the Health and Fitness Industry as a qualified Exercise Professional and Yoga Teacher. Tracey started out teaching a variety of fitness classes such as Step, Aerobics, Circuits, Body Pump, Body Step and Body Balance in Milton Keynes.

After 10 years of teaching Body Balance (a combination of Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi) she fell in love with the yoga element and wanted to indulge more.

Tracey then spent several years of practicing yoga with Brigitte Riley, she attended her first yoga retreat holiday and from that moment she decided that yoga was her real passion in life.

Tracey’s own personal journey took her to Maui where she was privileged to be able to study with some world renowned masters in Iyengar, Ashtanga and Anusara Yoga. 

Tracey’s style of teaching is alignment based Vinyasa Flow which is structured and fun, along with good humour. The emphasis is on sharing knowledge with students enabling them to deepen their practice safely and effectively. 

Retreat life enables us to switch off from our busy lives, turn inwards, nourish our bodies with delicious healthy foods and be kind to ourselves as well as opening our minds, bodies and hearts. Whilst sharing fun and laughter, learn something new and remember what it is like to experience happiness and wellbeing.

During our retreat holiday:

Our morning practice will begin by quietly centring ourselves and then moving in to a themed, alignment based Vinyasa Flow practice to awaken, invigorate and energise the body. Each session will close with meditation and Savasana.

You will have the rest of the day at leisure to either relax or explore, after all this is your holiday!

Our evening practice sessions will be more of a gentle practice mainly alignment based and fun partner work also including aspects of yoga such as Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Yoga Nidra.

Classes are suitable for students of all levels

Testimonials from Tracey’s last retreat

“ A complete eye-opener and I feel truly blessed to have been able to take part in this experience!” – Chloe

“The yoga was great,I felt myself getting stronger and more relaxed as the week went on. Tracey tailored the class to how the group were feeling energy wise which was good.” – Vivien

Hatha Yoga with Tricia Martin

Tricia has been practising yoga for over 25 years and teaching for 23 years. She started teaching aerobics 30 years ago and her interest in health and fitness gave her a passion to find out more about the body.  She has studied with ITEC gaining a diploma in Anatomy, Physiology and Massage.  She has a British Wheel of yoga certification and has trained for many hours with high profile teachers.

The Yoga she teaches is an eclectic mix of the experiences she has gained over the years, with a grounding in classical hatha,  using the breath and bandha as an integral part of the practice.

Tricia has had her own health challenges over the years, being diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma of the breast in 2009 and undergoing mastectomy surgery and reconstruction to one breast, more recently a sailing accident left her with a fractured lower spine.

"Yoga got me through those challenging times and I feel it has without doubt helped improve my teaching to those who attend class who have themselves gone through any surgery or health issues.

I aim to present my classes, as relaxed, informative, safe and with a gentle sense of humour.  The classes will be modified for beginners and ramped up for those with more experience."

Our morning class will begin with a gentle wake up stretch followed by some soft flow and breath work.  Our evening class will be more restorative with stretches held for a longer length of time to get those warm muscles lengthened and more flexible, and of course a nourishing relaxation at the end of the class.

Classes are suitable for all levels - beginners are more than welcome.  For anyone new to yoga who wants to learn the basic fountation poses, Tricia will offer a thirty minutes one to one if needed.

"I want everyone to feel totally relaxed and to enjoy their holiday and to go home with new friends made.  For those travelling alone - you will be made more than welcome."

www.trishmartinyoga.com