Hatha Yoga Retreats

5.00 am .......................
5.30 - 6.30 am .............
6.30 - 7.30 am .............
7.30 - 8.30 am .............
8.30 -11.30 am ............
12.30 pm .....................
Afternoons are free
7.00 pm .......................

tea
meditation
pranayama
breakfast
asanas
lunch

dinner

Classes are given in the morning from 5:30 till 11:30. Afternoons are free to enjoy the inspiring surroundings…

Meditation
In the quietness of the morning we practice a technique called 'anapana' - awareness of the breath in the nostrils. It sensitizes the skin, refines the concentration and stills mental traffic.

Pranayama
After meditation we practice 'pranayama' - the changing of the rhythm of the breath. By practicing pranayama we become aware of chest-, stomach- and collarbone breathing and the use of our diaphragm. A correct way of breathing is a fundament for good health; it gives space to the organs and reinforces the nervous system.

Asanas
Postures - moving the body in combination with conscience breathing.
During the lessons dynamic and passive postures are alternated.

Dynamic postures:
By repeating sun salutations and series the body becomes warm and more flexible. Through holding a new and correct posture for a longer period strength is being build up.

Passive postures:
In passive postures we use gravity and some props - like headstand aid, backbend arch or a rolled up towel. The weight of our body on these props, in combination with relaxation, makes that we become conscious of certain stiffness in the spinal column. Through knowledge of our own body and with the help of our breath and correct movement we can release this stiffness. Stress spots, like neck, upper- and lower back, are directly influenced by these passive postures.

Asanas not only strengthen the muscles, but also the bone structure.

During this yoga week attention is given especially to the back. A strong and relaxed back makes a strong nervous system.

Participants can stay either in the dormitory or in one of the colorful bungalows with private bathroom. There is a hexagonal palapa (palm thatched roof) with hammock chairs, a small library, and large table to sit, eat, read, chat, etc.
The yoga room is well ventilated, has a wooden floor and a view of the ocean. More info...

Our cook prepares delicious meals, vegetarian or other*.
All dishes are prepared with great care, fruits and vegetables are washed with purified water to ensure your well being.







*fish dishes can be included.

Arrival is on the first announced day after 2 p.m. A welcome dinner will be served at 7 p.m. The yoga program starts the following morning.

The retreat ends on the last announced day at about 2 p.m.

Prices include:

- 25 hours of classes
- lodging (5 days, 5 nights)
- breakfast, lunch and dinner
- 1 massage
- 1 afternoon trip

  * Valid till April 15 / 2008
** Children up to 12 years free of charge.

Attending classes only
For those who have accommodation elsewhere and want to attend only the yoga classes of the retreat: $ 275.00 USD for 5 days (breakfast is included).

Non participating spouse
If you come as a couple and one of you doesn't participate in the yoga program you pay $ 200.00 USD less.
For example: a couple, one person non participating, staying in the studio pays: $ 600.00 USD + $ 600.00 USD - $ 200.00 USD = $ 1000.00 USD

Prolongation
You are welcome to stay longer or come a few days earlier; for accommodation see Holiday Bungalows

Payment policy
On booking a 50% deposit* is required. The balance is paid upon arrival in USD or Mexican pesos. In the nearest town, Pochutla, there are banks that have ATM's. They also cash in travellers' cheques (passport required!).

*Only cancellations up to thirty days prior to the start of the retreat will be refunded.

We can come and meet you at the airport. If you arrive in Mexico City we can take care of transport and booking of hotel, bus or internal flights.

Here at Solstice:
- Airport pickup from Huatulco or Puerto Escondido.
- Child care can be arranged.
- Laundry service available.

*not included in the retreat price.

River tubing, snorkeling, sea fishing, horse back riding, bird watching, dolphin boat tour, hikes, visit to the Punta Cometa Sanctuary, turtle museum, lagoon (crocodiles, iguanas & birds), nudist beach (Zipolite is one of the few public beaches in the Americas where you can enjoy the sun in as little as you like...)