*UPDATE 10/22/14 - There are three spaces left in the "twin rooms" (see below). Book now!!
If you're feeling stressed out and need a little break from real life, I've got just the thing! I've been working so hard on this for the past few weeks and I've got all the details ironed out and am excited to share this awesome opportunity with you.
Background
I chose Costa Rica because I participated in a study abroad program there when I was 16 and it's such a special place to me. I lived with a family, went to school there, and made lifelong friends. I've returned about 7 or 8 times since and it's one of my favorite places in the world. I wanted to share the beauty of the culture and land with you during this week.
The Plan
I've secured a stunning house 15 minutes from the beach, and it has breathtaking views, an infinity pool, and the perfect covered patio for our yoga sessions. I've done a ton of research and consulted with a number of locals to create the best deal for the type of retreat I wanted to offer - an upscale and relaxing week, with a little adventure. This 5 night yoga retreat includes: transportation to/from our villa (to/from Liberia airport), 10 yoga classes, 4 meditation and pranayama classes, a two hour surf lesson including all equipment and transportation, all breakfasts and dinners, a welcome swag bag, and a special something for the first three people who pay in full - read on for that or reserve your spot now!
The Costa Rica Yoga Retreat Schedule
November 6, 2014
Arrive after 5:00pm to settle in and take a dip in the pool and meet the other yoga students.
8:30pm - Dinner prepared by private chef
November 7, 2014
8:00am - Morning meditation
8:30am - 9:30am - Slow Yoga in a Fast World - an athletic, sweaty practice that goes super slow. Attention to alignment and breath.
10:00am - Breakfast
10:30am - 4:00pm Free time (the beach is approx 15 minutes away or you can lounge by the infinity pool)
4:15pm - 5:15pm Detox Yoga - a gentle, detoxifying yoga with lots of twists and pranayama (breathing) techniques.
6:30pm - Dinner prepared by private chef
8:00pm - 8:30pm Yoga Nidra Guided Meditation - Yoga nidra is an incredible tool for stress management. You'll "awake" from the meditation with an energized buzz through the body.
November 8, 2014
8:00am - 8:30am Morning Meditation
8:30am - 9:30am Finding Balance On and Off the Mat - This class sequence will focus on improving our balance in the yoga practice and in life. TIP: It all begins with the foundation. Prepare to sweat.
10:00am - Breakfast
10:30am - 11:30am Free time
Noon - Depart by private transfer to Tamarindo beach (30 mins drive) for surf lesson.
1:00pm - 3:00pm - Surf lesson
3:00pm - 5:00pm - Free time in Tamarindo (shopping, beach, lunch)
5:00pm - Private transfer back to yoga villa
5:00 - 7:30pm - Free time
7:30pm - 8:30pm Yin Hips - This hour long super slow, therapeutic class will be for the hips. We'll stretch and breathe and stretch some more to open up the hips and release any tension in the legs and low back.
8:30pm - Dinner prepared by private chef
November 9, 2014
8:00am - 8:30am Morning meditation
8:30am - 9:30am Headstand workshop - This hour long workshop will begin with a flow to prepare our bodies for headstands. No worries if you're a total beginner. We'll play, laugh, learn, and see what we can do. If you're really experienced, come to the class ready to take it to the next level.
9:30am - Breakfast
10:00am - 6:00pm Free time / Spa Day - The spa is coming to us! The first three people to pay in full will receive a free 50 minute Swedish massage! Others may make an appointment for a massage, and we'll also have manicure and pedicure appointments available.
6:30pm - 7:30pm Heart Opening Yoga Flow - A vinyasa class focusing on opening up the chest and shoulders and working on the flexibility of the upper back.
8:00pm - Dinner prepared by private chef
November 10, 2014
8:00am - 8:30am Morning meditation
8:30am - 9:45am Core of the Matter: a workshop focusing on core strength. In a way, our core is the foundation for how we carry ourselves, and is often ignored, so this playfully sequenced sweaty class will intend to fire up our core center to gain strength.
10:00am Breakfast
10:30am - 5:00pm Free time.
5:30pm - 6:30pm Vinyasa groove - This hour long class will incorporate everything we've been practicing over the week. A little potpourri flow, if you will.
7:30pm - Dinner prepared by private chef
November 11, 2014
7:00am - 8:00am Yoga for Travel - A gentle flow to stretch and prepare the body for a day of travel.
8:00am- Breakfast
9:00am - All good things must come to an end. :( Private transfer from our villa to Liberia airport.
Our home for the week
The Villa
This gorgeous luxury villa features an infinity pool, a beautiful covered patio for our yoga practice, wifi, and air conditioning. The open layout promotes a sense of community, and the large pool area with ample seating is the perfect place to take a snooze or hold a game of Scattergories (my fave!).
Kitchen and loft.
Kitchen area. Breakfast and dinners are provided.
Living area
Accommodation
Bedroom 1: Poolside queen bedroom with private bathroom. (Look at that view!!)
Single accommodation: $1475
Share as a couple: $1350 per person
*UPDATE 10/22/14 - This room is occupied.
Bedroom one
Bedroom 2: Poolside queen bedroom with private bathroom.
Single accommodation: $1475
Shared as a couple: $1350 per person
*UPDATE 10/22/14 - This room is occupied.
Bedroom two
Both bathrooms for Bedroom 1 and Bedroom 2 look like this:
private bathroom
Twin Room 1
Shared accommodation: $1250 per person
Bathroom is shared with Twin Room 2
*UPDATE 10/22/14 - This room is available.
Twin room 1
Shared bathroom between Twin Rooms 1 and 2.
Shared bathroom
Twin room 2
Shared accommodation: $1250 per person
Bathroom is shared with Twin Room 1.
*UPDATE 10/22/14 - One bed is available in this room.
Twin room 2
The Good Stuff
The little guys below are regular visitors on the property!!
neighbors
infinity pool overlooking the beach, which is approx 15 minutes away
Sunsets!
Gorgeous Costa Rican beaches are just 15 minutes away.
Tamarindo beach
Beaches
Surf Lesson
We'll have our two hour surf lesson in Tamarindo, a nearby beach. We'll learn proper form and all the tips and tricks that newbie surfers need to know! Great opportunity for photos!
Surf lesson in Costa Rica
Pricing and Services
Single occupancy: $1475. This includes: Transfer to and from the Liberia airport/villa, single accommodation in Bedroom 1 or 2, or for Twin Room 1 and have it all to yourself, 10 yoga classes, 4 meditation classes, swag bag, breakfasts and dinners, one surf class, transfer to and from the surf class.
Double occupancy: $1250 per person. This includes: Transfer to and from the Liberia airport/villa, shared room in Twin Room 1 or 2 in the villa with shared bathroom, 10 yoga classes, 4 meditation classes, swag bag, breakfasts and dinners, one surf class, transfer to and from the surf class.
Stay elsewhere and join in on the fun: $550 per person. This is an option for locals or people who would like to come but stay elsewhere. You're welcome to join us during the day at the villa for the yoga and meditation classes, breakfast, and hanging out by the pool during the day, and then can head back to your hotel or rental after the evening yoga class. This includes: all five breakfasts, 10 yoga classes, 4 meditation classes, one surf class, transfer to and from the surf class, and one massage. This does not include accommodation, airport transfer, transfer to/from the yoga villa, lunch, dinners (though there is the option to add dinners, if you like).
What to bring
-yoga clothing
-yoga mat (or I can arrange to have one waiting for you at the villa for a fee)
-blindfold for the blindfold yoga class (sleep masks are the best, in my opinion)
-camera
-a good book
-sunglasses
-sturdy shoes if you plan to go on other tours or explore the area
-bathing suit and beach towel
Things to know
-I like my retreats to be super relaxed. All yoga classes and retreat activities are up to you - do all or nothing. Feel like sleeping in? Sleep in! Don't want to come to a particular class? No problem! Do whatever you need to do to feel good.
-The yoga program is appropriate for all levels. Truly, everyone is welcome from the total beginner to the seasoned yogi. I will tailor the classes to ensure everyone's needs are met. You can get a feel for my teaching style on my yoga YouTube channel.
-If you'd like to explore the area, or would like me to help you book tours (I have connections in the area, and would be happy to help! I recommend zip lining through the jungle! It's an absolute must!) that can be arranged, but it is recommended (i.e.: more cost effective) to rent a car. I can help arrange car rental and perhaps you could even split it with another student if you're on a budget.
-You'll need to budget for your lunches. There are many restaurants in town (15 min away by car) and an average lunch goes for between $4.00 - $10.00.
-Should you decide to rent a car, it is recommend to rent a 4x4 to navigate Costa Rica's roads.
-We'll have a massage therapist on hand if you'd like to book an appointment.
-Any food allergies or preferences can be accommodated, we just need to know in advance.
-United States citizens do not need a visa to visit Costa Rica.
Terms and Conditions
-No reimbursement will be granted in case of early departure.
-We accept no liability for loss, damage, injury or illness, which may occur during the retreat or traveling to or from the retreat. All students are strongly recommended to have their own travel insurance to cover any loss or injury, including repatriation if necessary. It is advisable to take out travel insurance in the event that you have to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances.
-We reserve the right to make any changes to our program, courses or teachers. Alternative arrangements are offered to the best of our ability but if not taken up, we do not accept responsibility for any costs incurred, including airfare.
-Students who have chosen a single room will not quality for any discount regardless of whether another students happens to be alone in a 'shared' room.
-We take every step to ensure that students are not stretched beyond the limit of their capabilities. We ask that you speak up if you have any particular pre-existing injury or illness that is relevant. We advise that you always listen to your body, and if you are feeling any pain or illness during the class that you stop and rest.
A final word
Retreats are an opportunity to give yourself a break from the real world. You can expect a week of rest, relaxation, and good company with likeminded people. I will be there not only to lead the yoga classes, but to ensure everything runs smoothly, and assist in making any spa appointments, tours, or offering recommendations for the best place to get a great coffee or watch the sun set. ;) With regards to the yoga, the biggest thing to me is that people feel no pressure. There are no egos or expectations. My only expectation of students is that when they choose to come to a class they pay attention to how they feel. When you need a break, take a break. When you want to push yourself, push yourself. For me, the most important thing is that it is a stress-free and safe environment for all to thrive. I'd love to welcome you there!
Get in touch with any questions, or, book your spot now!
PS- Past yoga retreats in Santa Barbara, Ibiza, and most recently, in Greece.