JUNE 25, 2009 ISSUE
Local Yoga Teachers Seek Solace in Times of Stress
Neighborhood Yoga teachers will lead a group of bold individuals on a path of discovery to Tulum, Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula from November 21 to 28 for a retreat.
Instead of hunkering down and waiting it out in the current economic downturn, three local Yoga teachers have decided to lead a group of bold individuals on a path of discovery to Tulum, Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula from November 21 to 28. They join a growing number of people across the country choosing to face the dismal headlines with an open heart and adventurous spirit.
From CEO’s to teachers to carpenters, people all over the world are slowing down and taking stock of their lives. Whether by choice or by force, time is becoming more available to many and thousands are choosing to use this space as an opportunity for growth, not of their financial portfolio, but of themselves. In response to this need to find more meaning in a life that has become routine and stressful, classes and retreats centered around self discovery are growing in popularity.
Yoga classes and retreats have become a haven for all walks of life seeking what’s truly important. Across the globe, yoga centers that specialize in health, healing and matters of the spirit are seeing their attendance increase as professionals and spiritual aspirants alike seek more meaning in their lives. Even locally, yoga classes are increasing in size and scope.
“More and more people who have never tried yoga before are turning up at the studio,” said Neighborhood Yoga Owner Valerie Midgett. “People are valuing the time and money they spend in a yoga class as an essential tool in coping with their day to day stress.”
Another valuable tool in the process of peace and fulfillment is the yoga retreat. Yoga retreats are usually quiet places free from the distractions of everyday life like cell phones, computers, deadlines and demands that offer daily yoga classes, meditations and experiences focused on introspection, stress reduction, relaxation and bringing balance back into life.
“The state of the world today provides an opportunity for people to return to what’s important. The most important thing of all is taking care and responsibility for yourself so that you are giving the best to your family, your job and your community even in times of stress.” said Serena Crawford, yoga teacher and co-leader of the yoga retreat.
The three local yoga teachers will be leading the weeklong retreat at Maya Tulum on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Located just an hour South of Cancun, in the ancient Mayan city of Tulum, the retreat center sits on the white sand beaches of the Caribbean Sea. Retreat participants will sleep inside simple, comfortable, thatched-roofed cabanas that sit on the shore. Twice daily yoga, meditation and group meetings will frame the week in a way that encourages participants to take a break from the daily grind of stress and worry and rediscover meaning in their lives.
In addition to relaxation, yoga and meditation, the retreat offers eco-tours and excursions in the surrounding area. Activities such as snorkeling, swimming and exploring the nearby Mayan Ruins are among the choices available. The retreat is open to all levels of yoga practitioners from beginner to advanced and includes meals, accommodations and all classes and group events. Transportation is not included. Space is limited to 20 participants, and a special discount is being offered to anyone who registers prior to August 31. Prices range from $1,450 to $1,750.
For more information on the retreat, click to www.neighborhoodyoga.net, www.mayatulum.com or call 828-265-0377.
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