, , , , ,

Yoga Retreat at Suryalila, nr Seville in May 2017 – Early Bird Offer!

Yoga Retreat at Suryalila May 2017

Yoga Retreat – Suryalila Yoga Retreat Centre, nr Seville, Southern Spain

Prices from £800 pp shared room

* EARLY BIRD OFFER:  Book by 31 December 2016 and receive £50 discount on the listed prices.

Due to requests, we have now opened up a Non-Yoga participant option (shared room).  Non-yoga participating guests can still enjoy the great food, stunning location and ambience of our yoga retreat.  There is plenty to do for those not attending classes such as hiking in local area, taking day trips, horse riding, spending time by the pool, visiting the sauna, booking a massage and of course taking time to rest.

Join Julie Bladon (Jayadevi) and Jackie Dorrian (Jagdambe Ma) for this blissful 7 night yoga retreat.  We will explore our yoga practice, meditate, activate & deepen our connection to our inner self.  This is the perfect time to switch off, detox and take time for you.

Our mixed programme is perfect if you are starting your yogic journey and wish to explore different styles or if you are more experienced and wish to immerse yourself in your practice. 

Join us in stunning Southern Spain!

~Immerse Yourself in Daily Yoga and Meditation

~Reclaim your inner soul spark

~ Reconnect with others and the environment

~Take time for you – Rest & Restore

Our Yoga Retreat will take place at Suryalila Yoga Retreat in the heart of the Spanish Andalucian Hills, Southern Spain, close to the charming villages of Arcos de la Frontera and Prado del Rey.

Suryalila Yoga Retreat is a world class yoga venue with fabulous yoga shalas, cosy designer accommodation, outstanding organic cuisine, salt water swimming pool and sauna set in 45 acres of land.  A striking part of the natural beauty of this retreat centre is the breathtaking vista extending in all directions: rolling hills, fields of sunflowers, and lakes. The sense of vastness and expansiveness is very uplifting!

Click here to find out >>

“Picturesque Suryalila has a very special energy. It is run with complete love and respect. The staff, the views, the food, the accommodation and much more are why I keep coming back. It is completely magical!”—Emma Henry, Senior Jivamukti Teacher, London, UK

We understand that life can be busy and stressful so this yoga retreat is a perfect opportunity to take care of self, replenish, rejuvenate, relax and to have time to “just be”.  Take the time to honour your body mind and soul.

You may travel as a group or solo but it is guaranteed that you will meet like minded people on retreat.  Retreats are perfect if you are travelling alone, you have the choice to spend time with others or enjoy your own space if you wish.  This retreat is led by two experienced yoga teachers: Julie Bladon (Jayadevi) and Jackie Dorrian (Jagdambe Ma), who will teach yoga classes in a variety of styles including Akhanda Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Sivananda Yoga and Yoga Nidra.

During the 7 night retreat, each day will consist of two yoga classes, meditation plus additional workshops.

Due to requests, we have now opened up a Non-Yoga participant option (shared room).  Non-yoga participating guests can still enjoy the great food, stunning location and ambience of our yoga retreat.  There is plenty to do for those not attending classes such as hiking in local area, taking day trips, horse riding, spending time by the pool, visiting the sauna, booking a massage and of course taking time to rest.

To book please complete the booking form below and a deposit of £200 is payable.  An early bird discount of £50 off the listed prices is available for all bookings made by 31 December 2016.  Full balance due by 31 March 2017.  Monthly payment plans are available, please ask for details.

Programme

Day of arrival (Saturday 20 May)

Saturday Schedule

17.30 Opening Circle & Yoga

19.00 Dinner

For full travel information click here >> 

Normal day schedule

07.00 – 09.00 Yoga & Meditation

09.30 Breakfast

11.30 – 16.00 Free time

13.30 Lunch

16.00 – 18.00 Yoga

19.00 Dinner

Full Board Price per Person:

  • Dormitory: £800 per person shared (shared with three others)
  • Glamping Tent (twin): £800 per person shared 
  • Twin: £920 per person shared | £1,115 single
  • Superior Double (shared bathroom): £920 per person shared | £820 non-yoga participant shared |£1,115 single
  • Deluxe Double (private bathroom): £940 per person shared | £840 non-yoga participant shared | £1,135 single

EARLY BIRD OFFER:  Book by 31 December 2016 and receive £50 discount on the above listed prices.

* The cost includes yoga activities, three delicious gourmet vegetarian meals a day and the use of the retreat centre facilities.  Non-yoga participant price excludes all yoga activities. 

Spaces are limited so please book early to guarantee your spot!

Snacks, Treats & Beverages

In the dining room, you can also find healthy snacks, ice cream and a selection of beverages including organic wine and beer. Suryalila has an honesty list to sign when taking these items and you pay for everything at the end of your stay.

Package includes:

– 7 nights accommodation

– 3 gourmet vegetarian buffet style meals per day

– free tea, coffee, fruit and drinking water

– welcome pack to help you unwind

– twice daily (morning and afternoon) yoga & meditation classes

– one rest day when you may wish to rest at Suryalila or explore the local area.  Trips and excursions can be arranged.

– a blissful Yoga Nidra session where you will enjoy complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation

– free use of internet

– free use of salt water swimming pool and sauna

– time to explore local hikes

– the yoga studio is fully equipped with yoga mats, blocks and bolsters

Optional activities include: Deep Tissue or Thai massage, horse-riding, optional excursions and hiking trips in the stunning nearby Natural parks and the White Towns of Andalusia and much more…

Not included:

– Flight to Spain

– Travel Insurance

– Airport Transfers

– Snacks / Treats / Beverages / Shopping

– Day trips & excursions

– Massages & treatments

For bookings and queries please contact info@juliebladon.com or refer to the following links.

Yoga-retreat-spain-2017-booking-form (Word Doc)

Yoga-retreat-spain-2017-booking-form (pdf)

Suryalila Retreat Centre >>

Co-hosted by Julie Bladon / Jackie Dorrian

Any changes to reservations must be made in writing.

Retreat Testimonials

“Thank you for the laughter, thank you for being you!” ~ Greece guest 2016

“Inspirational!  We so appreciate the love and support, helping us on the start of our yoga journey.  We go home inspired to continue the journey with our home practice.  Thank you.” ~ Greece guests 2016

“Really loved the space created.  Particularly appreciated the suggestions for daily practice which I will take away.  Enjoyed the discussion in the studio in some sessions and Friday morning interactive session excellent, liked having time to ask about postures and learning from other people’s questions in the group.  Thank you Thank you Thank you”

“The place & people were very enjoyable & a good mix of personalities.  You two have been very accessible and welcoming.”

“Thank you Julie and Jackie for a wonderful week, full of joy and fun.  It has been very interesting to experience different types of yoga practice and different teaching styles.  I feel I have learned a lot and have been convinced that I can include daily yoga practice into my usual routine.  You are both excellent inspirational teachers and I appreciate your hard work planning the sessions and all the smooth organisation.  Thank you again for your patience and kindness.”

“Good caring and friendly group – I felt very comfortable being part of it.  Thank you Julie and Jackie for making the retreat such a pleasurable experience.  What a fantastic experience thank to you two. Thank you thank you! Yoga will never be the same again.”

, ,

7 Yoga Book Recommendations for Beginners

7 yoga books

I was recently asked at the end of class if I could recommend any yoga books for beginners.

Books are an excellent way to learn and to develop your knowledge so here are 7 recommended books for you.

When I first started yoga I remember supplementing my yoga classes with reading by following advice and following the sequences within a yoga book.  It is highly recommended to study with a teacher in person when possible but reading is a great way to explore and develop your practice.

1. The Complete Guide to Yoga by Judy Smith, Doriel Hall, Bel Gibbs

This was one of the very first yoga books that I owned, given to me as a gift by a friend.  This step-by-step guide is a practical, easy to follow book with sequences for everyone.  I liked to dive into this book each morning and get inspiration for my practice particularly as it was all so new to me.   The philosophy and benefits of Iyengar yoga are clearly explained and there is advice on how to begin and what equipment is needed.  There is a chapter on making yoga enjoyable and fun for children.  The guide to meditation is useful giving techniques and tips.

2. The Sivananda Companion to Yoga by Swami Vishnu Devananda

This essential companion for beginners and experienced yoga remains a classic guide to yoga.  The book is an engaging and comprehensive guide to asana, pranayama, meditation, nutrition, relaxation and every aspect of the yogic lifestyle.

Swami Vishnu Devananda trained under Swami Sivananda for many years and one day Swami Sivananda gave him a 10 Rupee Note, and his blessings, to travel to the West and spread the teachings of Yoga.

“Living with mind and body relaxed is our natural state, our birthright—it is only the pace of our lives that has made us forget. Those who retain the art possess the key to good health, vitality and peace of mind, for relaxation is a tonic for the whole being, liberating vast resources of energy.” ~ Swami Vishnu Devananda

3. Light On Yoga by B.K.S. Iyengar

B.K.S. Iyengar devoted his life to the practice and study of yoga.  ‘Light on Yoga’ is widely called ‘the bible of yoga’ and has served as the source book for generations of yoga students around the world. It is the classic text for all serious students of yoga.

This classic yoga book gives emphasis on precision and alignment which is important for developing a safe foundation for your practice.  The book includes step-by-step yoga asana guides; a guide to Pranayama, breathing techniques; and an introduction to the spiritual side of yoga practice.

4. Yogasana – Encyclopedia of Yoga Poses by Yogirishi Vishvketu, PhD

This fantastic book presents 850 yoga asanas in a logical sequence enabling the reader to understand the variations for each posture.  The Sanskrit translations allow you to understand the relationship between the name and the spiritual significance of each pose.  Detail regarding the energetic essence of each asana is included through the use of a chakra chart and graphic icons for each pose.

Presented in a clear way which allows you to creatively explore your practice whilst maintaining a safe home practice.

5. Awakening the Spine by Vanda Scaravelli

For more than twenty-five years, until her death at the age of 91, Vanda Scaravelli was transforming bodies and lives with her innovative approach to yoga through the proper alignment of the spine. She listened to the body and worked with instead of against it. She used gravity, grounding, and breath to achieve dramatic improvements in health and wellbeing.  Scaravelli was an early student of Iyengar.

This is not a step-by-step yoga instruction book but a classic inspiring yoga book.  The book features three parts – Part One “The Story of Stories” the philosophy of yoga; Part Two “The Asanas” short exploration of yoga asana and Part Three “Breathing”.

It is inspiring to see the photos of Scaravelli in the Asana section, showing that yoga is for everyone.  She didn’t start yoga until her 40s and the photos in the book are taken in her 80s.  This book is an inspirational reminder as to why you are doing yoga.

Scaravelli reminds readers that: “if you are kind to your body, it will respond in an incredible way.” “Awakening the Spine” offers a gentle way to achieve and maintain overall health and a naturally supple spine at any age.

6. Living Your Yoga: finding the spiritual in everyday life by Judith Hanson Lasater, PhD

I’ve included this book as it examines ways to stretch the meaning of yoga beyond the familiar poses and breathing techniques.  This book explores yoga philosophy and ways to incorporate it into our everyday life.  Judith explains off-the-mat practices to guide you in deepening your relationship with yourself, your family and the world around you.

This inspirational and practical book will guide you in a warm and personal way. Covering topics such as Courage, Relaxation, Compassion, Fear, Empathy, Greed, Truth and many more.  The book includes practice suggestions and daily mantras for each topic.

7. The Breathing Book by Donna Farhi

Breathwork is an important part of Yoga and our overall wellbeing.  This is an easy to read book with step-by-step guides for remembering and re-learning our breath.  The book includes concise information and diagrams relating to the anatomy of breathing and suggested practices for various health issues such as back pain, tiredness, asthma and help to build stamina.

Easy to understand and beneficial for all yogis and non-yogis alike!

This list gives you a taster of yoga books available for beginners.  I hope that it gives you some inspiration.  Why not explore further the wealth of yoga books available to us.  Happy reading!

,

Grecian Gem!

Amorgos

Our luxury yoga retreat has now come to an end and I can say that we have all truly fallen in love with Amorgos Island.  Amorgos, the most eastern island of the Cyclades is the “exit” from the islands of the eastern Aegean towards the coast of Asia Minor.

Jackie and I headed to Amorgos a couple of days in advance of our guests.  We flew into Athens, took the local bus to the port, enjoyed a yummy Greek lunch at a cafe near the port and caught the ferry which leaves late afternoon.  Arriving in the early hours of the following day, we made our way on the bus to our hotel.  Little did we know of the beauty that surrounded us in the middle of the night!

Amorgos is truly a little gem. Stunningly beautiful, unspoilt, tranquil and an ideal place to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.

Our yoga programme included twice daily yoga classes, a yoga workshop focused on developing a home practice, yoga nidra (yoga sleep), daily meditation, free access to the spa, a free spa treatment for each guest, delicious freshly prepared meals sourced from the hotel’s own kitchen garden.

Guests had plenty of time to explore locally, visit local beaches & coves, swim in the clear blue sea, sample local cafes, explore the local area by foot and generally take time to rest.

We enjoyed a day trip to the monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa situated on the cliff side, northeast of the capital Chora.  It was built early in the second millennium in order to protect a religious icon dating from the year 812.  The icon is on public display within the monastery.  The monastery is still active with four practising monks in residence.  You get to meet the monks when you visit their living room and they serve you drinks.  The sea in this area is mesmerisingly turquoise and blue, no photo can do it justice!

From the monastery, we walked to the famous Agia Anna beach.  A small rocky beach with spectacular beauty and clear blue seas.  The chapel of Agia Anna is located at the beach.  Mid afternoon a short taxi ride took us to  Chora, a charming village which is the medieval capital of Amorgos.  This village is a labyrinth of small paved streets, white houses, churches, local squares and tavernas.  A great place to explore!

Amorgos has a huge variety of wild herbs, hosting around 600 species.  These plants are known for their medicinal purposes and we made a special trip to see Vangelis, a local herbalist and distiller.  He forages the wild herbs to produce essential oils, infusions, tinctures, tea mixes and other healing products.

We must also thank our wonderful hosts, Aegialis Hotel & Spa.  This 5 star family owned hotel is a real find.  We fully experienced the unique Amorgian hospitality provided by the hotel staff.  The location is stunning with all rooms offering amazing views of the Aegean sea and the Aegiali beach.

It was REALLY hard to leave but we have booked another retreat here for September 2018 so we will be returning very soon.  We will let you know once this new retreat goes on sale.  It really is NOT to be missed!

View from monastery
, , , , , ,

Bala Brook Yoga Retreat in Photos

This year we are celebrating our 5th year of hosting retreats at Bala Brook.  Our summer retreat on Dartmoor has become a very special event in our annual calendar.  It is such an honour to host yoga retreats in such a magical and inspiring location.  It is always fun to be working as part our Bala Brook team and of course we always look forward to Christine’s delicious food which is always made with such love and care.

Our weekend programme included Yoga, Meditation, Chanting, Yoga Nidra and there was plenty of time to rest, explore the local area, see old friends and make new friends.

Our Saturday morning workshop “Art in the Landscape – Enshrining Space” was be led by Nicci Wonnacott, Artist/ Educationalist/ Activist – BA (Hons) Fine Art/Contextual Practice, PGCE.   In this workshop we gathered natural resources, reconnected with the land, celebrated the land and our ancestors and created a beautiful shrine.

‘I have been has been exploring Goddess archetypes through creative practice for over 25 years in my land work I consider art in the environment through site, ritual, intuition and meditation. As a gatherer I reconnect with the land and the goddess archetypes, ancient women who have walked the path. As I gather, walk and breath form which I create shrines as an act of celebration and respect for the land and the mothers who came before. Enshrining Space’ – Nicci Wonnacott

Nicci has worked as a site specific artist and lecturer for many years. Her interests in gathering help her produce shrines to honour nature as well as jams, wines, cordials, tinctures and natural dying. Nicci was commissioned illustrated The Seasonal Goddess Group with paintings inspired from Devon landscapes.

Our June retreat fell just after the Summer Solstice.  The Summer Solstice is a time to celebrate the fullness of life, to step further into our power, to embody this power and to bring it into the physical form as a new habit such as a new way of being in your body or as a new manifestation.

Bala Brook workshop

BB Jun 2016

Tree Dartmoor

Co-hosted by Julie Bladon / Jackie Dorrian

, ,

NEW Release: Meditation Mix – Guided Meditation Download

blog-jayadevimix

Meditation Mix is a curated collection of guided meditations for beginner and experienced practioners alike. Jayadevi brings you seven guided meditation practices that will assist your exploration of meditation. Offering you a mix of transformational practices such as gratitude, mantra, self development and healing meditations. Whether you are starting out or reconnecting with your practice, Jayadevi provides a selection of meditation practices for you to enjoy.

, ,

The Power of the Gayatri Mantra

It is believed that the Gayatri Mantra was written about 2500 to 3500 years ago and featured in the Rig Veda, an ancient collection of Vedic Sanskrit hymns.  The mantra may have been chanted for many centuries before that.

It is said that this sacred prayer spirals through the entire universe from the heart of the chanter, appealing for peace and divine wisdom for all.  The Gayatri Mantra inspires wisdom in us.

The Gayatri Mantra will protect you from harm wherever you are traveling, working, or at home.  Chanting acts to raise not only your vibration but also the space in which you chant and will bring peace to your body, mind and soul.  The Gayatri mantra will protect your body and improve your power of speech.

It is believed that reciting the Gayatri mantra at least three times during morning, noon, and evening will help to reduce the effects of the wrong acts one does every day. It is like buying goods for cash, instead of getting them on credit. There is no accumulation of karmic (result of action) debt, since each day’s karma (action) is atoned for that day itself by reciting the Gayatri mantra.

The mantra opens up your heart and when both our minds and our hearts open, we open ourselves up for new possibilities.

The cyclic enunciation of this mantra stimulates the subliminal power centers in the subtle body. The pressure on tongue, lips, vocal cord, palate and the connecting regions in the brain generated by continuous enunciation of the twenty-four special syllables of the Gayatri Mantra creates a resonance (or a vibration) in the nerves and the ‘threads’ of the subtle body.

It is significant that the prolonged repetition of the Gayatri has a cumulative effect on our bodies and our minds.  Our minds are sharper, our immune system is stronger, and our hearts are open.  When our energy centres, including our main Chakras, are activated by the vibrations of the Gayatri mantra, this has a positive and healing effect on our life force energy – on our Prana.

Ten Benefits to Chanting the Gayatri Mantra

  1. Calms the mind: The vibrations help to release relaxing hormones. The syllables are devised to help a person concentrate and thereby calms the mind.
  2. Improves immunity: The pressure on tongue, lips, vocal cord, palate and the connecting regions in the brain generated by the continuous chanting of the Gayatri Mantra creates a resonance in and around your head. These vibrations stimulate the hypothalamus (a gland that is responsible for the release and functioning of a number of bodily functions including immunity) that then functions more efficiently. Experts say that this gland is also responsible for the release of happy hormones and therefore is the key player in the mind body connection — so the happier you are, the stronger your immunity.
  3. Stimulates the chakras: Chanting helps stimulates your chakras or the extrasensory energy centres. The chakras align themselves with certain essential lymph nodes and organs of the body that help in the proper functioning of the entire body. This in turn helps strengthen your immune system as the vibration align all your chakras, maintaining wellbeing.
  4. Increases concentration and learning: When you chant the Gayatri Mantra the vibration first activates the third eye, throat and crown chakras. These three chakras help improve concentration as they directly relate to the brain and pineal gland (crown chakra), eyes, sinuses, lower head, the pituitary gland (third eye chakra) and thyroid gland (throat chakra). When activated the vibrations help stimulate the associated glands improving concentration and focus.
  5. Improves your breathing: While chanting the mantra you are required to take deep controlled breaths that when done regularly, helps improve your lung function and breathing.  Deeper breathing helps oxygenate the entire body keeping you healthy and can help as a therapy for asthma.
  6. Helps keep your heart healthy: Chanting a mantra significantly slows down a person’s breathing, which helps synchronise and regularise the heart beat, helping it stay healthy.
  7. Improves the working of your nerves:As you chant the mantra the pressure that is exerted on your tongue, lips, vocal cord, palate and the connecting regions in and around your brain create a resonance or a vibration that helps strengthen and stimulate the functioning of your nerves. It also stimulates the proper release of neurotransmitters that help in the conduction of impulses.
  8. Helps beat damage caused due to stress: Chanting also helps beat stress-related oxidative damage. Not only does it help your body build a stronger immune response but it also helps reverse the damage done by constant stress on your body.  Regular chanting helps keep stress at bay.
  9. Strengthens the mind and keeps depression at bay: Chanting of this mantra helps stimulate your brain, keeping you calm and more focused. The Gayatri Mantra also gives a person relief from stress making them more resilient.  The chanting of a mantra helps stimulate the functioning of the vagus nerve, which is a common form of treatment for people with depression and epilepsy. Apart from that the vibrations from chanting the mantra stimulate the pineal gland and help in the release of endorphins and other relaxing hormones, that help keep depression at bay.
  10. Gives your skin a glow:The vibrations also stimulate vital points on the face that help increase circulation and get rid of toxins from your skin.  Apart from that the deep breathing also helps oxygenate your skin making it look younger and glowing.

Chanting before meditation can help:

  • To create a shift from sound to silence
  • To resonate with the positive vibrations – chanting charges up the atmosphere with positive vibrations and in such a space, meditation becomes natural and effortless.
  • To bring the mind to the present

The Gayatri can be listened to, chanted, or even thought. There is power and potency in all three approaches.  Choose the approach that you are most comfortable with.  

, ,

NEW: YoGo (Yoga & Gong) Workshop, Sun 5 Jun, Exeter

Sun 5 Jun 2016, 1.30-4.30pm, The Ashtanga Yoga Workshop, Exeter, £35 (including refreshments)

With Julie Bladon and Elaine Nicholas

£35.00Add to cart

Join us for our YoGo (Yoga & Gong) Workshop to celebrate midsummer.  Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, the shortest night, is a few weeks away and we will be celebrating the changing season and take time to reconnect with the natural cycles.  Summer Solstice is an important time for looking at the grand scope of your life and noticing what is out of alignment. What are the things you do, think or say that are out of alignment with what you truly believe? It is a time of action.

As part of this midsummer celebration you will enjoy a relaxing and calming meditative yoga practice to prepare your body & mind for sound healing – chanting & voicework and an extended Gong Bath.

You will experience the Gong Bath lying on a mat, head on a pillow, wrapped in a blanket with eyes closed.  This deep and lasting massage in sound, the effects of which continue long after the session as the body adjusts to the sounds and begins to come into balance.

“Music is a moral law. It gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, … and life to everything. It is the essence of order” ~ Plato (429 – 347)

With the majority of Gong Bathers reporting relief from a vast array of maladies ranging from chronic pain through to stress, anxiety, addiction, depression and fatigue; attesting release from spiritual conditions such as feeling disconnected, ungrounded and disillusioned, and claiming to have increased vitality, calmness, balanced emotions, feelings of self-empowerment, greater clarity, and improved creativity.  It may be that Gong sound is re-tuning those hard to reach areas!  And as every gong bath is an individual experience depending on where the individual is in their journey through life, and the sounds produced are entirely right for whoever is present at the time.

This workshop is for anyone interested in yoga, relaxation and sound healing, whether you are brand new or experienced in your practice.  Beginners are very welcome.

Julie began her exploration with yoga over twenty years ago. Initially as a means to deal with the stress of university studies but over time she developed a wider awareness of the benefits of yoga in her life.  Julie’s joy is teaching authentic yoga from the heart.  It is an inspiration to see the development and growth of students.  She has a passion for Yoga Nidra (Yoga Sleep) and loves to share the benefits of this powerful practices both in person and online.

Elaine draws from six years of experience in the Holistic Health field to develop a range of techniques to help improve health and wellbeing using sound, voice and mindfulness as therapeutic tools.  She is a Gong Master accredited by, and member of, the College of Sound Healing.

Come and enjoy relaxing yoga and bathe in the powerful vibrating tones of the Gong.

£35.00Add to cart

Click here for directions to The Ashtanga Yoga Workshop, Exeter.

 

, ,

New Exmouth Yoga Class Added To The Schedule

Due to the demand for yoga at Exmouth Leisure Centre and frequently fully booked classes I have added an extra yoga class to Tuesdays daytime classes.

As from Tuesday 26 April, the daytime classes will be as follows:

Tuesdays, Yoga, 11.30am-12.30pm

Tuesdays, Yoga, 12.45-1.45pm

Tuesdays, Meditation, 2-2.30pm

Hopefully this will give you a greater opportunity to attend class at Exmouth Leisure Centre.  For full details of classes please visit my Events page.

I teach a variety of yoga styles but my main focus is on Hatha Yoga, a practice of asanas (yoga postures) and pranayama (yoga breathing exercises) which help bring peace to the mind and body, preparing the body for deeper spiritual practices such as meditation.  Hatha Yoga helps to develop fitness, balance, co-ordination, a sense of self-awareness and a deeper peace of mind.  A balanced and grounded practice that can be done by all abilities. It supports not just good exercise for the body but for clear ways to make healthy lifestyle changes in general.

For booking and enquiries please contact Exmouth Leisure Centre directly on 01395 266381 or visit their website.

I am currently seeking a Sidmouth venue to set up a weekly class in Sidmouth.  I will update you as soon as I have secured a venue.

To keep up to date with classes, events and retreats please sign up for my newsletter.

See you on the mat very soon!

 

, , , ,

Just Announced: Non Yoga Participant Price for our Greece Retreat

Aegialis Hotel & Spa, Amorgos, Greece
Thu 29 Sep – Wed 5 Oct 2016,  £695 pp shared room / £825 pp single room / £500 pp non yoga participant shared room

We have had several enquiries regarding non yoga guests joining us for our yoga retreat in Greece so we are pleased to announce that guests can now bring a non yoga participating partner for £500 pp (shared room).

Non yoga participating guests can still enjoy the great food, stunning location and ambience of our yoga retreats.  There is plenty to do for those not attending classes such as exploring the beaches, hiking around the island, scuba diving, visit the spa and of course taking time to rest.

On Amorgos, a charming Cycladic Island, you can discover the secluded and remote beaches such as Mouros, Plakes, Kambi, Levrossos, Psili Ammos, Mikri and Megali Vlychada and Agii Saranda which are considered to be among the best beaches on the island.

The island’s highlight is Agia Anna beach (see feature image), below the 1000 year old Byzantine monastery of Chozoviotissa, where the famous film “The Big Blue” (directed by Luc Besson) was shot.

To find out more about the beaches visit Aegialis Hotel and Spa website.

Amorgos Island is famous for its hiking trails.  There are several marked historical paths to explore the different areas of the island on foot.  Most of them are old donkey routes that connect the villages of Amorgos.  Try the path from the village of Tholaria to the village of Langada.  This trail has spectacular views of the entire valley of Aegiali and the villages of Tholaria, Langada, Ormos and Potamos.  You will have plenty of time to explore the island.

Through the hotel you can book scuba diving to explore the mysterious world of the Aegean Sea.  With the help of experienced instructors you can explore and discover the vast depths and incredible kingdom of the sea, experiencing everything from its underworld plant life to its multitude of colorful creatures.  The equipment required is provided.

You can also book yourself a Herbal Tour.  Amorgos has a huge variety of plants and you can join a tour to discover the healing properties of the herbs and ways to use them.Click here for Luxury Yoga Retreat bookings and to find out more >
, , , ,

Book Now: Luxury Yoga Intensive Retreat, Greece, Sep 2016

Luxury Yoga Intensive Retreat – Aegialis Hotel & Spa, Amorgos, Greece

Thursday 29 September – Wednesday 5 October 2016,  £695 pp shared room /£825 pp single room

We understand that life can be busy and stressful so this luxury yoga retreat is a perfect opportunity to take care of self, replenish, rejuvenate, relax and to have time to “just be”. Take the time to honour your body mind and soul.

This retreat will be hosted at the Five Star Aegialis Hotel & Spa on the beautiful Greek island of Amorgos. As with all our retreats you will have two teachers so be assured of our full attention.

To book please complete the booking form below and a deposit of £150 is payable upon booking. Full balance due by 14 June 2016. Monthly payment plans are available, please ask for details.

  • Deepen your practice

“And you? When will you begin that long journey into yourself?” ~ Rumi

Developing your practice can be challenging especially when you have a busy life and schedule.  Being on retreat gives you the chance to attend 2 classes per day, you will notice the progress and the positive effect this is having.  Distractions are limited so you can be sure that you fully focus.

  • Create a new perspective

“The trees, the flowers, the plants grow in silence. The stars, the sun, the moon move in silence. Silence gives us a new perspective” ~ Mother Teresa

We all benefit from going to a new place, seeing the world and ourselves through different eyes.  You will have time to contemplate, to review what is out of balance and where you need to action change in your life.  This safe space will allow you to grow and learn.

  • Navigate life changes

“It’s a good idea always to do something relaxing prior to making an important decision in your life” ~ Paulo Coelho, The Pilgrimage

Life is in constant change, some of which can be challenging.  A retreat allows you to step outside of your everyday life, to gain deeper understanding and create clarity.

It may be that you consciously decide to attend a retreat in order to work through change in your life or the outcome of a relaxing retreat may be a new perspective which leads to change.

  • Time to meditate

“In meditation we return to where we already are – this shifting, changing ever-present now. 
If you wish to take up meditation, it must be now or never.” ~ Steve Hagen, Meditation Now or Never

You will be away from distractions, feel relaxed and ‘in the moment’ leading to a peaceful space in which to develop your meditation practice.  This is a perfect time to develop new habits.

  •  Take a digital detox

“Spending the majority of our waking lives experiencing reality through a screen, endlessly plugged into our devices, is taking its toll… and we’re realising it’s not the answer. The era of burnout, multi-tasking, tech dependence, fatigue, ‘social media everything’ and information overload is coming to a close” ~ thedigitaldetox.org

By switching off your technology you can find space and balance.  You can evaluate your relationship with technology and develop a more balanced approach.  Understand that you can press pause, reconnect with yourself and those around you, saviour your life experiences and feel recharged.

  • Rest and Relax 

“Turn off your mind, relax, and float downstream”  ~ John Lennon

On retreat you have the permission to fully relax.  You can tune into your body, rest when you need it, allow your body and mind to de-stress.  You are free to replenish as you wish, you are free from demands.

  • Eat well

“Let food be thy medicine, thy medicine shall be thy food” ~ Hippocrates

All of the hard work is done for you, you will enjoy nutritious and delicious meals.  It is an opportunity to review unhealthy habits and to develop new behaviours.   Healthy food, yoga and rest will re-energise your batteries and assist the body’s healing process.

  • Make new friends. 

“Every person needs a time out, away from stressful jobs, pressures from employers or clients, home responsibilities….  Everyone deserves to enjoy, visit unknown places, try other things, meet a lot of new friends, and feel at the top of the world. Life is full of fun, excitement, and adventure. Thus, vacation is an experience that’s worth remembering for a lifetime. It heals a weary mind and soul”  ~ Alon Calinao Dy

You may travel as a group or solo but it is guaranteed that you will meet like minded people on retreat.  Retreats are perfect if you are travelling alone, you have the choice to spend time with others or enjoy your own space if you wish.

Two experienced yoga teachers will lead this retreat, Julie Bladon (Jayadevi) and Jackie Dorrian (Jagdambe Ma), who will teach yoga classes in a variety of styles including Akhanda Yoga, Classical Kundalini Yoga, Yin Yoga, Sivananda Yoga and Yoga Nidra. This mixed programme is perfect if you are starting your yogic journey and wish to explore different styles or if you are more experienced and wish to immerse yourself in your practice.

During the 6 night retreat, each day will consist of two yoga classes, meditation plus additional workshops (Yoga Nidra, Developing Your Home Practice and Evening Meditation & Chanting).

Programme

Day of arrival (Thu 29 Sep)

We suggest that guests arrive in Athens either on Wed 28 Sep (you will need to book your accommodation for this overnight) or book a flight arriving before 1400 on Thu 29 Sep so that you can be at the port in time for the ferry. Most ferries leave at 17.30.

For those arriving on Thu 29 Sep into Athens we can share details of who is arriving as you may wish to meet at the airport & co-ordinate your onward travel to the ferry port.

02:00 Ferry arrival at Amorgos

(Next morning practice opening ceremony and practice will begin at 10:30)

Click here for full travel information.

Normal day schedule

07.30 – 09.30 Yoga & Meditation

10.00 – 11.30 Breakfast

11.30 – 16.30 Free time

16.30 – 18.15 Yoga

19.30 – 21:00 Dinner

NB Lunch, snacks and refreshments can be purchased from the hotel at extra cost.

Workshops (included in the package)

Yoga Nidra

Developing Your Home Practice

Evening Meditation & Chanting

Agenda for departure date (Wed 5 Oct)

06.00 Breakfast

07.00 Board ferry at Aegiali Port

10.00-11.00 Closing Ceremony will be on held on the ferry.

Package includes:

– 6 nights accommodation in Superior room

– daily buffet breakfast with organic ingredients from the hotel’s own garden

– daily dinner

– arrival & departure transfer from/to the port of Amorgos

– welcome pack to help you unwind

– twice daily (morning and afternoon) yoga & meditation classes

– a blissful Yoga Nidra session where you will enjoy complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation

– two workshops to deepen your practice (Develop Your Home Practice / Evening Meditation & Chanting)

– one free 30 minute Swedish massage

– 10% discount on face and body spa treatments

– free use of internet

– free use of Lalon Idor Spa facilities (sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, indoor swimming pool with sea water, gym)

– tea and coffee making facilities are provided in all guest rooms.

– the yoga studio is fully equipped with yoga mats, blocks and bolsters

Cost of this 6 night retreat:  Shared room: £695 pp / Single room: £825 pp

Not included:

– Flight to Athens

– Return ferry from Athens to Amorgos

– Travel Insurance

– Airport Transfers

– Lunch / Drinks / Shopping

For bookings and queries please contact info@juliebladon.com

Co-hosted by Julie Bladon / Jackie Dorrian

Hotel: www.amorgos-aegialis.com

Beaches: Beaches of Amorgos

Ferry Bookings: Bluestar Ferries

Booking Form Downloads

Aloha Yoga Retreat Greece 2016 booking form (Word Doc)

Aloha Yoga Retreat Greece 2016 booking form (pdf)

Any changes to reservations must be made in writing.

Retreat Testimonials

“Really loved the space created.  Particularly appreciated the suggestions for daily practice which I will take away.  Enjoyed the discussion in the studio in some sessions and Friday morning interactive session excellent, liked having time to ask about postures and learning from other people’s questions in the group.  Thank you Thank you Thank you”

“The place & people were very enjoyable & a good mix of personalities.  You two have been very accessible and welcoming.”

“Thank you Julie and Jackie for a wonderful week, full of joy and fun.  It has been very interesting to experience different types of yoga practice and different teaching styles.  I feel I have learned a lot and have been convinced that I can include daily yoga practice into my usual routine.  You are both excellent inspirational teachers and I appreciate your hard work planning the sessions and all the smooth organisation.  Thank you again for your patience and kindness.”

“Good caring and friendly group – I felt very comfortable being part of it.  Thank you Julie and Jackie for making the retreat such a pleasurable experience.  What a fantastic experience thank to you two. Thank you thank you! Yoga will never be the same again.”