You may remember Ayu, one of our staff at the Spa in Kumara. She has been working with us since April   2008. Starting as a therapist she showed excellent skills in Ayurvedic treatments which made her become our spa trainer.

Ayu has a high appreciation of her job because she loves treating guests to massages. She applies her therapeutic skills for the benefit of her guests, making them feel relaxed and happy. One of the things she finds most satisfying is when a guest leaves completely relaxed and free from stress.

Ayu was born in Abiansemal in 1984 and is the second child out of three siblings. She has been married for seven years and lives with her husband and mother-in-law. “We have a very loving relationship. To me, family means everything because they are very supportive of me.”

Physically and spiritually, Ayu adopts a daily routine that makes her get the most out of her job. “I start the day with a bit of yoga and eat a healthy meal. I also meditate and surround myself with white light before every treatment. This white light technique is very useful during each treatment because it is a form of self-protection from the negative energy that can surround someone. The negative energy does not enter our body and instead we are able to channel positive energy in return.”

The post Ayu Trisna, Spa Therapist appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

My best memory about Inner Energy has been the awakening of Kundalini. Before that, my knowledge of the kundalini was only theoretical, and to be honest, I was not completely convinced. I was a false believer without true experience.

But everything changed when I received Shaktipat from my first master Swami Muktananda. He first started to hit the top of my head with a small bunch of leaves, then he touched my Third Eye with his thumb.

At the same time I was supposed to repeat the mantra “Om namo shiva ya”, but even now I don?t remember if I was able to say only one word …

The whole of my spine became stiff. I felt myself completely paralyzed, unable to move, to breathe. Suddenly I was filled by an unbelievable light. It was a state that even now I cannot describe but it changed completely my view on the inner Energy. This experience made me a real true believer.

Even now my experience is beyond words and the only thing I can say is: Believe in this Energy, which is already inside you, just open your heart, and beyond any expectation, one day “SHE” ( Sacred Healing Energy ) will appear,

Trust me !

With Love and Blessings
Amjila.

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“Follow your breath and it will lead you to your creative source.” – Michelle Berry

Expressing your inner voice and inspiration through writing can be a challenge for us sometimes. This is especially since we know that some people are able to bring their creativity out in a continuous ‘flow’. Taking nature walks and listening to uplifting and inspiring music are some things that can help us to access our creativity and express this into words that could be an inspiration for others.

Following the success of our previous writer retreats, this October Robin Sparks will be back leading a writer’s and breathe work retreat. This is a retreat for writers who have a book in process.

How do we know if this a retreat for us? Reflecting on these questions is a good start to know if this is something that we want to take part in.

• Would you like to set aside everything to focus on your book in progress in the company of other writers?
• Would you like to learn inspiration and writing exercises to help reveal the core message of your book and help move it along?
• Would you like feedback from fellow writers on your manuscript in process?
• Do you need encouragement and information about how to finish your book?
• Would you like to get a taste of beautiful Bali in the luxury of a resort and the company of fellow writers?
• Would you like to explore how conscious deep breathing can connect you to your inner voice?
• Are you ready to make your dream of being an author a reality?

For six days and five nights, Robin will lead daily breathe sessions to help access the core message and inspiration for what we are wanting to say. She will teach you how to best present it and birth your book into the world. Conscious breath is jet fuel to authentic writing – intuitive writing that functions beyond the mind. Workshops focusing on writing exercises share and give feedback on our manuscripts. Local guest authors will also be involved to provide practical advice from their experience. There is also time to enjoy luxurious spa treatments and partake in guided excursions to connect with Bali’s nature and unique culture.

This retreat will be the perfect prelude for the Annual Ubud Writers and Readers Festival!

“Breathe Life Into Your Book” with Robin Sparks

Where: ONEWORLD retreats Kumara (Kumara Sakti)

When: 6 – 11 October, 2013

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ONEWORLD retreats is proud to be announcing its first time participation in the upcoming 7th ANNUAL EVOLUTION ASIA YOGA CONFERENCE in HongKong.

The conference unites an extensive mix of traditions and cultures from the east to west. Passionately dedicated to provide the growing interest and understanding of yoga and well-being in the Asia region, the conference brings together the biggest community of yoga practitioners and well-being professionals under one roof. Evolution attracts over 3000+ global participants annually, and is a wellness event for all bodies, mind and soul.

We will be happy to meet you at ONEWORLD retreats booth (A 38). Don’t forget to drop by as you will have a chance to win a 6 days/5 nights retreat to Bali.

What: an annual evolution yoga conference

When: 6 to 9 June, 2013

Where: HongKong Convention and Exhibition Centre

The post ONEWORLD retreats in Asia Yoga and Wellness Conference appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

There are a lot of yoga and meditation practices that we can adapt into our daily lives. One of them is consciously raising our vibration – physically and spiritually. It is important to become aware of the vibrations that we are sending out, whether at home, office, or in our social lives. Whatever we do, we are sending out a positive or negative energy every time. These vibrations come back to us manifestating themselves in our life.

We are able manifest our life events and circumstances through our intensions and thoughts. Therefore, it is important to have positive thoughts that make us flow through routines with joy. Making time to meditate everyday is one way to control and shift our thoughts to what we want to achieve, thoughts that make us feel better.

We become more open to new ideas, to thinking positively about ourselves without limitations and fear. Raising our physical vibration through yoga will make us healthier, allowing us to create healthier choices – spiritually and physically achieve our goals.

Practicing daily yoga and meditation with Jan Green is a great opportunity on the way to achieving these goals.  Her yoga and meditation classes are suited for everyone – all ages, levels and backgrounds.  Included in this retreat are daily meals, sunrise yoga, spa treatments and excursions. Creating blissful moments by awakening the physical body through twice daily yoga practice, calming the mind with breath awareness and healing the soul with meditation – combined with the powerful energy of Bali.

“Yoga and Wellnes Retreat” with Jan Green

Where: ONEWORLD retreats Kumara (Kumara Sakti)

When: 2 – 8 June, 2013

The post Shift Your Vibration appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

Bringing more energy into our relationships, career and other parts of our lives is something which is desired by most of us. Consciously increasing the energy flow in the body is one way to maintain our energy level. By doing so, the energy that flows through us makes us feel healthier and passionate for undergoing our daily routines.

Can you explain about “strong Vinyasa flow yoga”?

The Marcum Method:  Flow… Grow… Let Go…

The Marcum Method is vinyasa-flow yoga that provides more than just a great workout and a nice stretch. I incorporate yoga’s philosophy in an I-can-totally-relate-to-that way that enhances the physical alignment and safety of the postures, and provides motivation that surpasses them. My classes are fundamental enough that those newer to yoga can follow, and layered in ways that challenge even the most experienced practitioner. The Marcum Method is about making yoga approachable, enjoyable, expansive and real.

Here’s a great way to check me out. I’ve been featured here on My Yoga Online, and they offer 2 Weeks Free with no obligation. http://www.myyogaonline.com/about-us/teachers/andrea-marcum?utm_source=MYO+Apr+9+NL&utm_campaign=ALL&utm_medium=email

You are known for your focus in building core strength. Why is that so important?

If we don’t have strong core sensibilities we have no roots from which to learn & grow. That’s true body, mind & spirit.

Is your retreat open for all levels?

My classroom is a totally safe, inviting environment, and my message is that embracing possibility empowers us all, regardless of size, shape, age, flexibility, carnivorism, caffeine intake or zip code. I truly believe yoga shows us how one, seemingly simple thing, can unleash our potential for anything.

What does Bali mean to you?

Bali means magic. It’s contemplative refuge, sunrise sun salutations, zen-like rice fields, delicate devotional offerings tucked into every corner– it’s the inspiration you both miss and return to in your mind when you return home and look at the world from behind your windshield and daily routine.

Who should join your retreat?

Friendly, adventurous souls who aren’t afraid to sweat.

Andrea Marcum, a California native, with a background in competitive gymnastics, began teaching yoga in and opened U Studio in Los Angeles in 2006. In a city of behemoth yoga studios and famous yoga teachers, Andrea and U Studio have independently won critical acclaim and success. Andrea’s known for her core intensive Vinyasa Flow classes which appeal to both the famous and the infamous from all over the LA area. Her class is a rigorous but intelligent flow, with an emphasis on alignment that is balanced with equal parts sweat & playful laughter. In a moment’s time you feel like old friends in her company. Every class is well rounded and distinctly different than the last, with opportunities for arm balances for those so inclined along the way. Andrea relishes watching the transformation which yoga brings her students; in their lives, in their minds & in their    bodies — just as it’s done for her.

The post Interview: Flow…Grow…Let Go… appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

Having the correct emotional, physical and spiritual balance is crucial for our health and well-being. As we go through our daily life, the balance constantly changes depending on various factors in our environment, climate, age, recent situations and more.

Tibetan healer Amjila, who will lead the ‘Discover your Energy type, Follow its Flow, Love Yourself Retreat’ in May, explains about the three TriDosha energy types: ‘The TriDoshas (Vatta-Pitta-Kapha) are related to our body’s and mind’s distinctive features. In the retreat she will assist participants to discover their personal energy type in order to balance their energy flows and polarities within the main energy centers and channels.

Kundalini yoga instructor Sukhjeet will create specific daily Kundalini yoga asanas (postures) and kriyas based on the energy patterns, aiming to harmonize the imbalance of the Doshas. When the TriDoshas are strong and balanced we have excellent health, clarity of mind and are highly effective and functional in life.

In addition to these two traditions, Amjila also shares his knowledge on Ayurvedic medicine, an Indian tradition to balance the energy.

This six day retreat is a powerful key of transformation. It is a whole process of self-healing, working on the three dimensions: body, mind and spirit. Balancing them is the ultimate goal of Sukhjeet’s and Amijila’s teaching.

Where: ONEWORLD retreats Kumara (Kumara Sakti)

When: 5 – 11 May, 2013

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We share the world with a total of 7 billion people. It is expected for us to be faced with different characters everyday and by our experiences, it is common for us to judge others. We are easily influenced to negative emotions of others. Feelings of compassion for others are a part of our everyday lives and can help us rise above each difficult situation. Marije E. Paternotte explains about compassion in Kripalu Yoga.

What is Kripalu Yoga? What is the purpose of this type of Yoga?

Kripalu Yoga is based on the teachings of Swami Kripalu. According to Swami Kripalu, the highest form of Yoga is the practice of non-judgmental compassionate self-awareness.

The yoga postures (Asanas) that are practiced in a Kripalu Yoga class are not much different from any other yoga tradition. The focus of the practice however, is not to “perform” each posture perfectly as described in a book, but to find the right way for your body in that moment. This creates an opportunity for more self-awareness, and to be okay with yourself no matter where you’re at. Actually, Kripalu means “compassion”.

Each class starts with Pratapana (warm-ups) to prepare your body for the Asanas. This is a safe way to invite your body to go deeper into your practice. Classes range from gentle to vigorous, so there is a way of practicing Kripalu Yoga for everybody and every body.

What drew you to this type of Yoga?

When I started my yoga teacher training at the Kripalu Center for Yoga&Health in Massachusetts (which is the largest yoga center in Northern America) I had never taken a Kripalu Yoga class. I had read about the Kripalu Center in a yoga magazine, and a little voice inside me had told me that I should go there.

When I arrived it felt like coming home. Having practiced ballet at a professional level, I had always pushed my body to perform as perfectly as possible. At the beginning of the training I was invited to listen to my own body and feel what it needed. That was such a revelation. It was pretty emotional. Then, I knew I had chosen the right path of yoga.

What is the challenge that is commonly faced by your students in practicing Kripalu Yoga?

I don’t know if the challenge is necessarily different from any other type of yoga practice. Students say that they are not flexible enough so they think they are not good at yoga. Or they think they have to practice a lot before they will experience any benefit of their practice. I always tell them that is not true. Yoga is not about physical flexibility. As a matter of fact, I wrote a blog about that: marijepaternotte.wordpress.com

Another challenge that students sometimes face is when I invite them to move according to what their body wants, rather than listening to their mind “prescribing” to practice certain postures. I often see that students have no idea how to listen to their own body. So usually I offer this practice (which is called meditation-in-motion) to more experienced students, after they have learned to feel their own body during a guided yoga practice first.

What kind of benefits can participant achieve by joining this retreat?

This retreat offers a great opportunity to reduce stress by reconnecting with your Self. You will have the opportunity to learn how to listen to your body, so your mind is not always in charge. This will greatly enhance a sense of inner peace and will reduce stress. You will also be taught some practices to do at home, so you can maintain a relaxed state of mind also when you go back to your daily (work) life.

Practicing yoga at Gunung Kawi is one of the activities in the Divine Bali Bliss retreat. Why did you choose that place?

For me, this is the most beautiful temple on Bali. The energy in this place is very powerful and palpable, and there is something extraordinary about the huge carved-out statues. After the first time I went to the GunungKawi temple, which was an overwhelming experience, I met the man who is now my husband. I don’t mean to set any expectations, but I do feel that somehow those two experiences are connected.I think it will be amazing to practice and meditate in the special energy of this temple.

Who should join your retreat?

Anyone who wants to get away from the busy-ness of their day-to-day life, and who is ready for indulging in complete relaxation, pampering at the spa, some fun excursions and cultural activities. And of course practice some yoga!

If you are looking for a yoga practice that is only physical, you may not get what you want. Yet, maybe you will get exactly what you need if you join anyway. You may be surprised of the subtle power of Kripalu Yoga to transform body, mind and spirit!

Marije E. Paternotte (RYT-500) is an experienced retreat leader. Her teaching style is precise and compassionate, with a focus on safe anatomical alignment, and breath and body awareness. Marije enjoys teaching gentle, mindful yoga, as well as physically challenging classes. She always encourages her students to find their own yoga and witness themselves with compassion in order to discover who they truly are. She will be leading the Divine Bali Bliss Retreat at Kumara.

The post Interview: Yoga of self-compassion appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

It’s so useful to live with an attitude of acceptance and loving kindness towards our dear sweet selves. Sometimes this is so hard to do…..!

Meditation offers us a way to find a place of deep acceptance of ourselves and others and it begins with being present and appreciating.

People meditate to control stress, feel better and manage life, but meditation also opens up opportunities to understand ourselves, gain insights and awaken. Importantly, meditation also offers us an opportunity to find a “higher” part of ourselves and accept ourselves for being human and here on a learning experience like all our fellow humans.

Let us look at it this way; at any point of time we are consumed with countless thoughts, mind chatters and emotional baggage at both conscious and subconscious levels. This prevents us from experiencing total understanding and acceptance.

Sit quietly and centre in your heart space. Notice your breath. Now, remember a time or place where even for a second you totally accepted yourself or even forgot yourself – maybe you were in nature, e.g. watching a sunrise or listening to the waves at a beach or melding into the sounds of the jungle. Remember now the feeling of being fully present. It is so sweet to re-member this feeling and time – you likely were very unconcerned about your “self”. Re-experience it. The more you practice this, even for a minute, the more you can accept yourself no matter what.

When you are present to the moment total acceptance of yourself unfolds and there is no longer any need to understand.

Margo Field is a passionate coach with 20 year plus experience of facilitating meditation, life management skills and relaxation. Margo will lead “The Six Senses Meditation, Awakening and Discovery Retreat” at ONEWORLD retreats Kumara.

The post Accepting – Understanding appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

I’m actually the type of a slow learner; I can’t help it, even though my mom was really impatient about it. The way I learn something always takes time, just like when I learned to understand the process of the rain.

So, I figured that, the first thing I had to do was to understand myself, and accept myself, then start a project to overcome my “handicap”. Unfortunately, my mom didn’t know how to deal with my slow learning. So from elementary school up to the second year of university, I was trying to understand myself and how to make myself just slightly equal to others!

In the third year of my biology study, I found some friends who were similar type of learners as I am. I also spent more time in the lab. With these friends, we did it like what I did when I was a kid; we acted like the teacher, teaching each other. The result was that we could understand the subject much deeper!

I think that sometimes all of us need to experience being slow learners. To stop reading dozens of books or becoming spiritual shopaholics. It is better to try to experience ourselves, to contemplate and to reflect. To understand what our life is – not just intellectually understand it but to go deeper. Then we will understand and I believe that our life will become better and richer.

- Iyan -

The post Understanding Yourself appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

He remarks that he loves to meet and greet people and that meeting guests is his way to learn about new cultures of many different countries. What he loves in his current job are also the challenges he gets from his daily tasks.

Ketut was born in Singaraja in 1973 and has five sisters and three brothers. He has been married for 15 years, and lives in Ubud with his beloved wife and three kids. “Actually I planned to have two children but I don’t know; the family planning program didn’t work!” he says. “God had a different plan for us! My third child was a beautiful surprise!”

Through his job, Ketut also learns the way of understanding. “It’s important to understand things… then to learn to be understood. Whenever a guest asks me something, I will listen carefully to make sure that the message is clear so I can give the right answer.”

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In today’s world, observing little details or small little voice in our heart is often challenging. Our mind is always in a rush. Being silent seems to be impossible yet our true longing to connect with ourselves can only happen in silence. Rachel Roberts (RR) and Meredith Hogan (MH) explain about silence and Bali’s Silence Day (Nyepi).

How do you define “silence”?

RR: Silence is stillness. Silence is the place where the voice of the heart can be heard. It is the calm space where our inner desires can be realized and known as truth. It is the pause between thoughts and between breaths and it brings about true knowing.

How yoga helps one becomes more silent?

MH: The practice of Yoga helps us to bring our bodies (matter) and breath (spirit) together. It teaches us to be selective, compassionate, steady and receptive. It teaches us to savor pleasure and to focus our awareness in the moment, in the now. To still the distracted mind and find contentment and acceptance.

What do you think about Nyepi?

RR: Nyepi is the most powerful single day I have ever experienced. We live in a world on hyper speed. Most of us struggle when asked to observe a moment of silence or to focus on one single breath. This is a day where 3 million people sit in silent reflection for the betterment of their community. To call this a day of stillness belies the power of this event. Nyepi is a day of palpable selflessness and communal reflection.

What makes “Nyepi Retreat” special?

MH: Due to a dear and loving friendship and mutual respect, I feel that every retreat Rachel and I hold together is amazingly special. The fact that we are gathering in one of the most beautiful, loving places on earth, sharing the abundance of nature and observing silence for an entire day with 3 million souls is beyond anything I could hope for in hosting a retreat.

Who should join this retreat?

MH: Any soul who wishes to know herself more intimately. Any soul who wishes to celebrate health and vibrancy, to deepen their yoga practice, to laugh and to rest deeply. Any soul who has a longing for adventure, nourishment, new friendships. Anyone who is ready to step into their fullness this year!
RR: You!

After traveling the world through yoga for almost two years, Rachel Roberts was inspired to open the Yoga Bar, a community for yogis in Cincinnati, Ohio. She holds yoga retreats around the world, contributes to international yoga conferences and is working on her first book; “Yoga Drunk”. Meredith Hogan’s love of yoga and dance began in her teens and have sustained her in a way that she cannot help but share through her signature blend of these moving disciplines. Her inspired teaching helps people empower themselves and find their ananda—their bliss.

The post Interview: Discovering Silence appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

There is a story about Buddha who once came before his disciples with a flower in his hand. The whole crowd waited for his sermon yet not a single word was uttered. And it was very unusual to find him carrying something in his hand.

Nobody understood what was happening, but then Mahakashyap—one of Buddha’s disciples—laughed, breaking the silence.

Buddha waved his hands, gave the flower to him and said: “Whatsoever can be said through words I have said to you, and that which cannot be said through words I give to Mahakashyap.” Mahakashyap later became the “founder” of Zen tradition and as we can see it today, in Zen meditation (zazen), silence is greatly emphasized.

Many spiritual gurus in India practiced “mauna” (maintaining silence) during their lives. Some did it on a certain day of the week others for several years in a row. In Bali, people use silence to mark the celebration of the Balinese New Year.

In the world that is growing noisier every day, withdrawing from the sounds can be very invigorating. It helps the mind to rest so that energy is conserved and can be used wisely to reconnect with our inner self. Taking a small break during the day, enjoying lunch or walking in silence can be a good practice to start with. Then, when you are ready, you can take a bigger break by joining a retreat.

Nyepi Retreat will take place over Bali’s Silence Day in March. This is a great opportunity to practice “mauna” as the whole island will be shut off from noise and all Balinese people stay at home, fasting and meditating.

The post The Language of a Flower appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

Compassion is the light that disperses the darkness of the soul. It is the energy released by the nature to all human beings so they can feel respect and take care of each others. However, the inability to stay at the present moment is indicated as the cause of the failure to feel compassionate to even ourselves.

Living in the past or future will only lead one to anxieties and worries. Our desire to control something that is yet to happen, or the “addiction” to replay bitter memories on the screen of our mind; all of them uproot us from the present moment, leaving us confused and frustrated. Yoga teaches us to focus on the now, accepting what is and what we are.

As we move from one pose to another, we feel the increasing tension then the release, the breath, the drop of sweat. In each pose, we learn to listen to our body, accept its strength and limit… Can I do this pose? Should I try the more advance one? I feel dizzy, can I stop? By listening to what our body says, we learn to understand what it needs. We learn to take care; to be compassionate.

By and by, this feeling expands. This being compassionate to ourselves is not the end; it is just the beginning!

Once the candle of compassion in our heart is lit, the light will shine and reach others. Because the nature of compassion is that it has to be shared; it is like those heavy clouds containing rain. They must share to unburden.

Learn more about compassion by reading our interview with Retreat Leader Jennifer Prugh.

The post Building Compassion appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

Accessing Creative Spirit in you could be the best way to reconnect with life. Creativity is the longing to create something, the urge the Life passes on to humans to beautify itself. Yoga leads one to become creative, as it teaches us centeredness and willingness to step outside our comfort zone.

How do you see yoga as something creative?

Diane: In my view, any time we get out of our heads and into our hearts to express ourselves, we are doing something creative. Yoga is that expression through movement, meditation, alignment, centeredness.
Chae: For me as a teacher, yoga is creative as I have to really dig deep sometimes to choreograph a class that will not only benefit my students in a physical way, but also entertain them and keep them motivated. I try not to teach the same class over and over again, and often change up the routine, so the students don’t get bored. As a practitioner, I find yoga helps me be more creative, as it is a “meditative” practice which opens up my mind and gets my creative juices flowing. I love thinking beyond the box, and without yoga I don’t think I could achieve that.

How can yoga help one to become more creative?

Diane: Becoming more creative requires that we step aside, surrender to what is and connect with our Center. When we do that, creativity flows. I can’t think of a better way to access that state of being than through yoga.
Chae: Often before I start a practice, whether I am the teacher or student, I will set an intention for myself. That is already something that triggers a line of creativity within my mind and soul. It broadens my mind enough for me to look at the world in a different way than just up and down or left and right.

What is the main ingredient one needs to become more creative?

Diane: The main ingredient to me is connecting to your Center, releasing fear and being willing to try something new. Once you do that, you can get out of your own way and surrender to creative ideas that come your way.
Chae: I feel it is important to be able to communicate well in whatever art form you are expressing.

Besides as an aesthetic expression, in your opinion, what is art all about?

Diane: Like life itself, art is all about going within, opening your heart, getting out of your own way, surrendering. I like to say that it’s so obvious where to find your art because it is always inside your heART.
Chae: Since art if subjective, it needs to trigger an emotion. When looking at a piece of art or reading a literary work, the conscious experience that I have is a major part of what art is to me. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a positive feeling but anything that evokes or moves me.

How does the “Yoga and Art” retreat differ from others?

Diane: The great thing about our retreat is that not only we are focusing on our body and soul through yoga but we’re also connecting to our Creative Spirit through daily artistic exercises and surrounding ourselves with creative women. That combination is not only nurturing, it’s magical.
Chae: Our retreat will be an experience to help “open” us up in so many ways. We truly believe there is a “union” between yoga and creativity that we will all notice how they work hand in hand. I am excited to see how we feel about ourselves after the retreat is over. I am convinced by exploring our creative side, and using yoga to help us do that, it will also open our minds and hearts to all the other challenges we face in everyday life.

Who should join the retreat?

Diane: Any creative, soulful woman out there who is looking for a transformational experience to nurture her body, mind and Creative Spirit in a beautiful, tropical location with amazing women from around the globe.
Chae: Anyone can and should join this retreat! If you are keen to feel better about yourself and how you see the world, plus have A LOT of fun and hang out with some incredible, interesting women, please join us!!!

Diane Rakocy is a professional artist. She has a Master in Education and several years experience helping women tap into their creativity. Chae Hirano is a certified Pilates Instructor with Romana’s Pilates aka the New York Method of Pilates with 600 certification hours. They will lead the “Yoga and Art Retreat” from February 24 to March 1, 2013.

The post Interview: Creativity Through Yoga appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

Joining ONEWORLD retreats in February 2009, the Javanese woman shares one of her valuable memories. “My first son was born in the first year of my career at ONEWORLD retreats,” she added, “now he is growing as fast as the company”. Having a kid also taught her to learn balance, something that later she concluded as the main ingredient of living a happy life. “I love my job and my family. Keeping the balance to nurture both is the secret to happiness. I am HAPPY.”

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Existence seems to be always in its creative moods. Day to day, if we are willing to see the details, we can see that life is busy creating. A piece of dry leaf, falls to the earth, turning into compost, which nourishes the soil and feeds a seed until it sprouts and grows as a tree. This is how the dead leaf is brought to life and takes a new form; perhaps, as a different type of tree. This is how death seems to be nonexistent in front of Creative Force that always works. Creativity is Life itself.

One of Hindu deities in Trimurti (Hindu Trinity), Shiva, is known as the Transformer. He functions to destroy the universe, such to create space for a new life to happen. But laymen may recognize this act of “transformation” as a mere destruction, but seeing it a little deeper, we can find that something is about to emerge after such happening.

It is said eruption brings out minerals that make the soil become more fertile. Despite the horrible event the eruption could be; how it may harm people, destroy their houses and kill their livestock, the more-fertile soil promises better crops, which means better lives for farmers.

Creativity is transformation. It is an expression! A Sufi Master Hazrat Inayat Khan once said that nature is the creative expression of God and art is the creative expression of men. There is no wonder if the rattle of twigs disturbed by the wind, or simply the sound of drizzle knocking the roof, triggers one to write a rhyme or to make a song. It is Nature, the God’s artwork that allures human to create something beautiful, an artistic expression—an art!

Excite your creative spirits while staying in a “midst of the jungle” resort in, Ubud—the art center of Bali. During Diane and Chae’s “Yoga and Art Retreat”, you will learn how to open and empower yourself through yoga then express your being with art. No specific skills in art are required.

When: February 24 – March 1, 2013

Where: ONEWORLD retreats Kumara, Ubud, Bali

The post Creativity: Transformation and Expression appeared first on ONEWORLD retreats blog.

How to awaken something, which is inborn in our being—but is often forgotten? Something that brings peace and harmony in human’s life, something that leads one to the light. The word “compassion” is gaining much popularity nowadays, yet the practice of compassion has been started since the ancient time. Here we have Jennifer Prugh to explain about compassion and how it relates to yoga.

How do you define “compassion”?

Compassion has several definitions, one of which is kindness. We understand that essentially we all want the same things in life, and so we treat each other as we wish to be treated. Another is living by the understanding that for every living creature on the planet to flourish, we need to care as much about each other as we do for ourselves. It’s not just a good idea any more. It’s essential. In fact, our own happiness and health depends upon the happiness and health of others. The quintessential example is that of a mother who loves her child so much she will risk her own life for that child because they are so connected. When we can feel empathy for others, because we fundamentally understand that another’s suffering impacts us, and we feel compelled to alleviate suffering whenever we can, that is compassion.

How can yoga make someone become more compassionate?

Trying to make someone do anything will always be unsuccessful. I know, I’ve tried. But you can create a set of conditions that support people becoming motivated to care for themselves through practice. The practice of yoga works to become more attentive and as a result, we care and love our life a great deal more. We realize that so much of why we were unable to feel love or caring for ourselves and others has to do with the mind which spends most of its time living in the past or the future, wanting to control things, wanting things to be any other way than how they are. When we can learn to let the mind rest and enjoy and welcome the present moment, we are more available to life, and to others. And naturally we become more compassionate.

How can being compassionate transform one’s life?

We are each unique and that is useful. It means we each have a unique contribution to make. And when we make it, there is a sense of fulfillment that comes from that. We expressed ourselves in a way that was unique to us and we made the world around us a better place for doing so. If we try to hold onto life, to have it be all about ourselves, we will inevitably suffer. So by letting go, by offering what we can to support others, we are moving with the course of life instead of against it. Ultimately, we all have to let go of everything and everyone. By making letting go, offering up, as the motivation behind our daily lives, we are moving with the course of things. This makes things easier on ourselves and on others. It produces a joy that is sustainable.

What is the “Yoga and Art of Compassion” retreat about?

Many spiritual traditions address what it means to be a compassionate human being. Yogic teachings are ripe with reference to teachings on compassion. We all know that being a loving and compassionate person is a good idea. But what exactly does it mean to be compassionate? How can compassion be cultivated? Compassion is something that is deeply innate to our being. As we are guided back to the shores of compassion through our yoga practice, we find a reservoir of joy and goodness that fuels our practice and completely transforms our experience of life itself. In this retreat we will immerse ourselves in the study and experience of compassion: compassion for ourselves, and compassion for others, so that we can open our capacity for the experience of joy and bliss in our daily lives.

Who could benefit from the “Yoga and Art of Compassion” retreat?

Anyone could benefit from it, but it’s sold out now. So I hope we’ll be able to offer it again next year!

Please tell us a bit more about the yoga style you teach.

I teach a Vinyasa-Krama (intelligent flow) based on experience, incorporating the five elements and the eight limbs of yoga in each class I teach. A professor of storytelling, creativity and mythology, I have studied Ashtanga, Iyengar, and also, Eastern and Western Philosophy, Ayurvedic principles, Tibetan practices and Buddhism.

You are co-leading this retreat with Mark Tanaka, please tell us a bit more about his teaching style.

Mark Tanaka has been studying and practicing various approaches to the art of yoga for 14 years. His background includes studies and practice in Indian and Taoist yoga. Mark has studied nutrition, acupressure, massage, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, meditation, Buddhist philosophy, yoga philosophy, Chinese Medicine principles and Ayurvedic principles with many teachers and draws upon his wide spectrum of studies to support his students in realizing their goals.

Jennifer Prugh is the owner of “Breathe, Los Gatos” and the founder of the Yoga Alliance certified RYT 200 and 500-hour “Joy of Yoga” teacher training. Together with Mark Tanaka, she will lead the “Yoga and Art of Compassion” retreat in Ubud from January 27 to February 2, 2013.

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It is technically impossible if a problem can be solved without you’re trying to do anything with it. We must analyze, learn the roots of the problem, then try to find a way out. The problem is not automatically solved once we find a solution, though. Sometimes it does not work, and we have to come up with another option.

Meditation may not give a direct answer we need as what we might want it to be. A personal trainer and meditator Margo Field said, meditation serves as a “circuit breaker” that allows mind to relax and wind down. In a relaxed state of mind, we regain our ability to listen to our inner wisdom. So, basically, meditation enhances our ability to listen, to be attentive, hence the answer to our problems can be heard. As it is once said, the universe is always talking to us; the problem is that we don’t listen.

In developing this ability of listening, you may want to start doing a kind of meditation that suits your type. Margo Field is going to disclose various types of meditation in her retreat, “The Six Sense Meditation, Awakening, and Discovery Retreat” this December.

Where: ONEWORLD retreats Kumara (Kumara Sakti)

When: December 9 – 14, 2012

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Despite the name that has become increasingly popular, meditation still appears a myth to many. From silent sitting to a more dynamic type, meditation is believed to create a space in mind that allows one to listen to their intuition. Meditation instructor Margo Field is sharing her knowledge about this….

Many people think that meditation is sitting in a lotus position with both eyes closed for a certain length of time. Is that all what is happening during meditation?

Meditation can take many forms. There are “moving” meditations like chakra dancing, mantras and chants that can be repeated whilst sitting or walking around as well as mindful awareness – a way of being conscious in daily life that is meditative. Certainly sitting still with your legs crossed, or in lotus position or on a straight backed chair is a great form of meditation – but the lotus position is not essential.

How does meditation help people solve their problems?

Meditation provides a “circuit breaker” that calms down the body and mind. There is now a mass of scientific evidence as to the positive impact meditation has on our systems. Importantly, we can do meditation to simply reduce stress or we can use meditation as a pathway into a deeper connection with the divine (or both). Whatever our reasons for meditation, its calming effects provide a “space” for intuition and godly wisdom to be heard –and for inspiration to come through. In this way, we can often spontaneously find solutions to life’s dilemmas.

Is meditation the way to spiritual awakening, or spiritual awakening is the way to meditation?

Ha ha! As humans 99% of us can definitely make spiritual awakening much easier by meditation or prayer. The other one percent…. Not me!

What kind of types of meditation do you offer in your retreat?

Breath awareness, centering, chakra movement, deep listening, sound and sensory awareness meditation, mindfulness approaches, chanting and mantra based types to name the main ones.

How to find the type of meditation that suits us the most?

We are all different and I believe that this retreat offers some great options for people to try to see what feels good to them.

What is the right age to start learning meditation?

From before birth (in utero) to right now. Its only too late if you don’t start at all!

When is the best time of the day for meditation?

For some people first thing in the morning is great, and last thing before bed is also good. The morning is really ideal but many find it difficult so I always say any meditation at any time is better than no meditation. It is good to make a commitment to find a regularly time slot that can change with circumstance. Personally I meditate briefly each morning and before bed but also have a long meditation time each week which varies on the day and time depending on my routine that week.

What is “The Six Senses Meditation, Awakening and Discovery Retreat” about?

Best if I let previous attendee describes it:

“This retreat is about connection: connection of mind, body, spirit and community. Through meditation you share your mind to connect with body. Through rituals, you connect mind and spirit to a great universal spirit. During the meals and activities you connect with retreat participants to create a community, and the excursions from the retreat connect you to Bali. Margo is a truly remarkable leader. She has designed and delivers a retreat perfectly timed to give you just what you need when you need it to kick start your own self-discovery at your own pace. Robert’s (teacher’s assistant) male energy provides a wonderful counter balance and Wayan’s (yoga teacher) open heart is lovely to experience. The location at luxurious Kumara Sakti in beautiful Ubud is an unexpected bonus.” – B, Australian woman (40s)

How do you work with each individual in your retreat program?

I do my best to respect and honour each individual. If they want privacy this is fine, if they want to gain specific outcomes then I encourage them to share with me. I certainly remain aware of individual needs at all times.

Who should join your retreat?

This is a great retreat for anyone who wants to have “time out” from their usual life. Best for anyone from 18 – 80. Singles can find a good balance of company and solitude, couples find the retreat a balm for their relationships and many mums and daughters or friends love this retreat.

If you want to discover the best of yourself – come along.

Margo Field is a passionate coach with 20 year plus experience of facilitating meditation, life management skills and relaxation. She describes herself as a personal trainer for the heart, mind and spirit. Margo is a qualified Psychotherapist and hypnotherapist. Further information about her works can be viewed on her website. Margo will lead “The Six Senses Meditation, Awakening and Discovery Retreat” at ONEWORLD retreats Kumara.

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Embarking on a spiritual journey means dropping past experiences, allowing new things to happen. In simple words, it is about “healing”…. Here we have Linda Madani, spiritual healer and yoga teacher, sharing her knowledge about healing and telling us about the special yoga system she teaches.

How do you combine a Balinese healing system, yoga and mantra chanting in the “Healing and Spiritual Development” retreat?

Yoga Pranala is a combination of Vinyasa Flow (inspired by several yoga schools including the Sri T. Krishnamacharya’s lineage, Bihar School of Yoga and Hatha Yoga) and Mudra Pranala (healing art based on energy movement transmitted by Balinese shaman Tjokorda Rai). Yoga Pranala effectively increases inner and outer strength, enhances mental clarity, relaxation, total presence and harmony.

If you had to mention certain parties that can be really benefited by your retreat, who would they be?

People that are at a crossroad but anyone that is open minded.

What is the significance of the healing process in the spiritual development?

How many yoga retreats have you heard of that take you through an activation ceremony that will open channels, allow and awaken the person you really are the power you can truly be? During Yoga Pranala you will learn how to balance the feminine and masculine powers. The ceremony is a sacred marriage of the feminine and masculine within you. This ceremony is simple yet powerful. Carefully created to help you truly connect with your higher self….

Can you explain what happens in a Yoga Pranala class?

Yoga is about breathing. Breath is the vehicle for prana. It is the breath that initiates and finishes the movement. We hold the breath for two seconds between each and every breath. Combine with Pranala that creates a trance state that is pleasant and relaxing that will maintain throughout the practice. We remain the witness of our practice throughout the class. We work on our spiritual muscles.

What are the main tools you provide in the retreat to heal ourselves?

Mudra Pranala level 1

What are the obstacles one has to deal with in the healing process? How to handle them?

If you are not the spiritual type, don’t worry. Many of our students are just like you, they come in a place they need help to move from and after the retreat they leave connected, uplifted, inspired and ready to face life again.

Can you tell what are the biggest lessons you learned from working with traditional healer Tjokorda Rai?

Learn to be aware and not be mechanical, to love myself.

Linda Madani is a spiritual healer, a yoga teacher and a guest leader at ONEWORLD retreats. Being dedicated in the world of teaching and healing, she runs a studio Intuitive Flow at Penestesan. Linda will become the leader of “Healing and Spiritual Development with Yoga Pranala” retreat scheduled from December 2 to 8, 2012.

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Relating is risky yet we cannot live without relating. Human is a social animal that depends on each others, hence it is hardly possible to live without having any interaction with others. And if we think of relating as the meeting of two or more beings having different qualities, there is always a chance of being hurt or misunderstood.

Looking back, we might find some hurtful situations that have left us wounded. But instead of looking directly to the source of the pain, we started making denials. And as Linda Madani said on her blog post, sometimes people get identified with their illness; unconsciously think that the illness is a part of their being. While this is not true, it can hinder the process of healing.

Yes, healing is a process. It takes time to heal as it takes time to master an asana.
In “Healing and Spiritual Development with Yoga Pranala” retreat, Linda will teach us how to heal ourselves with yoga. Combining yoga practice and an ancient Balinese healing system, Linda has helped many clients to deal with their problems.

When: December 2 – December 8, 2012

Where: Kumara Sakti, Ubud, Bali

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Nowadays, more and more people are interested in a healthy diet. Here we have nutrition and healing expert Mark Ament sharing his views on this issue.

There is a saying, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”. In your opinion, how far is this true?

That quote is from Hippocrates, the founder of western medicine and it rings as true now as it did 2,000 plus years ago when he wrote it. What we eat absolutely affects our health. When we eat fresh, organically grown foods we boost our vitality and energy. And when we eat heavy, cooked foods grown with chemicals and pesticides we sap our energy. In my experience it’s really as simple as that.

If one has to choose, which one should come first; a healthy diet or regular exercise?

I love this question. If you have to choose only one, then obviously it has to be the one that you do the most. Most people eat several times a day so that’s the place to start. Here’s the thing about eating a healthy diet – it automatically makes you feel better. And when you feel better you want to do more and exercise more. The desire to get regular exercise, to breathe fresh air, to have fun with and enjoy the body grows naturally out of eating a diet based on healthy life affirming foods.

How often one should do a detoxification?

I can’t answer this question generally – it depends on a lot of factors and will be different for different individuals. What I can do is sharing my experience. When I started with Living Foods and detox about 12 years ago, I completed 4-5 months of cleansing every year. This was a combination of fasting, herbal cleansing, juice cleansing, liver cleansing and more. Now I do around 2 months yearly.

Many people wish to lose a few pounds and think a detox might help with this. Is this the main purpose of a detox program?

A good program will almost always support weight loss, but this is really a side effect rather than a goal. The major purpose of a detox program is to support and purify the organs in your body that deal with wastes: the skin, the colon, the liver and the kidneys. When these organs function as nature intended, everything else also works better and health and vitality increase. You can think of those organs as you would think of important parts in the engine of your car. If you want your car to perform its best, then every so often you need to change the fluids and filters in those important engine parts. It’s just the same with your body.

If someone is underweighted, can they join a detox program?

Sure. I’ve worked with several people who want to gain weight in the course of my retreats. Sometimes getting some of the gunk out of the body will actually help an individual to absorb nutrients from the food they eat better and more fully and ultimately lead to weight gain.

When would you suggest doing a detox, and when not?

The only time I would say don’t do a cleanse is if you are pregnant or nursing. That’s because some of the toxins your body releases may end up in your blood stream and potentially could have a negative impact on your child.

How do you combine detox with yoga and Qigong in your Fresh Start Cleansing retreat?

The Fresh Start Retreat is different than anything else out there. We do focus on eating a light living food cleansing diet along with taking herbal capsules for the physical detox, but that’s just one part of the story. We start each morning with a very specific Qigong practice that aims at cleansing the energetic part of our bodies. This practice has roots going back 4,000 years and revitalizes the body.

Many participants from past retreats still use the practice. During the day, there are opportunities to learn the specifics of cleansing and detox as well as living food nutrition and more, combined with healing bodywork sessions. And each evening we use deep relaxing yogic breathing to still the mind and release tensions. It’s a fun, educational and social way to cleanse and I have to say that I LOVE being part of it every time.

Would you mind sharing a simple detox tip to get people started?

Sure, I’m very happy to share the most simple and natural way to detox possible. This is something that every wild animal and every child instinctively understands. Pick any convenient day out of your week and commit to a water fast. Stop eating on the night before. And then in the morning instead of breakfast (breaking your fast) continue it. Drink only pure mineral or distilled water—with a little fresh lemon juice if you want. Drink plenty of water during the day as it will help flush your kidneys. Continue the fast either until dinner time (total of 24 hours) or all the way to the next morning (total of 36 hours).

Giving your body this kind of break from digestion is an amazing gift since your body can devote energy to getting rid of toxins and healing rather than digesting food. If you did no other detox for a whole year, you would have eaten about 150 lbs (70 kg) less of food plus saved almost 15% on your grocery bill. There’s a lot more to say about the power of fasting, but I’ll leave it for another time.

Mark Ament is a nutritionist, the founder of the Maca Team, and a guest leader at ONEWORLD retreats. Through his “Fresh Start Cleansing Retreat”, Mark shares his knowledge and experiences in health, healing and detoxification.

Image Credit: epsos

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The Deepening Your Yoga Practice retreat is a new retreat that is designed for advanced beginners and intermediate yoga practitioners. This is a chance to take your practice to the next level! In this retreat you will learn to expand your awareness by practicing yoga, meditation and chanting as well as doing activities to live your life more consciously.

Included is a private yoga class to discover your preferred yoga style and create a personal yoga exercise designed for your needs. Discover how to live life more consciously by participating in the raw food preparation class and doing volunteer work at an orphanage. You will also have the chance to pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment.

The day of silence, inspired from the Balinese’s ritual happening once in a year, helps you gain a deeper sense of your being. This is the time to drop all fears and worries. There is also a fire ceremony (agnihotra); a ritual to cleanse negative vibrations surrounding us.

The “Deepening Your Yoga Practice retreat” is a 5 night retreat led by Canadian yoga teacher and Bali resident Janet Nicol. She will be assisted by meditation and chanting instructor, Wayan Parta, who most of you know as Iyan’s valuable assistant. At Kumara, Ubud, this retreat will be held onn the following dates:

- February 10 – 15, 2013
- April 21 – 26, 2013
- September 15 – 20, 2013

We look forward to having you at the retreat!*

Image Credit: Flickr.com/Tomas Sobek

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Meet us at the upcoming OM Yoga Show taking place in Olympia, London from October 26 to 28. ONEWORLD retreats is proud to join the annual yoga event for the second time and we can’t wait to see the crowd!

The OM Yoga Show is known to be the most dedicated yoga event in Europe. Held annually, the Yoga Show has been a gathering point for many yogis from around the world. This is the place where you can try many different types of yoga, shop for a new mat, watch demonstrations and meet like-minded people.

Iyan will be happy to meet you at ONEWORLD retreats’ stand (K18). Don’t forget to drop by as you will have a chance to win a retreat to Bali!*

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Wayan lives in Tampaksiring with his wife and three sons. “I love them very much. They are my reminder to stay strong in facing life’s challenges,” he said. Having been with ONEWORLD retreats since 2008, Wayan mentioned one thing that keeps him interested in his current occupation, “It’s the yoga itself.”

The 35-old man found inspiration in yoga, which has led him to consistently practice the art. In 2010 he had the opportunity to join the Australia’s Yoga Arts Teacher Training in Bali. Wayan has been the yoga teacher’s assistant to the Escape the World retreat and all other retreats hosted at Kumara. Next year, together with Janet Nicol, he will lead the Deepening Your Yoga Practice retreat. Wayan also teaches yoga during weekends. He is definitely an important part of the team and working with Wayan is a true delight.

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Some people call it a hunch! Recently, I had a strong feeling that my sister in law was pregnant. Of course I did not tell anyone but it was a strong feeling… soon after, my nephew told me that he would have a little brother, I said silently to myself, I knew that! It felt strange.

“Inner knowingness” or intuition comes from deep inside, we experience it and when we hear that whisper, it is like we know. Yet it is very difficult for us to tell others and confirm that the feeling is right. Like most decision makers and business people, when they make a final decision, some of the team might not understand why. That is what makes them different than others and makes them successful in their field.

Intuition is from the right side of our brain; the left side of is the logical and analytic, the right side is the opposite. Most artists and creative people are the “right brain” people, while accountants, engineers and alike tend to access the left side of their brain more often.

Visionaries, decision makers, business owners and leaders—almost all of them have a good balance between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.

Now, is it possible for every one of us to open up the right side of our brain accordingly to our lifestyle? Why not? It is about exercising our mindfulness. Practicing meditation, yoga, Tai chi, Qi Gong and some other similar practices are very good for opening the creative part of our brain. This makes our intuition become more sensitive.

In our life we sometimes face critical moments. This is a good time to surrender to our intuition. The little voice inside will let us know what is the right way.*

- Iyan -

Image Credit: Flickr / Paul Hudson

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While Australians are welcoming spring, European and North Americans are getting ready for winter. For us in Bali, not much change, the rain season will soon be here and that is always a blessing.

We often hear or read, “have faith in your intuition”. Personally I am a firm believer in this practice as for me it means “trust in yourself”. I believe we all have a 6th sense and once we trust our intuitions we open up to where life is leading us and the adventure begin!

Meditation is a source for developing intuition, to look inside for answers rather than reasoning on a subject is intuition. Take a moment to look back at some decisions you took in your life based on your intuitions, I am sure that you will find a few good stories to tell, remember when you decided to do a retreat with us, possibly you felt that this was the right thing to do and you did it!

Wishing you a great month of October!

- Claude -

Image Credit: Flickr / joka2000

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Iyengar yoga is one of yoga styles that is popularly practiced nowadays. Here we have Vivienne O’Brien to share her knowledge about Iyengar with us.

Would you mind to explain a little about Iyengar Yoga?

BKS Iyengar in his 95th year lives in Puna, India. He has dedicated his life to the practice of yoga. He describes his yoga as “Patanjali Yoga”. He published his first book “Light on Yoga” in 1966. It has been in continuous print ever since and is recognized as the standard reference for yoga asana practitioners.

Mr. Iyengar himself did not use the phrase “Iyengar Yoga”, rather his pupils did. They wished to differentiate his teachings from other forms of yoga. The name Iyengar Yoga has been in general use now for over 20 years.

A senior Iyengar teacher, Pixie Lillas, sums it up, “Iyengar Yoga aims at developing clear and continuous attention, bringing consciousness to each and every part of the body. In this process we explore the effect of ‘the mind on the body’ and ‘the body on the mind’. The body is used as a tool for greater self awareness so that the practice becomes a mirror to the self.”

How this certain type of yoga helps practitioners?

Mr. Iyengars’ son Prashant has suggested three defining characteristics of Iyengar Yoga: technicalities, sequencing and timing.

Technicalities are the precise and often subtle technical points given to explore the asana fully. The points are aimed to give precision, alignment and support.

Sequencing is the way the postures are put together: what postures need to precede certain postures and what postures need to counter balance certain postures. Mr. Iyengars planned sequencing can achieve a particular physical, physiological and mental effect that can totally transform a practice.

Timing is the way that the postures can be held for different lengths of time to enable a more profound exploration of the physical and mental challenges in the poses.

These three features help define the development of Iyengar Yoga. But they are just the beginning to what Mr Iyengar sees as continuous life long process of understanding.

How props can help one practice Iyengar Yoga?

Mr. Iyengar is renowned for the development and use of props. They include mats, blankets, belts, blocks, benches, wall ropes, chairs and other objects to help students experience the yoga poses more profoundly. They encourage students to create optimal body alignment. Especially students with specific physical limitations the props support the body, enhancing ease and stability in the poses thus allowing the mind to relax.

What is the challenge of doing Iyengar Yoga and how a practitioner should deal with it?

The challenge is to meet the demand that each pose is asking of you. The demand requires you to “work”. Some people see yoga as the soft option for exercise but when you take on the challenge of Iyengar yoga you realize it is not for the “faint hearted” but requires courage and conviction. The practitioner’s key to dealing with the challenge is to face it square on with honesty. With honesty we seek out our weaknesses and vulnerabilities as opposed to avoiding and ignoring them. When we see them clearly we have the opportunity to understand and with understanding we have the possibility of transformation.

What level of experiences required to join an Iyengar yoga class or to join your retreat?

To join the retreat you do not need to have any Iyengar Yoga experience as long as you are reasonably fit and healthy and come with an open mind. If you are already an Iyengar practitioner and recovering from an illness or injury you are welcome to join if you know your limitations and have an understanding of how to work with them.

Vivienne O’Brien is a guest leader at ONEWORLD retreats. Her retreat program, Pure Iyengar Yoga retreat is to be set up from October 14 to 19 this year. She also welcomes anyone who wishes to join Iyengar yoga classes to her yoga studio, Luna Yoga, which is based in Victoria, Aussie.

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I’m sharing this, because I truly believe in the healing and powerful benefits of yoga. More so, I believe in the commitment of taking oneself through a journey of processing and letting go. This includes commitment to the “self” and taking oneself out of their everyday world.

My first Escape the World retreat was in 2008 and I had an amazing experience. So much so, that I promised myself I’d go again. I did so in September 2010. It was at this retreat, where I truly became a witness to the magic of life and the transformation that can happen, when one commits to healing, self-development and growth.

During the retreat, I noticed some major shifts take place, almost like weights being lifted off me. I shed so many layers and let go of quite a bit, without having had the objective to do so when I first got to Kumara Sakti for the second time. But something, beyond my comprehension was happening.

At the end of yet another beautiful retreat and on my way to the airport, I had a “funny feeling” that I would bump into someone I knew. But I asked myself “who could that be in Denpasar? I’m so far from home”. But I did.

I was waiting in the check-in line and I heard my name called out. I turned around to see standing before me, a very old friend of mine I had not seen in years; Mike. He just happened to be on the same flight, returning to Sydney and his seat was only 3 away from mine. As I had a spare seat next to me, we shared the flight home, talking non-stop for close to the entire 7-hour flight. What followed was a series of dinners, which later became dates, which then became love and now has become a family.

I turned 40 this year, and had led a very “single” life for most of my 30s! I’d surrendered to life and my destiny a long-time ago, so being single was ok. I’d reached a point that truly it didn’t bother me if I never got married. I had many friends and a thirst to travel so life was fun. You make of it what you will. What had hurt though, was the realization and acceptance that I may never experience being a mother in this lifetime.

Mike and I have been together ever since, nearly a year. We’re expecting a beautiful baby boy due 3 December this year and his name is Sebastian. I feel more blessed than I know how to express.

I had given up on many of life’s expectations, but I never gave up trusting in life! Funnily enough, this trust led me back to what I had once wished for!

Thank you ETW for being part of the journey… and it won’t be the last time I’ll be there again!

Namaste,

Leticia

Image Credit: Flickr / Alex Rebosa

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