GENTLE YOGA VACATION RETREAT
Italy September 8-13, 2020
Abbazia di San Pastore, Greccio (Rieti)
With Andrea Sacchetti, Cristina Racchella & Sri Swami Maheshanda Saraswati
De-stress and renew with 5 full days of gentle rejuvenating classical practice with extraordinary and caring teachers. We will have exclusive use of this premiere venue and accommodations, just one hour north of Rome. Breathtaking views, very special local excursions, delicious vegetarian fare, and more. Option for Yoga Alliance CEUs.
Yoga
For all levels of experience, whether you are a yoga teacher or brand new to yoga: this is a rare opportunity to deeply relax, recharge, and grow with treasured time-tested practices from yoga and Ayurveda (yoga’s sister science of health and wellness). Over the course of the retreat we will explore simple, enjoyable techniques to nourish yourself, support radiance, happiness and optimum health for years to come. Many of these practices are rarely taught in the west. Don’t miss this opportunity to add them to your treasure chest! Your caring team, who will be teaching and guiding throughout the week, includes Yoga Therapist Andrea Sacchetti, Yoga Teacher Cristina Racchella and world-renowned therapeutic Yoga Teacher and Wandering Yogi from India Sri Swami Maheshanda Saraswati.
Join us on this delightful life-changing journey of wellness and healing!
Excursions
Our Italian guide and trip leader Cristina Racchella is a fount of enthusiasm and knowledge of the local area and all things Italian. A yoga teacher herself, Cristina is also a popular teacher of Italian language and Italian cooking. She will support our group in discovering the most authentic and “Hidden ( in) Italy” aspects of Italian life, connecting us with people, places and experiences.
● Shopping for extraordinary hand-painted ceramics in nearby region of Umbria (at prices unheard of in the US!).
● A not-to-be-missed archeological walking tour “Hidden (in) Italy” Rieti, with Roman viaducts, arches, and history from Ancient Rome through the Middle ages to the present.
● A visit to the artist village in stunning “Hidden (in) Italy” Labro, and perhaps an aperitivo Italiano overlooking the Piediluco Lake.
● A comfortable hike on Monte Terminillo, the highest mountain in the Lazio region, with a distant view of Rome at sunset.
● An Italian seasonal cooking class and/or Artisanal Chocolate Tasting in Historic National Award-Winning Chocolatier.
Accommodations
The Abbazia (Abbey) of San Pastore has been a place of peace and retreat since its formation during the 11th century. Its many spectacular views and quiet spaces have always been a cherished place for inspiration, quiet reflection and growth. A full restoration has just been completed, and today the Abbey provides spacious suites with private baths, beautiful indoor, outdoor gathering spots, dining room and a refreshing outdoor swimming pool.
https://www.abbaziadisanpastore.com/
Typical Day
Attendance is encouraged, welcomed and completely optional, for all programs and activities.
Morning:
• Sunrise gentle stretching and movement, pranayama (breathing), and brief meditation.
• Cappuccino, tea, coffee, juice.
• Leisurely breakfast
• Gentle Yoga program (all levels) -- themed instruction, discussion and practice, enjoyable and intelligent movement and practice, promoting ease in body and mind, positive health and peace, all performed with compassionate awareness.
Mid Day:
• Delicious lunch
• Relaxation time -- Journal, swim, walk, read a book, nap, connect…
Afternoon:
• Group Activity -- Enjoy a cooking class or an excursion-- to explore the local area towns, shops, countryside: MEET THE ITALIANS !
Late afternoon:
• Yoga Nidra (special guided deep relaxation).
Evening:
• Festive dinner, in excellent company! The last scheduled event of the day is a brief meditation under the stars.
Healthy Food and Drink - a Hybrid Retreat
This Retreat is a hybrid by design - part yoga retreat, part Italian vacation. It is planned with love, enthusiasm and care. We want you to love it!
There are a number of approaches to healthy eating and on this retreat you will have a chance to explore Cristina’s specialty: “Whole food, plant-based” delicious cuisine, in the Italian style!
In keeping with the “Yoga plus Italian Vacation” hybrid concept, a complimentary glass or two of wine will be offered with dinner. If vacation fun for you means heavy drinking, this is probably not the trip for you. Feel free to reach out to Andrea or Cristina to discuss any questions or concerns.
Yoga is awareness. Mindful eating and drinking actually improves digestion, taking time to truly savor and enjoy!
Included
• 5 Nights premiere en-suite accommodation.
• All meals at the Abbey, including a glass or two of wine with dinner.
• Group transportation to and from Rome Fiumicino airport.
• Group transportation for all group excursions.
• Minimum of 2 Gentle Yoga practices per day (no previous yoga experience required).
• Minimum of 2 Gentle Yoga Workshops.
• Written and audio guidance and instructions for key practices for participants to take home.
• Minimum of 4 Italian cultural excursions and cooking experience.
• Use of the Pool.
• Yoga mats and props.
• All gratuities.
What is not included:
• Flights to and from Rome.
• Yoga Alliance CEUs.
• Optional extras, such as: a massage, or car rental (not needed at all, but some may wish it), or shopping money, etc.)
• Travel insurance
Yoga Alliance CEUs
Attendance at the Yoga Programming on this retreat, plus completion of a two-hour individual assignment, qualifies you for:
• 10 (Ten) Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Contact Hours, plus
• 2 (Two) NonContact Hours
• Thus, participation meets 100% of Yoga Alliance requirements for Contact Hours required for renewal of RYT status.
• The 2 hour individual assignment can be completed during or after the trip (completion must be by January 1, 2021). If you wish to receive the Continuing Education credits (and framable certificate) for Yoga Alliance purposes, please add $35 to your payment, and contact Andrea Sacchetti: yogacalling@gmail.com
Arrival, Departure, and Ground Transportation
All flights should arrive at the Rome airport (Fiumicino International Airport "Leonardo da Vinci") by 2:00pm on September 8, 2020.
Included in the cost of the Retreat: Group transport to and from the Rome airport (Fiumicino International Airport "Leonardo da Vinci").
Cost
The early-bird registration discount for participants is $500**
A deposit of $1,000 per person reserves your spot ! All rooms are private ensuite with bathroom.
** Deposit by January 15, 2020 (for the best price)**
$3,130 per person, double occupancy (room has one oversized queen bed).
$3,430 per person, single occupancy.
Deposit is paid January 15 - April 30, 2020:
$3,330 per person, double occupancy (room has one oversized queen bed).
$3,630 per person, single occupancy.
Deposit is paid April 30 to July 15, 2020:
$3,480 per person, double occupancy (room has one large queen-size bed).
$3,780 per person, single occupancy.
After July 15, 2020:
$3,630 per person, double occupancy (room has one oversized queen bed).
$3,930 per person, single occupancy.
Important Dates Regarding Cancellation / Refund Policy
The balance is due on or before July 1st, 2020
The following fee will be assessed for cancellations:
Before July 15, 2020: 600$ (50% of deposit ($500) plus $100 cancellation fee)
After July 15, 2020: 1,000$ (complete deposit)
After August 1, 2020, total cost of the trip will not be refundable by trip organizer, however may be reimbursable through your travel insurance