Yoga for Beginners

Have you ever wanted to try yoga, but wondered where to start or felt intimidated by all of the choices out there? Or maybe you’ve had a practice for years, but you would like to better understand the roots of yoga or return to the basics to deepen your alignment and reconnect to your breath?

People come to yoga for all different reasons whether it’s to increase flexibility, to lower your heart rate, to reduce anxiety or stress, lift depression, reenergize your soul, or to deepen your sense of meaning, purpose and connection to the sacred as well as to a tradition that goes back for millennia.

During this weekend together we will explore the question, “What is Yoga?” through introductory yoga practices, talks, direct experience, sharing, reflection, and Q&A. While the emphasis for  this retreat will be on yoga practice, there will be a short talk on yoga’s history and philosophy to support a deeper understanding of the roots of modern postural yoga.

This retreat will meet you where you are and provide you with the skills needed to start a daily practice and or to enjoy local or online group classes. This weekend retreat is designed for people new to yoga and for those who would like to revisit the basics. Everyone is welcome!

Note: Our program will begin after dinner with orientation on Friday evening at 7pm or 7:30pm depending on the season, and it will end on Sunday at 12pm or 12:30pm depending on the season, participants are welcome to stay for lunch and enjoy the land.

What to bring for the program?

Yoga mat (optional), journal or notepad, pen or pencil, walking shoes, water bottle, and a mug with a closed top for tea (optional).

Testimonials:

“Melissa’s warm, inviting presence welcomes her students to show up as they are—and in the simple act of showing up, to discover compassion for self and for others. Her work uncovers and strengthens resilience in body and spirit.” —Jenna Carson

“Melissa is a great teacher. I always left her classes feeling both muscles and mind opened a bit more than when I arrived.” —Matt Blumberg

“The yoga experience with Melissa has not only changed my body but her insight and perspective has changed my mindset—a true blessing.” —Nadia