Overview

This weekend retreat is devoted to rejoicing in the bountiful harvest of sense and spirit through yoga. Our retreat will involve using the tools of hatha yoga to maximize our health and happiness. This weekend will strengthen your yoga practice as we celebrate fall together through breath-led movement, yoga asana, pranayama, mantra, mudra, meditation, music, and storytelling at the Himalayan Institute yoga retreat center, in northeastern PA.

Agenda

Our practice sessions will incorporate asana, pranayama, mantra, mudra, and meditation to help improve strength, flexibility, and balance.

Friday evening practice: Loosen up from your journey and unwind from your busy week.

  • Opening Invocation
  • Diaphragmatic Breathing
  • Anjali Mudra
  • Flowing Tai Chi Movements
  • So-Hum Mantra Meditation

Saturday morning practice: energize and strengthen the body, focus the mind.

  • Embody Strength and Vitality
  • Bhastrika Pranayama (bellows breath)
  • Ganesha Mudra
  • Vinyasa Krama Asana for Strength and Stamina
  • Aharana Meditation

Saturday afternoon practice: stretch the body, enlighten the mind.

  • Embody Fluidity and Grace
  • Bhramari Pranayama (buzzing like a bee)
  • Chin Mudra
  • Deep Stretching Asana
  • 61-Point Guided Relaxation

Saturday evening bonfire: celebrate fall under the full moon with good company.

  • Gather Around the Bonfire
  • Recount Myths of the Hindu Gods and Goddesses
  • Chant Mantras
  • Sing Festive Songs

Sunday morning practice: integrate strength and flexibility for better balance.

  • Embody Balanced Action
  • Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril) Pranayama
  • Garuda Mudra
  • Support One Another in Balance Poses
  • Closing Offering
Additional Activities

There will be ample free time to enjoy hiking the wooded trails, booking a treatment at the wellness center (cost not included), or visiting the chocolate and coffee factory, coffee lounge, or gift shop.

Location

The seminar will be held at the Himalayan Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy, a world-renowned yoga center near Honesdale, PA, about 3 hours’ drive from Bucks county. Delicious vegetarian meals and clean, comfortable bedrooms are provided. The center is located in a spacious, bucolic setting with fields, forest, and pond, perfect for short nature hikes, contemplation, and relaxation.