Sacred Journey Practicing Yoga

When I had the opportunity to participate in a five-day yoga retreat in Kauai, I jumped at the chance. Kauai is one of the world’s most sacred places, located on an energy vortex along with New Zealand and Sedona. The retreat took place during 11/11/11, which was an auspicious date for transformation.

Stepping out into the warm tropical air of Hawaii was intoxicating, and I felt my stress instantly melt away. I was greeted by organizers of the yoga retreat and was loaded into the car for the drive to the estate. The yoga retreat was held on Kauai’s North Shore at a private estate located on 27 acres.

Driving up the long driveway surrounded by towering Cook Island Pines, the residence came into view. It was a beautiful building of classic Indian/Hindu design arranged around a central open-air courtyard. It was apparent that this was a very special place and I was in for an amazing experience.

Many of the architectural elements and furniture were imported from India. As I walked around the estate, I felt as if I was living in a museum. Each of the rooms had a private bathroom and balcony and was uniquely decorated with Indian furniture and furnishings. All of the rooms were designed to allow plenty of fresh air to permeate the building. Every time I turned around there was some detail that had previously escaped my eyes.  The estate contained a yoga studio, steam room and sauna, and salt-water swimming pool.

Rain can often ruin plans during vacation, but in Kauai, it was a welcome respite and a daily occurrence. There were plenty of places to escape the rain while enjoying a good book or nap. Listening as the water collected in the ponds of the slate courtyard had a hypnotic effect. Even the breezes in Kauai were like a warm caress. I found myself enjoying the rainy weather.

Activities for the fiveday retreat included Hatha yoga twice daily, meditation, chanting, and plenty of time to relax and enjoy the grounds. Meals were a highlight and the chef prepared delicious, organic cuisine that nourished my body and soul. Every detail for our comfort was anticipated in advance. I fell into the daily routine with ease, even though the first yoga session was scheduled each morning at 8 AM and we were instructed not to eat or drink beforehand.

A highlight of the retreat was the Ayurvedic Samvahana treatment involving two therapists anointing my loincloth-clad body with oil in a synchronized massage. The treatment was designed to increase circulation and immune system functions; it concluded with a detoxifying steam bath in a wooden steam machine imported from India.

A special ceremony was held on 11/11/11 to mark this special day of awareness. Much to my surprise, we were entertained by locals sharing the history of the island through song and dance. Each of us was given a lei in a special ceremony. We were treated to Hawaiian songs about the islands and watched beautiful hula performances. It was a truly magical evening and I found myself mesmerized.

The retreat was organized by Retreat Sedona, which specializes in healing retreats with yoga and meditation in sacred locations such as Sedona and Kauai. Their retreats are designed to leave you revitalized and refreshed. I can attest to their success – at the end of the five days, I felt like a new, happier version of myself.

Details: More information about Retreat Sedona can be found via email at info @ retreatsedona.com or by phone at 888-948-5599.