LAOS EMPOWER RETREAT: Sustainable Self-Practice and the Ashtanga System

7 – 10 NOVEMBER 2019

Learn how to build a sustainable self-practice through the Ashtanga system. Empower your own practice by building discipline and an understanding of sequencing through the Ashtanga Primary Series. Learn how the breath and drishti (gaze point) work with asana (physical postures) to cultivate concentration. This retreat is recommended for anyone who already practices Ashtanga yoga, or for practitioners of other disciplines who would like to learn a little bit more about this style of yoga in a warm, intimate, and open-minded environment.

ASHTANGA YOGA

Ashtanga yoga is a system of yoga transmitted to the modern world by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009). This method of yoga involves synchronizing the breath with a progressive series of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind. Ashtanga can be practiced in a guided format, or as a self-practice (Mysore style) where teachers move around the room simply to give adjustments. It is practiced in a set sequence each time. The first sequence of the Ashtanga system is known as the Ashtanga Primary Series. Once practitioners have mastered the Primary series, they can move on to the Secondary Series, and so on and so forth. Ashtanga has given rise to other popular forms of yoga such as Vinyasa flow. 
 

THE RETREAT

The intention of this retreat is to use the Ashtanga practice as a basis for learning how to build discipline, concentration and a regular self-practice. While the Ashtanga system can be strict in its requirements, we take a softer approach by recognizing that not all bodies are made alike, and to ensure that modifications and accessory movements are given for students who may need additional help to work their way into each of the postures of the series. The philosophy of Ashtanga Yoga will be discussed so that students understand the “whys” behind the approach. This retreat is intended for anyone who has been interested in the practice of Ashtanga, and who is looking for a more open-minded introduction; practitioners of other yoga disciplines who would like to dip their toes into this practice; and regular practitioners of Ashtanga Yoga who would like to immerse in it for a few days. 

About our Laos Retreats
Our Laos retreats take place throughout the year from October to July and are immersive, educational experiences designed to increase your knowledge base in yoga philosophy, the technicalities of movement and breath, and most importantly, how to apply these into the modern framework. They are intended for novice students and seasoned practitioners alike, who would like to receive well-rounded instruction on the whole practice of yoga. Our delivery of complex subject matter is approachable and relevant so you can be assured that you will leave with a much stronger foundation in your understanding of yoga. While each retreat uses different philosophical approaches as the learning platform, you will find all of them inspiring and a great catalyst for further learning.

THE YOGA

Each retreat will take a different philosophical subject matter as a platform for practice and learning. The various yoga philosophies are simply different approaches to finding freedom and peace within ourselves, and within the world in which we live. While yoga is often associated with its more physical component (asana), the whole practice is really an amalgamation of various underlying philosophies, breathing techniques, and meditation. With all of these components, yoga becomes a way of seeing reality and a way of navigating the complexities of life. Our teaching methods ensure that you not only understand the theory, but that you get an opportunity to tap into the experience of yoga as a holistic practice.

THE EXPERIENCE

Our Laos retreats are designed as experiences that fill what we strongly believe is a gap between the hour-long studio practice classes and much more intensive teacher trainings. There is a need for an immersive learning space for students who simply want to know more about yoga.

Between morning practices and afternoon workshops, you can expect to be in a learning environment between 5 to 6 hours on each full day. All classes will take place in a beautiful open-air dedicated yoga shala right on the banks of the river, and we incorporate the natural surroundings into our tools for learning. As part of your experience, we encourage you to explore the simplicity of life in this remote fishing village so there’s plenty of free time each afternoon to hike to the viewpoint, take a boat ride upriver, kayak for a few hours, or explore the nearby caves. Sync into the pace of life that this beautiful country is known for and you’ll find that contentment lies in an ability to just be.

THE DESTINATION

Nong Khiaw is a sleepy village, nestled in the highlands of Northern Laos. Located approximately 150 km from Luang Prabang, Nong Khiaw is easily accessible by. Travel by road to Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang takes approximately 3 hours, although many travelers opt for the longer, 6-hour boat ride as the views along the river are spectacular (check with travel agencies in town for availability and pricing of boat travel and this has been affected by the recent building of dams along the Nam Ou River).

Life in Nong Khiaw takes place primarily along the banks of the Nam Ou River. A main street and bridge run through the center of town, connecting the two sides. Ultimately, Nong Khiaw’s draw is its impressive landscape. The Nam Ou River is flanked on both sides by rolling hills and stone massifs. The river cuts through the mountains, opening spectacular views into the distance. It’s a destination not to be missed.

The retreats are held at a premier bungalow resort that is situated high on the banks of the scenic and tranquil Nam Ou River, offering spectacular sunset views over the virgin rainforest and karst limestone mountains of Nong Khiaw. The resort offers 10 spacious clean & comfortable detached bungalows, mixing traditional Lao style with all the modern conveniences you can expect from a home away from your home. The custom-built yoga shala sits directly on the banks of the Nam Ou River, harnessing the energy of life. 

THE COST

Shared Room: (only two twin rooms are available on a first come, first serve basis)
Fountain Bungalow – SGD 876 per person
Riverside Bungalow – SGD 907 per person

Single Occupancy Room:
Fountain Bungalow – SGD 1,033 per person
Riverside Bungalow – SGD 1,081 per person

*All prices are discounted by 15% if you book and pay in full by 60 days prior to the start date of the retreat that you have selected*

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

• • All nights accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner
  • Minivan transfer from Nong Khiaw back to Luang Prabang on the last day of the retreat (you must depart with the group. We are unable to pay for transport back to Luang Prabang at any other time)
  • Daily Yoga & Meditation classes and yoga workshops (full attendance is requested)
  • Exclusive Urban Yogis Goodie Bag
  • Wifi accessibility 

EXCLUSIONS

• • Travel to and from Laos
  • Transportation from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw on the first day of the retreat
  • Lunch and snacks in between meals
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Any activities you choose to do on your own outside of the retreat schedule  e.g biking, trekking, those that are not listed in the itinerary
  • Travel Insurance

Your retreat will be led by Mana Takai