LAOS EVOLVE RETREAT: Journey to the Seer

13 – 18  JANUARY 2020

Unique meditative flows, practices dedicated to the elements, and philosophy discussions centered around Advaita Vedanta allow us to redefine our relationship with “I.” Where do “I” begin or end and how do “I” evolve with the community, the world, and the universe in which “I” find myself? Journeying to the Seer is about fine-tuning our connection with ourselves and with everything around us in a way that fosters spiritual wisdom and insight. As always, our retreats are designed to be approachable even to those new to the practice of yoga. Students who would like understand how to combine the physical and philosophical aspects of the practice will benefit from this program.
​

VEDANTA PHILOSOPHY AND VEDIC LIFESTYLE

Advaita Vedanta is one of the paths to spiritual revelation defined in Indian classic philosophies. Advaita is the idea that the true self is the same as the highest metaphysical reality, or simply put, that we are one and the same with the universe that surrounds us and that in which we exist. Spiritual liberation is achieved by gaining knowledge about ourselves and the identity of the universal power or energy. Advaita is considered to be a spiritual pathway or philosophy, rather than religion and is concerned with spiritual realization in this life rather than in the afterlife. In Advaita Vedanta, a liberated person is:

• Not bothered by disrespect and endures cruel words, treats others with respect regardless of how others treat him
• When confronted by an angry person he does not return anger, instead replies with soft and kind words;
• Even if tortured, he speaks and trusts the truth;
• He does not crave for blessings or expect praise from others;
• He never injures or harms any life or being (ahimsa), he is intent in the welfare of all beings;
• He is as comfortable being alone as in the presence of others;
• He is as comfortable with a bowl, at the foot of a tree in tattered robe without help
• To him, knowledge is sikha, knowledge is the holy thread, knowledge alone is supreme. Outer appearances and rituals do not matter to him, only knowledge matters;
• For him there is no invocation nor dismissal of deities, no mantra nor non-mantra, no prostrations nor worship of gods, goddess or ancestors, nothing other than knowledge of Self;
• He is humble, high spirited, of clear and steady mind, straightforward, compassionate, patient, indifferent, courageous, speaks firmly and with sweet words.
  ​

THE RETREAT

On this retreat, we will guide you on a journey towards living your life in a way that is more liberating in the definition of Advaita Vedanta. As on other retreats, the physical practice of yoga (asana), will be the tool in which we practice the philosophical aspects of yoga. A unique style of mediative vinyasa flow will be introduced, one that is creative and that will allow us to practice the qualities of humility, respect and truthfulness that are central to Advaita’s concept of a liberated being. Advaita is the true meaning of open-mindedness and inclusiveness in how we live our lives. Students will also be introduced to different techniques of breathing that help to bring about concentration and connection. Beginners and seasoned practitioners are invited to explore how classical philosophy can be used in today’s hectic lifestyle. Our teaching style is modern and approachable, intended to benefit the life and welfare of the modern yogi. 

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 Julie Moksim and Thitaree Chaiyasate