“It is through your body that you realize you are a spark of divinity.” – BKS Iyengar
Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year. What better time to get together to celebrate the source of 
all life? What better time to acknowledge the life force energy within us and give thanks for the blessings that we are always receiving. The Earth constantly provides for all of us with her incredible bounty, and the Sun’s warmth provides the light necessary for all living beings to thrive and prosper.
It’s also a good time to connect with nature and move deeper into our yoga practice. As BKS Iyengar stated, “ By persistent and sustained practice, anyone and everyone can make the yoga journey and reach the goal of illumination and freedom. Spirituality is not some external goal that one must seek but a part of the divine core of each of us, which we must reveal.” Our practice over the weekend will help us find inner and outer balance by developing an awareness of how the gunas manifest within ourselves. A short sutra discussion and chanting will start our day, followed by an active joyful morning asana practice, preparing us for a nourishing afternoon practice including pranayama. Delve deep into the practice of Iyengar yoga to reveal your spark of divinity.
This is an Intermediate level retreat. Participants should have at least 2-3 years regular practice with a
certified Iyengar teacher. Variations will be given to accommodate each student’s individual needs. Please feel free to email Susan Elena with any questions.
If traveling to us from outside New England, the best airport is Albany, NY.
Email us with any questions.
Retreat Schedule
3-Night Yoga Retreat in the Catskills at the Menla Retreat Center
Menla Retreat Center is located in Phoencia, NY. It is a 2.5 hour drive from Western Massachusetts, 4 hour drive from Boston and one hour from Albany, NY airport.
Weekend Schedule:
Yoga Studio with Rope Wall
Thursday
• 3:00pm Check in
• 3:15pm Welcome/tea
• 4:00pm -5:30pm Yoga/Asana Practice
• 6:00pm Dinner
Friday & Saturday
7:30am – 8:00am Optional Early Morning Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations)
• 8:00am – 9:00am Breakfast
• 9:30am – 10:00am Sutra/Chanting
• 10:00am – 12:00pm Yoga/Active Asana Practice
• 12:30pm – 1:30pm Lunch
• 1:30pm – 4:00pm Free Time
• 4:15pm – 5:45pm Yoga /Pranayama
• 6:00pm – 7:00pm Dinner
Guided hike on Friday; bonfire on Saturday night
Sunday
• 8:00 – 9:00am Breakfast / Check out
• 9:30am – 11:30am Yoga /Asana Practice
• 11:30am – 12:00pm Closing Circle
• 12:30pm – 1:30pm Lunch and Departure
Visit www.menla.org for more information on the center, it’s surroundings, world class Dewa spa, cuisine and accommodations.
PRICING AND REGISTRATION:
The pricing below is per person and includes all meals, accommodations, yoga and guided hike.
The cuisine is designed around fresh locally, seasonally sourced ingredients, including produce harvested from the on-site organic garden, The buffet-style dining features protein-balanced plant-based dishes.
Deluxe housing features air conditioned and heated rooms and private or a shared bath.
Deluxe Double with Private Bath
Deluxe King Suite
Single with Shared Bath
$300 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your spot. Payment plans are available. Limited to 22 students. Early Bird Pricing of $100 off ends October 20, 2023.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
No refunds unless your spot is filled by the waitlist.
If you are interested in cabin housing which is a bit more rustic (price range:$1300 – $1400 per person), email to inquire as these rooms may open up if we sell out the deluxe rooms. The Garuda cabin features 5 shared bedrooms with twin beds for a total of 11 people who share the common areas – sitting areas, kitchen and 3 bathrooms.
The world class Dewa Spa has many wonderful offerings that can be booked during your free time.
There are hiking trails, a swimming pool, a waterfall and a pond at the center which is also an Audubon Sanctuary. You can look for your favorite feathered friends or relax in the old vintage barn
