Ashtanga Yoga Retreat with Michael Hamilton at In Sabina, Italy
From Saturday, June 5, to 12, 2010 AIRYOGA invites you for a unique Ashtanga Yoga experience at In Sabina in Italy under the guidance of the authorized teacher Michael Hamilton.

This week will give practitioners a great opportunity to dive deeper into the Ashtanga Yoga System, on and off the mat. Each participant will have the opportunity to grow with his/her practice and get to know the beauty of Ashtanga Yoga. This intense week includes sincere practice, philosophy and meditation sessions, pure vegetarian food and a lot of time for self-reflection.

Michael Hamilton originates from Canada and South Africa. He has studied yoga with many prominent teachers in the Krishnamacharya lineages, focusing on Iyengar and Ashtanga. Michael is authorized to teach Ashtanga by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore in India.
Michael spent time in monasteries in Asia and America studying meditation, which form the foundation of his teachings on yoga and its integration into our daily lives. With an eye for detail and alignment, Michael leads traditional Ashtanga based Mysore and led classes, and conducts workshops throughout the world.
For more information please see www.michael.ashtangis.com

See the pictures from the Retreat in 2007 --> Pictures

The property
The property is in the heart of the Sabine Hills, just north of Rome, set amidst olive groves, woodlands and a rolling landscape. The surrounding area is unspoilt farmland and the house and grounds are peaceful and quiet. The grounds comprise seven lush acres with a natural spring, pond, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
There are two beautifully restored 17th century stone farmhouses with terraces which open out to a gentle panorama of olive groves, fruit trees and stunning sunsets. The medieval village of Torri in Sabina (1000 inhabitants) is three kilometers away.
For more information about the property see www.insabina.com

Accommodation
We can accommodate up to 25 people in shared or single (limited) rooms or yurts. All of them with shared showers. The rooms are designed in a simple natural style – a combination of old and new. Furnishings and fabrics complement the buildings and their setting creating a calm and comfortable environment.

The Schedule
6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.: Two Shifts of Mysore Style
9:00 a.m.: Breakfast
11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.: Yoga Philosophy
1:00 p.m.: Lunch
5:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.: Meditation*, Q&A or Restorative Class
7:00 p.m.: Dinner
*After dinner the meditation hall is open for students to continue sitting.

Exceptions from the Schedule:
Wednesday, June 9, 2010:
There will be only Mysore Style in the morning and meditation in the afternoon. Lunch and Dinner on request.
Friday, June 11, 2010:
Instead of Mysore Style there will be a led class. Noble silence (mauna) will be observed from after breakfast to 5:00 p.m.. Traditionally we go out to a quaint little restaurant the last night for festivities where everyone pays for themselves.

What is included
• shared/single accommodation
• 3 vegetarian meals/day for the duration of the retreat
• all yoga, philosophy and meditation classes
• yoga mats and blankets
• linens and bath towels

What is not included
• flights/trains to Italy
• transfers from the airport/train station to In Sabina
• dinner on Friday night
• towels for the swimming pool

Cost
Rooms with shared toilet/shower
CHF 1450.- for accommodation in shared rooms (2 or 3 in a room)
CHF 1750.- for accommodation in single rooms (limited)

Yurts with shared toilet/shower
CHF 1250.- for accommodation in shared yurts (2 in a yurt)
CHF 1450.- for accommodation in single yurts (limited)

Arrivals
In Sabina is within easy access of Rome and its airports. It is approximately one hour from the centre of the city (by car or train). Once your booking has been confirmed all participants will receive detailed information about the arrival.
The arrival time is from 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 5, 2010. We are unable to receive guests at the house before that time so please organize travel arrangements accordingly.
You are expected latest at 6:00 p.m. for the Opening-Dinner and the meet and greet.
Your first Ashtanga class will be on Sunday morning, June 6, 2010.

Departures
On the last day the leaving time is 10:00 a.m. - or if leaving by train, the 9:33 a.m. train from Stimigliano station.

Massages / Treatments
There will be a massage therapist on spot, who offers different massage techniques and treatments. Those are not included in the price and need to be paid cash in Euro.

Booking / Deposit
For more information or to book please email tanja@airyoga.com.

A deposit of CHF 300.- per person is required upon booking.
Your booking will be confirmed by the payment of the deposit and is binding.

The deposit is not refundable and non transferable.

The remainder of the cost of the retreat is due on May 1, 2010 latest.

The full amount is due for cancellations after May 1, 2010.

Anusara Yoga Retreat with Michael Thurnherr at In Sabina, Italien
AIRYOGA instructor Michael Thurnherr will teach the „Universal Principles of Alignment“ of Anusara Yoga in an intensive yoga week from June 12, to 19, 2010, at a beautiful retreat center located in the picturesque countryside outside of In Sabina, Italy. These unique principles allows all practitioners an opportunity to considerably deepen their yoga practice, regardless of experience and independent of which yoga style is practiced.

The retreat includes daily asana practice, pranayama, philosophy and meditation, as well as plenty of time for self-reflection, personal discussions, and exchange within the group. We will observe silence (mauna) several times during the week.

„It’s not what we see, but how we see it, that defines what we experience.“
Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach

Anusara yoga combines simple and effective biomechanical principles for precise alignment of our bodies with a deep spiritual understanding of yoga.
Attitude, Alignment, Action – the three A’s of Anusara yoga – are key elements of the „Universal Principles of Alignment“. They combine each yoga exercise with clear intent and inner approach (Attitude), bring consciousness in the precise alignment of the entire body (Alignment) and foster an awareness of balance between stability, strength and freedom, and flexibility (balanced Action).

In 1996 Michael Thurnherr was introduced to the tradition of Yoga in Pushkar, India, by Yogi Shyamlal. After intensive studies, John Friend, the founder of Anusara Yoga, certified Michael in 2002 as an Affiliated Anusara Yoga Teacher. Ever since Michael teaches and leads workshops in Switzerland and abroad and is a trainer of aspiring yoga teachers at AIRYOGA.
One of Michael’s greatest concerns is to make the spiritual dimension of yoga felt in his teaching. Michael complements the non-dualist tantric philosophy of Anusara yoga with his experience as a student of Zen for 10 years. Each yoga pose becomes an artistic expression of the heart that integrates precise alignment, balanced action and deep feeling.
Apart from teaching yoga, Michael leads the design studio 2ND WEST and runs the Yogaloft together with his partner Lina Baggenstos in Rapperswil-Jona. Michael is a happy father of two children.
For more information please check Michael Thurnherr’s website
www.michaelthurnherr.ch

The property
The property is in the heart of the Sabine Hills, just north of Rome, set amidst olive groves, woodlands and a rolling landscape. The surrounding area is unspoilt farmland and the house and grounds are peaceful and quiet. The grounds comprise seven lush acres with a natural spring, pond, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
There are two beautifully restored 17th century stone farmhouses with terraces which open out to a gentle panorama of olive groves, fruit trees and stunning sunsets. The medieval village of Torri in Sabina (1000 inhabitants) is three kilometers away.
For more information about the property see www.insabina.com

Accommodation
We can accommodate up to 25 people in shared or single (limited) rooms or yurts. All of them with shared showers. The rooms are designed in a simple natural style – a combination of old and new. Furnishings and fabrics complement the buildings and their setting creating a calm and comfortable environment.

The Schedule
7:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.: Pranayama, Meditation and yoga practice
9:30 a.m.: Breakfast
1:00 p.m.: Lunch
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Afternoon practice (Philosophy, Pranayama, Meditation, Asana)
6:30 p.m.: Dinner
7:45 p.m.: Meditation

Exceptions from the Schedule:
Wednesday, June 16, 2010: Only the morning yoga practice will be held.
Friday, June 18, 2010: Traditionally we go out to a quaint little restaurant the last night for festivities where everyone pays for themselves.

What is included
• shared/single accommodation
• 3 vegetarian meals/day for the duration of the retreat
• all classes
• yoga mats and blankets
• linens and bath towels

What is not included
• flights/trains to Italy
• dinner on Friday night

Cost
Rooms with shared toilet/shower
CHF 1450.- for accommodation in shared rooms (2 or 3 in a room)
CHF 1750.- for accommodation in single rooms (limited)

Yurts with shared toilet/shower
CHF 1250.- for accommodation in shared yurts (2 in a yurt)
CHF 1450.- for accommodation in single yurts (limited)

Arrivals
In Sabina is within easy access of Rome and its airports. It is approximately one hour from the centre of the city (by car or train).
Once your booking has been confirmed all participants will receive detailed information about the arrival.
The arrival time at In Sabina is from 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2010. We are unable to receive guests at the house before that time so please organize travel arrangements accordingly.
All participants are expected latest at 6:00 p.m. for the Opening-Diner and the meet and greet. The precise daily program and other information will be given then.
The first yoga class will take place on Sunday morning, June 13, 2010.

Departures
On Saturday, June 19, 2010 the departure time is 10:00 a.m. - or if leaving by train, the 9:33 a.m. train from Stimigliano station.

Massages / Treatments
There will be a massage therapist on spot, who offers different massage techniques and treatments. Those are not included in the price and need to be paid cash in Euro.

Booking / Deposit
For more information or to book please email tanja@airyoga.com.

A deposit of CHF 300.- per person is required upon booking.
Your booking will be confirmed by the payment of the deposit and is binding.

The deposit is not refundable and non transferable.

The remainder of the cost of the retreat is due on May 5, 2010 latest.

The full amount is due for cancellations after May 5, 2010.

Yoga and Hiking in the Bernese Oberland with AIRYOGA Teacher Frank Schmid
From July 18, to 25, 2010, beginners as well as experienced practitioners can devote themselves to Yoga at Schweibenalp, located above the Lake of Brienz, under the direction of AIRYOGA teacher Frank Schmid, while at the same time discovering the fascinating mountain landscape of the Bernese Oberland. Yoga and hiking, a wonderful combination for body, mind and soul.

An inner journey of discovery surrounded by the stillness of nature awaits you. A week filled with inner experiences and relaxation with daily Yoga practice, meditation, and hiking / excursions in the magical landscape of the Bernese Oberland.
We will activate both body and mind every morning with Yoga, breathing exercises and meditation, enjoy an elaborate brunch, and set off on an easy hike. It is also possible to explore nature on one’s own, or just to rest and relax.

Frank grew up in the Swiss Alps, then Zurich, New York and San Francisco. He lived in Vancouver, Canada, for 10 years. Ditching university for a learning by doing approach to life, Frank worked as a photographer in the film industry, made furniture, painted theater sets, translated for the web and practiced and taught Yoga along the way. He received his Yoga teacher training at the Sivananda Ashram in Kerala, India and from Ifat Erez in Canada. Residing back in Zurich, he is looking forward to showing you the amazing journey of Yoga. His daily practice reflects in his classes which he leads with a strong sense for detail, individual safety and fun. For those who take his classes, it is a quiet lesson in self-exploration, opening up body and soul to accept and work through the practice, which mirrors the challenges of life. Frank lives with his wife and two children outside of Zurich.


Accomodation
We can accommodate up to 20 people in shared or single (limited) rooms. All of them with shared showers.
For more information about Schweibenalp please see www.schweibenalp.ch.

The Schedule
8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.: Yoga Practice (Frank teaches in German and English)
10:30 a.m.: Brunch
12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Hiking, excursion, or free time
6:00 p.m.: Dinner
7:30 p.m.: Meditation

It is possible to join the morning fire ceremony. The days when the ceremony will take place will be announced on site.

Exceptions from the Schedule:
Wednesday, July 21, and Friday July 23, 2010:
There will be only Yoga practice in the morning and meditation in the evening. The afternoons will be free time for all.
On Friday noble silence (mauna) will be observed from after breakfast to 6:00 p.m..

What is included
• shared/single accommodation
• 2 vegetarian meals and one lunch sack per day
• all yoga classes and hikes
• yoga mats and blankets
• linens and bath towels
• transfer from the bus stop Bramisegg to Schweibenalp and return

What is not included
• Arrival journey to Schweibenalp
• Expenses for hiking trips/excursions (Bus/Rail, entrance fees, etc.)

Cost
Rooms with shared toilet/shower
CHF 1100.- for accommodation in shared rooms (3 to 4 in a room)
CHF 1200.- for accommodation in shared rooms (2 in a room)
CHF 1350.- for accommodation in single rooms (limited)

Arrivals
By rail from Luzern-Brünig or Bern-Interlaken to Brienz. Then with the Postbus to bus stop Brienzerberg/Bramisegg. Upon request we will provide transfer free of cost from the Postbus stop Brienzerberg/Bramisegg to Schweibenalp. For the transfer direct from the Brienz train station a fee of CHF 25.- per car will be charged.

The arrival time at Schweibenalp is from 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2010. We are unable to receive guests at the house before that time so please organize travel arrangements accordingly.
All participants are expected latest at 6:00 p.m. for dinner and the meet and greet.
Your first yoga class will be on Monday morning, July 19, 2010.

Departures
The departure should take place on Sunday, July 25, 2010, by 2:00 p.m. If you are traveling by Postbus and train, it will depart at 1:58 p.m. from Brienzerberg/Bramisegg.

Massages / Treatments
There will be a massage therapist on site, who offers different massage techniques and treatments. Those are not included in the price and need to be paid cash in Euro or Swiss Francs.

Booking / Deposit
For more information or to book please email tanja@airyoga.com.

A deposit of CHF 300.- per person is required upon booking.
Your booking will be confirmed by the payment of the deposit and is binding.

The deposit is not refundable and non transferable.

The remainder of the cost of the retreat is due on June 1, 2010 latest.

The full amount is due for cancellations after June 1, 2010.

Bhagavad Gita- 10-day Intensive Course with Mataji at the Santosh Puri Ashram in India
Experience the essence of the Bhagavad Gita, the central text of Hinduism, in a 10-day intensive course from September 30, to October 10, 2010 at the Santosh Puri ashram, located in the famous pilgrimage city of Haridwar in India.
This course is a journey to the roots of yoga, providing insight into traditional spiritual life. Our path will be enriched by many intensive impulses and lead to absorption. Previous yoga knowledge is not required for participation in the course.

The course will take place at the Santosh Puri Ashram, located directly on the Ganges River in the pilgrimage city of Haridwar, one of the holiest places of the Hindus. The daily routine at the ashram follows a calm, meditative rhythm: it is a place of stillness, where impressions can be processed and power can be renewed. More information about the ashram can be found under www.yoganga.org

Course Content
The Bhagavad Gita, the “Lord’s Song” is regarded as the central text of Hinduism. It is a spiritual prose that is recognized in the West as an important philosophical work. Due to its multiple interpretations, the text is the focus of many different religious paths. Mataji accompanies us in understanding and absorbing the content of the Bhagavad Gita. This is a unique opportunity to integrate the essence of the Bhagavad Gita directly into our practice and into our lives.

Daily Program at the Ashram
Variations to the daily program may be instituted as needed

5:00 to 6:00 a.m.: Aarti (Ceremony)
7:00 to 8:30 a.m.: Yoga class with Mataji
8:30 a.m.: light breakfast
1:00 p.m.: Lunch and Karma Yoga
4:00 p.m.: Tea break
4:30 to 6:00 p.m.: Bhagavad Gita course with Mataji
6:15 to 7:00 p.m.: Aarti (Ceremony)
7:30 p.m.: Dinner
8:30 p.m.: Meditation, Chanting or free time

The yoga exercises and the Bhagavad Gita course will be taught by Mataji in English. Course participants can communicate in their preferred language.

Mataji arrived in India from Germany in the 1970s with the intention of never leaving again. After seeing Babaji doing his tapasya (renunciation) on an island in Haridwar, it was clear to her that he would be her teacher. Since this time Mattaji never left his side until his death. Babaji gave her the name “Narmada”, two yellow cloths to cover her body, and a mantra, which she will repeat until the end of her life. It was then that Mataji began the long and difficult path of purification. Today Mataji runs the Santosh Puri Ashram together with her three children, where she offers a heartfelt welcome to all visitors.
More information about Mataji can be found here...

The cost for the 10-day intensive course is CHF 460.-

The following are included in the course cost
• Accommodations in double and dormitory-style rooms for 10 nights. Warm water showers and toilets are available in the adjacent building. The rooms will be allocated according to availability at the time of arrival.
• Full board with a light breakfast and two simple, vegetarian meals per day.
• Daily Bhagavad Gita course and yoga classes, meditation, Karma yoga, morning and evening Aarti, and an evening program.

Service not included
• Flight to Delhi, India
• Transfer from Dehli airport to Haridwar

The flights to and from India must be planned and booked individually. Arrival a few days before the course begins is recommended.

All participants will meet for the course opening on September 30, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. at the Santosh Puri Ashram in Haridwar. The detailed daily program and other important information will be communicated at this time. The evening Aarti and dinner will follow. The first yoga class will take place the following morning.

It is possible to attend other courses at the ashram either before and/or after the intensive course. Course dates can be found under www.yoganga.org
Additional accommodation and courses must be paid locally in rupees.

Flights, Transfers, Visas
For an inexpensive flight (around CHF 1,000.-) it is best to book early.
SWISS offers direct flights to Delhi from Zurich. Good connections with stops can be found under Emirates, British Airways, Qatar, and Lufthansa.
Experienced Indian travelers can take the Shatabti Express from Delhi to Haridwar. This train journey takes about 4 hours.
For all other we recommend an auto transfer from Delhi (hotel or airport) to Haridwar.
Swiss citizens need a tourist visa. Further information can be found under http://in.vfsglobal.ch
We are happy to help with journey planning, the visa process, and organization of the transfers to the ashram.

For information and booking please send an Email to tanja@airyoga.com.
At time of booking a deposit in the amount of CHF 100.- per person is required. Once the deposit has been received the booking will be confirmed and binding.

The deposit is non-refundable in any and all cases and cannot be transferred to another person.

The remaining balance of CHF 360.- must be received by September 1, 2010 at the latest.

Cancellations made after September 1, 2010 will be required to pay the entire cost of the course.