by Rashad Sanders
The first Mindful Muscle Retreat will take place July 23-27 in beautiful Amorgos, Greece at the Aegialis Hotel & Spa.
The number 23 signifies new beginnings, revolution and transformation. I picked Aegialis because of it being known as one of the greatest locations in the world for yogis to be reborn on their mat. The daily views from the resort will allow the light of Greece to open your eyes, penetrate your pores and expand your entire being. It is my hope that all who attend this trip will experience transformation in their mind, body and soul. They offer six different rooms to practice in, mountain and sea views from every room, and grow all the food served at the resort.
Three classes will be offered daily and each will challenge you emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each class will start with a time of guided or self meditation so each person can listen to the voice behind their breath and let go of whatever heaviness they may be carrying.
Hot Power Flow – A vigorous vinyasa flow that is kicked up a notch in intensity and pace. Be prepared to sweat and be challenged.
Yoga Conditioning – This class will be a blend of traditional yoga with High Intensity Interval Training. Your cardiovascular endurance will be tested, pressure applied to your areas of strength and recovery methods provided for use off the mat.
Slow Flow – This class is my jam! It is a slower-paced flow that will help you focus your practice on your core strength, muscle flexibility, breath techniques and meditation. Slow down, take it all in, and be mindful of how your body moves.
Outside of classes there will be a plethora of activities to do at the resort and surrounding area! Guided hiking tours, group visits to the cultural monuments of the island, Greek cooking and dancing lessons, wine tasting and donkey rides to explore Aegiali! For retreat guests that love a good self care day like I do, the Lalon Indoor Spa offers a variety of body treatments as well as complimentary use of the sauna, hammam, jacuzzi and indoor saltwater pool.
To summarize the vibe of this retreat in one word, it would be HEIWA, which means PEACE in Japanese. Heiwa refers to a calm situation where nobody is threatened, and all who attend this trip will have that experience.
Pricing Per Person for the trip is between $2,025-$2,800 depending on the double- or single-occupancy room selected. The following will also be included in the retreat price:
- 4 nights accommodation
- Daily classes with Rashad
- Ferry between Santorini and Amorgos on the first and last day of the retreat
- Transportation between Katapola Port and the resort on the first and last day of the retreat
- Daily breakfast buffet, 3 lunches (not provided on arrival day) and nightly dinner
- One 30 minute massage
- 10% discount off a spa treatment
- Internet
- Vat and city tax