WHAT IS YOGA?
Yoga is a scientific system of physical and mental practices that originated in India nearly five thousand years ago. Its purpose is to help each one of us achieve our highest potential and to experience lasting health and happiness. With Yoga, we can extend our healthy, productive years far beyond the accepted norm and, at the same time, improve the quality of our lives. Yoga means union, and through its practice, one experiences a greater sense of oneness, harmony, and connection within and with others.

The branch of Yoga that forms the main focus of my teaching is called Classical Hatha Yoga, although I am influenced by a variety of forms of yoga. Classical Hatha Yoga teaches us to expand our awareness, relaxation, and functionality by working with the body on a structural level, helping to align the vertebrae, increase flexibility, and strengthen muscles and connective tissue. At the same time, internal organs are toned and rejuvenated; the epidermal, digestive, lymphatic, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems are purified of toxins and waste matter; the nervous and endocrine systems are balanced and toned; and brain cells are nourished and stimulated. The end result is increased mental clarity, emotional stability, and a greater sense of overall well-being, joy and vitality. Through our practice together, we will also delve into Pranayama (breathing and energy cultivation), Mantra (sound and song), Mudra (gesture), Meditation, and Yogic Philosophy.

IS YOGA A RELIGION?
Yoga is not a religion. As T.K.V. Desikachar wrote in The Heart of Yoga, "Yoga has its roots in Indian thought, but its content is universal because it is about the means by which we can make the changes we desire in our lives . . . It is not necessary to subscribe to any particular ideas of God in order to follow the yoga path."

The Yoga Sutras describe an approach to life that is compatible with having a specific religious faith, and is also purely compatible with simply trying to lead an ethical life.

WHAT IS AYURVEDA?
Ayurveda is often considered to be the “mother” of all medicine, as it originated in India more than 5,000 years ago and is the oldest continuously practiced health-care system in the world today. Ayurveda teaches us that although the causes of our physical, mental, and emotional challenges may be complicated, or even longstanding, all conditions and imbalances can be understood. Once we understand our imbalances, we can apply lifestyle therapies to alleviate or eliminate both symptom and cause, therefore, enhancing health and increasing vitality.

It is understood in Ayurveda that human beings are governed by the same laws as all of nature, and that like all else in the universe, we are comprised of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air and ether. All of these elements have inherent energies that govern their own functions as well as the functions of all things that they comprise. We are each a conglomerate of all these energies, but each person has a slightly different proportion of the individual elements, making everyone unique in their own constitutional makeup, or “dosha”.

An Ayurvedic approach treats each individual by taking into account unique mental, emotional, and physical conditions, as well as one’s current life circumstances, and their “nature” of dealing with life’s challenges. Imbalances in the body are evaluated through a system based upon the five elements. Because our world and bodies are constantly adjusting to changes in our environments, we must also adjust in lifestyle to maintain our inner balance. If we choose to ignore the environmental changes, we are likely to lose our own balance, diminishing our vitality and health. The Ayurvedic system of medicine understands our deepest connections with the whole universe. We are considered a microcosm of the macrocosm and are encouraged to find balance within life through proper or “sattvic” lifestyle practices.

Ayurveda is not a passive form of treatment. It insists that each person take an active part in one’s health enhancement, for it is only the individual who can change his/her overall state of health. No one and nothing from the outside can heal someone. True healing and vitality always comes from within.

Ayurvedic medicine concentrates on prevention and health enhancement. It is a system based on natural healing through strengthening the body, mind, and spirit and allowing one’s own healing mechanisms to function at their highest potential. The goal of Ayurveda is to teach people how to attain optimal health through a deeper understanding of themselves, as a means to live a more physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually rich existence.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT ON A YOGA RETREAT WITH BRITT?
Retreats are offered twice a year and create an environment to take a break from daily life and to rejuvenate through yoga and ayurveda.

Although the theme of yoga and ayurveda runs steady, with so much wisdom and history to draw upon, every retreat is unique. You can expect some participants to have attended many past retreats, while others will be first-time attendees. It is a nice retreat to experience with a loved-one, and it is also a great way to get away and meet new friends. Coming alone or with someone are equally perfect options.

Retreats are designed for individuals of varying experiences and levels of fitness and there are plenty of opportunities to tailor the weekend to suit their needs and energy level.

The weekend curriculum includes meditation, daily yoga practice, healthy food, group discussion, with Yoga as hour theme, music, chanting, and exposure to a variety of yogic and ayurvedic practices to help each participant create a lifestyle plan that supports a sense of peace and vitality.

We can comfortably accommodate 40 participants, and early registration is recommended, as we have been known to reach our capacity quite early.

What to Bring    Retreat Details

Please send your questions to info@yogawithbritt.com