As part of the yoga teacher training program we are required to attend a yoga retreat for a full weekend. This past weekend we went to Ajalila Gardens located 50 minutes north of Toronto on beautiful grounds with very cozy accommodations where we were immersed in the yogi lifestyle. Ashely, Erin and I attended for the day since we completed our retreat requirement in the Spring, Erin and I taught our first classes and our nerves were buzzing all morning. We started off the day at 8am with a Hatha Class followed by a vegetarian brunch of scrambled tofu and oatmeal. After lunch we went for a walk in the cedar forest and took a few pics (see below), the weather was good and we were spared from any rain for the day. I taught at 12pm and Erin taught at 1pm, both our classes went well and luckily we taught earlier in the day so the pressure was off and we were free to enjoy the rest of the program set up for us by the retreat. Around 3.30pm we watched a cooking demonstration where we learned how to make carrot cake, dahl soup, and spinach pie which were to be had for dinner. We then went to a Kirtan class led by Madhavendra, the owner of the retreat, who has been teaching yoga for over 25 years and teaching meditation for over 15 years. Following the Kirtan class we sat down for dinner and indulged! Luckily the final class for the day was restorative as I don’t think any of us were up for anything vigorous after our delicious meal. The class was incredibly relaxing and the aura in the studio was beautiful. Everyone was glowing at the end of the day and who wouldn’t be after good food, good yoga and a day with good people. The retreat is an invaluable experience and there is so much to be learned, I cant wait to attend the next one ( the pond at Ajalila looks pretty inviting for summer ) Thank You to Melissa and Naz for your wonderful organizational skills! Thank You to Madhavendra and Allan for sharing your space with us.
Namaste ….and Happy Monday, have a wonderful week.
Enjoyable read Candice...I am Sheila, Erin’s friend. I watch Erin moving forward with her yoga and transforming her body to reflect inner strength and beauty. She goes along quietly.... works hard every single day and her focus remains strong. All the best to you Erin and Ashley, you are beautiful in every way.
ReplyDeleteThank You Sheila, we have a great time learning and growing together. I could not have asked for better friends to go through this training with.....
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