UPCOMING RETREATS
South of Italy Yoga Retreat with Anne and Cat
MAY 24-30, 2025
MAY 24-30, 2025
Slow down the pace and enjoy la vita Bella with Anne and Cat in the south of Italy.
Join Anne Wanda Tessier and Cat Doyle for a week-long yoga retreat at Yogapulia Retreat Center in the Southern Italy, May 24-30, 2025. Enjoy a variety of daily yoga classes, meditations, pranayama, workshops, swimming, nourishing food from the area and excursions to nearby towns. Deepen your yoga practice, explore what the region has to offer while also taking time to relax, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul.
The retreat is hosted in a beautiful retreat center in the southern region of Italy, featuring accommodations in a farmhouse (Trullo) typical of the region of Puglia. Each room is decorated with modern decor and there are plenty of magical places around the property to relax, wander and explore. The area of Puglia is known for its beautiful beaches, olive groves, delicious food and wine. Take advantage of lower costs for flights and less tourists in the region during this time. Enjoy perfect temperatures for yoga, wandering the nearby towns and swimming the pool.
Spaces are limited to 10 participants. Book early to reserve your spot! Visit: unrollthemat.ca/products/southernitaly
Join Anne Wanda Tessier and Cat Doyle for a week-long yoga retreat at Yogapulia Retreat Center in the Southern Italy, May 24-30, 2025. Enjoy a variety of daily yoga classes, meditations, pranayama, workshops, swimming, nourishing food from the area and excursions to nearby towns. Deepen your yoga practice, explore what the region has to offer while also taking time to relax, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul.
The retreat is hosted in a beautiful retreat center in the southern region of Italy, featuring accommodations in a farmhouse (Trullo) typical of the region of Puglia. Each room is decorated with modern decor and there are plenty of magical places around the property to relax, wander and explore. The area of Puglia is known for its beautiful beaches, olive groves, delicious food and wine. Take advantage of lower costs for flights and less tourists in the region during this time. Enjoy perfect temperatures for yoga, wandering the nearby towns and swimming the pool.
Spaces are limited to 10 participants. Book early to reserve your spot! Visit: unrollthemat.ca/products/southernitaly
About Cat:
Cat hails from Ottawa, Canada and brings a deep love of gathering people together and creating an experience. She has been teaching yoga since 2011 and offers clear, straightforward instruction with a dose of insight and playfulness. Her background in biology and psychology means she is serious about anatomy, alignment, and functional movement. She focuses on moving in intentional, mindful ways and balances practices that feel like a good workout with practices that give you a sense of calm and release. Cat is an experienced retreat host; having facilitated over 20 yoga retreats, both locally and internationally. www.unrollthemat.ca
Cat hails from Ottawa, Canada and brings a deep love of gathering people together and creating an experience. She has been teaching yoga since 2011 and offers clear, straightforward instruction with a dose of insight and playfulness. Her background in biology and psychology means she is serious about anatomy, alignment, and functional movement. She focuses on moving in intentional, mindful ways and balances practices that feel like a good workout with practices that give you a sense of calm and release. Cat is an experienced retreat host; having facilitated over 20 yoga retreats, both locally and internationally. www.unrollthemat.ca
About Anne:
Anne is a Canadian yoga teacher and trainer who teaches various styles of yoga including hatha, yin, slow flow and restorative yoga. Her calm voice guides you through a practice that is suitable for beginners and advanced offering various options throughout the class. Anne’s aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment in all her classes. She has been practicing yoga for over twenty-five years and understands the benefits of yoga to help relax the body, soothe the soul and ease the mind. www.annewandayoga.ca
Anne is a Canadian yoga teacher and trainer who teaches various styles of yoga including hatha, yin, slow flow and restorative yoga. Her calm voice guides you through a practice that is suitable for beginners and advanced offering various options throughout the class. Anne’s aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment in all her classes. She has been practicing yoga for over twenty-five years and understands the benefits of yoga to help relax the body, soothe the soul and ease the mind. www.annewandayoga.ca
INCLUDES:
- 6 nights accommodation at yogapulia
- 3 delicious vegetarian meals per day featuring healthy food from the region
- Daily fruits, snacks, cakes and teas
- 2 daily yoga classes (slow flow, hatha, mobility, yin, & restorative, or yoga nidra)
- Daily guided meditation
- Yoga mats & props
- workshops hosted by Anne and Cat
NOT INCLUDED:
- Optional day trips to Matera, Ostuni, Cesternino, Pugliano al Mare, Alberobello, or Grottaglie, Lecce
- Massages or other spa treatments
- Flights or Trains. PLease book your own travel arrangements. The Center can arrange for pick up and transportation to the center, but it is recommended to rent a car with other travellers during the week as you can explore the region without making travel arrangements with the center. Details on participants arrivals will be shared closer to the retreat dates.
- Airport transfers
- 6 nights accommodation at yogapulia
- 3 delicious vegetarian meals per day featuring healthy food from the region
- Daily fruits, snacks, cakes and teas
- 2 daily yoga classes (slow flow, hatha, mobility, yin, & restorative, or yoga nidra)
- Daily guided meditation
- Yoga mats & props
- workshops hosted by Anne and Cat
NOT INCLUDED:
- Optional day trips to Matera, Ostuni, Cesternino, Pugliano al Mare, Alberobello, or Grottaglie, Lecce
- Massages or other spa treatments
- Flights or Trains. PLease book your own travel arrangements. The Center can arrange for pick up and transportation to the center, but it is recommended to rent a car with other travellers during the week as you can explore the region without making travel arrangements with the center. Details on participants arrivals will be shared closer to the retreat dates.
- Airport transfers
Sample of Daily Schedule
8:00am: Morning Mediation & Gentle Hatha / Slow Flow / Mobility Yoga
10:30am: Brunch
Free time/group excursion
4:30-6pm: Yin Yoga / Restorative Yoga / Yoga Nidra
6:30pm: Dinner
*Schedule may vary from day to day
8:00am: Morning Mediation & Gentle Hatha / Slow Flow / Mobility Yoga
10:30am: Brunch
Free time/group excursion
4:30-6pm: Yin Yoga / Restorative Yoga / Yoga Nidra
6:30pm: Dinner
*Schedule may vary from day to day
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At YogApulia, you can expect a cozy and serene sleep. The rooms are intentionally minimalist and clean to aid in you unwinding and relaxing at night. All accommodations are double occupancy and there is one double room - perfect for two people who want to share a bed. The other rooms have two single beds. Each room has it’s own private bathroom.
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ACCOMODATION
(All rooms are double occupancy. Please let us know who you would like to be partnered with) Room 1 - Double bed Room 2 - 2 single beds 1/2 SOLD OUT Room 3 - 2 single beds Room 4 - 2 single beds Room 5 - 2 single beds Room 6 - 2 single beds 2/2 SOLD OUT $2450 CDN / person |
Save $200 CDN if you reserve by December 1, 2024. $2250 CDN / person
FAQs with Cat & Anne
Q: Is this retreat only for advanced yogis?
A: Definitely not! You will benefit from having practiced yoga before, but we are experienced yoga teachers who can adapt the practice depending on your skill level. We can also can offer suggestions and modifications if you’re dealing with an injury. This is a great opportunity to explore different styles of yoga, ask questions, and learn variations that work for your body.
Q: What if I’m coming to Italy alone?
A: That’s great! You’ll have an opportunity to connect more with the group, and yourself. We will partner you in a shared room with someone. As our accommodations are limited, there are no single rooms at this time. You will be fully supported and integrated into the group.
Q: How do I get there?
A: The closest airport to the retreat centre is Brindisi (BDS) or Bari (BRI). You may want to look at flying into Rome (FCO). From there, you’ll take ground transportation to Casalini. Renting a car can be an inexpensive way to get around and see the countryside. As we get closer to the retreat, we will arrange the group so that people can carpool, as needed.
Q: What does a day at this retreat look like?
A: Each day of our retreat will be unique, as we’ve curated the activities based on our experience of hosting retreats and showcasing the region. Typically, we will have two yoga practices per day (one more active and one more passive), meditation, breathing practice, meals together, free time, and an outing. Please contact us if you’d like a more detailed itinerary.
Q: What is the weather like in May?
A: Late spring in Italy is glorious! You can expect temperatures between 15-23°C, with lots of sun.
Q: Am I required to participate in every excursion and activity?
A: No, you can customize your retreat experience to be as relaxed or as lively as you want. Although a group itinerary with daily meditation, yoga and activities has been curated, at the end of the day you can opt in or out of anything along the way.
Q: What’s the food like?
A: Italy is renowned for it’s delicious and fresh food. Each meal is prepared on site with the highest quality ingredients. All meals at YogApulia are plant-based, and food allergies (eg. GF/DF) are easily accommodated. We will have two groups meals per day: Brunch at 10:30am and dinner at 6:30pm. Light refreshemnts are served in the afternoon.
Q: What is NOT included in the price?
A: You are responsible for booking and paying for flights and transportation to YogApulia. We also strongly recommend that you purchase travel and medical insurance.
Q: When does the retreat start and end?
A: Check in at YogApulia is at 3pm on Saturday May 24. Check out is at 11am on Thursday May 29.
Q: Are there any specific health related issues that I should be aware of?
A: No, just general travel safety.
Visit unrollthemat.ca/products/southernitaly to book your spot!
A non-refundable $750 CDN deposit reserves your spot! Send your deposit by December 1, 2024, and the remainder by March 1. 2025 to save $200!
Please contact annewandatessier@gmail.com or cat@unrollthemat.ca with any questions.
A non-refundable $750 CDN deposit reserves your spot! Send your deposit by December 1, 2024, and the remainder by March 1. 2025 to save $200!
Please contact annewandatessier@gmail.com or cat@unrollthemat.ca with any questions.
PLEASE READ South of Italy Yoga Retreat Conditions
PREVIOUS RETREATS
Uplift 30 day on-line retreat. November 2020
We are all in this together.
For the month of November, I have created a special, uplifting virtual "retreat" to connect with you and provide opportunities for building resilience during this time. It's not a full day retreat... Every day, I will be offering a daily yoga class, a writing exercise, a guided meditation, or yoga nidra practice. I will also facilitate a weekly group discussion for everyone to have the opportunity to share with others. It is not a challenge or a day long retreats, but rather an opportunity to feel connected and uplift our spirits during the month of November.
Each morning, you will receive an email with a link for either a live or pre-recorded yoga class, guided meditation or yoga nidra practice or a pdf of the weekly journaling exercise. If you miss any events, don't worry, you will obtain a link so that you can participate at your own pace.
South of Italy Yoga Retreat. May 4-11, 2019
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Slow down and enjoy the moment. Join Anne Wanda Tessier (E-RYT) for a luxurious week-long yoga retreat in the south of Italy. Enjoy daily yoga and meditation, workshops on the theme of mindfulness and slowing down, delicious vegetarian food from the region and excursions to nearby towns. Discover the art “di fare niente” (to do nothing) and take time to enjoy “la vita bella” in the sunny south of Italy. Enjoy a perfect balance of exploring the region, while also taking time to relax, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul. The retreat is hosted in a beautiful historic farmhouse, typical of the region of Puglia.
Included: - 7 nights accommodation at Rosa dei 4 Venti - 3 vegetarian meals per day, Fruits, snacks and teas - 2 daily yoga classes (gentle, flow, yin, restorative) - Daily guided meditations & workshops or Excursion to near-by market - Yoga mats & props - One Day Trip Not included: - Optional day trips to Lecce, Matera, Ostuni Village, Pugliano al Mare, Alberobello - Massages and other spa treatments, Flight, Airport transfers Sample of Daily Schedule: 8:00: Morning Mediation 8:30 - 9:00: Light Breakfast 10 - 11:30: Gentle Hatha / Yin Yoga Practice 12:30 - 1:30 pm: Lunch 1:30 - 5:30 pm: (Free time/ Day Trip / Yoga or Special Workshop) * 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm: Dinner 8 pm - 9:30 pm - Candlelight Restorative Yoga Practice (with Hot Stones) / Yoga Nigra / Yoga / Meditation * Free Time: Explore Rosa dei 4 Venti, read, relax, go for a massage or hang out at the pool, * Workshops: Savasana and the importance of finding clam, Mindfulness and Slowing Down, Meridian Yoga, Happiness Workshop/ other. * Day Trips: One day trip is included in the pricing. Optional day trips to Lecce, Matera, Ostuni Village, Pugliano al Mare, and Alberobello will be coordinated onsite with participants. Spaces are limited. Travel arrangements and logistics by Life Travelled Well/Away by TTI TICO 4411872. Please contact Valerie Balderson travel@lifetravelledwell.com or 613 261 7147 to reserve your yoga retreat experience. Anne is warm, supportive, knowledgable and kind. Her voice is soothing and unhurried. She is very respectful and receptive of the energy each person brought to the retreat. I loved my experience. It was a luxurious gift to myself. It was just the right balance of classes and free time.
Stephanie (Almonte, Canada) |
CULTIVATING HAPPINESS. One Day Urban Retreat at PranaShanti Yoga Centre, May 5, 2018
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Join us for a One Day Urban Happiness Retreat with Anne Wanda Tessier at PranaShanti Yoga Center. During this one-day retreat we will practice gentle yoga, guided meditations and breath work, and participate in a workshop to help us cultivate happiness. We will also enjoy a Happiness Boosting light lunch. The retreat day is suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, including those who are new to the practice. The One Day retreat includes: Welcome talk and introductions, Yoga Practice to cultivate happiness. (We will explore asana practice by clarifying our intentions, and with sequencing the class and postures unique to what our needs are.),
Happiness Boosting Foods Lunch, A happiness workshop to reflect on what brings us joy, and how to cultivate happiness, A goodie bag of soothing spa treats and letterpress print., A one –hour infrared sauna session that can be used within one year at PranaShanti Yoga Centre, 3 yoga classes at PranaShanti Yoga Centre Closing Meditation. Cost: $125 / Maximum 30 participants Wow! We covered so much in one day! I loved the goodie bag. Thanks so much for the print!
Tina, Ottawa I really appreciated the happiness workshop, such great questions to think about. Great way to be mindful about what brings us joy and happiness and prioritize what is most important in life. Maria, Ottawa The food was delicious! It was great to hear about Amy's journey, and how she finds happiness in what she does. You can tell she is passionate about eating healthy! Nancy, Ottawa |
SUMMER CONNECTION. Day Retreat at PranaShanti Yoga Centre. July 15, 2017
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Celebrate the Joy of summer with a one-day Urban Yoga Retreat at PranaShanti Yoga Centre. As we move into a season that is linked to the fire element and filled with increased social and physical activity, let us find balance between connecting with others and connecting with ourselves. In this one-day retreat we will have the opportunity to socialize as well as take the time to slow down and enjoy the present moment. Anne will guide you though a yoga sequence balancing the meridian lines linked to the element of fire. We will balance the outward focus of the summer's fiery energy with an inward practice, and guided mediation. Amy Longard will provide a delicious vegan light lunch and lead a discussion about our connection to food and the summer season. The retreat day is suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, including those who are new to the practice. The One Day retreat includes: , Welcome talk and introductions, Yoga Practice to balance the fire energy of the season with hot-stone restorative poses, Nourishing lunch by Amy Longard Nutrition and treats by Urban Juice Press, Group activity and connecting workshop, A goodie bag of soothing spa treats, A one –hour infrared sauna session that can be used within one year at PranaShanti Yoga Centre, 3 yoga classes at PranaShanti Yoga Centre, Closing Meditation Max. 24 participants
Anne has such a soothing voice. The yoga classes were lovely, and Anne was accepting of where all of the students were at. I really appreciated all of the modifications.
Josee, Cornwall, Canada Anne's energy is a perfect balance of still and joyful. I never felt I had to be a certain way. I loved the restorative yoga, especially with the hot stones! Anne was exceptional at engaging all of the senses. Anonymous Anne is warm, supportive, knowledgable and kind. Her voice is soothing and unhurried. She is very respectful and receptive of the energy each person brought to the retreat. I loved my experience. It was a luxurious gift to myself. It was just the right balance of classes and free time. Stephanie (Almonte, Canada) |
NATURE + NUTURE YOGA RETREAT Kabania Eco Cabins, Aug 11-13, 2017
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Amy Longard and I will be hosting another Retreat at Kabania Eco Cabins in Lanaudiere, Quebec. Spots are limited to 12 people. Spend time in nature, enjoy daily meditation, yoga, hikes, and delicious food prepared by Amy Longard Nutrition. You will also have the opportunity to learn some vegan cooking tips by helping out in the Kitchen.
Sample Daily Schedule: 7:30-8:00 am- Morning Meditation 8:00-9:00 am - Breakfast 10:00 - 11:30 am - Gentle / Yin Yoga Practice 12:30 - 1:30 - Lunch 1:30 - 4:00 - Free time 4:00 - 5:00 pm - Workshop 5:30 - 7:00 pm - Dinner 7:30 - 9:30 pm - Evening Restorative Yoga Practice Anne is warm, supportive, knowledgable and kind. Her voice is soothing and unhurried. She is very respectful and receptive of the energy each person brought to the retreat. I loved my experience. It was a luxurious gift to myself. It was just the right balance of classes and free time.
Stephanie (Almonte, Canada) I loved my yoga retreat with Anne. The schedule was perfect, and I feel more centered. I would love to come back. I truly enjoyed the silent mornings. Anne was awesome - she is very in tune with others. The yoga was incredible and felt personal. Anne was sure to commit with everyone at some point during the retreat. Celine, (Cornwall, Canada) Going on this retreat was the best decision I ever made. I am fairly new to restorative yoga, and really enjoyed opening my mind to this style of teaching. I enjoyed the themes each day, and starting the morning with a mediation. I feel like the schedule allowed me to have a variety of activities. Anne was amazing. She has so much compassion, love and joie de vivre. She is a genuine person and it really shows through her practice. Anonymous |
CULTIVATING HAPPINESS One Day Urban Retreat at PranaShanti Yoga Centre, April 15, 2017
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Join us for a One Day Urban Happiness Retreat with Anne Wanda Tessier at PranaShanti Yoga Center. During this one-day retreat we will practice gentle yoga, guided meditations and breath work, and participate in a workshop to help us cultivate happiness. We will also enjoy a Happiness Boosting Foods Presentation and light lunch provided by Amy Longard Nutrition. The retreat day is suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, including those who are new to the practice.
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RESTORATIVE YOGA RETREAT The Yoga Barn, Bali, Indonesia. March 17 - 22, 2017
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"In an age of acceleration, nothing can be more exhilarating than going slow.
In a age of distraction, nothing can feel more luxurious than paying attention, and in an age of constant movement, nothing is so urgent as sitting still." - Pico Iyer Join Anne Wanda Tessier at the Yoga Barn in Bali, Indonesia for a blissful Restorative Yoga Retreat. Allow yourself the time to relax, renew and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul in the luscious paradise of Bali, Indonesia. In this week long retreat, you will be nourished with daily restorative yoga, meditation, group activities and breathing exercises. Treat yourself to spa services from KUSH Ayurvedic Rejunenation Spa and enjoy healthy vegetarian cuisine from the Yoga Barn Garden Kafe.
Daily yoga and meditation, and other group activities will be tailored to the theme of finding ease in the body, cultivating joy and happiness, and connecting to our true selves. You will gain valuable space for yourself and return home with peace of mind, a relaxed body & a fresh perspective. During this retreat you will also learn tools to find comfort and ease during stressful times, and learn benefits of finding stillness on the body, mind and soul. Take this time to nurture yourself, create space, cultivate a sense of calm, and find stillness. Includes: 2 Yoga classes + 2 meals per day, daily meditations, one 60 minute spa service at KUSH and one group excursion and 3 workshops. Workshops will be on the theme of relaxation & reducing stress, benefits of finding stillness, and happiness. Sample Daily Schedule 7:30 - 8 am - Meditation 8:30 - 9:30 - Breakfast 10 - 11:30 - Gentle Hatha / Yin & Restorative Yoga Practice 12:30 - 1:30 pm - Lunch 1:30 - 5:30 pm (Free time / Excursion or Workshop) Workshops: Finding Calm, Savasana, Restorative Yoga Poses, Happiness, True Self, Meridian Yoga 6 pm - 7 pm - Dinner 8 pm - 9:30 pm - Restorative Yoga Practice Restorative Yoga practices: (Heart Opening, Grounding, Slowing Down, Deep Sleep, Hot Stones, Yoga Nidra * Limited single and shared accomodation at the Yoga Barn Guest House have been reserved for retreat. Alternative accomodations must be made. There are several options to choose from in Ubud, Bali.
* Deposit is non-refundable. Payment (less deposit), refundable up to 1 month before retreat. Half of payment refundable if cancelled 1 month to one week prior to retreat. No payment refunded if cancelled less than two weeks prior to retreat What to bring: Each participant is responsible for obtaining passport / visas. Please bring your yoga mat and any props that you like to use. The Yoga Barn has many props for use. (blankets, blocks & bolsters) Please visit www.theyogabarn.com for how to get there. Bring comfortable yoga clothing suitable for gentle hatha and restorative yoga practice. |
WINTER COMFORT One Day Urban Restorative Yoga Retreat, February 18, 2017
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Escape the cold and join us for a cozy One Day Restorative Retreat with Anne Wanda Tessier at PranaShanti Yoga Center. During this one-day retreat we will practice gentle yoga, restorative yoga with hot-stones, breath work, and guided meditations. This restorative retreat will allow for inner-reflection, deep relaxation, and create the space to realign our hearts true intention.
Melt away stress and nourish your body, mind and spirit. Feel nurtured in a warm and supportive atmosphere, while creating the opportunity to connect with others. This is a perfect opportunity to take time out for yourself, while still providing time for other commitments during the weekend. By taking care of ourselves, we can take better care of others. The retreat day is suitable for all levels of yoga practitioners, including those who are new to the practice. Urban Day Winter Retreat includes: • Welcome talk and introductions • Gentle yoga and self-inquiring meditation practice • A nourishing and healing light lunch by Amy Longard Nutrition and treats by Urban Juice Press • Restorative yoga with Hot Stones • A goodie bag of soothing spa treats by Yogoil, Sabboon and others • A one –hour infrared sauna session that can be used within one year at PranaShanti Yoga Center • 3 yoga classes at PranaShanti Yoga Center • Closing Meditation Thanks for creating such a cozy space. The day was so relaxing. I just loved the food that Amy prepared! So delicious. Samantha, Ottawa
The Hot-Stone restorative class was so lovely. I had never tried restorative yoga before, and I have never taken the time to just relax. I felt so calm after the retreat. Tracey, Ottawa What a great idea to host a day retreat like this. I will definitely explore others! It was such a nice break to escape the cold and feel cozy and warm. Julia, Ottawa |
RESTORATIVE YOGA RETREAT Kabania Eco-Cabins, Lanaudiere, Quebec. Sept 22-25, 2016
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Join Anne Wanda Tessier and Amy Longgard at Kabania Eco Cabins in Lanuadiere Quebec, for a blissful restorative yoga retreat. Allow yourself the time to relax, renew and rejuvenate the body, mind and soul. Enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of nature, the colourful fall scenery and the crisp fresh air.
During this 4-day retreat you will be nourished by daily meditation, and group activities, as well as delicious and healthy vegetarian cuisines prepared by Amy Longard. You will have ample time to explore the hiking trails, relax by the river, hang out in the hammocks and find time for yourself. Sample Daily Schedule:
7:30-8:00 am- Morning Meditation 8:00-9:00 am - Breakfast 10:00 - 11:30 am - Gentle / Yin Yoga Practice 12:30 - 1:30 - Lunch 1:30 - 4:00 - Free time 4:00 -5:00 pm Workshop 5:30 - 7:00 pm - Dinner 7:30 - 9:30 pm - Evening Restorative Yoga Practice |
