A Return to the Self: An 8-Day Transformational Yoga Retreat in Italy with Amber Seale Voss

Welcome to Italy! Bask in the Italian sun as it greets you at Roma Airport, where an aura of serenity starts to envelop your body, mind, and soul. As a group, you’ll be taken through picturesque landscapes en route to the historic Le Silve di Armenzano Resort. The essence of the ancient hostel, now a tranquil retreat, beckons the group as you check-in, your senses tingling with the prospect of rejuvenation. With a few precious hours of free time, explore the sprawling estate or simply bask in the serene ambiance.

As evening shades grace the sky, we'll join in an intimate opening circle, where you can set intentions for the week ahead and connect with your group. A tantalizing aroma then leads the group to a welcome dinner, where the rustic charm of Umbrian cuisine nourishes both body and soul.

As dawn paints the Umbrian sky with hues of amber and rose, we’ll gather in the embrace of nature for a soul-awakening morning yoga session. The synchronized breaths and gentle stretches orchestrate a symphony with the rustling leaves, fostering a deep sense of unity with the Earth. After our spirits are enlivened, the group is welcomed with a heartening breakfast where the freshest ingredients cater to nourishment and mindfulness.

The day unfurls leisurely, with ample self-care and relaxation time. You're encouraged to indulge in the simple pleasures of strolls amidst the olive groves, reading under the shade of ancient trees, or savoring the tranquility of the surroundings.

As the day mellows into evening, another yoga session, Rest & Renew, calls upon us to release the residual energies of the day through calming postures and meditative breaths. With hearts light and spirits grounded, we’ll enjoy dinner under a tapestry of stars, sharing laughter and stories as the gentle whisper of the night cradles us in the magic of returning to the Self.

As the day dawns with the promise of discovery, we’ll assemble amidst nature for a grounding morning yoga session. From here, a delectable breakfast, crafted with love, sets the stage for the adventure ahead.

With hearts open and minds still, we’ll embark on a sacred pilgrimage to the Cathedral of St. Francis in the ethereal town of Assisi. Walking in the footsteps of St. Francis, immerse yourself in the reverent silence, feeling a deep connection to the history and spirituality enveloping you. The labyrinthine streets of Assisi beckon exploration, and lunch becomes a personal journey as you sample the delightful local fare on your own.

As the afternoon sun begins its descent, the group returns to the tranquil haven of Le Silve di Armenzano. The rest of the afternoon unfurls at a leisurely pace, as you can take time to reflect or indulge in gentle pursuits.

Under the night’s embracing cloak, an evening of Yin yoga and guided meditation gently carries the group into a state of deep relaxation and introspection. Surrender to the nourishing embrace of stillness and remember who you are. The day culminates in a communal dinner, where shared experiences and gratitude fill the air.

With the rising sun casting a golden glow across the Umbrian landscape, come together in a serene outdoor setting for our morning yoga session. Afterward, a nourishing breakfast awaits, its array of wholesome delicacies reflecting the abundance of the Italian countryside.

The day then unfurls like a soft whisper, as you’re encouraged to indulge in self-care and relaxation. You might wander the verdant grounds, or simply pause to appreciate the beauty around you. You could also book a spa treatment or hang by the pool and soak up that Italian sun.

In the afternoon, the air is tinged with anticipation as the group gathers for a gratitude and creativity practice, with journaling, art-making, or simply reflecting in silence, each person delving into their wellspring of thankfulness and inspiration.

As dusk weaves its tranquil spell, our evening yoga session, Rest & Renew, invites us to unwind through restorative poses and deep breathing, releasing deep-seated tension and stress. Finally, enjoy a soul-satisfying dinner under a starlit canopy - the perfect end to a perfect day.

The break of day signals the beginning of another nourishing chapter for our group. Come together for a morning yoga session under the awakening Umbrian sky, our movements and breath in harmonious symphony with nature's rhythm. With a sense of inner calm established, we’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast, which lends itself to free time at the resort.

As the sun sets, we’ll come together for a convivial cooking class, where the preparation and sharing of a traditional Italian meal becomes a celebration of unity and culture. The day culminates in a guided meditation focusing on the senses, allowing us to fully immerse in the subtle flavors of the meal, the soothing rustle of the trees, and the touch of the cool evening breeze, deepening our journey towards the Self.

Our morning begins with an invigorating yoga session before a group breakfast that will fill our stomachs and energize us for another great day in Italy. With spirits buoyed and bodies fueled, we’ll embark on a morning walk through the lush landscape. A nature meditation during this walk is an invitation to commune with the Earth, helping us release the connection to technology and reconnect with the land around us.

A sumptuous lunch awaits back at the resort which flows into free time for self-care and reflection. As the light wanes, the group assembles for a gratitude and creativity practice, honoring the wellspring of inspiration that has been cultivated.

In the evening, a gentle restorative yoga session ushers in a deep sense of calm, as bodies and minds yield to peace. The day culminates in dinner under the stars.

As the sun rises over the enchanting Italian countryside, we’ll join together for our final morning yoga session, each asana an embrace of the journey we have traversed. A nourishing breakfast, replete with local flavors, awaits us, inviting a sense of abundance and gratitude.

The morning progresses at a leisurely pace, with ample time for self-care and introspection. Some participants may choose to wander the grounds, while others might pen their reflections or simply revel in the tranquility that surrounds them by the pool.

As the sun begins to set, painting the sky in shades of gold and amber, the group gathers for a transformative sharing circle. Here, in the sacred space of trust and openness, we’ll share our insights, growth, and aspirations, our words weaving an indelible tapestry of connection. The day reaches its zenith with a farewell dinner, where laughter and stories reverberate under the starlit sky.

Our final morning in Italy will begin with a sacred closing circle, where we can reflect on all that we’ve seen, learned, and accomplished. After the circle, enjoy one final breakfast overlooking the beautiful Umbrian countryside. From here, we’ll pack up, check out, and take our group transfer to San Francesco d’Assisi Rail station, the rolling hills and olive groves bidding us a gentle adieu. As the airport comes into view, there is a collective understanding that, though this journey in Italy ends, the inward journey to slow down and return to the Self has been indelibly awakened, and continues to unfold in the tapestry of our lives. Safe travels and be well!