Looking for more privacy? Upgrade to a single room for the duration of the retreat.
Chrissy is a Los Angeles based yoga teacher, vegan foodie, writer, travel junkie and animal lover. The onset of her love affair with yoga over twenty years ago set in motion an active practice that has allowed her to guide others for over a decade. Her formal training began in 2002 with Yoga Works in Los Angeles. She has since completed over 1000 hours of Yoga Alliance Certified training under the guidance of her teachers Joan Hyman, Jeanne Heileman and many others. She stays busy teaching alignment based classes and workshops flowing with harmonious movement, yoga philosophy and a positive outlook. She also leads workshops, training and yoga retreats all over the world. In addition to teaching yoga classes, She loves to cook, write, travel the world and work with animal rescues and shelters. She founded 'The Yoga Pawject', a non-profit that helps raise money for animals in need.
“Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life.” Anna Akhmatova
Join me for a 6 night and 7 day cultural yoga retreat in the southern coastal region of Ragusa, Sicily. Located just minutes away from the crystal clear blue waters of the Mediterranean sea, this retreat center will fulfill all your Italian lifestyle dreams. Here, we will slow down a bit, embrace the culture, explore baroque archeological sites, eat authentic Sicilian food made with love, take leisurely strolls in local towns and beaches, and of course, practice yoga daily in an open air yoga shala with the ocean breeze caressing our skin. You will leave feeling inspired, rejuvenated and deeply fulfilled. Each morning will start with an invigorating yoga class that focuses on a different theme. We will then sit together for a nourishing breakfast, followed by free time spent by the pool, local beach or town, or going on group adventures. After a light lunch, we will reunite for a soothing evening class, allowing us to fully absorb all the beauty, colors and flavors of Sicily. We will end with a delicious dinner under the stars, leaving us completely nourished and relaxed. This bucket list yoga retreat is what dreams are made of.
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation as you join us for a transformative wellness retreat in the heart of Sicily. Your journey begins the moment you touch down at Catania Airport, where a group transfer will whisk you away to the idyllic Mangiabove Guest House for your check-in. Take some time to settle in and explore your surroundings during your free time.
As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll come together for an evening practice focused on hips and lower back – ideal for releasing any tension from your travels. Finally, we’ll unite as a community at our Welcome Circle with dinner to follow, providing the opportunity to connect with fellow participants and set intentions for the days ahead. Sit back, relax, and let the peace and tranquility flow.
Awaken to the serenity of Sicilian mornings with our Open Heart and Open Mind practice, a class designed to help you fully embrace the sweet pleasures of Italian life. After setting your intentions for the day, delight in a nourishing breakfast that will fuel your soul.
The rest of the morning and afternoon offer you ample free time to indulge in leisure activities that resonate with you. Whether you choose to unwind with a massage, explore the charming property, venture into town, or stroll along the beach, the choice is yours. A delicious lunch will be provided to keep your energy up for the rest of the day's adventures.
As evening descends, we'll reconvene for our Love Language session – a deep Yin practice targeted at releasing tension from the shoulders and upper back, further opening our hearts. To cap off the day, you have the option of enjoying a dinner in town, giving you a taste of local Sicilian flavors (not included in the retreat price). Embrace joy and release what no longer serves you in paradise.
Start your day with an invigorating early morning practice that teaches the art of being truly present through Drishti, Breathwork, and posture alignment – just the right preparation for our first group excursion.
After a hearty breakfast, we'll embark on a half-day guided tour from Upper Ragusa to Ragusa Ibla, where we'll delve into the richness of archaeology, Baroque culture, and Fascist architecture. It's a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse layers of Sicilian history. Upon returning to the retreat, a delicious lunch awaits you, followed by leisurely free time to spend as you wish.
As the day winds down, our evening practice will be a slow and stretchy flow designed to shift your mindset from one of scarcity to abundance. It's a heartfelt reminder to appreciate the life we have. The day concludes with a sumptuous dinner, offering yet another opportunity to savor the flavors of Sicily. Soak in every single moment.
RIse and shine with a revitalizing morning practice designed to nourish both body and mind. Our twisty flow class, infused with enriching breathwork, sets the stage for a peaceful meditation session.
Following this invigorating start, a delicious breakfast will be served to fuel your day. Enjoy ample free time afterward, whether you wish to unwind with a massage, or seek adventure in the beautiful surroundings. A scrumptious lunch breaks up the day before another round of free time beckons you to relax or explore.
As evening falls, we’ll gather again for a Peace and Calm Yin class, expertly tailored to release tension from the larger muscle groups in the legs. Finally, immerse yourself in the local culinary culture with a group cooking class and dinner featuring ‘Pasta Cavati with Norma Sauce.’ Mangia!
Embrace the day with our uplifting Morning Practice that will encourage us to find joy through play. This engaging class will focus on balance work, featuring arm balances and inversions, with modifications offered for all levels. Energize your body and spirit, then savor a scrumptious breakfast to keep the good vibes going.
The day continues with either free time to relax or an optional excursion to explore The Upside Down Hill through a Cava Misericordia Trekking Tour in Ragusa, an unforgettable journey into the natural beauty of Sicily. (See add-ons for pricing and more information.) A mouth-watering lunch awaits you upon your return, giving you the perfect mid-day break before an afternoon of free time to do as you please.
As the sun sets, we'll come together for a sumptuous dinner, followed by a Yoga Nidra session to guide you into a deep state of relaxation. Be present, follow your heart, and enjoy the art of youthful play.
Step into a transformative day with our enlightening Morning Practice focused on resiliency where we’ll get comfortable with discomfort. This challenging session aims to change your relationship with struggle, nudging you toward new boundaries and growth.
After engaging your body and mind, refuel with a hearty breakfast before choosing to either relax or explore. A delicious lunch awaits you, offering the perfect midday pause before an afternoon of leisure.
As the sun dips below the horizon, prepare for our Evening Practice that will focus on letting go. This deeply restorative yoga class will help you release physical and mental tension, creating space for new beginnings. We'll conclude the day with a delectable dinner, setting the stage for communal connections and heartfelt conversations. We say our goodbyes tomorrow, so make this last day count.
As our transformative time together in Sicily draws to a close, we’ll come together for a final Morning Practice, giving us an opportunity to reflect on the growth and insights gained during our retreat. Afterward, experience an emotional and uplifting Closing Circle, where we'll consolidate our collective experiences and set intentions for the journey ahead. From here, we’ll enjoy one last meal, check out of the retreat, and head to the airport.
Thank you for sharing this incredible journey with us. May the insights and friendships you've gained enrich your life long after you've returned home. Safe travels and be well!