As I bid farewell to another group of students on the beautiful island of Serifos, I'm filled with mixed emotions - sadness to see them go, but also gratitude for the week we shared together. It's amazing how quickly bonds form in our little community and how much growth happens within just seven days.
As I reflect on my last retreat, I find myself pondering what made this experience so special, why people keep coming back year after year, and why I - even after all these years - couldn't wait to welcome a new group with the same enthusiasm as if it was the first time.
It's easy to pinpoint the reasons: the people, the island, and of course, the practice. But what truly sets our community apart is the way we come together - like-minded individuals from all corners of the globe united by a shared passion for yoga, travel and connection. We form a bond that goes beyond just practicing together; it's about sharing laughter, stories, insights, dreams, experiences.
As a teacher, there's no greater reward than witnessing my students' commitment to their practice. Seeing them push past their limits, build confidence, break free from barriers and overcome self-doubt fills me with gratitude and joy. It's an honor to be part of their journey and watch them grow into their full potential.
Each morning, we wake up to the warm light of dawn and pay our respects to the sun as it slowly rises over the Aegean sea. We start our day with a traditional Mysore practice. The groups are always small, allowing for personalized guidance and attention. This class is an opportunity for beginners and experienced practitioners to come together, learn alongside each other and discover the magic of Ashtanga’s one-on-one instruction. In Led classes, we follow the Sanskrit counting and allow it to be our guide, incorporating rhythm, precision and clarity into our movements.
After morning practice, we take time to explore Serifos, wandering along its rugged coastline in search of secluded coves, hidden beaches and scenic hiking trails. The island's wild, raw beauty leaves a lasting impression on everyone who sets foot here. We often find ourselves lost in conversation, sharing stories and laughter as we soak up the sun.
In the afternoons, we chant together and delve into Yoga philosophy, exploring its rich history and symbolism. We also participate in thematic workshops, exploring key aspects of the Ashtanga practice, deepening our knowledge and refining our technique. We close each day in our Shala, as the setting sun casts its warm rays and the evening light paints the sky with hues of crimson and gold. In these moments, surrounded by the silence and serenity of the island, our teachings come alive and we're reminded why we're here - to grow, learn, and connect.
My goal is simple: to equip students with solid foundations so they can create their own unique practice - one that brings them health, focus, presence, confidence and a deeper connection to themselves.
As I look back on the past week, I'm reminded of the power of community, the beauty of Serifos and the transformative potential of Yoga. It's an honor to be part of this journey with each and every one of my students and I eagerly await the next opportunity to share this experience together.
