Ashtanga on the Waves ¨I (Simon) began yoga through surfing. During a year when I surfed every day on the north coast of Ireland, looking for ways to improve my performance, I learnt yoga’s famous “Sun Salutation” sequence – a dynamic series of postures that stretch the body, hone balance and focus the mind. I got into the habit of performing them before entering the water and found it much more effective for me than studying surfing techniques. Yoga certainty improved my surfing level, but more than that, it essentially boosted my enjoyment of my surf sessions. I was amazed at how good I felt after those yoga warm-ups – if the waves were not so inviting, I would often just continue to do yoga on the beach and go home happy instead of frustrated that I had missed out on waves.
Yoga is the ideal preparatory activity for surfing. To surf well requires flexibility, balance and an empty mind. We need flexibility to rapidly contort the body into the position that enables us to keep our centre of gravity on the board – and the balance to keep it there. If the mind is calm there are no thoughts to block our awareness of each wave, which is always unique – thoughts about how to surf are simply too slow while you are on the wave! The practise of yoga enables us to tap into our sub-conscious, to react instinctively to the ever changing water surface . What could be more fun when your body feels loose and energized than to go and play in the waves?
This course is aimed at surfers interested in improving their performance or learning Ashtanga Yoga as much as it is aimed at Yogi’s who wish to enjoy the benefits of their practise learning to surf. Our morning dynamic yoga practise will focus on balance and fluidity of movement. After that our surf guru Dane will take us in his jeep to little known surf breaks with the best wave conditions on that day. However, unlike our other courses, the daily timetable for this course will be as flexible as a yogi, as we intend to be at the best surf when it happens. If there happens to be no swell, we offer yoga workshops in the afternoons, focussing on specific elements of Ashtanga yoga. These workshops may be in the shala or on the beach, depending on the weather conditions. Dane can also give quality instruction to surf novices – or if you already know how, he can simply assure you will be in the right place at the right time. Most nights will be spent in the accommodation at our yoga centre, but we also plan to spend one night wild camping at the beach to take advantage of what appears to be the best surf and weather conditions of the week.
To ensure máximum attention for every participant, this retreat is limited to a máximum of 6 participants.
PRICE
Included:
- 3 nutritious vegetarian meals per day
- Daily transfer to and from any of 6 possible breaks (depending on which has the best surf conditions)
- Rental of equipment (board and wetsuit….some discount is available if you bring your own)
- Daily Ashtanga Yoga classes
- Surf instruction
Prices
- The base price of this retreat is 600 euros (if you have your own accommodation and surf equipment)
- Bell Tent: 675 euro
- Shared Double Room in Mountain Cabin:725 euro
- Private Room in Mountain Cabin: 850 euro
If you choose to stay onsite in a traditional Asturian mountain cabin, the Price is 800 euros
For more information on our accomodation options click here Euipment rental (surf board, wetsuit, wax and spares) is an extra 100 euros for the week To ensure every participant receives significant attention, this course is restricted to a maximum of 6 participants.
RESERVATIONS
Your place can be reserved by making a 100 Euros deposit per person. Click here for information on how to do this