CITY RETREAT - Kickoff 2027

On Sunday, 10th January 2027, we invite you to an Urban Retreat at our shala in Värnhem, a perfect way to kickstart the year with a full day of yoga. The theme of the day is "Everything Begins with the Breath." Through a blend of physical, theoretical, and contemplative practices, we explore the importance of the breath in relation to our yoga practice, our health/vitality and our ability to be in the present moment.

This urban retreat is open to practitioners of all levels; however, some experience with Ashtanga yoga is required. (Beginners should have completed a beginners' course and be aquainted with—as well as capable of independently performing—the Sun Salutations and the standing sequence from the Ashtanga yoga Primary Series.) Places are limited and advance registration is required. See the full program description below.

Date: Sunday, 10th January, 2027

Time: 08:30–16:30

Price: 750 SEK

Registration: Please register via our partner, Medborgarskolan (click here).

Questions: Email us.

PROGRAM

08:45 Introduction to Pranayama – Isabella
A session that prepares the respiratory system and muscles for the day ahead and the physical practice to follow.

09:30–11:00 Guided Primary Series (Ashtanga)– Isabella
Participants are guided through the Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series with the traditional Sanskrit count. You do not need to have completed the full series to participate, but you should be familiar with the foundations of Ashtanga Yoga and feel comfortable with at least the Sun Salutations and the beginning of the seated sequence.

11:00–11:30 Guided Relaxation – Isabella
We explore progressive relaxation, helping the body learn to distinguish between active, passive, and tense states. This technique promotes recovery and generates new energy.

11:45–13:15 Communal Brunch/Lunch where everyone brings their own food (coffee, tea, and fruit will be provided at the shala).
Open discussion (led by Isabella) on what yoga philosophy says about the significance of the breath in yoga.

13:30–15:00 Every Breath Counts – (Active Workshop) – Helena
To follow the breath is simple in theory, but in practice, it is a continuous effort. Discover how inhalation and exhalation provide both energy and guidance in your yoga practice. We explore various postures using the breath as a guide; participants are encouraged to identify aspects of their own practice that feel challenging and points where placing extra focus on the breath can offer support.

15:15–16:15 Meditation & Mindfulness – Katie
After giving our attention to our bodies and to our breath, this session is an invitation to tend to the mind. Seated meditation can be an act of mental house cleaning, a purposeful effort to remove mental clutter so that you can better connect with the world around you. This workshop will give some practical tips on how to approach seated meditation so as to make the practice more accessible.