MOAB YOGA, MOUNTAIN BIKING, HIKING ADVENTURE APRIL 16-19, 2011

JOIN OUR 4-DAY FULL MOON ADVENTURE RETREAT
***Just 4 spots left remaining!***
•Integrate Spirit and Nature as you practice yoga, mountain bike, hike and meditate with a group dedicated to doing the same.
•Fully discover (or rediscover!) the Joy of Yoga.
•Experience some of the most beautiful and famous mountain biking trails in the world—canyons, long climbs, beautiful descents, rolling scenery with options to ride Klondike Bluffs, Slickrock, Gemini Bridges and Porcupine Rim.
•Enjoy exceptional yoga, hiking, mountain biking and camaraderie, all designed to help you spiritualize every aspect of your long weekend!
•Recharge, refresh and renew, leaving totally more inspired about your life!
We look forward to your registration! You are in excellent hands!

WHERE IS MOAB UTAH?
Moab Utah is in the southeastern section of Utah. It has an amazingly unique geography that harbors artifacts of ancient peoples, impressive geologic formations, and intricate sandstone layers. Surrounded by national parks such as Arches and Canyonlands, Moab is both a surreal and energetically amazing place. Whether you’re a dedicated yoga enthusiast, or a more casual Yoga practitioner--whether you’re an avid mountain biker looking to up your game or a cycling newbie who wants to get started right, this weekend is for you!

DETAILS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
While the mountain biking in Moab is known as some of the best in the world, it also carries with it some unique challenges: namely slickrock & sand. These take time to get to learn how to ride, and thus we will begin gently, with hands-on guidance and expertise. We will work up to bigger rides that can challenge even the most avid cyclist. You will have the option to choose from a plethora of options that will suit your unique needs, no matter what experience level you have.
Yoga classes are designed with YOU in mind. We will be sure to include poses that will help you on the bike and can be applied to hiking and running too!
Classes include Meditation. There will be plenty of time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty and serenity of the area.

TRIP COST: $999 ($899 EARLY BIRD BY DECEMBER 21, 2010)

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE?
• 3 nights of accommodation
• Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, two dinners and all snacks and drinks for each day’s activities
• A social hour on select evenings
• All transportation during the trip, including private coaches
• 7 Yoga classes with Silvia Mordini
• Private evening Dharma and wilderness talks facilitated by your Guides
• Entrance fees to all group events
• Informational cycling and safety clinic with Jacob Young
• All gratuities for special events, transfers, lodging and group meals.
• A special goodie bag with trip-specific comfort items and accessories

NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare and gratuities for your guides. And two meals are not included during this trip to allow you the opportunity to explore the southwest cuisine on your own.

SONOMA WINE, CYCLING, YOGA SEPT 2-5, 2011

Join us in the California Wine Country where we will experience four days of elegant wines, gourmet vegetarian cuisine, leisurely bicycle rides, private wine tastings, amazing picnic adventures, and the country comfort of Westerbeke Ranch redwood cabins. This is the perfect escape to savor the charm of the Sonoma wine country where everything tantalizes your senses and relaxes your mind. You will be expertly guided to savor the best of one of the world’s premiere cycling regions. Your days begin and end with vinyasa yoga to energize and rejuvenate you on all levels, but there will be time to sit on your sun deck, take a dip in the pool and relax in the Jacuzzi. Don’t miss our excursion to the Calistoga Hot Springs. If you are looking for a weekend getaway that packs a great vintage, this Wine Country tour will exceed your expectations!

INVESTMENT: $1,100 Double and $1,300 Single

AMAZING SAVINGS!!
Register by March 1, 2011 Get $250
Register by April 1, 2011 Get $200 OFF
Register by May 1, 2011 Get $100 OFF

NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare to and from the trip, gratuities for your guides.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR INVESTMENT?
• Cycle your yoga as we visit the most amazing Sonoma wineries (including Ravenswood Winery, Scribe, Tin Barn, Gundlach Bundshu and more!) savoring flavorful wine tastings and tours
• Experience the magic of the Calistoga hot springs mineral water and rejuvenation
• Shop in boutiques and visit historic monuments in Sonoma’s town plaza
• Enjoy an informational bike clinic with Jacob Young
• 6 Yoga classes with Silvia Mordini along with yoga workshop for cyclists
• Receive 3 nights of lodging at Westerbeke Ranch
• Enjoy 3 complete gourmet vegetarian California Country style meals daily
• Take advantage of opportunities to get sun, swim, hike and more!
• Dharma talks and life coaching with Jacob and Silvia
• A special goodie bag with loving gifts

WHERE IS WESTERBEKE RANCH, SONOMA?
The Westerbeke Ranch is located five miles west of the town of Sonoma, in the heart of the wine country! They are just 50 miles north of San Francisco and 45 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. 30 minutes eastward are the sloping vineyards of the Napa Valley and the Calistoga mineral spas. In an area abundant with California heritage and natural beauty, Westerbeke Ranch is surrounded by dozens of historical wineries and points of interest. Nearby Glen Ellen is the former home of writer Jack London and the Jack London State Park. Historic Sonoma Plaza, a short five-minute drive away, features many charming shops and restaurants surrounding the original Sonoma Town Plaza. Westerbeke Ranch, our home away from home will allow us to easily cycle our yoga around the entire area!

LODGING
Westerbeke Ranch offers shared accommodations in charming and comfortably furnished redwood cabins. Delightful paths lead to the cabins, which are nestled in the gardens above the pool area. Each cabin has a series of bedrooms with each bedroom having its own bathroom and private entrance.

TIPS AND GRATUITIES
Gratuities for your guides may be given at your discretion in response to their leadership and professionalism throughout the trip. We suggest 5-10% of the trip price per individual to be divided between the guiding team as an industry standard.

TO REGISTER AND SAVE YOUR SPOT:
A $500 dollar deposit will reserve your space.
You can pay with check, direct bank deposit, or credit card or Paypal on line but we most prefer checks. Please send checks to Alchemy Tours c/o Total Body Yoga, 210 Terrace Drive, Mundelein, IL 60061. Contact us at info@alchemytours.com or call if we can answer any questions.

Day 1 – Friday, September 2, 2011
Afternoon:
11:00am Meet the group depart San Francisco Airport
12:30pm Arrive Westerbeke Ranch
12:30pm Lunch
2:00pm Hike in The Bartholomew Park and Yoga Practice
3:00pm Visit Bartholomew Park Winery and tasting room and museum
4:00pm Winery tours and tastings

Evening:
6:30pm Dinner
8:00pm Restorative Yoga Practice
9:00pm Social and Dharma Talk

Day 2 – Saturday, September 3, 2011
Morning:
7:00am Yoga Practice
8:00am Breakfast
10am Cycling to Wineries (Ravenswood, Scribe Winery, Tin Barn Wineries, and more!)

Afternoon:
12:30pm Picnic Lunch
2:00pm Gundlach Bundshu Cave Tasting

Evening:
5:00pm Yoga Practice
6:30pm Dinner and Dharma Talk

Day 3 – Sunday, September 4, 2011
Morning:
7:00am Yoga Practice
8:00am Breakfast
9:00am Cycling
12:00pm Meet in Historic Sonoma Plaza

Afternoon:
12:00pm Ride or Shuttle to Calistoga mineral spas (enjoy the mineral baths, optional spa appointments)
Lunch on your own in Calistoga
5:00pm Depart for Westerbeke Ranch

Evening:
6:30pm Yoga Practice
8:00pm Final Dinner at one of Sonoma’s finest restaurants
9:00pm Social and Dharma Talk

Day 4 – Monday, September 5, 2011 (Labor Day)
Morning:
8:00am Breakfast
9:00am Yoga Practice
11:00am Check out

Afternoon:
12:00pm Depart for San Francisco Airport
1:00pm Picnic Lunch in transit (Not purchased from Westerbeke)
1:30pm Arrive San Francisco Airport for departures


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHEN DO I NEED TO ARRIVE AND WHEN WILL I DEPART?
ARRIVAL LOCATION:
You will need to arrive by 11:00am on Thursday, Day 1 of trip to Sonoma Wine Country at San Francisco Airport (SFO) where we will meet you and bring you to Westerbeke Ranch.
DEPARTURE LOCATION:
At the end of your trip, you will be shuttled back to Puerto Vallarta International Airport. We will arrive at the airport between 1pm-2pm on March 4th.

HOW DO I GET TO WESTERBEKE RANCH?
Upon arriving at SFO airport we have organized group transportation to and from wine country. If you choose to you can get to Westerbeke Ranch on your own.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER GOING TO BE LIKE?
Warm sunny days (70F-75F) and cooler evenings, with temperatures at least 15 to 20 degrees cooler. Bring layers for the cooler morning and hotter midday differentials and a rain shell is a good idea.

WHAT ARE THE RIDES LIKE?
The activity level for this trip is Moderate. The average daily ride is about 25 miles, with 2,200 feet of climbing. The terrain is generally rolling, with a few flat stretches on quiet, but sometimes narrow roads. For those seeking more challenging rides, the hills to the east or west of the valley are sure to please even the most avid cyclist. Options are available for riding more or fewer miles. Please speak with your guides if you require additional ride options or activities.

WHAT OTHER LOCAL WINERIES ARE AVAILABLE?
Winery tours and tasting available at Benziger Family Vineyards, Ravenswood Winery, The Hess Collection, Cakebread Cellars, Opus One, Summit Lake Vineyards, Mumms, Hanna Winery, Simi, Gary Ferrel, Arista, C. Donatiello, and Sbragia to name a few

YOGA POSES GREAT FOR CYCLING

I love being on two wheels and can't wait to spend even more time there. And one of the things I've learned are some key yoga poses that relieve the tenderness of back discomfort after cycling.  Here are some of my favorites.  And during our multisport trips know that all of the yoga we do supports the preparation of muscle groups used in Mountain Biking or Cycling or HIking or Kayaking.  Whatever we plan to do we align the yoga to make it easier.  Enjoy!  Peace in all ways, Silvia

The Benefits of Key Poses For Cyclists:

1.       Standing Hip Circles - Loosens low back and hips, Strengthens back

2.       Squatting – Opens the pelvis, Stretches hips and lower back, Tones abs, Stretches feet

3.       Kneeling Low Lunge –Stretches hip flexors, Relieves low back pain, Stretches thigh muscles

4.       Cat/Puppy – Increases suppleness of spine, Stretches muscles of the back & neck, Improves posture

5.       Child’s Pose - Relaxes the back & neck, Stretches the spine, Provides a gentle massage to abdominal organs

6.       Cobra – Strengthens the back, Tones the buttocks, Stretches the chest and abdomen, Increases circulation

7.       Knee to Chest – Stretches Lower Back

8.       Spinal Twist – Strengthens abdominal muscles, stretches hips

9.       Bridge (And Pelvic Tilts) - Looses muscles of the low back, Strengthens abs

ONLY $23.75-$48.75/DAY YOGA PRIVATE BEACH SUN COCKTAILS SURFING DEC 8-12, 2010

ONLY $23.75-$48.75/DAY!

Beach, Sun, Vinyasa Yoga, Surf

December 8-12, 2010 Haramara Mexico

****GREAT DEAL! Your Investment with $225 OFF FOR BEING A YOGA STUDENT is $475 for Dorm ($23.75/day); $625 double room ($31.25/day); $975 for a single room ($48.75/day)****

JOIN OUR 5-DAY YOGA RETREAT TO HELP YOU REDISCOVER YOUR BLISS
• Integrate Spirit and Nature as you practice yoga, hike, swim, lounge at Haramara private beach, enjoy meditation beach walks with a group dedicated to doing the same.
• Fully discover (or rediscover!) the Joy of Yoga.
• Experience a place filled with serenity for those looking to reestablish balance.
• Enjoy exceptional yoga, hiking, eco-adventures and camaraderie, connecting with pristine beaches, gourmet vegetarian meals, relaxing jungle spa treatments.
• Take advantage of opportunities to experience epic surfing, fun zip lining, horseback riding, whale watching, snorkeling and more!
• Recharge, refresh and renew, leaving totally more inspired about your life!

PAYMENT POLICIES:
Deposit: A $500 dollar deposit will reserve your space.

TO REGISTER AND SAVE YOUR SPOT:
You can pay with check, direct bank deposit, or credit card or Paypal on line but we most prefer checks. Please send checks to Alchemy Tours c/o Total Body Yoga, 210 Terrace Drive, Mundelein, IL 60061.

CONTACT US
For more information call (847) 772-964. And facebook us too!

WHERE IS HARAMARA?

IS located amid the mountains in teh most beautiful costal region of the state of Nayarit in Mexico, about 50 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. Haramara is idyllic offering serenity, stunning beaches, and awe inspiring scenery.

YOGA IN NATURE BY GUEST BLOGGER LeANN KENNEDY LOCKHART

Hey this is Silvia, I received this beautiful bit of prose from my student, friend, teacher trainee LeAnn and wanted to share it with you.  It is really one of the most wonderful aspects of Alchemy Tours - we get to try our yoga off the mat too!  Here is her expression.  And don't forget join us anytime, anywhere in the world! Peace in all ways, Silvia


"Today I took My yoga practice outside. With my dog in hand ,both of us set out on an adventure. Luckily I live not to far from a beautifully wooded era,with a sweet Creek that runs through it. So that is were we found ourselves me and my dog Roxie. I decided to take my practice to the next level,NO MAT.So in my bare feet I found myself twisting and turning,flowing like a bird on an old tree that had fallen down. And as I stood in mountain pose I found a strength, an inner high as if my body had grown tall tree limbs,and as the wind kissed my skin,I felt as if I were that tree that had once stood tall The light inside me grew stronger .So now I was balancing on this old tree using its limbs as props . The clean fresh air filled up my soul. And so that 30 mins turned into a full on retreat an adventure. 


So I guess what I am trying to say is be adventurous . Take your practice to the next level of excitment. Stand on that tree laying down the hill, life doesn't have to be flat. Infact we all know life is full of ups down. Life is what you make of it . Let your feet get a little cold because you decided to you wanted feel the trees heart beat in your feet,grounding you,and let you also feel the adventure of gripping your feet on the edge. Taking that chance,taking that risk. So be grounded first so you are safe,and then you can spread your wings and fly in the cool breeze.

So if Mother Nature is calling you like she did me today,take that 15 to 30 mins and venture out . Let your fierce warrior heart be smothered by mother natures calling, Light and love LeAnn"

Why do a Spiritual Adventure?

WHY DO A SPIRITUAL ADVENTURE:

What are you waiting for? In these chaotic times, it is imperative to slow down more than ever so that we can again find our center and realize what is most important to us. A spiritual adventure help you heal your soul and learn how to make healthy choices for your greater happiness. Each retreat provides loving accommodations, inspirational talks, expert instruction, and healthy, delicious meals.

Remember that you don’t need anyone else’s permission but your own to sign up. You will be part of an intimate group of people just like you who are looking for a “time out.” The prerequisites for attending have nothing to do with athletic ability or experience, and everything to do with an open heart, a playful curiosity, an inquisitive mind. And a desire to Design Your Best Life ever!  

When we think about why we want to take folks on retreat to various places in the world a great part of that reason is because we want to help people regain what we call “The Innocence of Hope”. Innocence, wonder, curiosity are such loving human characteristics that require an incredible amount of strength to maintain throughout our lives for its easy to get jaded, or scared or cynical. When we lose the innocence of hope we stop living our dreams whether it be about offering our hearts to another person or building a business or quitting a job we hate. We know that by achieving something physical this innocence and hope for the unknown are transportable and could change someone’s life.  Save these Early Bird dates below and save money too! 

Keep it real, stoke the fire, 

Love in all ways, Silvia

“The better you feel physically the easier it is to be happy.” –Martin Rush, Partner Yoga

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Xinalani Mexico Yoga and Eco-Adventure Vacation February 26-March 5 with Alchemy Tours

DURING THIS 6-DAY YOGA RETREAT YOU WILL:

• Integrate Spirit and Nature as you practice yoga, and experience truly stunning eco-discoveries, play and meditate with a group dedicated to doing the same.
• Fully discover (or rediscover!) the Joy of Yoga.
• Experience a place filled with serenity that shelters individuals looking to establish a more balanced lifestyle.
• Enjoy becoming an active conscious traveler.
• Enjoy exceptional yoga, hiking, eco-adventures and camaraderie, connecting with pristine beaches, organic food, relaxing jungle spa treatments, all designed to help you spiritualize every aspect of your life!
• Recharge, refresh and renew, leaving totally more inspired about your life!

WHERE IS XINALANI, PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO?

Xinalani is a brand new resort center accessed only by boat. It is in Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on 10 acres of unspoiled jungle with a beautiful pristine beach, only 12 miles south of Puerto Vallarta International Airport. Xinalani Retreat is about discovery, admiration, love for nature, magic, conscious travel, eco-adventure, wellness, serenity and mindful living. Come enjoy the 1,302 square foot yoga deck set uphill amidst the deep jungle vegetation that can comfortable fit 40 students. With a panoramic view to the jungle and ocean, group practices here are a fascinating experience. Accomodations are ALL beach front with a choices of various private suites and a shared house if you are looking to save money. Xinalani Retreat features its own beach club where you will enjoy a relaxing break between your classes. Where you want to go swimming, snorkeling, or just sunbathe while sipping a natural fruit smoothie, this is the place to be. Take a walk in the soft sand, discover the hidden secrets of the naturally sculpted rocks scattered along the shore and explore the small private coves as you explore yourself. Visit http://www.xinalaniretreat.com/ and fall in love!

DETAILS YOU SHOULD KNOW:

LIVING XINALANI
We have chosen for this retreat to stay at a one of its kind eco-resort named Xinalani because we fully believe Xinalani supports our guests on their search for mind-body balance better allows us to facilitate the setting of intentions so each person leaves more focused and open hearted to realize their full human potential. The name Xinalani comes from the Nauatl Xinaloani that means «seed». It is pronounced shee-nah-lah-nee. It embodies the shared vision that this world could be better if everybody planted and grew a seed inside themselves and let love blossom around it. We look forward to your registration! You are in excellent hands!

LOW IMPACT LIVING
All guests accomodations have low consumption lights (LEDS) and are equipped with two outlets to reload cell phones and camera batteries. Our construction method was extremely organic. No concrete, no land modification. We never cut a single tree and hardly pruned any branches. We promote an intelligent use of resources. All guests are provided with high-end eco-friendly soaps and shampoo. Toilets are low-flow, and all water is recycled and used to irrigate our gardens. We use natural and biodegradable cleaning products, we recycle and compost wherever possible in an attempt to minimize our environmental impact.

YOGA STUDIO
Come and enjoy our unique 1,302 sq ft (121 m2) yoga deck set uphill amidst the deep jungle vegetation. It can comfortably hold up to 40 students. Practicing and learning in Xinalani Retreat is a truly enriching experience, the awe-inspiring Yoga Center was tastefully designed to infuse peace and serenity. With a panoramic view to the jungle and ocean, ideal for group practices.

HEALTHY NATURAL CUISINE
Xinalani cuisine is gourmet vegetarian and may or may not include fresh fish and seafood. The chef is well versed into principles of raw food, ayurveda cuisine and macrobiotics if you need special adaptations. You will be served 3 complete meals per day in the dining room following this schedule:

Breakfast: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM - Buffet Style
Lunch: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM - Buffet Style
Dinner: 7:00PM - 9:30 PM – Chic

SPA
An array of treatments, massages and facials will help you relax, detox, heal, and reach a greater sense of mind- body balance through your stay.

TYPES OF ACCOMODATION
All the accommodations are beachfront, spacious, palm-thatched cabins floating on stilts. They were designed with refined elegance and built and furnished by local artisans. Their cozy interiors inspire feelings of calm and serenity. You will enjoy the closeness of the natural elements, the stimulation of the open-air private showers and the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from your terrace.
Xinalani offers 2 different types of accommodation: private suites or a shared house. All suites have private bathrooms. The suites are classified into 3 categories depending on their size, location and view. Also offered is a collective accommodation in a big palapa with up to 8 single beds and 2 complete bathrooms.

INVESTMENT:

Petite Suite: $1,825
Eco-Premium: $2,000
Eco-chic: $2,300
All the prices are per person. The prices of the suites are based on double occupancy. There is an option for triple occupancy (15% discount) and quadruple occupancy (25% discount) and those would comprise people doubling up in double beds.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE?

• 6 nights of accommodation at Xinalani Retreat
• 3 complete gourmet vegetarian meals per day. Chef is expert in ayurveda cuisine and macrobiotics.
• A social hour on select evenings
• All transportation during the trip, including to and from the airport to Xinalani Retreat
• 9 Yoga classes with Silvia Mordini
• Yoga clinics and mini workshops with Silvia Mordini
• Sunset Yoga Ceremonies
• Guided Jungle Hiking
• Private Dharma talks facilitated by your Guides
• All gratuities for special events, transfers, lodging and group meals.
• A special goodie bag with loving gifts

NOT INCLUDED?

Airfare to and from the trip, gratuities for your guides, spa services, other activities not listed such as whale watching, surfing, bird watching.

TIPS AND GRATUITIES
Gratuities for your guides may be given at your discretion in response to their leadership and professionalism throughout the trip. We suggest 5-10% of the trip price per individual to be divided between the guiding team as an industry standard. Gratuities for all restaurants, hotels, transportation and local events are paid for by the retreat organizers.

TO REGISTER AND SAVE YOUR SPOT:

You can pay with check, direct bank deposit, or credit card or Paypal on line but we most prefer checks. Please send checks to Alchemy Tours c/o Total Body Yoga, 210 Terrace Drive, Mundelein, IL 60061. Contact us at info@alchemytours.com or call if we can answer any questions.

PAYMENT POLICIES:

Early-bird discount: $200 discount if you register by December 31st, 2010
Deposit: A $500 dollar deposit will reserve your space.

TRIP ITINERARY:

XINALANI PUERTO VALLARTA DAILY AGENDA
8:00am - 9:00am Breakfast
9:30am - 11am Vinyasa flow yoga
11am – 12pm Yoga clinics, mini workshops
12:00pm - 1:00pm Lunch
1:30pm - 5:30pm Daytime Fun (Beach, Spa, Hiking, & More)
6:00pm - 7:00pm Vinyasa flow yoga and meditation
8:00pm Dinner
9:00pm Dharma talks

FAQ

When will I need to arrive and when do I leave?
Arrival Location:
You will need to arrive by 2pm on February 26 at Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) where we will meet you and bring you to the resort.

Departure Location:

At the end of your trip, you will be shuttled back to Puerto Vallarta International Airport. We will arrive at the airport between 1pm-2pm on March 4th.

How do I get to Xinalani Retreat Center?

Upon arriving at Puerto Vallarta International airport we have organized group transportation to and from the resort. If you choose to you can get to the resort on your own. Just be sure to download their destination map from the Xinalani website.