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A weekend yoga retreat with Jivamukti teacher Katie Manitsas
'May All Beings Everywhere be Happy and Free'
When: 2pm Friday 23rd May – 2pm Sunday 25th May 2008
Where: Govinda Valley Holistic Retreat Centre, Otford
Cost: $420 (booking essential)
Click here for the information pack
LOKAH SAMASTA SUKHINO BHAVANTU
‘May all beings everywhere be happy and free and may the thoughts, words and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.’
We can think of LOKAH SAMASTA SUKHINO BHAVANTU as ‘the yogi’s promise’. Each time we get on the yoga mat we have an opportunity to take pause and reflect on why we are undertaking this ancient and powerful practice. We may reflect on how we can follow in the footsteps of the many saints, sages and holy beings that came before us to guide our journey. In this reflection a remembering of our linage as yogis will come and in that remembering a clear recollection of the purpose of the practice – that all of us may become happy, joyful and liberated. As we undertake the intention to work tirelessly for the happiness of all beings (including ourselves) we join many others before us and around us in uniting to cultivate peaceful means and compassion in action. This intention is the promise we make as yogis.
Having said this, considering ‘all beings’ may not be tangible to us! There are billions of human beings living on our planet at this time and billions more animal, plant and elemental beings. The most useful approach for a yogi is a practical approach. So how can we make this concept of all beings real? On this retreat, through the Jivamukti Yoga method we will investigate practical methods for living the yogi's ideal of happiness and freedom. Our primary focus will be asana practice (the physical postures of yoga) because asana allows us an opportunity to purify the physical body and prepare it for the experience of peace and true health on all levels.
Govinda Valley
Govinda Valley is surrounded by spectacular natural beauty, in Otford on the edge of the Royal National Park and the practice room is situated to take in the picturesque surrounds (pictured left). The divine food is all vegetarian and the accommodation simple yet comfortable. Only an hour from Sydney Govinda Vally is easily accessed by car or train.
What is Jivamukti Yoga? 
Jivamukti Yoga is a method of yoga, originating from New York (but with it's roots in the ancient yogic traditions which are thousands of years old) which focuses on the goal of yoga as liberation. Jivamukti uses yoga asana practiced in a vinyasa (flowing) style as its primary method but also focuses on devotional chanting, study of scripture, music (nada yoga), meditation and non-violence in action as key facets of the practice.
About Katie Manitsas
Katie is the director of Samadhi Yoga. Katie is a certified Jivamukti Yoga teacher and has studied extensively with Sharon Gannon and David Life who are the founders of Jivamukti Yoga (Katie is pictured with Sharon and David above). Katie has also studied extensively with Simon Low (UK) and Donna Farhi. She is a Sadaka-In-Training with the Wise Earth School of Ayurveda and is currently being mentored by Mother Maya. Her book, 'Spiritual Survival in the City' is on sale now.
The program will include yoga asana, meditation, chanting and relaxation. It will also include time to listen to philosophical lectures as well as be involved in discussion and ask questions.
To book any of our workshops of courses or just to enquire please call 02 9517 3280 or email info@samadhiyoga.com.au
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Chant at Samadhi with the Govinda Valley Kirtan band
