Why the Yogashala Retreat experience is about more than Yoga!
…from the perspective of a self-proclaimed ‘non-yoga’ person
Where do I even begin with my Yogashala retreat experience in Costa Rica? I’m not a “yoga person”, and to be honest, I was more of a “go-to-work, take-kids-to-activities” person, but this Retreat experience totally opened my perspective!
Our villa in Costa Rica was like a tropical paradise straight out of a movie. The lush greenery, the colorful birds, and the warm, sunny weather – we were nestled right in the heart of all this natural beauty.
Going in, I was nervous about the yoga, because I had no idea what to expect, but the Yogashala team, and my fellow “retreaters,” were the best. They were patient, personal, and they didn’t push me too far or make me feel like a total newbie (though I definitely was). I learned about yoga poses, but also the philosophies of yoga, which I could immediately connect to other aspects of my life, work and family.
It wasn’t all yoga: The food was deliciousness; fresh fruits, locally grown, and the most incredible flavors. Personal chef? YES! I was in foodie heaven. We also explored the surrounding area and went on adventures like waterfall hikes, beaches, shopping, music, and animal-spotting!
What I found most powerful was the vibe of the whole retreat and the people I met. It was chill, relaxed, and yet personally meaningful. There was an amazing sense of community among us. We all started as strangers, but by the end of the week, we were like one big happy yoga family. We laughed, danced, chatted, and everyone had the space to take their own journey too.
This yoga retreat was an experience of a lifetime (that I never would have done without Yogashala) and changed me for the better. Even as a total yoga newbie, it was a fantastic way to relax, disconnect from the daily grind, and discover a whole new side of myself. It can be summed up with 3 words: compassion, humility and abundance. Namaste, my friends! 
Kate Bergsma
