My first memory of Ikaria Greece was in my Yiayia's kitchen. It held all the scents of her cooking, olive oil, yeast and bread, her humming of ancient Ikarian songs, her prayers to St. George. All my life I had known there was a land that called to me, where my DNA connects me. My love of this timeless island was fomented by my love for my Yiayia. She imparted her wisdom through her stories of pirates, formidable people, her garden, her kitchen.
I knew I that came from this biodiverse, mountainous, rustic, and famed land that pulled Icarus and his failed wax wings to rest, cousins to Mykonos and Samos in the Aegean sea, the rough and dangerous Ikarian Sea surrounding it. Turkey to the East. The Fournoi Islands and cave that inspired the writings of the Bible's Revelations are ready for us. My trips to Ikaria are the happiest memories, and I want to share the secrets to happiness and longevity I've learned though yoga, stories, and meals.
Rena will meet you at the Ikarian Airport as she and local Ikarians guide travelers through the Blue Zone, Aegean Island of Ikaria Greece. We will explore what makes the Ikarians live a century with good health and low incidence of disease. The activities include exploring historical sights, a small family essential oil farm, learning about bee keeping and honey production, bathing in the warm waters of Therma and enjoying the thermal hot springs, and beautiful beaches on Aegean blue water. We will practice yoga near Athena's temple, beach side, and in Ilias garden. Join our local chefs for cooking class as they show us easy to prepare plant based dishes, and endless opportunities to eat, drink, and adopt the timelessness like and Ikarian. This trip will inspire you to rethink how to live, eat, move, and connect with purpose. It will also challenge you to "go with the flow" with activities. This is not your typical island vacation. This is an Ikarian Yoga Retreat Vacation! No previous yoga experience needed, but a willingness to try.
"It's the retreat I didn't know I desperately needed!", was the sentiment of this years's retreat. Don't miss this Yoga and Culture Tour in this famed "Blue Zone" with an Ikarian! Drop me a line and let me know you're interested.
Connection, one of the many reasons Ikarians live a long and good life. Whether it's at a Panigiri (a party to raise funds for the local church) or just enjoying a meal or coffee. Young and old come to eat, drink, dance, and share a love of life. A celebration can come together without a moment's notice.
Ikaria Greece is calling. Warm sun, Aegean Island winds, Mediterranean food, Blue Zone friendly people welcome you. Yoga, hikes, swims, history, laughter, rest and play in this ancient land.
Travel to Europe has resumed so I set my sights on 2023 and finally made it. I invite you to join me September 2025. All travelers must consider travelers insurance. All participants are responsible for travel to the Island of Ikaria, usually by way of Athens, Greece, if traveling from the U.S.A. All reservations are for double occupancy accommodations, and individual rooms may be available for an added price of $150. Price includes all lodging, food, travel on the island, and activities. Bring a travel yoga mat. Please be willing and able to walk, hike mild inclines, tolerate the sun and beach, laugh and talk for hours, learn some Greek greetings and just listen, and participate in yoga with Rena and maybe some of the local yogis. Ikarians will overextend to make sure travelers feel welcome, and live in the moment. Greek island living on Ikaria is unique where patience may be a necessity. It's the beauty of the culture. The island is safe and crime is non-existent. They really don't sweat the small stuff.
A full suggested itinerary with exact dates are yet to be determined, and participant contract will be available with required reservation fee of $300 and will part of the overall price. All inclusive price of $3100 includes double occupancy, travel to and from Ikarian Airport and outings, food, and outings. Flights to main land and to the Island are the responsibility of the participant. Ferry's are also available from Athens to the Island but take considerable time and no recommended for group pick up.
My yoga practice is one of balance. My company name, ReBalance Center, is intentional. So much stress, commitments, hassles of life, false or negative beliefs, or lack of love cause us to lose our balance. We use yoga and the awareness of the present moment to create courage, vulnerability, trust, and joy. What better place than Ikaria to deepen your meditative awareness? Any level of yoga curiosity and experience is welcome.
One of the most enriching activities is enjoying the local foods. We will also have a cooking class with Thea and her staff in her kitchen, learning some basic and hearty Ikarian dishes to replicate back home. This is true Mediterranean cooking/diet. Wine is a part of the culture but not required if you're abstaining from alcohol.
There are no beaches like Greek beaches, with crystal blue waters, pebble and sand, and a lifestyle and culture made for relaxing. We will include a trip to Therma, the village on the island with ancient hot springs.
ReBalance Center
812 South Garfield Avenue, Traverse City, Michigan 49686, United States
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