Q:  I am in recovery and have only begun Yoga, I am very much a beginner.  I have found the yoga practice to be an exceptional way for me stay centered and present- and feel that it has been a wonderful addition to my recovery. With that being said I am curious if I will find benefit if I am only a beginner?

A:  You do not need to be a yoga practitioner to come on the retreat, however you may leave with the ability to do the headstand, giving you a whole new view of life!  The physical dimension of healing from addiction is often neglected.  One very important aspect of this is Hatha yoga - the asanas and breathing exercises.  This retreat deepens that still further with Ayurveda, the medical/holistic healing, sister science of yoga.  Ayurveda works at healing and purifying the body and mind giving practical advice on diet and lifestyle adjustments needed to live in harmony with your environment (both internal and external).

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Q:  Is Yoga of Recovery AA/12-Step affiliated? 

A:  Yoga of Recovery is an independent retreat for people in recovery; it is not affiliated with AA in observance with its much respected traditions.  Our retreats sometimes follows official 12-Step Conventions.  When this is the case our website and newsletter may link to the site of the Convention so you can get their information.  People in 12-Step fellowships travel to attend these Conventions and many are interested in taking a private retreat with workshops tailored specifically for people in recovery while they are away in a beautiful places.

We have no desire to claim any affiliation, just to reach the people who would benefit from our work. 12-Step Programs recommend an “occasional retreat from the outside world where we can quiet down for an undisturbed day or so of self-overhaul and meditation”. Yoga of Recovery offers such retreats in beautiful, peaceful locations where you can relax, recover, and rejuvenate. I am a grateful member of the 12 step fellowship - my service work with them is quite separate from this work.

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Q:  Must I be a member of a 12 step program to attend this retreat?

A:  This is not a requirement although we do require that our alcohol and chemically-dependent guests have at least 3 months of continuous sobriety.  The 12-Step programs say addictions are a spiritual malady needing a spiritual remedy  - upon working the steps one will have a spiritual awakening.  Bringing Yoga and Ayurveda to your recovery ensures a strong, balanced physical system to pursue the ultimate goal of yoga/life in recovery - Self-realization.

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Q:  I have had an eating disorder for 8 years now, and started to fight back 2 years ago. I have used the gift of yoga as my weapon against this devil that took control over my mind.   I did a yoga teacher training and now teach regular yoga classes.  I feel about 85% recovered, the devil comes back every once in a while; a lot lately.   I need help!!  I thought I could fight the battle on my own but I can't.  Can Yoga of Recovery be the winning key to my battle?  Would this retreat be right for me and allow me to deepen my practice?  I need something to help me shake this thing.  I have realized that I can't be the teacher I want to be with this in my life, but I also realize that I need some outside resources.   Can you help????

A:  I can definitely say YES this program will help, it will be a continuation of the healing you have already found from yoga - add to that Ayurveda and the 12 Steps - Allies in Healing.  People with eating disorders find this combination very helpful.  Until we meet, take it one day at a time, breathe and relax!