Two and a half years ago, Studio143 yoga instructor, Cait Simmons, reached out to studio owner, Cindia Norton, and asked if she could plan a retreat. At the time, it was the middle of New England winter and she had a baby at home and was itching for a weekend away that included all her favorite things: yoga, warm weather, delicious food, outdoor adventures, road tripping, and great people. They decided to give it a try and the Summer Bliss Retreat was born.
We recently asked Cait and Cindia a few questions about this year's retreat. Here's what they had to say:
Tell us about this year's retreat location.
Cindia: We decided to return to Stowe, Vermont this year, the location of our first retreat (last year we went to Manchester, Vermont). We even have the same chef from our first retreat because we loved the food so much. This year we're staying at a brand new property called The Sugar Mill on Lilac Hill. It looks absolutely stunning and there are dairy cows grazing in the fields surrounding the home and beyond that there are incredible views of the Green Mountains. It will be an amazing setting to practice yoga or just relax and take in the scenery.
What's on the schedule this year?
Cindia: We’ll be practicing plenty of yoga—Vinyasa, Yin, Yoga Nidra, SPA–but we're also planning on hiking to a beautiful nearby waterfall, exploring Ayurveda, journaling, meditating, dancing Zumba, visiting the Stowe Farmer's Market, and so much more. This year, Cait Simmons, Cassidy Conway and I will be teaching together. It's nice having multiple teachers because attendees get a well-rounded yoga experience, which helps them deepen their practice.
What do you like best about leading retreats?
Cindia: I love to see how our guests come alive throughout our time together. Retreats help forge new friendships, strengthen old ones, teach you things about yourself, and get you out of your comfort zone.
Cait: My favorite part is learning about our guests and hearing their stories. At our closing circle we always hear incredible reasons why people decide to attend our retreats. There's inevitably tears and laughter and bonding. Every year brings new connections and discoveries. I can't wait to see what this year's retreat has in store!
Is a retreat just for advanced yogis?
Cait: Absolutely not! I actually went on a yoga retreat when I was fairly new to the practice and I think it set me on the path to becoming a yoga teacher. Retreats are for everyone.
Are there still spots available?
Cindia: Yes! There are still a few spots available for this year's retreat and, if you're reading this, we'd love to have you join us! For all the information you need or to fill out our registration form you can visit: www.studio143scituate.com/retreat
LOCATION
Sugar Mill House on Lilac Hill in Stowe, Vermont. The newly constructed home is set upon a hill with scenic views of the surrounding Green Mountains. An 800 acre dairy farm surrounds the property and will mean morning rendezvous with grazing dairy cows! The property also has a large 190 year old recently restored barn where most of the yoga classes will be taking place (some will be outside, weather permitting).