The practice of Kripalu Yoga has little to do with touching your toes or standing on your head. Rather, it is about developing new ways of knowing and being, experiencing your life fully on a moment-to-moment basis, being in the NOW.

Our yoga practice in Tuscany will include "on the mat" time each day with Kripalu yoga classes and pranayama (breathing techniques) designed to stretch and energize our bodies. These classes will be accessible to everyone - novice or seasoned practitioner. Some of the rewards of yoga "on the mat" are a renewed zest for life, heightened awareness and a feeling of wholeness. And, of course, greater flexibility of body and mind.

Much of our yoga practice will be "off the mat" as we dive into an exploration of the rich Italian culture. What better place to experience a heightened awareness of the senses than in exquisite Tuscany where sense pleasures abound in the sweet joys of everyday life.

About Ebbio ­ Organic Farm and Villa

Ebbio is a magical place surrounded by an evergreen forest, nestled in the heart of an old volcano that was sacred to the Etruscans. Located in the breathtaking countryside of Tuscany, Italy, it is only 42 kms from Florence, 11 kms from Siena, 9 km from Castellina in Chianti and 1km from Monteriggioni, a little medieval jewel. In Ebbio, you will find the spectacular scenery blends well with the history that makes Tuscany such a unique vacation experience.

Ebbio's rustic yet refined accommodations set itself apart from other Tuscan villas. An 800 year old classic Tuscany farmhouse converted into a stylish yoga retreat. The ambience of Ebbio is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Looking out one of the many windows of the different accommodations in Ebbio, you will be captivated by the undulating hills swept with thriving vineyards, olive trees and enchanting evergreen forests. The amazing part of Ebbio is that it is still a working Tuscan Farm. An annual harvest of grapes are used to make authentic Chianti Wine that Tuscany is so well known for.

The Trip…

Yoga: Daily morning yoga classes appropriate for students of all levels of experience, led in the Kripalu tradition and an afternoon yoga/meditation/workshop experience on most days.

Accommodations: Dormitory style rooms (2-5 persons per room) plus a few double rooms for couples, all with shared bath. All accommodation is at Podere Ebbio, Tuscany, Italy. Space is limited, make your reservation early.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Ebbio or prepared picnic-style by Ebbio. All meals are vegetarian. A house wine is served at the evening meal. There is no cash bar. Espresso and cappuccino are available for a small charge. Participants are responsible for lunch when on a day trip that does not include a picnic lunch.

Transportation: Pick-up at the Florence airport (Amerigo Vespucci. Airport code FLR) on arrival day Saturday, September 27 and drop-off at the Florence airport on departure day Saturday, Oct. 4. September 27 pick-up time: 12:00 noon Schedule your arrival to allow sufficient time to clear customs/immigration and to collect your luggage. Note: Pick-up at Castellina in Chianti-Montereggioni (train station) may be arranged in advance. October 4 drop-off time: 9:00 am

Plan to arrive at the Florence airport at least two hours prior to your plane’s departure.

Excursions: Excursions (depending upon weather) are planned to Siena, Volterra, Mediterranean Sea, Monteriggioni, and San Gimignano. Ground transportation, by van or car, is provided.

Trip Price:
$1599 per person
(does not include airfare)

$500 deposit

$1099 remaining due by August 18, 2008

To register, download a registration form here or call the studio 410/451-4464

About the Instructors

Sudhakar Ken McRae and Kathleen Knipp, faculty on the Advanced Yoga Teacher Training team at Kripalu Center, are creators of the Sadhana yoga and meditation CD series. They have been leading yoga programs and spiritual adventures in the US and internationally for the past eight years. Both professional-level yoga teachers, their teaching combines the precision of the Iyengar system with the heart-centered, meditative aspects of Kripalu Yoga. They live in Columbia, MO where they own and direct alleyCat Yoga and publish Columbia's Healthy Living Directory. They enjoy cycling, hiking and preparing gourmet vegetarian food.

Kathleen's gentleness and sensitivity along with her playful spirit create a safe environment for her students to explore the many facets of the practice of yoga. Her teaching emphasizes honoring and respecting the body while using yoga as a tool for cultivating self-love and self-acceptance. Drawing upon her years of working with young children, she encourages each person to experience yoga wherever they are and however they are. Her passionate commitment to truth satya and her belief in the healing power of yoga inspire her teaching.

Known for his meticulous good-humored instruction, Sudhakar is a simple yogi offering an open heart and a commitment to conscious living. He has been studying, practicing and teaching yoga and meditation for over 25 years. As Director of Daily Sadhana at Kripalu Center, Ken managed the delivery of all daily yoga classes. In his role as senior teacher, he taught over 30,000 students. He has been the yoga consultant for articles on stress management for New Age Journal and Redbook Magazine as well as the creator of yoga posture demonstrations for a CNN TV documentary and a news cast for a major television station.

Both teachers readily share their passion for yoga and meditation with their students.

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