Wednesday, September 18 - Sunday, September 22, 2024
Alchemy of the Soul Yoga Retreat
for Inner Alignment & Authentic Living
with Lotus Pond Studio co-owner, Katie Beene
Embark on a transformative 5-day journey into the depths of your being with our Alchemy of the Soul Yoga Retreat. Nestled in the serene embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this immersive experience is designed to guide you through the alchemical process of inner transformation, fostering a profound sense of inner alignment and authenticity.
In the context of soul transformation and living in alignment with one's values, the concept of alchemy takes on a metaphorical and symbolic meaning. Alchemy traditionally refers to the ancient practice of transforming base metals into gold, but in a more spiritual and personal sense, it can be seen as a journey of inner transformation and self-discovery.
Inner Transformation
Alchemy of the soul involves the process of turning inward and exploring the different aspects of oneself. This transformative journey is akin to refining and purifying the 'base metal' of one's current state, seeking to uncover the inner 'gold' or the true essence within.
Integration of Elements
Similar to the alchemical elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether), the soul alchemy process involves integrating and balancing various aspects of one's being. This can include grounding oneself in values (Earth), connecting with emotions (Water), igniting passion and creativity (Fire), embracing change and adaptability (Air), and connecting with the spiritual (Ether).
Authentic Living
Alchemy of the soul encourages individuals to delve into their core values, beliefs, and aspirations. It's a journey of self-discovery that leads to a more authentic way of living. By distilling and purifying the elements of one's life, individuals can align their actions, choices, and relationships with what truly matters to them.
Transformation through Challenges
In alchemy, the transformation often occurs through challenges and trials. Similarly, the soul alchemy journey involves facing and transcending personal challenges, allowing for growth and evolution. These challenges become opportunities for refining the soul and aligning with one's higher self.
Radiance and Authenticity
As the alchemical process unfolds, individuals may experience a radiant transformation. This radiance is the expression of living authentically, aligned with one's true self and values. It's about shining with the unique light that comes from within, unburdened by external expectations.
In essence, the alchemy of the soul is a symbolic and transformative journey that encourages individuals to explore their inner realms, integrate various aspects of themselves, and emerge authentically radiant. It's a profound process of inner alignment and self-discovery that leads to a more authentic and purposeful way of living.
What to Expect:
- Daily Yoga and Meditation: Guided sessions tailored to the theme of each day, designed to enhance your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
- Guided Sessions & Group Discussions: Interactive sessions and group discussions on authentic living, inner alignment, and the alchemical processes of the soul.
- Nature Integration: Opportunities for connection with nature, whether through guided walks, meditations, or outdoor yoga sessions.
Items to Bring: Clothing comfortable for yoga practice, a journal, hiking clothes. Yoga mats and props are provided by the retreat center.
This program is for yoga practitioners of all levels.
This program offers CEU’s for Yoga Alliance. Yoga Teachers can receive 30 continuing education credits.
Daily Retreat Schedule
Arrival Day: Wed, Sept 18, 2024
Meet & Greet 5:30pm
Dinner 6:00-7:00pm
AOL Orientation 7:00-7:20pm
Evening Session 7:30-8:30pm
Daily Retreat Schedule* / Thursday-Saturday
7:15-8:30am: Sunrise Morning Yoga Class
8:30-9:30am: Breakfast
9:30am-12:30pm: Morning Session or Hike*
12:30-2:30pm Lunch & Free Time
2:30-6:00pm Afternoon Session
6:00-7:30pm Dinner
7:30-8:30pm Kirtan or Evening Session
*We plan to take nature hikes (weather permitting).
Sunday, Sept 22, 2024
7:15-8:30am: Sunrise Morning Yoga Class
8:30-9:30am: Breakfast
9:30-10:30am Meditation
Check out 11:00am
Shankara Spa
Call in advance for a Spa Reservations, 800-392-6870
Suggested Spa time: Book at the start of lunch time
(ask a friend to box a lunch for you to eat after your treatment)
The Lotus Pond Center For Yoga & Health, 813-961-3160
Katie Beene
Katie is an experienced yoga teacher (ERYT 500/YACEP) and current co-owner of Lotus Pond. She teaches her asana classes at a slow and mindful pace, weaving in philosophy and heartfelt contemplations to inspire emotional and spiritual growth. Katie weaves her own life experience into her teachings, sharing relatable stories and lessons that she has learned along her yoga journey. When Katie isn't teaching, she enjoys playing the piano, dancing, spending time in nature, or reading/writing. Katie believes that yoga is fully lived both on and off the mat, and hopes to inspire others to take their yoga practice everywhere they go. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do students fly or drive to the retreat?
Some students arrange carpools and drive from Tampa to the Mountains. Most students fly to the Charlotte Airport and either share a rental car to drive to the Retreat Center or take the Hickory Hop Shuttle. See the Travel Info page for details.
Plan to arrive at the Retreat Center by 4pm on Wednesday, September 18, and depart on Sunday, September 22. Option to attend the final yoga and meditation session on Sunday morning or depart early for morning or early afternoon flights or for longer drives.
Can I stay longer at the Retreat Center to enjoy more hiking or spa treatments?
At this time, the retreat center is closed on Monday and Tuesday. So if you want to stay in Boone past our scheduled check-out of Sunday, September 22, you’ll have to find other accommodations in the area.
How far in advance do I need to book my room?
September is a busy time in the mountains so it is recommended to book your room by May or June.
Are the rooms private or shared accommodations?
Room choices range from a shared triple retreat room with single beds to a deluxe private hotel room. Rooms are only shared with students in our retreat and roommate requests can be submitted in advance.
How many meals are included during the stay?
A healthy vegetarian menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner is provided daily.
What type of clothes should I bring?
Yoga clothing with layers as the temperature will vary from early morning to midday/evening.
Comfortable shoes or boots and jeans for hiking, Raincoat and warm jacket, Change of clothes for evening kirtan
Do I need to have an advanced yoga practice to attend this retreat?
Yoga practitioners of all levels of practice are welcome to attend!
What is the level of physical exertion in this experience?
Students will be walking daily outdoors from the resident buildings to the classroom to the dining hall. The retreat is on the top of a mountain; expect lots of walking up and downhill. The guided hike on the Blue Ridge is of moderate level and students are welcome to stop anywhere along the way.
Do I need to bring my own yoga props?
Typically the retreat center provides mats, blocks, bolsters, straps and blankets. However, we will let you know if anything changes.
Will coffee and tea be provided for the students?
Yes!
Do students fly or drive to the retreat?
Some students arrange carpools and drive from Tampa to the Mountains. Most students fly to the Charlotte Airport and either share a rental car to drive to the Retreat Center or take the Hickory Hop Shuttle. See the Travel Info page for details.
Plan to arrive at the Retreat Center by 4pm on Wednesday, September 18, and depart on Sunday, September 22. Option to attend the final yoga and meditation session on Sunday morning or depart early for morning or early afternoon flights or for longer drives.
Can I stay longer at the Retreat Center to enjoy more hiking or spa treatments?
At this time, the retreat center is closed on Monday and Tuesday. So if you want to stay in Boone past our scheduled check-out of Sunday, September 22, you’ll have to find other accommodations in the area.
How far in advance do I need to book my room?
September is a busy time in the mountains so it is recommended to book your room by May or June.
Are the rooms private or shared accommodations?
Room choices range from a shared triple retreat room with single beds to a deluxe private hotel room. Rooms are only shared with students in our retreat and roommate requests can be submitted in advance.
How many meals are included during the stay?
A healthy vegetarian menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner is provided daily.
What type of clothes should I bring?
Yoga clothing with layers as the temperature will vary from early morning to midday/evening.
Comfortable shoes or boots and jeans for hiking, Raincoat and warm jacket, Change of clothes for evening kirtan
Do I need to have an advanced yoga practice to attend this retreat?
Yoga practitioners of all levels of practice are welcome to attend!
What is the level of physical exertion in this experience?
Students will be walking daily outdoors from the resident buildings to the classroom to the dining hall. The retreat is on the top of a mountain; expect lots of walking up and downhill. The guided hike on the Blue Ridge is of moderate level and students are welcome to stop anywhere along the way.
Do I need to bring my own yoga props?
Typically the retreat center provides mats, blocks, bolsters, straps and blankets. However, we will let you know if anything changes.
Will coffee and tea be provided for the students?
Yes!