At Saccharum Hotel, near Calheta Beach, you will enjoy 5 days of intensive immersion in Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga and wellness activities.
In this perfect yoga retreat, participants will find answers to their searches for nearby yoga retreats and healthy food options. Bring yoga pants and a yoga mat to discover Ashtanga Yoga in the best possible way, surrounded by wellness activities and examples of sustainability from Saccharum Hotel.
Five days of pure connection with your body and soul through Ashtanga.
Care for your body and soul
Immerse in a yoga retreat designed to clear the mind and strengthen the body. Participants will explore Ashtanga Yoga more deeply, from postures to philosophy. Mornings begin with invigorating practices, followed by workshops and activities that foster well-being and personal growth in the afternoons. Experience days of pure tranquility and wellness in an environment that promotes inner peace and rejuvenation.
Classes and activities
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Introduction Class: The Inner Practice
The first class is an introduction to Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga (AVY) and focuses on the components that define this practice as a “meditation in motion.” The goal is to show that the purpose of the posture sequences in the AVY series lies in the internal experience and practice. Theoretically and practically, participants will learn the concepts of Ujjayi Pranayama, Drishti, Bandhas, and Vinyasa.
Ashtanga yoga ( Primary series) led class
This guided session allows participants to familiarize themselves with the rhythm of the practice, the order of the postures, and the transitions from one posture to another. Participants who already have an established practice and prefer to practice independently will have complete freedom to do so. However, they will not receive adjustments during the practice, as the guided class will be conducted simultaneously.
Ashtanga yoga, Mysore style
This format allows each participant to practice independently, following their own sequence and pace, while receiving individualized support from the teachers, who will make adjustments and offer guidance as needed.
Pranayama
During these sessions, breathing techniques will be taught to improve respiratory health, enhance mental clarity, and promote overall well-being, energizing the body for the practice that follows.
Yoga Nidra
After brunch, participants will be invited to a “yogi nap,” also known as yoga nidra. This guided meditation practice leads to a deep state of relaxation and awareness, situated between sleep and wakefulness.
Sound Healing
This therapeutic approach uses the sounds and vibrations from instruments such as Tibetan bowls and gongs to encourage relaxation, reduce stress, and balance the body’s energies. It promotes well-being, enhances focus, and harmonises both body and mind.
Acro yoga
Acro Yoga is performed in pairs and combines yoga, acrobatics, and massage. It involves collaboration between two practitioners, with one as the base and the other as the flyer. This practice strengthens trust, communication, and balance, offering a fun and interactive way to explore yoga.
Meditation
Meditation is a practice designed to calm the mind and increase awareness of the present. It helps to reduce anxiety, improve mental clarity, and promote a state of inner peace. It offers an opportunity to connect with yourself and explore introspection, fostering emotional and spiritual balance.
Dragon Vinyasa yoga
This class is dedicated to Dragon Vinyasa Yoga, adapted by Professor Francisco Rodrigues. This dynamic and fluid sequence of postures combines elements of Ashtanga Yoga with a style that is almost dance-like or martial arts-like. Dragon Vinyasa Yoga offers a continuous flow that creatively and energetically connects postures, providing a fun and engaging challenge.
Asana workshop
If participants wish to deepen their alignment and technique in postures, one or more classes can be dedicated to asana workshops. These workshops focus on precise alignment and the correct execution of postures, allowing practitioners to advance in their practice and correct essential details. It’s an excellent opportunity to receive individualized guidance and improve understanding of the postures.
Chat and snack
The snack will be light and served informally, providing a space for interaction among participants. During this time, relevant yoga topics, such as the history and philosophy of yoga, anatomy, or Ayurveda, will be discussed. This gathering offers an opportunity to deepen knowledge about yoga and share experiences and insights with others.
Other activities available during free time, if participants wish:
- Complimentary access to Saccharum Spa
- Spa treatments (additional cost)
- Yoga therapy (additional cost): Yoga therapy is based on an individualized study of the patient, including the assessment of specific problems, lifestyle analysis, and a general profile. Based on this assessment, a personalized program of postures, movements, and breathing techniques is created.
- Visit to the Chef’s Garden (free of charge)
- Calheta Tour (free of charge): Uncover Calheta’s wonders with a guided bus tour. Delight in the stunning landscapes of Madeira Island, from mountains to the sea. Participants will explore charming local spots, visit iconic landmarks with a guide, and enjoy a short walk.
- The tour includes stops at Arco da Calheta, the viewpoint overlooking Madalena do Mar, Loreto, Atouguia (stop at the church), Prazeres (stop at the levada), Fajã da Ovelha (stop for Poncha tasting), Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, and Paúl do Mar (a 10-minute walk from the church to the pier).
Day 1
- Opening circle (talk and Q&A), music and welcome
- Drink
- Lunch
- Guided hotel tour (optional)
- Chat and snack (Yoga Talk)
- Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Introduction Class: The Inner Practice
- Dinner
Day 2
- Pranayama (optional)
- Ashtanga Yoga-led class (Primary Series)
- Brunch
- Yoga Nidra (optional)
- Activity or free time
- Acro Yoga
- Chat and snack (Yoga Talk)
- Activity or free time
- Dinner
- Vipassana meditation (silence)
Day 3
- Pranayama (optional)
- Ashtanga Yoga, Mysore style
- Brunch
- Yoga Nidra (optional)
- Activity or free time
- Dragon Vinyasa
- Chat and snack (Yoga Talk)
- Activity or free time
- Dinner
- Mantra chanting by the fire (optional)
Day 4
- Pranayama (optional)
- Ashtanga Yoga, Mysore style
- Brunch
- Yoga Nidra (optional)
- Activity or free time
- Asana workshop
- Chat and snack (Yoga Talk)
- Activity or free time
- Dinner
- Meditation by the fire (optional)
Day 5
- Pranayama (optional)
- Ashtanga Yoga, Mysore style
- Brunch
- Yoga Nidra (optional)
- Activity or free time
- Sound healing and meditation
- Chat and snack (Yoga Talk)
- Farewell surprise activity
