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Zen Rocks Mani Retreat Zen Rocks Mani Retreat

200 Hours Abhaya Yoga
Teacher  Training #101:

Yoga Roots: Foundations for Practice & Teaching Yoga
Part 1: 150 Hour Teaching Training Retreat

TEACHER(s)
Vivi Letsou
DATE
16 October -01 November, 2020
CATEGORY
Αbhaya Yoga
Teacher Training #150:
Yoga Roots & Foundation
200 Hour Teacher Training, Part 1 of 2
PRICE
Course: 1,560€
Accommodations: From 890€

Yoga Roots: Foundations for Practice & Teaching Yoga

Our Invitation for You

Experience a powerful transformation.
Delve in the Roots of Yoga.
Discover your own power and source of strength.
Learn the Foundations of Practice and Teaching Yoga.
Find a new way of being: #Upright and Fearless.

Program Description

Abhaya Yoga Courses are an invitation to all those who are ready to delve into the heart of Yoga practice.

Step by step you follow and embody the path of Strong Alignment—Fearless Action. You will experience a transformation so powerful and illuminating that you may want to share it with others.

Become a fearless—courageous–compassionate human being through the path of Abhaya Yoga.

This is how you grow to become an outstanding Yoga Teacher.

Each Abhaya Yoga Course is a powerful and unique journey.
Choose your own entry point. Pick the program that matches your level and needs.

Abhaya Yoga Tree of Studies

200 Hour Abhaya Yoga Teachers in Training

Part 1, Abhaya Yoga Teacher Training #100, 150 Hours:
Yoga Roots: Foundations for Practice & Teaching Yoga

Part 2, Abhaya Yoga Teacher Training #200, 50 Hours:
Yoga Trunk: Immersion into Teaching & Yoga Life Retreat

300 Hour Abhaya Yoga Teachers Diploma

for graduates of 200 Hour Yoga TT graduates of any School of Yoga
by attending this

Part 1, 100 Hour Teaching Skills Program
Abhaya Yoga Teaching Skills #301, 50 Hours:
Class Sequences & Adjustments

Part 2, Abhaya Yoga Teaching Skills #302, 50 Hours:
Therapeutics Immersion

500 Hour Abhaya Yoga Advanced Teachers Diploma

Program Curriculum

In this multi-faceted program we study the tree of yoga from the roots up. We study Yoga History and Philosophy from the Ancient Vedas to the Modern Schools of Yoga in the 21st century.

Through dynamic Asana practice, we get stronger and more flexible, while gaining a deep understanding of our bodies.

Precise Principles of Alignment help us to understand the structure of each asana and each asana category: Standing, Backbends, Inversions, etc., while also understanding Asana Therapeutics.

We will experience the energizing effects of Pranayama techniques and understand Subtle Body Anatomy: Chakras, Koshas, Nadis, and Kriyas.

Through Zen Meditation we will clear and focus our minds and cultivate “the heart of compassion.”

We will feel uplifted by the liberating philosophy of Tantra.

Lastly, and more importantly, we will study and try to abide by the two Eightfold Paths of Classical Yoga, and Buddhism.

Thus you will grow and cultivate a new and courageous Life Stance, discovering your own Path to Fearlessness.

When you graduate you will be able to start teaching Yoga to friends and small groups, but you will still be “in training,” maintaining contact with your teachers who will be there to guide and consult you in your first teaching steps.

This program lays the foundation of Yoga Theory and Practice, and gives you the very first tools for expanding from a strong practice into the first steps of teaching.

The program includes:

ASANA PRACTICE & STUDY

– Improve Your Practice in all Asana Categories
– Learn Principles of Alignment in all Asana Categories
– Warm Up Exercises
– Sun Salutations
– Standing
– Hip Openers
– Inversions
– Arm Balances
– Backbends
– Seated forward folds & Twists
– Restoratives

SUBTLE BODY ANATOMY & YOGA FUNDAMENTALS

* Chakras, Kundalini and the Energy body
* Pranayama & Meditation
* Basic Sanskrit and names for Yoga poses
* Introduction to the Art of Sequencing
* Yoga Ethics
* Develop a Personal Practice of Asana, Pranayama & Meditation

2. YOGA HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY

20 Hours with Nancy Hitzanidou & Vivi Letsou
– Ancient Vedas and Upanishads
– Bhagavad Gita
– Buddhism & Zen
– Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
– Hatha Yoga Pradipika
– Advaita Vedanda
– Tantra

3. Yoga Anatomy & Therapeutics, 20 Hours
with a certified Physical Therapist

4. Abhaya Class Practice, Observation & Assistance, 30 hours
To be completed later, with Vivi Letsou or other Certified Abhaya Yoga teacher

Daily Activities & Offerings

SUGGESTED SCHEDULE

7:00              Meditation
8:00               Morning Ayurvedic Drink, Very light breakfast
9:00-12:00   Asana Yoga Practice & Study
12:00             Brunch
16:00-19.00 Philosophy, Anatomy, Principles of Alignment, etc.
19:30             Dinner
21:00            Meditation & Yoga Nidra

ARRIVALS ON SUNDAY

16:00    Welcome to your room/Familiarize yourself with Zen Rocks
18:00 Welcome circle… Easy Introduction practice
20:00 Dinner & Relaxation. Early bed time.

DEPARTURES

7:00     Meditation
8:00    Morning Ayurvedic Drink, Very light breakfast
9:00    Asana—Dynamic & Therapeutic Yoga Practice
12:00   Brunch

ACCREDITATION

NYSY Academy—Abhaya Yoga
200  Hour Yoga Teachers in Training Certificate

Part 1 of 2: 150 Hour Yoga Education Credit

Upon Completing another program of 50 hours you will be awarded the
200 Hour Abhaya Yoga Teacher in Training Certificate

PREREQUISITES

If you are following this as a Course for Credit, the following are necessary.
Basic Anatomy Studies
Love and Curiosity for the Yoga Practice
Readiness to change your life and feel empowered

PREPARATION OR SUGGESTED READING LIST

See Separate Reading List

WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR

*Yogis who would like to deepen their practice & understanding
*Yoga Teachers who are up for new Strength & Inspiration

A few words about Teachers/Facilitators

Vivi Letsou

Certified Teacher: Yoga Alliance 500 hours, BASIPilates™,
Creator of Abhaya Yoga

Vivi has created Abhaya Yoga—Strong Alignment, Fearless Action— seeking a path that combines a clear life philosophy, strong Yoga asana practice, and the courage to live fearlessly.

A visionary and activist for positive change, Vivi loves to share the way of Yoga and Zen, two paths she has followed for over 20 years, while a filmmaker in California.  Now the director and co-founder of NYSY Academy for Yoga and Pilates, and Avocado Vegetarian Café—two bright centers in the heart of Athens, Vivi is tireless of teaching and bringing the global community closer through the practice of “Healthy Mind in Healthy Body.” Recently she and her husband completed another life long dream, building Zen Rocks, a stunningly beautiful retreat center in Mani/Southern Greece, dedicated to re-building human potential through the healing practices of Zen, Yoga, meditation, nutrition, and restorative living.

Her vision is largely inspired by Zen Buddhism and the teachings of her respected Zen master, Reb Anderson, from the San Francisco Zen Center. On the yoga-pilates path, Vivi has practiced and taught in the traditions of Ashtanga Yoga, Vinyasa, Bhakti Flow, Anusara Yoga, and BASI Pilates.

Vivi’s passion for a brave and upright way of being is contageous. She would like every Abhaya Yoga class to be a journey of self-discovery, where students recognize their own power, beauty, and potential for positive change. Hundreds of bright yogis and yoga teachers have emerged from her workshops and teacher training programs, now spreading their unique light and holding the mirror for others, making our whole planet brighter!

Certifications

Vivi Letsou holds the following Certifications

Bachelor of Science, Aeronautics Department of Engineering, SJSU, California
Master of Arts, Theater Arts, SJSU, California
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training, Tim Miller, San Diego
Asian Healing Arts Therapist, Acu-Pressure Institute, Berkeley
Acu-Yoga Instructor, Acu-Pressure Institute, Berkeley
Anusara Certified Teacher, till 2014
Bhakti Flow Certification, Rusty Wells, San Francisco
Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher, 500 hours, USA
BASI Pilates Certified Teacher, 500 Hours, California
Pre-Natal Yoga TT, Sue Elkind, Dig Yoga
Yoga Therapy Teacher Training, John Friend & Todd Norian
Ayurveda for Yoga Teachers, Arun Veda, Yogarasayana USA
and many others…

When you are ready for POSITIVE CHANGE,
your life will CHANGE POSITIVELY!
Register

Value & Prerequisites

ACCOMMODATIONS

€ 990 With your own tent
€ 1,300 4 Bed Room Dormitory
€ 1,500 Triple Room
€ 1,800 Double Room
€ 2,300 Single Room

PROGRAM

Teacher Training Course 1,990€

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Program Tuition
Accommodations, 15 nights
Daily Yoga classes & meditation
Τwo delicious vegetarian meals a day (brunch and dinner) and Light Breakfast
All yoga equipment and accessories
Biodegradable toiletries

NOT INCLUDED

Transfer to and from Zen Rocks Mani
Transfers around Zen Rocks and the area
Additional therapeutic treatments or private yoga sessions where applicable.

Welcome to the Path of Abhaya Yoga
Immerse Yourself in the Roots of Yoga Practice, Study, and Teaching
Abhaya Yoga stands for
#Strong Alignment—Fearless Action

Accommodations

Double Room

Double Room

Deluxe Triple Room with Sea View. This triple room features a balcony, dining area and minibar. Share a room with two of your friends or two other retreat guests.

Make Inquiry
Triple Room

Triple Room

Deluxe Triple Room with Sea View. This triple room features a balcony, dining area and minibar. Share a room with two of your friends or two other retreat guests.

Make Inquiry
Quadruple Room

Quadruple Room

Deluxe Quadruple Room with Sea View. This quadruple room features a balcony, dining area and minibar. Share a room with three of your friends or three other retreat guests.

Make Inquiry
Register

Have a question?

All our retreats aim to create a nurturing and welcoming environment for all levels of practice and all student needs. All programs offer the opportunity for a dose of daily good exercise through yoga or pilates, walks in nature and/or swimming in the sea, and both restorative and meditation practice. A weekly program offers a complete experience of well-being. Our teachers are highly experienced and skilled. If a program seems enticing to you, it is probably the one you need. Make a bold step and trust it: Go for it!

Absolutely! Our friendly staff and group of guests/friends will make you feel right at home. Surrounded by good company, with space to be on your own, according to your needs and wishes.

Yes. As long as one understands and respects the philosophy of Zen Rocks, your partner can join in the daily activities, or feel free to relax and follow their own schedule. Your friend or partner will feel warmly welcome at Zen Rocks.

Book early, as soon as you know the retreat you are interested in, and your schedule. Click here to send us your questions or to register. Link: REGISTER

We would be happy to help arrange your transfer from Athens or Kalamata to Zen Rocks.
The retreat is located about 30 minutes south of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kalianeika, about one kilometer from us. There is airport access both from Athens Airport (3 hours from ZR) and from Kalamata Airport (30-40min from ZR).

-Flights to Athens International Airport (ATH) and transportation to Zen Rocks
All major airlines fly to Athens international airport, called Eleftherios Venizelos. Zen Rocks is about a 2.5-3 hours’ drive from Athens. We can arrange a private transport for you and/ or your group or you can rent a car to drive yourself to Zen Rocks. The ride is beautiful, and you can enjoy a direct ride along the new Athens-Kalamata highway, or you can make stops in places like the sites of Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Nemea, the city of Nafplion, and the town of Kalamata.

-Flights to/from Kalamata (KLX)
More and more there are direct and/or charter flights to the small airport of Kalamata from different European cities. Also, new 30 minutes flights have just started from Athens to Kalamata regional airport are very reasonably priced if booked well in advance.
Alternatively, you can fly to Kalamata from the northern Greek town of Thessaloniki.

-Transportation options while in Greece
The way to reach Zen Rocks is either with our luxurious Mini Van for 8 people or by renting a car from Athens or Kalamata and drive around on your own. Our office can assist you with your car rental reservation. Or you can make your booking directly. During your stay at Zen Rocks our minivan is available for hire along with an experienced driver. The rates for transfers with our minivan are in the attached document titled: ZenRocksRates.
Allow us to book your transfer from Athens or Kalamata. Simply email us at: info@zenrocksmani.com

The retreat is located about 30 minutes South of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst the sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kallianeika.

1. Drive on the new freeway from Athens to Kalamata, and be prepared to stop frequently for tolls. Expect to pay around 15€ each way. It may take you 2-2.5 hours to reach Kalamata.

2. Stay on the freeway and exit Kalamata heading towards Areopolis and Kitries. After the freeway ends, you will pass Lidl, and a café called Cosi on the right, and then the road forks and you see a road sign. At this point you have the option of heading up towards the mountain towards Areopolis and Kardamyli, or taking a right towards the sea and Kitries. You can reach us either way. We are giving you directions through the coastal road here, as it may be easier to find our location this way.

3. Take a right towards Kitries and drive down the coast for about 10-15 minutes. Right as you approach Kitries, the road goes uphill. There is a big retaining wall right in front of you, causing you to almost stop. You see a road sign for Doloi.

4. Make a sharp left up the mountain towards Doloi.

5. Drive for 5 minutes until you reach the village of Kalianeika.

6. When you reach Kalianeika, stop in front of the church and set your odometer to 0.

7. Drive for one kilometer, and you will come to switch back turn where you will see a fence with big cacti and a huge rock. You are getting close.

8. Immediately afterwards, you see a second switch back turn and a couple small signs for Zen Rocks. At this point leave the asphalt road and enter a smaller cement farm road. Drive 200 meters on cement, and then another 400 meters of dirt road. At this point you will see the electrical posts and a cement road up on your left. This is our private drive way to Zen Rocks.

(Attention: our drive way is the SECOND paved road you see on your left. Do not take the first one, right where the cement ends… wait till you drive the extra 400 meters of dirt and pebble road and you come across the electrical wires and big posts… at this point you will also notice that the farm road you are on is covered with the cement of our paved drive way.)
9. Go left on our cement road. It is a sharp incline. Come up on first gear and full throttle. Small cars will do fine if you know how to drive fearlessly.

10. Welcome to Zen Rocks.
As Zen master Thich Nhat Hahn says: YOU HAVE ARRIVED!

Το Zen Rocks Mani βρίσκεται σε απόσταση περίπου 30 λεπτών Νότια από τη πόλη της Καλαμάτας, ανάμεσα σε ήσυχους ελαιώνες, τον ουρανό και τη θάλασσα! Το κοντινότερο χωριό είναι τα Καλλιανέικα.
1. Πάρτε τη νέα εθνική οδό απο την Αθήνα προς τη Καλαμάτα οπου θα χρειαστεί να σταματήσετε συχνά σε σταθμούς διοδίων. Υπολογείστε οτι το συνολικό κόστος των διοδίων θα ειναι 15€ η διαδρομή. Η απόσταση ειναι περιπου 2-2.5 ώρες απο την Αθήνα μέχρι να φτάσετε στη Καλαμάτα.
2. Μείνετε στην εθνική οδό και βγείτε στην έξοδο της Καλαμάτας με κατεύθυνσή προς Αρεόπολη και Κιτριές. Όταν τελειώσει η εθνική οδός, θα συναντήσετε ένα σούπερ μάρκετ Lidl και μια καφετέρια στα δεξιά σας που ονομάζεται Cosi. Σε εκείνο το σημείο ο δρόμος χωρίζεται και θα δείτε μια πινακίδα. Σε αυτό ακριβώς το σημείο, έχετε την επιλογή είτε να συνεχίσετε προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Αρεόπολη και Καρδαμύλη είτε να πάρετε το δρόμοι που είναι στα δεξιά σας που πάει μέσω του παραλιακού δρόμου στις Κιτριές. Όποιο δρόμο και να πάρετε μπορείτε να έρθετε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Εμείς παρακάτω σας δίνουμε οδηγίες από το παραλιακό δρόμο μιας και θεωρούμε ότι είναι ο πιο εύκολος δρόμος για να έρθετε.
3. Κάνετε δεξιά προς Κιτριές και οδηγείτε στο παραλιακό δρόμο για περίπου 10-15 λεπτά. Στο σημείο που έχετε φτάσει σχεδό στις Κιτριές, ο δρόμος έχει μια ανηφόρα. Στο σημείο αυτό υπάρχει ένας μεγάλος τοίχος μπροστά σας που σας αναγκάζει σχεδόν να σταματήσετε. Εκεί βλέπετε μια πινακίδα προς Δολούς.
4. Εκεί αριστερά προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Δολούς.
5. Οδηγείστε προς τα επάνω αυτόν τον δρόμο με τις στροφές, για 5 λεπτά μέχρι να βρείτε το χωριό Καλιανέϊκα.
6. Όταν φτάσετε στα Καλιανέϊκα, σταματήστε μπροστά από την εκκλησία και ρυθμίστε το μετρητή χιλιομέτρων σας στο 0.
7. Οδηγείστε για 1 χιλιόμετρο και θα δείτε μια στροφή φουρκέτα, η οποία σας φέρνει προς τα δεξια. Εκεί θα δείτε ένα φράχτη με μεγάλους κάκτους και ένα τεράστιο βράχο. Πλησιάζετε!
8. Αμέσως μετά βλέπετε μια ακόμα στροφή φουρκέτα που στρίβει τον δρόμο προς τα αριστερά. Θα δείτε δύο μικρές πινακίδες για το Zen Rocks. Σε αυτό το σημείο αφήνετε το ασφαλτοστρωμένο δρόμο και μπαίνετε προς τα δεξιά σε έναν μικρό αγροτικό δρόμο από τσιμέντο.
Οδηγείστε για 200 μέτρα στο τσιμεντένιο επαρχιακό δρόμο και άλλα 400 μέτρα σε χωματόδρομο. Ακολουθήστε τις πινακίδες για να μην μπείτε στον ελαιώνα που είναι πριν από εμάς. Περιμένετε να δείτε το σημείο με την πινακίδα του Zen Rocks να δείχνει τον ανηφορικό ιδιωτικό τσιμεντένιο δρόμο στα αριστερά σας. Είναι που θα σας φέρει στο κατάλυμα.
Σε αυτό το σημείο και μόνο θα δείτε και τους στύλους της ΔΕΗ να ανεβαίνουν προς τα πάνω.
9. Κάντε αριστερά σε αυτόν τον τσιμεντένιο δρόμο. Έχει έντονη ανηφορική κλίση, οπότε βάλτε πρώτη ταχύτητα για να ανεβείτε. Ακόμα και μικρά αυτοκίνητα ανεβαίνουν άνετα. Είναι λίγο σα να ανεβαίνετε ίσια πάνω στον ουρανό, στα σύννεφα… Απογειώνεστε λοιπόν.
10. 5 Δευτερόπτα μετά: Καλώς ορίσατε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Χαλαρώστε και απολαύστε τη διαμονή σας!

Όπως λέει και ο δάσκαλος του Ζεν Thich Nhat Hahn: You have arrived! Pause. Enjoy!

Let us know about your needs and preferences and we can pre-arrange the perfect nurturing massage or related therapy session for you.

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