On Jun 2nd we safely landed in Chiang Mai and checked in to our boutique Hotel. The hotel was beautifully decorated with Chinese furniture and antiques that made us felt like living in a wealthy Chinese home in a peaceful atmosphere. Our yoga vacation started with an introductory speech by our dear Master. Master told us to get prepared to learn something new and out of the ordinary in this trip, followed by a relaxing yoga class with chanting.
Next morning began with neti pot nasal irrigation which was new to some of the students.
Then we had Ashtanga yoga, it was my first class and I was in for a bit of a shock. The repetitive planks, jumps, upward facing dogs and arm balances were a real challenge. With the help of the experienced students, I surived. Afternoon class was on hip opening.
We had a full day tour on the following day to Doi Suthep, Mae Sa Elephant Camp, the ‘Long Neck Karen’ ethnic hill-tribe, Orchid and butterflies farm, Handicraft Village and Thai cooking class. It was just FANTASTIC!!
The rest of the days were classes on core, stretching that required us to work in pairs and photo shooting. Moreover, we went to a yoga studio called ‘Yoga Tree’ to practice with a local teacher, it was really a wonderful experience to us. Some of the students even tried Acro Yoga with a guest from Bangkok and had lots of fun. Talking about photo shooting, it was an eye-opening experience to see my yoga friends doing the advanced poses at ease. I hope I could do it one day……
Returned from an amazing yoga trip and feeling refreshed and happy until now. Many thanks to Master Deva, Gigi, YY, Clara, Kiyoko and the beautiful group for making this trip a success.
Namaste!
Katie Hermine Lai
