What an incredible event! We had a very full group – all ages, abilities, and approaches.
Above all else, though, was an amazing feeling of fun and community.
Let me break down the day for you (and be sure to join the Shala or the V&V interest list so you can join in the next one!)
10:30a and we are off and running!
It was a BEAUTIFUL day, especially considering it is January. Even in SoCal the weather can be cold and rainy – in fact it rained all week in the run up to the event. By Saturday though, the weather was a balmy 78 and sunny!
Our team arrived at 9:30a to set up and get ready for the arrival of our guests. We gave everyone a little time to check in, find their spot, and get the lay of the land. The Cheval Winery is set in the hills of Escondido, CA and provided a (mostly) peaceful and serene atmosphere. We were able to tune out the lovely sound of the saw next door with the power of yoga focus!
As we kicked off the event, I wanted to assure everyone that this was their time, their practice, and to be sure to use any options and variations they wanted and that I would also provide some along the way. We were there to work at our on level, in our own way, and have some fun.
Once we got going, I was delighted to see many people doing just that – taking the options they wanted and smiling along the way.
Once we got rolling on our balance flow, it was time to kick things up a notch or two and break out the (plastic) wine glasses!
Filled with water – because we didn’t want to risk and wine spills – we set about doing a few postures like king dancer, warrior III, and boat all with our glasses in hand. Lots of “cheers”, hand offs, and laughter along the way.
Time for some goodies!
We finished up our first flow with some partner stretches and then dove into some delicious munchies including vegan options, courtesy of Dena David, and of course some wine tasting.
Relax, wander, and ponder
We wanted to be sure to allow time to explore the property, journal if wanted (everyone got a journal in their gift bag), and just relax into the day.
Restorative yoga with meditation and sound bath to round out the day
Continuing the vibe into the afternoon, we concluded the retreat with restorative yoga, extended meditation to let go of overthinking, and a sound bath. Special thanks to my assistant for the day Nicole Martinez, for giving everyone the calming lavender scent experience!
Vino and Vinyasa comes to a close – for today
We had so much fun! Everyone was really lovely and open to trying new things, making new friends and new memories.
While it was a wrap for the day, lots of ideas and learnings to sift through to begin planning the next event!
Don’t miss out! Join the LAYLO Shala or sign up for the info waitlist for the retreat you are interested in attending.
Have an idea for a retreat you’d like to attend? Let us know!
P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍
As the doors to our Vino & Vinyasa Retreat have opened, one of the first things people have questions about is the sound bath that is part of the retreat.
Sound baths, a unique experience gaining popularity for its potential to enhance well-being, is not a new practice. In fact sound has been used for centuries to move people, to soothe them, to stir them up, and even to irritate them!
Sound baths have a solid foundation in science. As we have learned more about how our brains work, we have been able to acutally observe the powerful effect that the sound bath can have on us. While you can check it out on YouTube, the best way to understand it is to experience it. But first, let’s explore the scientific aspects that make this practice more than just a melodic meditation.
What is a Sound Bath?
Imagine immersing yourself in a cocoon of soothing sounds, created by various instruments that may include singing bowls, gongs, and even tuning forks. That’s essentially what a sound bath entails – a therapeutic session where vibrations wash over you. The result is a calming and immersive auditory experience.
The Science of Vibration:
Now, let’s get down to why sound baths work. At the core of this practice is the science of vibration. Every instrument used in a sound bath produces vibrations that travel through the air and water, impacting the body at a cellular level. These vibrations can stimulate a relaxation response, helping to reduce stress and promote a sense of tranquility.
Brainwave Entrainment
One of the key scientific principles behind sound baths is brainwave entrainment. Our brains naturally synchronize with external stimuli, such as rhythmic sounds. The gentle, repetitive tones in a sound bath can guide your brainwaves into a more relaxed state. For some it is a similar feeling to the peacefulness experienced during meditation or deep relaxation exercises.
Binaural Beats Unveiled
Enter binaural beats, the unsung heroes of the sound bath experience. Binaural beats are the result of two slightly different frequencies played in each ear. This creates a third frequency, the binaural beat, perceived by the brain. Studies suggest that exposure to these beats can influence brainwave patterns, potentially inducing states of relaxation or focus.
The Brain’s Symphony
Our brains are complex orchestras of electrical activity, producing different types of brainwaves depending on our mental state. Binaural beats, when calibrated correctly, are thought to encourage the brain to synchronize with the desired frequency, leading to a range of effects from enhanced meditation to improved sleep.
Stress Reduction and Cortisol Levels
In our fast-paced lives, stress is a common companion. The soothing sounds of a sound bath can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest and digest” response. This activation promotes a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels – the notorious stress hormone.
Enhanced Mindfulness and Focus
Regular sound bath sessions may contribute to improved mindfulness and focus. As you immerse yourself in the harmonious sounds, the external distractions fade away. This may allow your mind to achieve a state of heightened awareness. This increased mindfulness can positively impact your ability to concentrate and remain present in the moment.
The Physical Benefitsof a Sound Bath
Beyond the mental and emotional benefits, sound baths may have a positive effect on the physical body. Some enthusiasts report relief from tension, improved sleep, and a general sense of rejuvenation after a session. While individual experiences may vary, the overall impact on well-being is worth exploring.
This is just a brief glimpse into the scientific underpinnings of sound baths. Regardless of where you are on your wellness journey, incorporating sound baths might be the key to unlocking a more relaxed and balanced you. Give it a try, and let the vibrations guide you on your path to well-being.
P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍
In our fast-paced, digital-driven world, finding moments of tranquility and mindfulness can be a challenge.
On the one hand, the digital landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for networking, productivity, and advancement. However, the line between connectivity and digital addiction can be thin, and the repercussions on personal well-being are significant.
Nonstop connectivity to our screens poses a myriad of dangers for people aiming to excel in their careers. The constant barrage of emails, notifications, and social media updates can lead to heightened stress levels, anxiety, and burnout. As career demands intensify, the temptation to stay plugged in 24/7 becomes more pronounced, jeopardizing not only mental health but also hindering the ability to unwind and recharge.
Detaching from email, text, video games, TV, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computers periodically allows us to regain control over our lives, fostering a healthier work-life balance.
Finding that balance in our lives is more crucial to our well-being than ever before. Let’s explore the concept of digital detox and how incorporating mindfulness into our daily routines can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.
The Digital Dilemma
In an era dominated by smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity, it’s easy to become ensnared in the web of digital distractions. While technology has undoubtedly brought convenience and efficiency into our lives, it has also given rise to a new form of addiction—digital addiction. The incessant notifications, endless scrolling, and constant exposure to screens can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being.
The Need for Digital Detox
A digital detox involves consciously and temporarily disconnecting from digital devices to recalibrate and recenter ourselves. As a yoga student, you can think of it as a mental and emotional savasana—a conscious pause to rejuvenate the mind and soul. Here are some practical steps to initiate a digital detox:
1. Set Boundaries:
Establish specific times during the day when you’ll be device-free. This could be during meals, before bedtime, or during your yoga practice. Create sacred spaces where screens are not allowed.
2. Unplug from Social Media:
Consider taking a break from social media platforms. The constant comparison and information overload can contribute to stress and anxiety. Use this time to connect with real-life experiences and relationships.
Participate in tech-free retreats where individuals can immerse themselves in yoga, meditation, and nature without the interference of digital devices. This can be a transformative experience, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and others.
Mindful Technology Usage Workshops: A digital detox yoga retreat can incorporate workshops on mindful technology usage, empowering participants to establish healthy boundaries in their digital lives.
Yoga and Meditation Practices: Engaging in yoga and meditation sessions can help people develop mindfulness skills, allowing them to be present in the moment and reduce reliance on digital distractions.
Nature Immersion: Many yoga retreats are set in serene natural environments, offering a break from the digital hustle. Connecting with nature has been proven to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Community Support: Participating in a yoga retreat fosters a sense of community. Sharing experiences and challenges related to digital detox with like-minded individuals creates a supportive network that extends beyond the retreat.
How Do I Know If I Need a Break?
You may be experiencing the need to back off from tech in a more vague way – feeling overwhelmed or anxious after checking social media. Perhaps realizing you are picking up your phone every few minutes “just to check in”. Or maybe you feel a sense of panic at the thought leaving your phone behind.
Anytime you are looking to remove or limit something in your life, you need to replace it with something else, something more positive and with greater reward. If not, your brain wants to slip back into its familiar patterns.
Nature hates a vacuum!
The Rewards Are Many!
Turn your focus on how you will feel by limiting your digital usage:
Improved Mental Health: Constant exposure to screens has been linked to increased stress and anxiety. A digital detox provides an opportunity to reset, reduce mental clutter, and promote overall well-being.
Enhanced Productivity: Paradoxically, excessive digital engagement can diminish productivity. Unplugging allows for increased focus and concentration, enabling women to approach tasks with renewed energy and efficiency.
Strengthened Relationships: Building and maintaining meaningful connections with friends, family, and colleagues requires genuine, offline interactions. A digital detox allows people to invest time in nurturing these relationships, fostering a sense of connection and support.
Increased Creativity: Continuous exposure to digital stimuli can stifle creativity. Stepping away from screens encourages the mind to wander, fostering new ideas and perspectives that might be overlooked in the constant buzz of digital engagement.
Better Sleep: Turning off electronic devices a few hours before bed can dramatically improve your ability to fall asleep and have quality sleep.
More Time: Less time buried in your screen gives you back time during the day for the things that light you up! Maybe you love to paint, hike, read, cook – whatever makes you happy. Time away from your devices can deepen your joy and satisfaction in life. You can reinvest that time in the things that are about YOU.
Mindful Living in the Digital Age
Mindfulness is at the heart of yoga philosophy, and bringing this awareness into our digital lives can have profound effects. Here’s how you can infuse mindfulness into your daily routine:
1. Conscious Consumption:
Be mindful of the content you consume online. Choose information that uplifts and inspires rather than drains your energy. Unfollow accounts that promote negativity.
2. Tech-Free Yoga Practice:
Designate a specific space for your yoga practice that is free from digital distractions. This sacred space will allow you to immerse yourself fully in the present moment, enhancing the benefits of your practice.
3. Digital Mindfulness Techniques:
Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your digital activities. Practice conscious breathing while responding to emails or take short breaks for mindful stretches during prolonged screen time.
Your Wellbeing Matters!
I encourage you to embrace the concept of digital detox and mindful living. By finding a balance between the digital world and the present moment, we can cultivate a more harmonious and fulfilling life.
Remember, it’s not about completely shunning technology but about using it consciously to enhance, rather than detract from, our overall well-being. So, unplug, unwind, and embark on a journey of digital detox and mindful living—one breath at a time.
P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to forget to take a moment for ourselves. We are constantly juggling work, family, and countless responsibilities, often neglecting our well-being.
The truth is, we all need a break, a chance to recharge and refocus, regardless of our age.
That’s where a one-day yoga retreat comes into play. It’s the perfect opportunity to step away from the chaos and immerse yourself in a day of self-care, mindfulness, and rejuvenation.
How a one day yoga retreat can help
Reconnect with yourself
Life’s demands can pull us in various directions, leaving us feeling disconnected from our inner selves. A one-day yoga retreat offers a valuable opportunity to reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit.
Through a series of yoga sessions, meditation, and mindful practices, you can rediscover balance within you.
Release stress and tension
Stress is a constant companion in today’s fast-paced world. A yoga retreat provides a serene environment where you can leave the worries of everyday life behind. The practice of yoga and meditation helps release built-up tension, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Enhance physical well-being
Yoga is a powerful tool for improving physical health. During your one-day retreat, you’ll engage in yoga poses that can increase flexibility, strength, and balance. These practices benefit people of all ages by promoting overall well-being and helping to maintain a healthy body.
Nourish your mind
Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Through guided meditation and mindfulness exercises, a yoga retreat allows you to nourish your mind. It helps reduce anxiety, improve focus, and cultivate a positive outlook on life.
Connect with like-minded people
One of the beautiful aspects of a one-day yoga retreat is the opportunity to connect with other people who share a passion for health and well-being. It’s a supportive environment where you can make new friends and share experiences.
Take a day for yourself
In our busy lives, we often put the needs of others before our own. A one-day yoga retreat is a way to prioritize self-care. By dedicating a day to yourself, you send a powerful message that your well-being matters.
Vino & Vinyasa – more than class and sip!
While we may not always acknowledge it, we all need a break to rejuvenate and reconnect with our inner selves. A one-day yoga retreat provides the perfect opportunity to do just that, without the need for a lengthy commitment. It’s a day dedicated to self-care, stress relief, physical well-being, and personal growth, and it’s something everyone can benefit from, regardless of age.
Vino & Vinyasa is that “push pause” button on your crazy life. 2 yoga classes for all abilities, a full wine flight tasting, delicious charcuterie, connection with community, sound bath experience, and your own yogi swag bag!
So, take the plunge and give yourself the gift of a one-day yoga retreat. Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.
P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍
The lengths we will go to for our clients! 😍 Check out the whirlwind winery tour notes below!
My friend and longtime Temecula resident Christina Hawthorne and I took one for the team. We toured 8 different wineries to find “The One” for the upcoming Vino & Vinyasa Retreat.
Don’t worry friends – sampling was kept to a minimum!
Why Vino & Vinyasa?
I really wanted to offer Vino & Vinyasa as our inaugural event. I wanted to show the fun and social side of yoga. That is the heart of LAYLO yoga & wellness – making yoga something you want to do and enjoy making it a part of your life.
Yoga seems kind of intimidating and serious to a lot of people. I get it – that is an easy impression to get. We see lots of amazing postures being posted on social media and some rather militant ideas on how yoga should be practiced. Amazing to look at, and interesting perspectives to consider.
But not so obtainable by your average Jane.
I politely disagree with those attitudes being presented on social, in studios, and in our own minds. I want to make sure yoga is approachable, doable, and yes, FUN!
Whew! Talk about speed-dating! We saw so many amazing spaces – all of which embodied the concept of relaxing, self-care, and socializing.
And the winning winery is…
I don’t know yet. As of the writing of this post, I am having conversations with each space to ensure we have incredible value and a fantastic atmosphere.
Give your feedback!
If you have personally visited any of these spaces – or know of a wine venue that embodies “home is where the wine is” drop us a line and spill the tea (or in this case, wine)!
If you haven’t done so yet, be sure to get on the waitlist so you can stay in the know when the dates, venues – and the fun – drop.
Yoga retreats offer a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in a tranquil and rejuvenating experience.
These retreats provide participants with a chance to deepen their yoga practice, connect with like-minded individuals, and find inner peace.
If you’re considering attending a yoga retreat for the first time, here’s what you can expect from this transformative journey.
Immersive Yoga Practice
At the heart of any yoga retreat lies the daily practice of yoga. Expect to indulge in multiple sessions of various yoga styles, ranging from Hatha and Vinyasa to Kundalini and Yin. Seasoned instructors will guide you through each session, focusing on proper alignment, breathing techniques, and mindfulness. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll find classes catered to your skill level.
Serene and Scenic Location
Yoga retreats are typically held in picturesque locations, often surrounded by nature’s beauty. You might find yourself nestled in the mountains, near the ocean, or in a tranquil forest setting. The serene ambiance enhances the experience, helping you disconnect from everyday stress and distractions, and fostering a sense of tranquility and harmony with the environment.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Beyond the physical aspects of yoga, retreats emphasize mindfulness and meditation. Practice mindfulness throughout the day, savor each moment, and be fully present. You will likely take part in guided meditation sessions. Meditation will help you quiet your mind, reduce anxiety, and foster a deeper connection with yourself.
Delicious and Nourishing Cuisine
Most yoga retreats prioritize healthy and nourishing cuisine to support the participants’ well-being. Expect to enjoy delicious vegetarian or vegan meals, often made from locally sourced and organic ingredients. Meals are usually served in a communal setting, providing an opportunity to bond with fellow attendees over shared food experiences.
Community and Connection
Yoga retreats foster a strong sense of community and camaraderie among participants. As you embark on this journey with like-minded individuals, you’ll likely form meaningful connections and build lasting friendships. The supportive and inclusive environment allows you to be yourself and embrace personal growth without judgment.
Free Time for Relaxation and Exploration
While the retreat schedule may be structured, there is also designated free time for relaxation and personal exploration. You can use this time to read a book, take a leisurely stroll, or simply sit in quiet contemplation. Additionally, some retreats may offer excursions to nearby attractions, giving you the chance to explore the local culture and natural beauty.
Emotional Release and Healing
Yoga retreats often provide a safe space for emotional release and healing. The combination of yoga, mindfulness, and a nurturing environment can help participants process emotions, release tension, and find inner peace. Many attendees report feeling more centered, emotionally balanced, and empowered after their retreat experience.
Attending a yoga retreat is a transformative journey that offers a unique opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. With immersive yoga practices, serene surroundings, mindful meditation, nourishing cuisine, and a supportive community, these retreats provide an enriching experience. Expect to return home with a renewed sense of self, a deeper understanding of yoga, and a profound connection to your inner being. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, a yoga retreat may be just what your soul needs.
