The adventure of a lifetime in the legendary Land of the Rising Sun!
Join us in Nagano, Japan for 8 days of Ashtanga yoga immersion, deep healing hot springs rejuvenation, outdoor adventures, and Zen meditation. For this retreat, we have reserved an entire Onsen Ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn with its own private hot springs onsite) for the exclusive use of the guests. That's right! You will have exclusive, unlimited, 24-hour use of the on-site mineral hot springs baths, steps away from your rooms. This retreat is suitable for everyone- total beginners, as well as seasoned practitioners are equally welcomed!
Nicknamed the ‘Roof of Japan,’ Nagano Prefecture is situated in the center of the country. Punctuated by the towering Japanese Alps, the region is best known for its amazing ski season, which hosted the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. However, the summer months in Nagano are just as exceptional, with world-class hiking and forested hillsides that burst to life with wildflowers throughout the summer.
The picturesque Japanese Alps of Nagano.
The castle overlooking the town of Chikuma. A great day hike we will go on together!
Nagano is home to some of Japan's most picturesque scenery. The region also features many of the country’s most revered mountain shrines and castles, offering travelers a glimpse into Japan’s storied past.
Our retreat will be held at Kamesei Ryokan, a historic former Geisha house in the hot springs town of Togura, with 6 private hot spring mineral baths on site. Just this year, an industry newspaper included our Ryokan in their annual list of Top 100 Hotels and Inns in Japan as decided by professionals. Kamesei Ryokan is truly a treasure, and you can read hundreds of stellar reviews on Airbnb if you search for “Kamesei Ryokan” in Nagano.
As you enter our spacious lobby, relax a moment to enjoy its fine woodwork and rustic charm. Take in the serene view of the 'naka-niwa' garden and koi pond. Then, follow the passageway through the garden to your guest room. Sit down on the tatami mat floor and let yourself unwind with a cup of tea as you enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the room. Open the shoji screens for views of your private garden.
Feel free to change into the comfortable yukata robe. (Be warned that you may never want to change back to your western-style clothes again!). Your experience here at our Ryokan will take you far away from the stress and hustle of the outside world, into a place of deep, soothing calm. The spacious lobby includes an antique irori hearth, a wood-burning stove and piano, and bookshelves with an extensive collection of brochures and travel information, as well as a lounging area with a rocking chair for or enjoying views of the central garden and koi pond. Wooden geta sandals are set out in the lobby and Om Shala Yoga encourages guests to wear them with their yukata robe and go for a stroll around town.
Guest rooms
The guest rooms are in the traditional Japanese style. The rooms are divided into 7 on the ground floor, all with private tsubo-niwa pocket gardens, and 5 on the floor upstairs. The ones on the 1st floor are each decorated with a different Nagano-based theme and are named accordingly. The 2nd-floor rooms are named after the mountains visible from each room. Comfortable tatami (futon) floor mattresses provided for sleeping, in the traditional Japanese style.
Please note that the guest rooms (with the exception of 1 deluxe suite) do not have their own private showers. The showering facilities are located in the onsen areas, in the traditional Japanese-style setup. Soap and shampoo are provided in the showering areas for guests.
The gardens start with a Japanese pine tree at the entrance, which is in many ways the main symbol of the inn. The central garden and the many tsubo-niwa pocket gardens along the corridors and attached to the guest rooms feature a variety of plants and trees that provide a constant parade of colors from spring to fall, as well as often being a backdrop to snowy scenery in winter. Azaleas and hydrangeas are especially plentiful as well as many plants that are representative of Nagano Prefecture.
Onsen (Volcanic Mineral Hot Spring Baths)
One of the outdoor onsen baths on site at the inn where we will be staying.
One of the outdoor onsen baths on site at the inn where we will be staying.
The Onsen baths are the heart and soul of the hotel where you will be staying and practicing. For the duration of the retreat, you will have full, exclusive use of 6 Onsen bathing areas of natural hot spring mineral water straight from the source, 100% free-flowing 24 hours a day. The region’s onsen water is richly high in sulfur content and is luxuriously alkaline, with a pH of around 8.6, the minerals have the effect of leaving your skin feeling silky-smooth. The 6 main baths are the men’s large indoor and hand-made river rock outdoor bath, women’s smaller indoor and its two outdoor baths, and the outdoor family bath, in addition to the private onsen in the luxury suite room.
Health benefits of Mineral Hot Springs:
Mineral hot springs have long been revered for their numerous health benefits, drawing people to their soothing waters for centuries. These natural wonders are rich in a variety of minerals, such as sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and silica, which are believed to possess healing properties. Immersing oneself in mineral hot springs can help alleviate a range of ailments, including muscle aches and joint pain, by promoting relaxation and increasing blood circulation. The heat from the springs also aids in reducing stress and tension, leading to improved sleep quality and overall mental well-being. Additionally, the minerals present in the water can nourish the skin, leaving it feeling softer and smoother. Regular visits to mineral hot springs can thus serve as a therapeutic retreat, offering both physical rejuvenation and mental relaxation in a serene natural setting.
In Japan, mineral hot springs, known as "onsen," hold a revered place in the country's cultural and wellness traditions. Japan boasts a diverse array of onsen, each with its unique mineral composition and therapeutic benefits. Renowned for their healing properties, these hot springs have been cherished for centuries, with people flocking to them to alleviate various ailments and promote overall well-being. From the volcanic regions of Hokkaido to the tranquil countryside of Kyushu, Japan's onsen offer a serene escape into nature, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and traditional Japanese architecture. Beyond their physical benefits, soaking in onsen is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture as a ritual of relaxation and purification, fostering a sense of harmony with oneself and the natural world. Whether nestled in the mountains or overlooking the sea, a visit to the mineral hot springs of Japan promises a rejuvenating experience for the body, mind, and soul.
Program
In this 8-day retreat experience, you will divide your time evenly between in-depth immersive study and practice of yoga, pranayama (yogic breathing), mudra (energetic seals), mantra chanting, and philosophy; adventure and exploration; and deep healing relaxation in the 6 sulfur mineral hot spring pools located at the inn. This retreat will feature exclusive and unlimited use of all the private onsen baths on-site, for the exclusive use of the retreat guests! You read that correctly - healing, mineral volcanic hot springs, mere steps away from your guest room, available at all times for guests of this retreat only. In addition to the hot springs we have available for our use at the inn, there are dozens of other locations featuring hot springs throughout the town and region.
When you're not practicing or luxuriating in the onsen springs, you'll have free time to go on adventures into the picturesque Japanese Alps that surround the town of Togura, and other historical sites in the surrounding region, explore the Chikuma River via bicycle, and enjoy the multitude of natural and historical sites throughout the area. We will also go on a hike to Mt. Kamariki. In addition there will be plenty of free time for you to explore the Temples, Theatres, and Tea Houses of Japan at your own pace!
The yoga curriculum of this retreat will focus on the 8 limbs of Ashtanga yoga as taught by Sri BNS Iyengar of Mysore, India. Daily morning practice sessions will include Therapeutic/Somatic movement, kriya (preparation), asana (postural practice), pranayama (yogic breathing techniques), mudra (bodily energy seals), mantra (yogic chanting), and a deep dive into yoga philosophy.
This retreat is suitable for all levels of practitioners, including complete beginners. Joey is an experienced teacher who can meet you wherever you are in your practice. Beginners, as well as experienced yoga practitioners, are encouraged! Yoga teachers can claim 16 hours of Continuing Education (CE) Credits with Yoga Alliance upon completion of this retreat.
Daily Itinerary
7am to 9:30am - Therapeutic Movements, morning Asana & Pranayama Practice
Starting from wherever your practice is at currently Joey will assist you in taking the next steps to deepen, understand and evolve your yoga practice. We begin with somatic moverment/therapeutic exercises, and self massage to release tension as well as activate and strengthen the weaker muscles groups in our bodies.
Then we will begin asana practice in the traditional Ashtanga method of our teacher, Sri BNS Iyengar of Mysore, the world’s elder living teacher of Ashtanga Yoga at age 97. We will explore Primary Series, Intermediate and Advanced series in a fun and lighthearted manner, as well as Mysore style practice during the morning practice sessions. Modifications will be introduced, making the practice accessible for everyone in attendance.
9:30am: Breakfast
Fresh, local, seasonal Japanese cuisine served onsite! Every day is a brand new exquisite culinary experience (Please note that we will not have breakfast served on day 4, 5, and 6 of the retreat- this was an intentional decision to allow guests to explore the delightful variety of traditional Japanese restaurants in the town!)
10:30am - 4pm - Free time relax, explore the area, or soak in the mineral hot springs baths on site.
4-5pm - Afternoon Session: Mudra, Mantra, Meditation Practice
In the afternoons, Joey will lead the group in the more subtle, internal, energetic practices of Yoga. The internal techniques of yoga will be explored and taught carefully as we move beyond Asana practice into concentration and deep self-inquiry.
5-6pm - Dinner
Fresh, local, seasonal Japanese cuisine served onsite. Every day is an exquisite culinary experience. You won’t believe the food! (Please note that we will not have dinner served at the inn on day 4, 5, or 6 of the retreat- this was an intentional decision to allow guests to explore the delightful variety of traditional Japanese restaurants in the town!)
6-7 pm - Philosophy Lectures from Senior Scholars
In the evenings we will stream Yoga Philosophy lectures from the Mysore Yoga Traditions scholarly archive. This is deep philosophy from the scholars of Mysore with whom we have been cultivating a relationship over the years during our annual journeys to India. This content is exclusive to our group and can’t be found anywhere outside our archive.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner of yoga, this retreat is a unique opportunity to take some time for yourself to recharge and heal your body in a very relaxing and beautiful place.
Bonus Excursions
During the retreat, we will also have the opportunity to go on cultural excursions in the area, including Matsumoto Black Castle & Jigokudani Monkey Park. Guests will be responsible for paying transportation and entry fees when applicable.
What is included in the cost of the retreat:
Daily Yoga classes, lectures, and extensive study curriculum, including a comprehensive PDF study guide of all material covered for continued study
Unlimited use of the on-site mineral onsen baths (healing volcanic mineral hot springs)
8 delicious meals served on site during the course of the retreat-award winning Japanese cuisine prepared by the in-house chef at our inn. (please note that on days 4, 5, and 6 of the retreat there will be no meals served at the inn - this is an intentional decision to give our group the opportunity to explore the delightful local culinary scene in the many amazing restaurants of the town!
Pickup from Togura Train station directly to the retreat
8 days/7 nights accommodation in a fully furnished guest room at the inn
A deep understanding and foundation for a lifelong Pranayama practice, one of the most powerful yogic tools for maintaining resilient health and well-being- including step-by-step PDF guides and video downloads of Joey’s online Pranayama courses, detailing the principles, practice, and philosophy of Pranayama.
Guided hikes into the nearby mountains surrounding the town
A download of Joey’s HD quality Primary Series instructional video
16 Continuing Education credit hours with Yoga Alliance (Yoga teachers)
A certificate of completion stating you have acquired knowledge in the traditional system of asana, pranayama, and mudra
An international crew of new friends and global connections
Memories to last a lifetime!
Ready to join? Don’t think about it too long! This retreat is limited to 16 people.
Get the best possible price and lowest monthly payment plan by registering earlier rather than later.
SHARED ROOM:
Super Early Bird Price - $999 until May 31, 2024
Early Bird Price - $1,199 from June 1-June 21
Regular Price - $1,399 from June 22- July 31
Procrastinator Price - $1,599 after July 31
PRIVATE ROOM:
Super Early Bird Price - $1,299 until May 31, 2024
Early Bird Price - $1,499 from June 1 -June 21
Regular Price - $1,699 from June 22- July 31
Procrastinator Price - $1,899 after July 31
Deluxe Suite Room with private hot spring and shower (Only 1 available) - $2,500
Register by April 30, 2024 for $100/month payment plan
A $100 deposit reserves your spot and locks in the retreat price at the time the deposit is made. Once you register, we will be in touch with you immediately to set up your payment plan.
Please note that due to the nature of this being an international retreat with very limited space and great cost/planning required, no refunds are possible for any reason once you commit to coming and begin making payments. You may however transfer your payments already made to another person who can come in your place if you have to cancel. By registering for this retreat, you agree to these terms.
THIS RETREAT IS LIMITED TO 16 GUESTS. Please register early to ensure a spot.
WhatsApp +1 4058239919 with any questions or for more information, and to discuss payment options.
About the Instructor:
Joey has been a devout practitioner of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga since 2008. Practicing daily for many years with Andrew Eppler, Bryce Delbridge, and Jennifer Engleman at Ashtanga Yoga Studio in Oklahoma, he began to travel regularly to India in 2013 to initiate ongoing in-depth study of Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Mantra, and Yoga philosophy with Sri BNS Iyengar, a direct student of T. Krishnamacharya and the world's elder living master in the Ashtanga lineage.
In addition to his E-RYT 500 certification from Andrew Eppler at AYS and the Himalayan Yoga Association of Rishikesh, India; Joey has studied in-depth for many years with a wide array of old school Ashtangis including David Williams, Nancy Gilgoff, Danny Paradise, David Garrigues, Gilad and Miriam Harouvi, Baptiste Marceau, Dominic & Stephanie Corigliano, & Boris Georgiev, among others.
Beyond asana, he is a student of Yogic chanting with Dr. M.A. Jayashree and Narasimhan of Ananta Research Foundation in Mysore & Kanchen Mala of Krishnamacharr Yoga Shala in Mysore; Yoga history & Sanskrit phonology/pronunciation with Seth Powell of Yogic Studies; and Yoga Darshana with Dr. M.A. Alwar of Maharaja Sanskrit College and his father, the late Dr. Lakshmi Tatachar, founder of the Samskrti Foundation in Melukote, India, and studies the texts of Yoga with Dr. Nagaraj Rao
In addition to his devoted practice and study, Joey is co-producer of the film “Mysore Yoga Traditions," a groundbreaking documentary that provides an in-depth look at the fabric of Yoga culture in Mysore; and currently co-hosts the annual Mysore Yoga Traditions Retreat and Conference held every year in Mysore- the birthplace of modern yoga.
While leading workshops and retreats around the world, Joey also manages the Mysore Yoga Traditions online continuing education program with the Sanskrit and Yogic scholars of Mysore, India.
He returns to Mysore, India each year to continue his studies and maintain close ties to his teachers.