The Other Side of Ashtanga with Joey Paz

Join Joey Paz for a weekend of deep relaxation, self-exploration, and authentic connection.

During this very special weekend retreat, we will explore the practice of Ashtanga Yoga, including Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Mantra, and Philosophy, in the tradition of Sri BNS Iyengar, the world’s oldest Ashtanga master at age 99 and a direct disciple of Krishnamacharya.

It is a traditional, profound, and transformative system that Joey shares with authentic passion.

The retreat will be held in English with Italian translation.

This retreat is open to all levels of practitioners. 

Total beginners, as well as advanced practitioners, are equally welcome! 

This “alternative” tradition of Ashtanga Yoga, everyone is welcomed and modifications are introduced for beginners. 

It is a more accessible approach to what is often seen as a difficult practice.

Joey has been traveling and teaching all over the world over the last decade, and he will meet you wherever you are in your practice in order to help you evolve towards the next step. 

In this approach, all asanas can be modified to suit the needs of the individual. 

Breathing is the most important factor, and we examine the breath first and foremost as a tool for purification and healing. 

Through storytelling, humor, and warmth, Joey will guide the group gently from the external, physical practice of Asana, into the more subtle, energetic, and internal practices of pranayama, mudra, and meditation- the higher limbs of Ashtanga leading to deep inner reflection and transformation. 

FRIDAY, June 19  

5-7pm- Therapeutic Fundamentals/Myofascial release + Intro to Ashtanga practice

We begin with an introduction to the alternative lineage of Ashtanga Yoga, followed by an introduction to therapeutic exercises, and self massage to release tension as well as activate and strengthen the weaker muscle groups in our bodies.

This session covers the basic theory, movements & practices to set yourself up for a sustainable life long yoga practice. Here, we cover the necessary practices to undo the negative side effects of all strengthening routines.

8.30-9.30 – Pranayama: The Divine Breath of Yoga | Part 1

A powerful overview of the traditional pranayama system of Sri BNS Iyengar. This pranayama lineage is a powerful and meticulous system designed specifically to bring balance to the nervous systems, purify the Nadis in preparation for the rising of Kundalini with the more advanced practices of Shakti Chalana Pranayama, which will be introduced. Participants will also receive PDF instruction guides with step-by-step instructions for a lifelong continued pranayama practice.

SATURDAY, JUNE 20

9am-12pm – Led Ashtanga Practice

Includes Therapeutic techniques, Asana, Mudra, Bandha & Pranayama. Starting from wherever your practice is currently, we will assist you in taking the next steps to deepen, understand and evolve your yoga practice.

Then we will lead a traditional Ashtanga practice in the  lineage of our teacher, Sri BNS Iyengar of Mysore, who is the world’s senior living Ashtanga teacher and the last living student of Krishnamacharya still living and teaching today in Mysore at age 99. There is the possibility to explore Primary Series, Intermediate and Advanced series, as well as Mysore style practice during the morning practice session.

4pm-6pm : Mudra, Mantra, & Meditation

We take a deep dive into the system of traditional Hatha Yoga Mudras, Bandhas, and Mantra Yoga. These practices consolidate our asana practice and provide a direct pathway to the higher limbs of Yoga- Contemplation, Meditation, and Superconsciousness. 

8:30-9:30 pm – Pranayama: The Divine Breath of Yoga |Part 2

A powerful overview of the traditional pranayama system of Sri BNS Iyengar. This pranayama lineage is a powerful and meticulous system designed specifically to bring balance to the nervous systems, purify the Nadis in preparation for the rising of Kundalini with the more advanced practices of Shakti Chalana Pranayama, which will be introduced. Participants will also receive PDF instruction guides with step-by-step instructions for a lifelong continued pranayama practice.

SUNDAY, June 21

9am-12pm – Led Practice

(See description above)

This workshop is registered as a Continuing Education Series with Yoga Alliance, and yoga teachers may claim 12 CEU (Continuing Education Units) with Yoga Alliance upon completion.

This is a a rare and precious opportunity to immerse yourself in a direct transmission of the lineage of Sri BNS Iyengar.

If you wish to encounter the depth of Ashtanga in its therapeutic and spiritual dimension, this retreat is for you.

You will leave this weekend feeling stronger and more confident in your practice, more alive in your body, and connected to your breath as a tool for lifelong healing.

If you would like to learn more about Joey Paz, visit: www.joeypazyoga.com

To allow everyone to participate according to their own possibilities, at Valle Benedetta we adopt a conscious participation model, conceived as a contribution to the cost of the retreat program.
We invite you to select the fee that best aligns with your current resources.

SUSTAINABLE LEVEL: This rate covers the actual costs of the retreat – €230
SUPPORTER LEVEL: For those who are able to contribute also on behalf of others – €280
SUPPORTED LEVEL: For those who need financial support – €180

PLEASE NOTE: On the booking page, the Sustainable Level will be preselected by default. You may freely change it after selecting your room type.
The program cost refers exclusively to the activities, practices, and facilitation of the experience.

FULL BOARD ACCOMMODATION COST
The cost of full board accommodation varies depending on the room type:

• Quadruple room: €90 (per person, per night)
• Double room: from €115 (per person, per night)
• Single room: from €180 (per person, per night)

All details and room availability can be consulted directly on the booking page.