Whenever I step into a new studio or one that I have never attended before, there is a feeling of shyness and excitement about the new adventure about to begin. The smell is different, the layout is unique, the faces on the mats are all brand new and just a feeling in the air uniquely defines each studio. As I progress farther into my own yogic studies I have started to challenge myself to go to new studios, try different classes and break free from the comfort zone that I have already established at previous locales. Eventually I would love to tour larger cities, and then conquer yoga internationally.
Speaking with my father the other day, he reminded me of my Scottish roots and how he had always wanted to visit but never got the chance, and most likely never would. I thought about this all day, and when I opened up my email account that evening I saw a story on two gentlemen purchasing an actual Scottish isle to open up an international yoga camp there. Who knew that the ancient Indian practice would find a home on Scottish soil?
Inspired by the Indian guru Baba Ramdev, these men are the sole financiers of the future Peace Island, formally known as Little Cumbrae. Ramdev already has quite a following, 85 million in fact, who watch his televised broadcasts and videos that are based on his yoga camps. In addition he helped found the Divya Yog Mandir Trust that hopes to popularize yoga and teach about the wonders of Ayurveda. As a social activist he has spoken about worldwide poverty, the inherent dangers in a diet fraught with "modern foods": soda and fast foods, maltreatment of farmers and so much more. It is easy to see how he has gained such a devoted following, and he just added one more to his list today.
As usual, a quick Internet enquiry about Baba Ramdev led to a several-hour long meandering on which I found so many more unique and intriguing island retreats, all of which I would personally love to go. Take your yoga mat and go explore the world!
Lopez Island, Washington
Yoga retreats and residential study
http://felicityoga.com/
Clare Island, Ireland
Retreats, Christmas and New Year's retreats
http://www.yogaretreats.ie/Retreats.htm
Paros, part of Cyclades island chain, Greece
Week-long Hatha yoga retreats
http://www.yoga-paros.com/
Biosphere of Lanzarote, Canary Islands
http://www.hoho.co.uk/
Kadermo Island,Finland
Special weekend retreats, best to go during the summer
http://www.yogaartsmagic.net/
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