Jul 11 2025 - Jul 11 2025

Ashtanga Immersion – A one day introduction

Join us for an immersive journey into Ashtanga Yoga, a profound and ancient style of yoga designed to bring unity to body, mind, and spirit. Originating thousands of years ago, Ashtanga follows a systematic approach rooted in tradition, with each movement and breath working together to purify and strengthen your whole being.

Central to Ashtanga is the concept of Tristhana, or the three places of attention: breath, posture, and gaze (drishti).

This introduction will delve into the Primary Series of Ashanga Yoga, also known as Yoga Chikitsa or “Yoga Therapy,” a sequence of asanas (postures) designed to detoxify, build strength, and improve flexibility.

Whether you’re new to Ashtanga or looking to deepen your practice, this retreat offers a balanced exploration of this timeless tradition. Expect a full day of learning, self-reflection, and physical renewal, designed to guide you toward peace, clarity, and vitality.

This day introduces Ashtanga in a gentle and supportive way, allowing beginners to learn key concepts and poses without feeling overwhelmed. There is time for reflection, group discussion, and of course relaxation, making it a balanced introduction to the practice.

RETREAT SCHEDULE

Friday, July 11
8:45 - 9:15
Arrive and get oriented to the centre
9:15
Introductions and Intention Setting: We begin with a grounding circle to set personal intentions, share an overview of Ashtanga, and understand what the day will offer.
9:45
Introduction to Pranayama (Breathwork)
Learning the Ujjayi Breath:
10:00
Opening Mantra/Closing Mantra: understand why we start and end our practice with a prayer.


10:15
Gentle Ashtanga-Inspired Flow
of Primary Series Poses: Explore essential poses with alignment tips and modifications, focusing on mindful movement.
12:30
Lunch & free time to relax or explore the spring forest
1:45
Ashtanga Philosophy &Tristhana Basics: Learn the meaning of breath, posture, and gaze (drishti), as well as the eight limbs of Ashtanga.
2:15
Focus on Key Poses in Primary Series: with hands-on assistance and modifications, especially for beginners, emphasizing safe alignment.
 Introduction to Mysore-Style Practice
 You are invited to practice basic poses at your own pace, with personalized guidance.
3:15
Guided Yoga Nidra: A deeply relaxing session to integrate the day’s practice and release any tension.
4:00
Depart at your leisure or stay and enjoy

Meet Your Facilitator

Anurag Saraswat

Anurag is a certified yoga teacher who recently immigrated from India to Canada. He holds a 500-hour Yoga Alliance certification. He is passionate about making yoga accessible to everyone, with a strong focus on breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement. Specializing in Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, Hatha Yoga, and Deep Stretch, Anurag’s teaching emphasizes stress relief, flexibility, and strength. With a background in engineering and an MBA, he brings a balanced and thoughtful approach to wellness, aiming to create a positive impact for all his students.

Book Your Retreat

Friday July 11
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Friday July 11
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Tuition

Day Retreat Cost: $165 + HST includes lunch

Create your own mini retreat by coming a day early and enjoying a cabin overnight $209 (includes breakfast)

Extend your stay to include the weekend Ashtanga Immersion with Anurag.

Have questions? Need help to register? We’d love to help you – please call 866-609-1793 or email [email protected]

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Shared - Cabin will be shared with up to 3 other guests of the same gender. If you are booking for just yourself, depending on the retreat, we will match you with other guests of the same gender.

Semi-private - Cabin will be shared with the 1 other person you are registering with. If booking alone, we will try to match you with someone of the same gender.

Private - Cabin for one person, not sharing with others.

Book now

The Centre

Welcome to Sugar Ridge! It is our mission to provide a space for you to be nourished in body, mind and soul. From completely silent to dip your toe, testing mindfulness, we have what you’re looking for!

11th July: Ashtanga Immersion – A one day introduction