not all who wander are lost.
Showing posts with label Italy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Italy. Show all posts

Monday, September 30, 2013

All week long I had the group shouting "I AM A GOLDEN BUDDHA!". What seems cheesy proved to be totally moving and transformational...what you think, you become. Shift your internal dialogue and you shift into a powerful space. I was inspired by this simple affirmation when reading the final chapter in Gabrielle Bernsteins' "May Cause Miracles". Yesterday in Rome, I got a necklace made up that read "Golden Buddha" and I wore it with a smile, thinking back on the amazing week that was had! 

Golden Buddha

In 1957, a group  of Tibetan monks was informed that they would have to move their sacred shrine because a highway was being built on that land. A focal point of their inhabitance was a huge clay Buddha, which also had to be relocated. Moving the Buddha was no small feat. The monks arranged to have a crane move the Buddha to their new location. The moment they started lifting the Buddha on the crane, the clay began to crack. To make matters worse, rain was pattering down, deepening and widening the cracks. To protect the Buddha from further damage after it had been moved, the monks covered it with tarps overnight. During the evening, the head monk went under the tarps with a flashlight to check on the clay Buddha. Upon shining light on the Buddha the monk noticed golden shimmers of light radiating from the cracks. He brought back his chisel and hammer to chip away at the clay and uncover the shimmer from within the Buddha's frame. As the monk chipped away at the clay Buddha, he realized that it was not clay after all– the Buddha was made of gold. Surprised by his discovery, the monks were eager to determine the heritage of the Buddha. They learned that many centuries earlier, their predecessors worshiped the Buddha in its golden form. These ancestral monks got word that the Burmese army was coming to destroy their community and attack them, so they covered the Buddha in clay to protect it. The monks were killed in the attack, but the army placed no value on the clay Buddha and therefor left it unharmed.

reason for this story… "Inside we are all Golden Buddha's, but we grew to believe we were made of clay. Our ego's false perceptions led us to grow into a belief system that covered our inner light. We've spent years, maybe decades, masking our truth. Now it's time to embrace our light and reconnect with our Golden Buddha within." – Gabrielle Bernstein

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Roma.

Rome (noun) : a town in Italy that can be summed up by three adjectives... chic, antique and totally romantic. So in love with this ancient city paved in cobblestones! Today's schedule was jam packed with every touristy site-seeing thing on the list...with a break for lunch, where I had the most delectable octopus salad (with potatoes and olives, lemon juice + evoo) and grilled eggplant with tomatoes. Amazing. Breathtaking. Heart warming. Romance-inducing...Roma.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Stella

Stella was our horse at the estate. She would wander the property, walk into the house if you forgot to close the front door, and would post up on our patio to enjoy our shade on the daily. On this morning she interrupted my cup of tea to have me pull some figs off the tree for her. Naughty horse...

Goddamn Gelato.

I would drop kick a small child right now for some damn gelato! Seriously. Enough is enough. Im trying to be all "shanti shanti" about my cleanse and pretend that I'm content only eating vegetables for the next two years, but goddamn- I say, GODDAMN...I could really use a gelato right about now. My wolf pack (of 7) has been enjoying gelato wherever we go, and while roaming the streets tonight [in Rome] we stumbled upon the best gelatoria in the country. I had a small lick of my moms coconut gelato and it was truly, absolutely, hands down the closest thing to heaven that exists here on earth. The best part was the man who owned the place, whom took his gelato *very* seriously...giving specific instructions for how to consume this sweet treat (pistachio before coconut, coconut before chocolate). He couldn't wrap his head around WHY all my friends were having cones and I was NOT. Quite frankly, I couldn't either! But then I centered- reminded myself that this cleanse is going to truly heal me- and I took a bite of my green apple, sipped some water and tried to erase thoughts of fresh bread, coconut gelato, aperol spritzs and homemade pasta.....
On an encouraging note though, the whole crew was hungover this morning and watching them all defeated, dehydrated and delirious made me happy that I'm off the booze. As my mother reminded me, Rome has been around for a LONG time- so I'm sure that it will still be here, serving up delicious gelato when I return.

We cruised on foot, meandering without any specific destination in mind. You can't help but to stumble across amazing architecture and breathtaking sculptures, fountains and monuments. This city is magical, with its cobblestone streets and cozy back ally's. We popped into a restaurant on one of the romantic side streets and had a proper Italian meal. I thoroughly enjoyed my no-frills grilled squid- which was seasoned only with olive oil, lemon juice and a touch of salt. Perfection.

Tomorrow they are calling for 80% chance of rain. Meh, what to do? And so it is. One more full day in Italia before I start the journey home...

Golden Buddhas

Slow paced living, and fast car driving. That's how I'd describe Italy. Everyone and everything is pulled together in the most elegant yet simple way. The meals are never ending, but the dishes are honest and fuss-free. "Content" is a word that I keep hearing from everyone, and it makes ME feel content. Someone said to me recently, "So, you get PAID to make people feel good? That's pretty awesome". Yeah, you're right...it IS pretty awesome. This trip has been all about healing- the mind, body and spirit. We have meditated, screamed affirmations, explored kundalini yoga and booty-popped our way through a vinyasa. We have eaten...again...and again...and again. Stories and laughter are present at every meal we share, and slowly everyone has emerged from their clay exterior to settle into their true "golden Buddha". Years ago, one of my teachers Laura Wharf, looked me in the eyes and said, "Cailin, what is your sva dharma [life purpose]?" And I replied, "to help people enjoy their life." Thanks to Paraiso Adventures for bringing me on board to make this happen in the most delicious, elegant, relaxed and exotic way! I am so excited for all of the joy that we will bring to others through this partnership and I'm already counting down the days until our Colombia retreat! It was sad to say goodbye to all of these Golden Buddhas (or "golden boo"s as Larissa would say), but I know that ill be seeing them again soon...









Thursday, September 26, 2013

Orvieto Photo Journal

Touring About and Luxury Living

Today was an outing day. We kicked it off with a booty-popping flow at 8am amongst the olive trees. Some were skeptical of "hip hop yoga", but it was an instant hit- and everyone was singing it out and laughing it up by the end of song #1 ("can I get a..." By Jayz). We ate a delicious breakfast and then were off to Orvieto, yet another picturesque breathtaking Italian village. The heart stopper was the gorgeous striped cathedral that truly captured your heart for a beat. We mozied through the cobblestones streets and passed in and out through the abundant shops peddling hand carved olive wood goods and ceramic dishes and tiles (both of which I bought...). We stopped for a bite to eat in a cafe where my mom and Cara had wine and paninis (correction: the worlds BEST paninis- smoked duck, aged cheese, and fresh herbs!) and I had a candida-cleanse-friendly caffe Americano decaffienato and a platter of salami and artichokes. They had chocolate gelato, and I pretended to hate sweets.... 

We left town after a few hours and headed to the hot springs in neighboring Tuscany. They are shwanky Italian style hot springs (apparently the Italians don't like to get dirty?), so there are bath robes and slippers, and the hot springs are funneled into pools and waterfalls. We had a "picnic" here in between soaking and sleeping, and sipping wine (them) and decaf americanos (me). It felt good to relax a bit- my first real relaxing day of the trip. One of my favorite things was lounging in a robe....robes always make me feel like I'm "big pimpin'" (as JayZ would say..."). It was just a luxurious afternoon. The sun is setting now over the Tuscan sky as we pack up our belongings at the spa and head back to our beautiful home. It's been a fun day, but I'm looking forward to some hot tea on the cozy couch in the house that already feels like my home....







Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Civita

Today we took a field trip to the picturesque town of Civita. The population is now 25...compared to the 4,000 that lived there before the earthquake. I sipped a (decaf) espresso and enjoyed the sites with our lovely team of ladies.

Italia.

Yesterday I gave five massages and taught two yoga classes. In between were some massive Italian feasts and I managed to sleep a few hours before waking up to give my first massage of the day at 7am! The (amazing) people on this retreat cannot get enough of my classes and my bodywork, which makes my heart so happy! I've said in the past, it's not "hard work" it's "heart work". Amen. This is SUCH a fun group and I cannot express all of the gratitude that I have for Nina...she's such a spectacular person to work with and play with...I so look forward to our future projects (there's a lot of them, so keep your ears open).

Also, meet Stella- she's the resident horse, who just strolls around looking for a nuzzle every now and then...

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Home Away From Home...In Italy.

My retreat is on a sprawling estate in Central Italy, nestled amongst their hundreds of olive trees and vineyards which provide us with bottles of wine and liters of fresh pressed olive oil. The grounds provide all we need, with a year round garden and a hen house- which always has fresh eggs. I'm so grateful to be part of such a sustainable yoga retreat! Today's forage: arugula, lettuce, Swiss chard, sage, thyme, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, potatoes, and squash blossoms! 

The house itself is *unreal*, truly something out of a fairy tale. Pictures would never do it justice. We are tucked into the countryside, where the loudest thing you'll hear is the breeze. The sunshine is warm and bright during the day and the nights are cool and comfortable, making for a great sleep. I keep pinching myself to make sure it's all real. So so so much gratitude to Nina for making me a part of the Paraiso family, it feels like home...









Wednesday, July 17, 2013

ITALY and ME.

So, it's official, I am now a part of Paraiso Adventures team! The trips that are set in stone are September 22nd - 28th in Uccella, Italy and Tayrona, Colombia from December 2nd - 8th. I'll be leading two yoga classes a day...one invigorating flow in the morning, and a restorative class in the evening. The packages are amazing, the locations are amazing, and the amenities are amazing. Need I say more? So book your spot...not now, RIGHT now.


Uccella, Italy


The Italian Paraiso Villa is 150 km from both Florence and Rome, and is located in a small valley below the medieval town of Ficulle. While more adventurous souls are welcome to train, those arriving on a long flight can relax, we will have a private van service for airport transfers. The villa and its surroundings offer the prefect pace for rest and relaxation, or serve as a base for exploring the Umbrian and Tuscan countryside. Umbria is called the Green Heart of Italy, with beautiful natural landscapes, food, art and people.
Umbria is quiet and open, it is far less populated than its neighbor, Tuscany. The nearest village is 5k through the Umbria countryside and 20k from various Etruscan sites and medieval hill towns. Winding through vineyards, passing by lakes and waterfalls, you will find the quaint, neighboring towns of Orvieto, Montepulciano, Perugia, Lago di Bolsena and many more. There are castles to explore, hot springs to relax, vineyard bike tours, horse back riding, tennis lessons, trekking and hiking. Also, indulge in your creative side, taking a culinary or painting class from local talent. Perhaps you’ll join us in the fall for the Autumn Harvest Vineyard festivities, when the locals celebrate Italian grapes in true style, touring local vineyards!
Suitable for adults and children, there is an amazing organic garden and orchard, a swing set and also bocce grounds. Babysitting available upon request. The pool overlooks the green vineyard in the valley below the Paraiso Villa, boasting privacy and space in which to settle. The pool house has a sauna, a full bathroom, lounge and bar. Also a Paraiso favorite, the property produces organic olive oil and marmalades from the orchard and gardens, there’s even an area with hens and ducks.
Leisurely dining outdoors is encouraged, with multiple areas to enjoy the fresh, healthy local cuisine. The beautiful, massive kitchen has space for many chefs to learn the local art of culinary perfection in one of our classes. This is a fantastic kitchen to learn in, with local guest chefs available anytime for additional guidance or an extra hand. You will find anything you need here, a gas range, fridge, freezer, dish washer, oven, microwave, ice maker, coffee machine, boiler, toaster, juicer, and more. Also fun is the barbecue by the pool, perfect for casual evenings outside. There is ample space for everyone to get comfy in one of the three big living rooms, or lounging around on the abundant outdoor furniture.
For more info about the Italy trip, click HERE.
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Tayrona, Colombia

Embrace your wildest dreams, and travel with Paraiso to our most remote and exotic location yet! We promise to bring thrills and views far beyond your imagination, as we guide you through a week of wellness and adventure in the jungle…Caribbean side.  Tropical doesn’t begin to describe these beaches; lush and scarcely populated, while ruins and boulders tower in the mountains behind.  Jurassic park comes to mind, so does Paradise.

When I first visited these shores, I knew I had to bring some very special people here some day.  That day has come, and these Colombian beaches await.  The location, is amongst many things, safe.  The Paraiso lodge is located on the brink of nature and glamour, in a fantastic retreat setting, where both jungle, and river,  meet the sea.  Santa Marta is on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.  Tayrona is a national park remotely located about an hour outside Santa Marta, one of the most beautiful Latin cities I have seen.

Trip add-ons are available in Santa Marta if people wish to extend the trip and see more, something I highly recommend.  I have traveled here with locals many times and have been introduced to an amazing culture, one that is very prideful and hospitable.  The scenery is unparalleled by any other sight I have seen.  This national park holds many treasures that are meant for the eyes of only those willing to go the extra mile to discover something marvelous.  This place is far from any tourist destination, instead, this side of Colombia is for the eco-aware, venturesome jungle type.  One that is very international.  This exploration is certainly beyond regular lifestyle and leisure trips.  This trip combines raw and rugged adventure, dressed in glamour and bliss.  Take a jaunt on the wild side!
This retreat incorporates wellness into invigorating activities, making for an unforgettable experience.   This is one of the most innovative, unique retreats available.  This profound involvement with nature will leave everyone exhilarated and wanting more.

Accommodations:  Six suites tower over the Caribbean; each with ocean view.  Four additional twin beds are available to be partnered with other suites, or for the sleeping porch.  Infinity pools, multiple yoga deck locations, as well as private beach galore.  This location boasts agility, giving the teachers a chance to take the yoga off the mat, and into the wild.
Getting there:  The closest international airport is Barranquilla, followed by Cartagena, domestic connections are available to Santa Marta by plane, also bus and taxi.  Transportation is provided in the retreat package from the town of Santa Marta.
What’s Included: 7 nights/6 days in a luxurious jungle eco lodge just outside Tayrona.  All meals are included, with fresh, local cuisine to satisfy your hunger after our yoga and activities.  Yoga twice a day, with more intensive practice in the morning, where yogis of every level will benefit from the personalized instruction meant to compliment our activity.  In the evenings, we will unwind, exploring soothing, restorative yoga practice, finding a peaceful, meditative state.  Three scheduled activities are included, both ocean and beach excursions, as well as guided hikes into Tayrona to visit ancient cities, rivers and the flora and fauna of this untouched paradise.  Also included are taxes, round trip transportation from Santa Marta, Colombia to the Lodge.