This was an AMAZING trip. Sonya is an extraordinary yoga teacher who gives clear and beautiful instruction for the wonderful movement flow. We had beautiful live music by Rasa at every class. Sonya and Rasa also led meditation and special rituals like a purification fire on New Year's Eve. And meanwhile we were in two stunning settings in Costa Rica- one in the mountains and one in the wild jungle beach on the OSA peninsula. We did waterfall and jungle walks, surfing, saw all kinds of amazing animals, had garden tours and a meditation at a butterfly sanctuary. I loved my fellow yogis - all levels, all ages and hailing from diverse parts of the US, Europe and South America. We ate was luscious vegetarian food and stayed in lodging that was rustic and lovely. Julie Tapley San Francisco California

I have been practicing Yoga since 1998, & this was my first extended Yoga retreat out of the country. I didn't know what to expect, & can honestly say it was amazing! My only complaint is that it went by too fast! When I was mulling over the idea of an extended Yoga retreat, Sonya announced her & Rasa's in class back in July (I've consistently taken classes with her since 2015); I knew the Yoga classes would be incredible because Sonya is a very experienced teacher who gives very clear detailed instruction for all levels; Rasa plays live music in her classes, & their combined talents creates a unique experience for transformation. On the retreat, we practiced twice a day, in both locations. The accommodations at both locations were very different, & so comfortable. Rio Chirripo Lodge was beautiful; no matter where we were housed on the property, the sound of the rushing river was audible, & we were surrounded by so much green (I live in a city, & drank this in)! I saw the sunrise each morning over a mountain, from my balcony. The food in both locations was superb; all three meals were freshly prepared daily. It was primarily vegetarian cuisine, with fresh fish served a few times; substantial vegan & gluten-free options were also provided every meal. Finca Exotica was so close to the ocean, that we could hear it roar no matter where we were on the property. I slept in a thatch-roofed hut that was open on three sides; the bed had mosquito netting, which worked quite well for sound sleep. I found the orchestra of insects & animals' sounds a joy! One morning I heard such cacophony, & looked up to see a troop of Capuchin monkeys swinging from tree to tree! I found it very moving to see wild animals living so freely. The owner of Finca Exotica told me they never feed the animals because there is enough food growing on the property for them to eat. We were given the option of taking a garden tour to learn about the culinary & medicinal plants growing on the property. Some of the fruit we saw was: two different varieties of bananas, coconuts galore, pineapples, star fruit, noni fruit, melons; ginger & turmeric were also plentiful. . Our hosts, Tania & Angus were wonderful! They were committed to ensuring everyone had a great experience. Aside from Yoga practice, we were offered the option to go on hikes to beautiful locations, such as a butterfly sanctuary & a waterfall, where we could swim (Rio Chirripo area). Once we got to Finca Exotica, the beach was just across a narrow road, & I swam every day; the sea was bath water warm! One evening, we assisted a sea turtle rescue organization in placing sixty-three newly hatched babies towards the ocean. In both locations, we could see so many stars, the Milky Way & shooting stars! This city girl had the time of her life! I had no problem adapting to being immersed in the natural world for ten days! Actually, I was sinus-issue free the entire time! I highly recommend this unique Yoga retreat; I don't know of any others like it that offers five days in two completely different locations. I feel very fortunate that I was able to give this gift to myself. Pura Vida!

Two words about this trip: A plus! More words: Sonya and Rasa put their heart and soul into organizing, leading and participating in a wonderful, spiritual, relaxing time in Costa Rica. They worked hard before and during, but they don't show it, as they stay relaxed, friendly and approachable the entire time. As for local organizers, Tania and Angus, things could not have run more smoothly! They are friendly, helpful, and well organized and experienced. This retreat/vacation was perfect in every way, and even if lightning does not strike twice, we would do the trip again next year if it is offered! Thank you all for a great experience. David and Ella

Amazing way to wind down from the past year and start a new year. Relaxing and invigorating at the same time. Splendid accommodations. Safe and comfortable, transportation. Delicious, freshly prepared, locally sourced meals. Grounding yoga and mindful mediation. Hikes, waterfalls, cultural immersion, music, lasting relationships - who could ask for more?!

Had such a great experience on this renewal retreat. The yoga, sound healing, meditation, hot springs, nature, delicious food and great people made for a truly fulfilling experience. I loved that there was no pressure to participate in everything that was scheduled but even if you did attend all there was still time for individual reflection and quiet space alone. Thank you so much, Sonya & Arasa!

Sonya and Arasa led a wonderful retreat, creating a magical space for participants to unfold. They had scheduled a full array of practices, including guided meditations and chanting, asana practices, relaxation and sound healing, as well as opportunities to soak in the Orr Hot Springs or hike through a magnificent redwood forrest. But all activities were optional, allowing participants to engage with as many or as few activities as they wished, with no judgement. Sonya's skillful teaching, coupled with Arasa's beautiful soundscapes, led participants through powerful and deeply transformative practices. Their passion and deep engagement with the practices and their evident pleasure at holding space for others make them warm and engaging hosts for a retreat. The location was also spectacular, perched on top of a hill and surrounded by gentle rolling hills and oak trees. The retreat center felt like a warm and welcoming home. Daveed and Jamuna, the couple running the center, served extraordinary meals, and also offered thai massage.

Fantastic retreat. The yoga and meditation were amazing. The food was delicious and accommodations lovely.