Embodying Devi: Yoga & Dance of Tantric Goddesses

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India

MS
Mountain Shakti
  • Email address verified
11 reviews
Feb 29 - Mar 9, 2020
Group size: 5 - 11
Embodying Devi: Yoga & Dance of Tantric Goddesses
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India

Mountain Shakti
  • Email address verified
11 reviews

Feb 29 - Mar 9, 2020
Group size: 5 - 11

About this trip

“You are Goddess. You are Divine!”


Join us in India to explore the roots of Devi wisdom through sacred sites, five faces of Tantric goddesses, yoga and devotional Indian dance.:.


For yoga and dance are ancient spiritual paths to self-realization, to live in wholeness, access our innate wisdom and well-being. There is a natural synergy between the two disciplines. Throughout history they've endlessly inspired and influenced the other, ultimately they are One. 


The practices and studies in this ten day immersion into Goddess are based on the teachings of non-dual Shaiva/Shakta Tantra and Shaktism, and the Indian Classical Dance of the Bharata Natyam.

We'll explore the different aspects of Devi Shakti (goddess energy/power), through goddesses: Kali, Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Parvati, exploring sculpture-like posture, fluid asana and dance movement, pranayama, mudra, mantras, mythology, symbolism, signature qualities of each goddess, mediation and yantra.


We'll do so first in Dehli and then at ancient goddess worship sites and temples throughout the region of the state of Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India. Visiting circular Yogini and secret forest temples, and ancient places of goddess practices at the world famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho legendary for Tantric worship. 


In addition, we'll have the amazing chance to view live a local dance festival with many famous dancers in attendance. To experience firsthand the "bhava", the  “ecstasy" or “emotion" these revelatory dance forms bring forth in ourselves.  


"Woman is the basis of the world, the Universe is her form" ~ Shaktisangama Tantra (II.52)


You'll learn :


- What really is Devi Shakti

- How Devi works in our lives and cosmos

- Five forms of Devi and their inner functions

- Introduction to the most important ancient texts on Shakti

- Visions of different Yoga philosophies in relation to Shakti

- Mantras, mudras, yantra and pranayama to align and invoke Shakti, as tools for healing and transformation

- Devotional dance and asanas to awaken and embody Devi which can release tension/trauma and integrate the benefits of all practices

- Meditations and contemplations that allow you to access, energize and release your inner Shakti


These practices will reveal sacred powers within you to:


- Heal, transform and activate your inner power

- Balance and awaken the different faces of Devi within and how to recognize Shakti's signature energies within yourself

- Shift the feeling of physical and mental exhaustion to the feeling of energy and balance

- Incorporate ancient Feminine Wisdom into you daily life

- Develop self-confidence and empowerment in various areas of your life

Your Devidance Yoga Guides

Stephanie Renee dos Santos passion is empowering people to come into contact and potentially embody one's full Awareness through nondual Tantric wisdom and aligning with natural cycles. She’s known as an inspiring, loving, creative and compassionate teacher with the Hindu goddess Bhuvaneshwari-like quality to create sacred healing, creative-expressive and meditative spaces. Certified in Integrative Yoga and she's been given permission by beloved teacher Sally Kempton to share these teachings of the nondual Shaiva/Shakta and Shakta traditions. She holds a B.A in Studio Arts from Whitman College and is a working artist. In addition, she studies Bharathanatyam classical Indian dance and contributes spiritual writing to literary journal Lalitamba. She is a co-founder of "Devidance Yoga" with Ganga Devi.  She guides sacred yoga backpacking pilgrimages around the world and is the creator of Ashram of Arts.


Gabriela Lopez (Ganga Devi) seeks tools for healing through Feminine Divine teachings, one's that bring empowerment. She is a Homeopath and Iridologist Therapist, focused on the care of women, mothers and children. She has been practicing Indian Classical Dance since 2008. She studies with Professor Krishna Sharana, and conducts workshops, lectures and presentations throughout Brazil.  She also studies with Guru Mithun Shyam of the Vaishnavi Natyashala School in Bangalore, India. She shares this ancient dance tradition which is always associated with developing self-knowledge through art. She is co-founder of "Devidance Yoga" focused on sharing the synergy of goddess wisdom through dance and yoga. 


 

Additional Information

Seasonal information

March tempratures on average are in the 60 to 70's.


Weather information

Everywhere we are going in general is on the dry side.


Responsible travel

Patience and lightheartedness are two excellent qualities for visiting Indian. Also, it is important to not hand out candy to children as it encourages begging. It is fine to give food or change as you feel to those in need as each situation arises. This is a deep journey of listening to the heart and one of compassion, offering a smile and kind words is always welcome. 


Electricity and outlets

220 volts we recommend to bring adapters (one or two)

*despite that where we are staying your room may have outlets that already accommodate your devices


How to get there (flights, airport transfers, buses, trains)

All pilgrimage travel information will be sent to you once you've registared for the retreat. But please feel free to contact us with question prior should you need clarification on something beforehand.


Visa stuff

You will need an E-Visa for India. Details on how to get this will be sent to you once you've registered. 


What to bring

All list of recommended items to bring on this journey will be sent to you upon registration. 


Vaccinations requirements

Please check your country of orgin to see what vaccinations are required for your nationality before arriving in India. 


Travel insurance suggestions

We highly recommend having travel insurance for this journey. Often it can be purchased along with your plane ticket or please check with your insurance provider. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a dancer or already practice yoga to attend?  No, prior dance nor yoga experience is a requirement to join us.  Just an open heart!  


How can I get back to Delhi for my flight home once the pilgrimage is over?   Travel back by train to Delhi with Ganga Devi (cost for the return train to Delhi is included in the overall price) and opt to join other women who are continuing on guided travel with her. Or catch a direct flight from Gwalior back to Delhi. 


What if I'd like to keep travel with you?  There is the option for you to continue guided travel with  us a few more days after the pilgrimage from March 9-15, 2020 to visit the Taj Mahal, Ganges River, and more Shakti Peethas.


Details and costs will be sent to you once you sign up for the main retreat. 



What’s included

  • 10 Nights/11 Day stay
    2 nights in Dehli, 1 night train, 5 nights in UNESCO city Khajuraho, 2 nights in Gwalior
  • Daily Devi Yoga
    Goddess-based Hatha Yoga
  • 5 Days dance instruction
    Devotional Indian dance of 5 goddesses
  • Devidance Yoga Sequence
    Everyone will receive a copy of a Devidance Yoga sequence for home practice. If you are a certified yoga or dance teacher you can share and teach this sequence with your students back home.
  • Daily Meditation
    Each day we will explore a meditation, allowing you to relax into your inner world of self-discovery
  • National Museum visit
    Private lecture & discussion with preeminent Shakti scholar on Tantric Art
  • Attend Dance Show
    See live performances of famous Indian classical dancers.
  • 2 hr Ayurveda Treatment
    This is personal royal care that all goddesses deserve: Abhyangam, Shirodhara, Potli massage, Synchronize massage, steam bath & shower with herbal scrub.
  • Visit 2 Yogini Temples
    Visit and practice in two Yogini Temples, connecting with our ancient Yogini Sisters and the power of these places
  • Dance Performance
    Bharatanatyam Performance by Ganga Devi
  • Closing Ceremony
    On the full moon at a special Yogini Temple location!
  • Mythology & Symbolism
    Learn within an actual temple each goddesses mythology and symbolism and the wisdom tools She offers you and your life path
  • All Entry Fees
    All entry fees into various sites we'll be visiting
  • Sacred Shopping
    Barter at Indian bazaars for colorful treasures for your personal altar and yoga space
  • Daily Breakfast & dinner
    Traditional Indian breakfast & dinners
  • Goddess gift bag
    Full of surprise adornments!
  • All land transport
    airport pick-up, rickshaws, taxis, and trains
  • Trip preparation info
    Once you are signed up you will receive detailed information on how to prep for this transformational journey.
  • Loving guidance
    With care and ongoing assistance we'll help you along as you prepare to come to India (inclusive of flight recommendations and any help needed applying for your E-Visa) and throughout our pilgrimage

What’s not included

  • E-Visa for India
    Each person needs to obtain an E-Visa prior to arriving to India. Details on how to do so will be sent out to each registrant.
  • Airfare to & from India
    Each person must arrange their own flights to and from India. Entry points and recommended departure airports will be recommended.
  • Lunches
    This is left open for everyone to sample what foods call to you and to have some food selection autonomy. Budget about $5-10 a day.
  • Bottle water
    All drinking water (cost about 5 cents a litter). All water must be treated. Also, recommended is traveling with a "Lifestraw" water bottle.
  • Travel Insurance
    We highly recommend each person get travel insurance for overseas travel.
  • Souvenirs
    Goodies for yourself, friends & family!
  • Any extra baggage fees
    coming and/or going
  • Return to airport
    Because of varying personal schedules of departure from India each person will handle your return to the airport. But we will assist as you like and as needed.

Available Packages

Early Bird "Double Room"

 * Shared room for two people, two twins and private bathroom 

 * Balcony 5 nights of stay

* This is a great option. We will pair you up with another woman attending whose also chosen this option-- make a new friend! 



$1,797
Early Bird "Single Room"

* Queen bed and own private bathroom  

* Balcony 5 nights of stay



$1,997


Itinerary

10 Day Embodying Devi
Yoga & Dance of Tantric Goddesses

Dance and practice yoga in ancient temples of India while exploring the wisdom of five aspects of Devi (goddess) that liberate and empower us to embody our fullest innate potential. Jai Ma!

Your Organizer


MS
Mountain Shakti
11 reviews
​ ​Stephanie teaches nondual Tantric wisdom. She’s known​ for ​creating sacred healing, creative-expressive and meditative spaces. Certified in Integrative and Kum Nye Yoga, and deity yoga of the nondual Shiva/Shakti and Shakta traditions. She holds a B.A in Studio Arts from Whitman College​.​She is part of the forthcoming anthology "When She Wake: Women's Stories of Awakening". She guides Mountain Shakti yoga backpacking pilgrimages around the world and is the creative of Ashram of Arts. Visit: www.mountainshakti.com

Reviews

Fantastic deep dive into Nepalese culture, yoga, meditation and the traditions of Dashain! I highly recommend for anyone looking to explore Nepal in a small, like-minded group with a knowledgeable and experienced guide. From learning about and honoring ancient spiritual traditions to hiking in the Himalayas, this is a trip of a lifetime!
By Heather B for 14 Day Himalayan Yogini: Cultural Backpacking Pilgrimage on Nov 01, 2023
I had a fantastic trip to India with Ganga and Stephanie. They took us to VERY special places that are off the yoga tourist path. Their Goddess teachings, dance, and yoga are soul deepening and realizing. They went above and beyond to keep us safe and comfortable during our stay. I'm so appreciative of them putting this trip together and sharing the love India has to offer. I met incredible women from all over the world and the friendships we formed with one another will last a lifetime.
By Hailly B for Embodying Devi: Yoga & Dance of Tantric Goddesses on Apr 14, 2020
Amazing experience with Stephanie and Ganga. Beautifully planned, unique programme of Pilgrimage, connecting to cultural heritage of India and Devi practices. Organisation was impeccable, we felt very supportive and taken care of. Enjoyed every moment.
By Elena K for Continuing Pilgrimage Package: Taj Mahal + Ganges River + Shakti Peeth on Mar 23, 2020
ET
Thank you to Stephanie and Ganga Devi for the incredible opportunity to connect with the goddesses in all their forms. This trip will be etched in my memory forever! thank you!
By Estelle T for Embodying Devi: Yoga & Dance of Tantric Goddesses on Mar 18, 2020
My experience backpacking with Stephanie and her Goddess teachings have expedited myself to pure bliss. She takes us high up on top of mountains with spectacular views. Her guided meditations connects your soul to the earth in such a way that it lasts a long time. I've done two trips with her and each one was special and meaningful. Stephanie is very experienced and knowledgeable and I only wish she was my local Yogini teacher! I highly recommend going on a Goddess pilgrimage with her. It's life changing. Namaste.
By Hailly B for 4 Day 2019 Wilderness Goddess: Yoga Backpacking Pilgrimage on Aug 28, 2019
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