Yoga Bella has expanded its offerings and Jenny Kaufman + Patti Lupo are pleased to join with beloved writer Mary Schmich for a five-day retreat focused on yoga and writing. In 2012, Mary won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary for her columns in the Chicago Tribune, where she worked for 36 years. Her popular book “Even the Terrible Things Seem Beautiful to Me Now” includes those columns and many others that explore hope, loss, family, weather, society and wearing sunscreen.

Mary is also a longtime yoga teacher who shares our belief that yoga and writing work in service to each other, helping us to understand ourselves and change our perspectives. Whatever writing means to you—your journal, your memoir, your novel—this retreat will give you the chance to think about writing, to do some, and to talk to Mary about the joys and challenges of turning your thoughts into words.

We’ll stay at the beautiful Locanda Della Quercia Calante, located in the countryside of Umbria, equidistant between Rome and Florence. It’s been described as an “eco-friendly country retreat encompassing a culture that adheres to the values required for well-being of the body and spirit.” Put simply, it is heaven on earth.

Every day we’ll offer yoga classes and sessions focused on writing. Also included are two additional day trips to local hillside towns; a curated wine tasting featuring grapes unique to the region; and options for massage and body work.

ALL ARE WELCOME.  This is not a women's only retreat and you do not have to have to have an advanced yoga practice. Students of all levels are welcome. Similarly, all writers and would-be writers are welcome. 

So join us for this unique opportunity to move, breathe, write, eat, soak up nature and make new friends. Give yourself a chance to reset your creativity and be newly inspired. 

Please  note: a NON-REFUNDABLE deposit of $500 is needed to secure your spot. We can set up a payment plan for the remainder of the balance should you wish, but all payments in full are due by Monday May 15th, 2023.

In the unfortunate event that you need to cancel your trip, you will  only be refunded the cost of your trip (less the non-refundable deposit) should you cancel PRIOR to May 15th, 2023. Any cancellation AFTER May 15th, 2023 will only be issued a refund if we sell your spot on the retreat. This includes illnesses (including Covid and any Covid related symptoms or complications), emergencies and unforeseen circumstances.  
 

Travel insurance is recommended. A travel insurance policy including  trip cancellation and interruption, baggage, accident, emergency  assistance and medical assistance.  We strongly encourage you to protect yourself and buy travel insurance.