Well, we just wrapped another incredible week of SUP Yoga magic. Over the past four years, I have had a roller coaster ride of experiences with hosting events in the state of Florida. Florida, with it’s warm water and beautiful beaches, also is renowned for it’s unpredictable weather – case in point, it’s the lightning capital of the world!
Despite having sworn off hosting trainings in Florida after a few challenging retreats, I decided to give it one more go – and boy, am I glad I did! With the help of some of our amazing alumni – Rachael Croll with Salty Buddha, Stevie Rodis with APincha Yoga, and Chandra Reilly from Tidal Bliss Yoga, we managed to gather 19 women together and pull of one of the best teacher trainings yet.
We had women from all over the world convene on the gulf coast at a home that can only be described as the ultimate Mermaid Barbie Dream House. From the aqua chevron decor, to the adorable tiki bar, to the rock water slide and rooftop deck with 360 degree water views, the home was straight out of central casting for a group of water loving yogis to gather.
The women hailed from as far as Senegal, Peru, Alaska, and the Caribbean isles. They left their day jobs, homes, and families to come and spend a week learning, playing, and diving deep into their own yoga practice and teaching. Despite some initial weather, strong winds, and a surprise downpour and lighting storm, these ladies rallied and rose to the occasion, learning to load boards, teach beginner lessons, adapt and modify yoga to the water, and cultivate and manifest their highest purpose and dreams.
Every retreat is different, as the personalities and energies of individuals combine to make a recipe that is all their own. This training was pure shakti fire – divine feminine energy radiated from our group, so much so that we had to take it out of the town to let loose and dance like wild goddesses on Cinco de Mayo!
These women were magic both on and off the water. From wine hour to wild golf cart rides, they brought positive energy, enthusiasm, and a readiness to learn that was refreshing and inspiring. As our certification retreat drew to a close, I felt humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude for the way this group re-ignited my passion for teaching.
I’m so glad to welcome you ladies to the #StokedTribe! And can’t wait for our next Florida SUP Yoga Teacher Training – coming up in May 2018!