The Way of The Happy Woman™

Yoga, Meditation & Life Balance Immersion Course
with Sara Avant Stover, Tanya Boulton & Friends
16-24 Jan 2010, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Dear Sisters,

The time has come for you and me (and women everywhere) to be happy!

If you’re like most women I work with, you’re struggling to find balance in your life. You’re hungry to claim your power AND your femininity in this world; and you long to tap into your inner reservoir of ease and deep peace.

You feel like there’s a contradiction between being feminine and successful; and you’re yearning to let your true radiance shine…

… am I right? So let me ask you:

How do you strike a balance between work, relationships, friends, and family? How do you STOP obsessing over food cravings and your body’s size? How do you unlock more of your vital life force to free your creative, artistic, expressive self?

And here’s the BIG question: How to you find true inner happiness and self love that is yours and yours alone, regardless of the man in your life or how much money you have in your bank account?

One of the crucial ways to tap into this is by carving out some retreat time every year. We have so much to do on any given day—deadlines, endless lists, not to mention all of the unexpected tasks and surprises that continually bombard us. In fact, we face more stimulation now in ONE DAY than our ancestors 100 years ago faced in their ENTIRE LIVES. This takes it’s toll!

I’ve seen it in myself, I’ve seen it in my students and girlfriends, and I I know that you see it in yourself, too. How could you not? It might show up as having trouble sleeping, not feeling inspired to exercise, feeling overwhelmed, confusion and disconnection from your intuition, always being busy—yet never really getting anything done. You’re not following through on your dreams, nor do you even have time to listen into what they even ARE. Your digestion and hormones feel off and your skin, hair, and eyes lack luster and aliveness.
These are all major signs that it’s time to take a step back. By taking a step back, I don’t mean going to another workshop or training to earn more credentials or to acquire more information. There’s a time and a place for that—when you’re not feeling burned out!! One of the lost arts of modern life is the art of resting, and taking long stretches of time to really look inside. This is how you really learn to let go. This is how you truly find out who you are.

Retreats are a time to pamper yourself. Be in nature. Eat healthy foods (that other people cook FOR you!). Surround yourself by inspiring company. To fill up your inner well once again so that you have more to GIVE.

I myself go on at least few retreats a year. And I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be able to even do a quarter of what I do in the world without that. I’d be sick, and a little crazy, if I didn’t!

Because I feel so incredibly strongly about the need to step back, go inside, and connect with the essentials in life like spiritual practice, nature, playfulness, and inspiring company, I created these women’s retreats that I’ve been offering every year, for the past several years, in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

I’ve participated in countless retreats all over the world, from meditation, to yoga, to women’s gatherings—and each one has shifted me in dramatic ways. So, over the years, I’ve compiled all of the key components that I have found to be most transformative, rejuvenating, and insight-provoking. Each year, what I offer in this retreat gets more and more refined to serve you in the way that I know you need it. Yes, I only create retreats that I myself would like to attend!

So, in these 8 days that we’ll spend together in Chiang Mai you’ll find invigorating yoga classes, restful yoga classes, periods of silence, dance, laughter, solitude, sharing, contemplation, creation, and more. Every element has been carefully considered and crafted to serve your revitalization and rebirth—at whatever level you need it most now in your life.

I began my own journey into yoga, meditation, and healing practices 14 years ago looking for answers to these questions—and I found them. Lots of them! In fact, I found more than just answers, I found simple yet powerful tools that helped me transform my life.

And that’s why I created The Way of the Happy Woman™, an in-depth immersion course informed by the powerful secrets I’ve learned with other women just like you.

Let me be honest here: I don’t have all the answers. I don’t claim to be perfect and I certainly still have much more to learn. But what I can do is show you how to make dramatic shifts physically, psychologically and spiritually.

Here’s what The Way of the Happy Woman™ can offer you:

• Radical Self Acceptance
• Increased Energy and Overall Radiance
• A Deepened Connection to Your Femininity
• A Healthier Relationship to Food
• The Courage to Be Yourself in the World
• Enhanced Creativity
• A Pervasive Presence of Love in Your Life
• Freedom from Fatigue, PMS, Depression, Anxiety & Common Woman
  Woes

“Discover How Yoga, Meditation & Creative Expression Can Quickly Unlock Your Radiance So You Can Enjoy True Happiness Now!”

My life has been blessed with many opportunities to travel and meet women from all over the world. And the more women I meet, the more I realize that we’re all grappling with the same problems.

We’ve figured out how to be successful, powerful, and worldly—from our careers, to our exercise regimes, to our parenting, to our yoga practices. But we HAVEN’T figured out how to honor our vulnerability as our greatest strength, to love ourselves first and foremost, to surrender into (much less take the time to understand) the rhythms of our own hormones, or how to claim our deepest longings as not only VALID but also ACCESSIBLE.

How do you know if The Way of the Happy Woman™ is for you?

Truly, women today need guidance. I sure did (and still do). That’s why, ten years ago, I sought out the leading teachers in the fields of yoga, health, and spirituality to help me heal and live the life I knew I was meant to live.

During this course, I will share with you the essential teachings that I’ve learned from my travels, mentors, and personal practice and experience. I’ve extracted the core concepts that truly work—real world skills you can use right now.

I’ve adapted and tested these tools in my own life—and in my teachings and coaching sessions with students—until I found principles that apply to women everywhere. I’m talking about dramatic shifts in your life, in your happiness.

And the best part is, it’s system—and it’s not that hard!

To unlock your radiance, you simply need to look inside, move your body, practice yogic breath, and treat your daily life as though it were a spiritual practice… because it is! With the right tools and support, the journey from where you are to where you want to be need not be long and arduous.

But you have to make the decision to do something, to take action, and to join in this movement of modern, empowered women.

What This Course is About

I myself take lots of courses and retreats each year, and more than anything, I always want to know what I’m getting into—what it’s all about. I’m sure you feel the same way, so below is a day-by-day breakdown of what we’ll be doing to give you a better feel for what our time together will be like.

Each morning will begin with a dynamic, empowering yoga asana practice with Tanya. In the late morning, Sara will share specific techniques and teachings to show you how to unlock your true radiance and happiness. Then, Sara will lead a grounding, soothing yin yoga and meditation practice to end each day.

16^th ARRIVAL DAY: Orientation & Opening Circle

The Spa Chiang Mai opened last year, and as soon as I visited, I knew I HAD to do a course there. It’s a stunning resort nestled on a hillside in a remote village outside of Chiang Mai which is (just a 1-hour flight from Bangkok). We’ll pick you up at the airport, and 30 minutes later, you’ll be in a completely different world.

It’s so quiet, lush, and green. Plus, the staff is so knowledgeable and attentive—whether that’s by serving you a fresh papaya fruit smoothie or helping you craft a Detox program. You’ll enjoy fresh mountain air, stunning views (we’ll practice each day in a hill-top yoga sala with panoramic view of nature!), lovely poolside rooms, 2 pools, and a complete (affordable!) spa at your disposal. Every day will have the opportunity to take an herbal sauna, get a Thai Massage, a facial, or whatever else you fancy! View more here:
http://www.thesparesorts.net/spa-chiang-mai.php

17^th DAY 1: Redefining Sensuality

Modern living risks the erasure of our ability to abide in our senses. Working on the computer, “thinking things through,” sending text message: these are all present-day necessities for most of us. Today, we’ll SLOW DOWN to match the rhythm of retreat mode and learn how to stay TRULY connected to our bodies and our senses—even in the midst of multi-tasking.

This is feminine “mindfulness” in action! Includes a dynamic morning yoga practice, partner work, explorations in nature, yin yoga, deep relaxation, pranayama, and meditation practices.

18^th DAY 2: Master Your Mood Swings

When a bad mood descends are you a door slammer? Ice Queen? Mega-complainer? Laser-sharp cross examiner? Dish hurler? Each of us has her own default reactions—and some are healthier than others! Move beyond the fear of being stereotyped as a “PMS-y bitch,” and learn how to express ALL of your moods, however sweet or unsavory they may be.

ALL are emanations of your precious life force and a dance of the divine feminine. Includes dynamic asana, group practices, journaling, and creative collaboration.

19^th DAY 3: Body Love

My thighs are too big, I feel fat, I have too much belly flab. Sound familiar? It’s startling to think about how much time and energy a woman can spend on obsessing over her body image. Life is too precious to pigeon-hold yourself in self-criticism. Today we’ll learn powerful techniques to face, and then, own, the parts of ourselves that we’ve shut off from.

Includes guided visualization, journaling, creative collaboration, and meditation practices.

20^th DAY 4: Go Ahead, Be Selfish!

Today’s all about YOU. Indulge in a yummy asana practice, followed by a hands-on raw foods course, then spend the afternoon and evening as you fancy…either on site being pampered at the spa or heading into Chiang Mai for a night on the town!

21^st DAY 5: Love With Your Whole Body

We all have learned to write love notes on Valentine’s Day, speak the words “I Love You,” and be soft and affectionate with those who are dear to us. But what about all the other days and moments of our lives?

We’re always doing one of two things: opening to love or shutting down. There’s no middle ground. Learn to stretch your heart through your whole body, even in the most uncomfortable moments to live more often on the loving-end of the spectrum. Includes pranayama, meditation, journaling, group practices, and some dynamic asana.

22^nd DAY 6: Find Your Artist Within

Each of us has our own unique way of expressing ourselves creatively. It’s an innate part of being a woman.

Maybe you sing, write, dance, or cook… whatever it is, we’ll spend the day in silence and warm company, to allow us to dig deep, tap into the inner muse, and listen within to how you can share that gift with the world. Includes hands-on work, yin yoga, dynamic yoga, and meditations.

23^rd DAY 7: Craft Your Unique Life’s Purpose

Today, we’ll harness the riches from yesterday’s inward journey to articulate your core values. When you become clear and connected to these, you truly live from your heart, rather than your intellect. An empowered woman crafts everything she says, does, and thinks to emanate from the deepest part of herself. We’ll design creative personal manifestos that remind you to live juicier and more authentic lives. Includes hands-on work and creative collaboration that culminates in an evening celebration and performance.

24^th DEPARTURE DAY: Early morning meditation & closing circle

We’ll get up at sunrise and take a short walk to a local Thai temple in the middle of a pristine rice field. Together, we’ll sit in silence and then share our experiences this past week in a circle. Afterwards, we’ll have a final meal and say goodbye… for now!

(Note: airport transfer provided )

Meet the Teachers

SARA AVANT STOVER (course director) – Sara took her first yoga class at age 18 and knew immediately that she would someday devote her life to teaching. By her early 20’s, yoga was such a big part of Sara’s life, that she moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand where she lived for 9 years and served as one of the pioneer yoga teachers in that part of the word.

To date, Sara has taught some 3,000 student in over a dozen different countries. She is a prolific writer whose articles have been featured in half a dozen magazines including Yoga Journal, Yogi Time Business, Pilates Style and Fit Yoga. Sara takes yoga very seriously, but teaches with kind, gentle understanding of the human spirit.

As a student, Sara has been fortunate to study with some of the best teachers in the world including Richard Freeman, Gurmukh, Shiva Rea, John Friend, Sarah Powers, Sianna Sherman, Jill Satterfield, Susanna Nicholson, and Gary Kraftsow. Sara continues to be inspired by master yogini, Sofia Diaz, who teaches spiritual empowerment for women and the balanced dance of the masculine and feminine. Her spiritual teacher, ShantiMayi continues to shine light on her path to full illumination and realization.

Sara has also studied Ayurveda, Reiki, pre/post natal yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Thai Yoga Massage, and Insight Meditation. Sara is now based in Boulder, Colorado, and is very excited to return once again to her second home, Chiang Mai, for this course.

TANYA BOULTON (Guest Asana Teacher) – Tanya Boulton was born in Hong Kong and raised in California, and in 2006 she returned to Asia to share her passion for teaching yoga. She began her yoga journey studying under Ana Forrest completing both Forrest Yoga Foundation and Advanced teacher trainings in addition to assisting with anatomy expert Ellen Heed. Tanya also studied Cranial Sacral Therapy, Shiatsu, and holds a Master’s of Science in Special Education where she implemented yoga programs for behaviorally challenged youth in Los Angeles.

Prior to arriving in Hong Kong Tanya taught at the Forrest Yoga Circle in Santa Monica and from 2006 she taught for PURE Yoga in Hong Kong for 3-years as a senior teacher. She was a guest teacher at Asia Yoga Conference in 2009, and is now a freelance yoga instructor in Hong Kong and throughout Asia.

Tanya’s teachings come from a place of compassion and a deep understanding of the human body. She emphasizes breath, CORE work, anatomy, and practicing from a place that is “struggle-free.” Tanya believes that the yoga room is a sacred space to get connected to your body, slow down your mind, and FEEL. She believes that her experience as a school teacher has given her the ability to clearly communicate in the yoga room making students feel safe while providing them with the space to grow and learn about themselves.

MEL CAMPBELL (Guest Workshop Leader) – Originally from the U.K., Mel and her family have made Thailand their home. Mel is a yoga teacher, a mother of three, and the author of new book on pregnancy and yoga.

Mel will teach a workshop on motherhood, yoga, and the ultimate gift of being a woman: giving birth.

Accommodation, Food & Facilities

The Spa Chiang Mai is an ideal location for this immersion. The yoga sala sits alone on top of a mountain with 300 degree vistas of Thai jungle. You can see both the sun rise and sunset here… it’s truly special.

The resort itself opened in 2008 and is absolutely lovely. The rooms are bright and airy, with hot water and air conditioning, small terraces and mini bars. All the creature comforts are taken care of so you can focus on you—without distraction.

Food is an important part of all of our lives, and The Spa makes an art out of health, all-natural foods. The use organic ingredients whenever possible, much of which is grown in and around the resort itself. You’ll experience all the amazing tastes of Thailand prepared with love and mindfulness, specifically for healthy yogis.

Aside from the yoga sala, there is also a DVD screening “tea house,” a full service spa and steam room, exercise facilities, walking trails, internet access, 2 pools, and a trickling stream running through the resort. Within 10 minutes of arrival, you’ll never want to leave!

Tuition

Thailand is a wonderful and affordable place to visit. That means you can enjoy an extremely comfortable holiday for about ½ the price you’d normally pay. All rooms are private, though shared rooms are possible if you are coming with a friend (only 1 bed in each room).

Tuition: 38,950 THB
Room & Food: 15,950 THB (shared room*) or 21,950 (private room)
Total: 54,900 THB (shared*) or 60,900 (private)

*NOTE ON SHARED ROOMS: Shared rooms contain one double bed and 1 twin bed (2 separate beds, different sizes). You will share the room with 1 other student, and you both can decide upon arrival who gets the big bed. If you are a big bed lover, we suggest you opt for a private room.

Here’s What Else (just for fun)…

As soon as you arrive, you’ll receive a “Goddess Goodie Bag” filled with beautifying surprises from Thailand and abroad that you’re going to love. After a long flight, it’s time for some pampering! So I’m also going to book each of you a private, Thai massage at the resort’s lovely and peaceful spa. If you’re like me, you need a little encouragement to take time for yourself. That’s what this is all about.

What About My Kids?

Children and husbands are welcome to join, though we do ask that they do not join our sessions (women only for the course). The retreat center is very large and they will have plenty of space and activities to keep them busy and entertained. Please do let me know beforehand of your plans via email so we can plan accordingly…

Take the Next Step

We all have similar stories…

Maybe you feel like you don’t have the time, money, or willpower to make these lasting changes in your life. I know, I’ve been there, too. There’s something really comforting about maintaining the status quo. And lasting shifts don’t happen overnight—many times we take two steps forward and then one step back.

Here’s what I know: True freedom comes when you’re willing to accept the inevitability of change. This is when things start to “flow” and it’s not a matter of energy, willpower, or patience. It’s all about surrendering to who you really are and celebrating radiant womanhood.

Your body and your heart long to be happy—that’s their essential nature!

That’s why you’re even here reading these words now, and that’s why you’re interested in this course. Now the next step is you… when you take just one step in the direction of that deep longing, Life herself will spread her wings to support you.

I’m here to support you, too.

To your happiness,

Sara Avant Stover
The Way of the Happy Woman™

p.s. I’m offering a special “early” discount of 5,000 THB off tuition to students who register before 15 November. Please enter your info below to get started!

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