Yoga Camp

Thank God for Yoga! It didn't take long to settle into a healing and relaxation routine while indulging in life's simple pleasures. Each morning was blessed with a 7am Vinyasa class taught be Tami or Jodi gracefully incorporating special partner poses, breath techniques and life lessons into each session. 17 beautiful souls rose to warm air, the sweet sound of the ocean, the birds in the sky. By 8:30am the sun grew warm and made its way onto the practice space, a cliff overlooking the expansive ocean, our necks softly massaged laying in Shavasana. The smell of coconut oil filling the air reminding our bellies that breakfast was just moments away. With ayurvedic treatments and massages on the horizon, the group was served meals based on their personal constitution while I (being my rebellious self) decided to forgo treatments and order off the menu. In either case, the food was simply wonderful. The kitchen staff outdid themselves on a daily basis consistently serving delightful food with special South Indian spice recipes. In the morning fruit salads with cashews and shredded coconut, banana pancakes, masala dosas and cheese chapattis. For lunch, coconut rice with curry veggies, and dinner a nice assortment of dishes including palak paneer, lentils and fish masala. My ultimate favorite was at a restaurant on the North Cliff serving well spiced butter fish or blue marlin wrapped and stewed in a banana leaf. The best meal I've ever had my friends cost all of $5.


Such gratitude each of us felt to have been part of the group uniting at Oceano Resort. Residing on the South Cliff of Varkala Beach, Oceano is the perfect spot for a quiet retreat escaping the bustling North Cliff with its shops and restaurants. Only a 50 Rupee rickshaw ride away, one can venture to the North Cliff fulfilling their shopping desires, a visit to the tailor (who may or may not perfect the art of sizing trousers) or a nice glass of Kingfisher beer. Varkala Beach is a gem in South India. In addition to the nearly perfect tropical climate, (watch out for monsoon season) you can find all the rejuvenating things your body desires; from yoga, to ayurvedic treatments, massages, delightful food and endless hours of beach time.

Tami and Jodi led a beautiful yoga retreat at Oceano. I was fortunate to be a part of it and meet such wonderful people including the helpful staff. I will forever cherish the sweet memories and timeless photos of India.

Namaste,

Fadi