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Vinyasa Yoga Retreats in Phoenicia

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A Retreat In Presence, Stillness And Insight

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A Retreat In Presence, Stillness And Insight

May 22 - 25, 2026

Phoenicia, NY, United States

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Hosted By

Michael Hewett

39 followers

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3 nights, 4 days

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20 person retreat

Highlights

  • Daily Yoga & Meditation

  • Dharma Talks (Eight Limbs of Yoga)

  • 2 Daily Yogasana classes

  • Organic Meals (3 per day)

  • Sound Healing

  • Spa and Pool

  • Guitar Concert with Michael Hewett

  • Hiking

Details

Do you want to feel grounded in your body, clear in your mind, and connected to what truly matters? Yoga was never meant to live only on the mat. As B.K.S. Iyengar reminds us, it is “a way of life” — a path that guides how we live, relate, and meet the world with awareness. This retreat is an invitation to slow down and connect to your true self. Rooted in the wisdom of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, we explore how ancient teachings can support modern lives: grounding the body and nervous system, cultivating the courage to meet yourself honestly, and developing the clarity that comes from steady attention and insight. Held at the beautiful Menla Retreat Center in the Catskills, our days are supported by clean mountain air, fresh spring water, nourishing meals, and access to both indoor and outdoor sanctuaries. During free time, you are invited to do as little or as much as you like - walk the forest paths, rest by the water, explore Menla’s nature-based offerings, or simply be with yourself in silence. Over four days, we come together for movement, nature, stillness, and reflection. Come as you are, no yoga experience needed. FOCUS OF STUDY Yoga Sūtra of Patañjali 2.29 यमनियमासनप्राणायामप्रत्याहारधारणाध्यानसमाधयोऽष्टावङ्गानि Throughout the retreat, our dharma talks will explore the Eight Limbs of Yoga as a living, integrated path. 1. Yama - Ethical Restraints How we relate to ourselves and others with integrity 2. Niyama - Self Cultivation How we develop inner discipline, honesty, and care 3. Asana - Postures Grounding awareness in the body through movement 4. Pranayama - Life Force Mastery Working skillfully with breath and energy 5. Pratyahara -Sense Withdrawal Reducing sensory overload to refine attention 6. Dharana - Contemplation Training the mind to stay present and focused 7. Dhyana - Meditation Sustained awareness with less effort 8. Samadhi - Absorption Moments of clarity, connection, and insight

Location

Phoenicia, NY, United States

Phoenicia, New York, is a charming hamlet located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, known for its scenic beauty, artistic community, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Nestled along the Esopus Creek, Phoenicia offers a tranquil escape with its lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The area is renowned for activities such as hiking, tubing, and fishing, with trails like the Tanbark Trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hamlet's quaint Main Street is lined with eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants that reflect its vibrant local culture and hospitality. Phoenicia also hosts various cultural events and festivals, attracting artists, musicians, and visitors who appreciate its creative spirit and relaxed atmosphere. With its blend of natural beauty, rich cultural scene, and small-town charm, Phoenicia provides a perfect retreat for those looking to experience the unique allure of the Catskills.

Venue

Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa

4.8 ★ 386 Reviews

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Menla is a 501 c3 non-profit retreat center and health spa located 2 hours north of NYC by car in the middle of the Catskill Forest Preserve. Menla is committed to bringing authentic Tibetan mind-body healing arts and sciences to the West. Our vision is to draw from Tibetan wisdom sciences to reinforce the new wave of holistic integrative medicine now emerging in Western societies.

Free Wifi

Free Wifi

Yoga Studio

Yoga Studio

Pool

Pool

Garden

Garden

Spa

Spa

Sauna

Sauna

Restaurant

Restaurant

Free Parking

Free Parking

Shower

Shower

Bathtub

Bathtub

Accommodation

Private room / Shared bath

2 Rooms Left

Private room for 1

$2,200 USD total

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Private room w/shared bath (2 left)

Meals

Meals provided

Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

Diets catered

Organic · Vegan · Vegetarian · Gluten-free · Nut Allergy Friendly

3 Daily Organic Meals Provided.

Schedule

The retreat begins on Friday afternoon with arrival and check-in, followed by dinner and a welcome program introducing Ashtanga Yoga and its deeper philosophical aspects. Saturday and Sunday follow a structured and immersive rhythm, starting with a light breakfast, morning yoga sessions, and Dharma talks exploring key yogic principles such as the Yamas and Niyamas. Each day includes lunch, afternoon programs, breaks, and additional yoga or meditation sessions, along with evening programs that combine teachings, guided meditation, and reflection. The retreat concludes on Monday with breakfast, a final morning yoga session, and a closing lunch before departure, offering a balanced blend of practice, learning, and integration throughout the experience.

Testimonials

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“This was my first retreat and Michael made it such a positive and memorable experience. The location was beautiful and comfortable, the subject matter interesting and Michael presented everything in a way that was easy to absorb. He encouraged questions, discussions and self-discovery while also telling us to apply the principals in ways that felt meaningful to our own lives.”

Victoria, USA

“I experienced states of mind and bliss during yoga with Michael that I thought could only be experienced with psychedelics. That’s on top of him having an insanely deep understanding of how it all weaves together and the ability to explain it and tie the yoga into Real Life. Five out of 5 ⭐️ on intergalactic Yelp”

Katie, USA

“Michael is radically unique. As a yogi for over 28 years, I find Michael’s approach to yoga refreshing. He creatively yokes asana with the often overlooked other limbs while blending science, music and his irreverent sense of humor — all in the service of the practice. Since working with Michael, my practice has evolved and my appreciation for the path has only deepened thanks to his expansive knowledge and genuine commitment to an authentic path.”

Marianne, USA

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Host

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Michael Hewett

New York, NY, USA

A yogi of over 30 years and musician for 40 years, Michael’s training in the full spectrum of yoga has deep roots in vinyasa, ashtanga, ISHTA, shamatha meditation (mind training) and eastern philosoph...

Certified Yoga Instructor

Accreditation has been verified

1 language

English

Teaching for 7 months

Joined Insight Timer in Aug 2025

What's Included

Accommodations

Three Daily Meals

2 Daily Asanayoga Classes

Guided Meditations

Dharma Talks (Eight Limbs Of Yoga

Guitar Concert

Sound Healing

Hikes

Yoga Props

Pool

Not Included

Transportation to the Catskills, New York

Spa treatments (massage, acupuncture, reflexology, herbal baths…)

Temezcal (sweatlodge)

Travel insurance if desired

FAQs

Cancellation policy

The remaining balance for the retreat is due 30 days prior to the start date. If this balance is paid earlier than these 30 days, you are eligible to cancel and receive a full refund of this remaining balance, provided you do so at least 30 days before the retreat begins.

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