45. Yoga Retreat: An Exciting Journey into Nature, Zagorochoria, January 2022
Our Yoga Retreat in the mountain paradise of Zagorochoria was the perfect start to 2022. It is a unique feeling to practice yoga while overlooking the breathtaking Vikos Gorge and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Tymfi. Using the picturesque village of Aristi as our base, we embarked on a road trip to Monodendri to admire the gorge from the monastery of Agia Paraskevi. We then continued to the historic Kokkoris Bridge and concluded our journey with a refreshing hike through nature, reaching the village of Kipoi
The word Yoga derives from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj,’ meaning ‘Union’ and ‘Oneness.’
‘Ha’ represents the Sun, expressing Masculine Energy, while ‘Tha’ represents the Moon, expressing Feminine Energy. Hatha Yoga is defined as the practice that unites these pairs of opposites—where one complements the other—to create Unity.
Through five hours of practice (sessions of 75 minutes each), we felt our energy centers reaching a state of balance. Guided by deep relaxation under the light of the Full Moon (January 18th), we focused on the Balance and Unity of our inner Sun and Moon, seeking Internal Completeness. Through these qualities, we attained Serenity, Calmness, and Joy.
There could be no better place to host us than the hall of the Aristi Hotel; with its incredible view, even during our morning practices, we could witness the sun and the full moon together in the sky.
It was such a beautiful feeling—as if the self was being reborn
Testimonials
“It is a great honor and joy to start the ‘book’ of 2022 this way. It was a rebirth experience away from the gloom of the daily struggle; a reconnection with body and spirit, nature, the air, and life itself. And truly ‘Bright’ (Fotini). See you again!”
— N.A.
“Light, always, everywhere.”
— A.M.
“Thank you for the most positive kickstart to the new year, and for the profound reminder of reconnecting with my inner self. Until we meet again!”
— D.C.
“Thank you!!!”
— A.M.
“Dear Fotini & Petros, your care, professionalism, and warmth were once again unsurpassed. We first met just days before the COVID-19 ‘typhoon’ began. Two years later, I hope our meeting signals the start of a new normalcy, filled with more mindfulness and substance. Nah-mas-tay.”
— A.B.
“A wonderful, unique experience! The ideal combination of practice, landscape, accommodation, and daily scheduling… Congratulations to Fotini, Petros, and all their partners who helped this weekend flow so effortlessly! A special thanks to Fotini for the amazing practices she gifted us, her way of teaching, EVERYTHING. Looking forward to the next destination SOON.”
— F.K.
“It was a wonderful experience—the location, the hotel, and above all, the organization. The yoga program perfectly combined everything, and the meditation at the end was truly relaxing; it really helped me ‘unlock’ and find peace. Zagorochoria is one of my favorite places, and this entire combination was a magical experience. Thank you, and I can’t wait for the next ones!”
— K.P.
“Thank you for the beautiful experience. My first time in Zagorochoria, and it’s a magical experience.”
— D.M.
“A wonderful experience in a wonderful place!! We escaped the routine and the difficult reality. Thank you so much, Fotini and Petros.”
— A.S.
“Fotini, you truly live up to your name (Bright). Thank you so much for the wonderful experience. Keep going. I wish you all the best for the future. See you in Aegina!”
— A.K.
“I feel great joy and gratitude for the opportunity to be near you every so often. May you always be well, filled with love and health. I look forward to our next meeting. Thank you very much!”
— K.R.
“Once again, everything was wonderful! Thank you for the beautiful images you gifted us!”
— A.G. & G.T.
“As always, it was a wonderful journey through yoga and the beautiful Zagorochoria. It was exactly what I needed—a weekend full of wellness, good company, and rejuvenation on all levels.”
— D.K.
“I am grateful to have met you for the second time in a place with such magnificent nature and energy. Fotini, you offered a combination of yoga and meditation in a way that was both beneficial and educational for me! Thank you so much! See you again! Happy New Year with health!”
— M.M.
“Once again, the combination of the natural environment and the practice gave me a wonderful weekend. Fotini & Petros, keep going!”
— G.M.
“I fell in love with Zagorochoria! Wonderful images. Grateful! Namaste, Fotini & Petros.”
— E.G.
“Every trip with you is a distinct and wonderful experience! We are grateful!”
— M.K. & P.R.
“Your organization is excellent! The practice was very good, and the beauty of the surroundings was immense! Good luck with everything you do so successfully!!! Thank you.”
— K.M.
“Fotini & Petros, thank you warmly for these wonderful excursions! I wish you health and prosperity, and may we meet again soon.”
— Z.O.
“One of the best retreats I have ever attended. A unique combination of exercise and natural environment! Thank you so much, Fotini & Petros, for all the beautiful moments. Until we meet again!!”
— E.P.
“My charismatic, beloved Fotini and Petros—once again in Zagori, I am thrilled with the sessions I participated in! You brightened the arrival of 2022 with positive energy! Well done!”
— K.T.
“Exceptional experience, perfect organization, wonderful place! Fotini and Petros, we thank you.”
— D. & E.T.
“Wonderful nature, flawless organization, amazing yoga practices. After three retreats, I am now a loyal follower. Thank you for everything.”
— M.M. & A.L.
“Everything was very nice. I had a pleasant time and recharged my batteries.”
— E.F.
“I have been following Petros and Fotini for six years, since they first started their retreats in January 2016. Their main characteristic is that we always have an even better time than we imagined!!! Especially today, under difficult conditions, this charismatic couple managed once again not only to meet our expectations but to make us feel sad that it’s over and eager for the next one!! Fotini and Petros, once again, BRAVO!!! THANK YOU.”
— M.B.
“Wonderful experience! The landscape was magical, and the yoga practices were exceptional! Dynamic and at the same time incredibly relaxing. In just three days, we recharged our batteries. I can’t wait to join you at the next retreat! Fotini and Petros, thank you for everything.”
— K.D.
“The year started with wellness and success. I hope you continue to share your love for travel and yoga with the world. Happy New Year! To the best things yet to come! Thank you! See you again!”
