Tis the Season to be Jolly..

Where has the year gone?
Um hello, what happened to the year? Where has it gone?  One day it was the middle of July and now it’s only just over 2 weeks until the end of the calendar year!

I hope you are starting to wind down and relax a little after what has no doubt been a busy year for many of you.  Hopefully you will have some time to sit back and relax and reflect on your year over the coming weeks.

This year has been a busy year for SoulFit adventures with lots happening including the inaugural yoga and cycling retreat to Italy back in June.  That retreat was such a success that I have developed 2 new Italian offerings for 2013 and will be running 4 trips in total! 
 

One is a ladies only retreat welcoming women travelling on their own without being alone. No kids, no couples, only other likeminded women at any one time. The holiday is a soul soothing retreat for women who want the ultimate relaxation hassle free travel experience.  The week includes daily yoga, cooking classes, wine tastings, shopping excursions and, it wouldn't be a SoulFit adventure if there wasn't one day of cycling!

The other one is for all the wanna be Cadel Evans or Bradley Wiggins out there and will be run in the lead up to the 2013 UCI Road World Championships which take place in and around Lucca, Pistoia, Prato and Florence in September 2013.  It's the eightieth Road World Championships and the first time that the event will take place in Tuscany, one of the heartlands of Italian cycling! Perfect for cycling enthusiasts wanting to get some cycling in (with daily yoga of course!) before the action starts.
 

Both of these new retreats will be held in and around our luxury accommodation, Villa Santa Maria al Lago, an elegant 14th century country house which has amongst other unique features, its' own private lake and which is set in Marlia, a small hamlet at the base of the Lucchese hills. If you are wondering why Lucca is the base for all of our Italian retreats, then check out this article which was published this week to see just some of the reasons - http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/travel/a/-/travel/15526500/i-love-lucca/
 

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Laos
At the end of October a group returned from SoulFit adventures signature 11 day yoga and cycling tour through Northern Laos. I wasn't able to accompany the group this time but from all reports it was a fabulous trip and one to remember.  The lovely Maggie, who was a participant on this trip kindly offered to write a brief summary of her experience and I thought I would share it with you today. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did when I first received it. Take it away Maggie..

“That was the best holiday ever! When we first flew over Laos and into Luang Prabang, I was a little concerned at how mountainous it was and how I would cope cycling up all those hills!   Luang Prabang is one of the loveliest places I have ever been to. No rush, no traffic, no congestion, a slow and beautiful pace. The minute I arrived in 100% humidity and 30 odd degrees I felt an instant calm.
 

10 days of yoga and cycling around the northern part of Laos was indeed a trip to remember for the rest of my life.  I needn't have worried about those massive hills over mountains though. Laos is a totally landlocked country and yet we were beside water every day. All the roads in the northern part of Laos are beside the Mekong and the many rivers that flow from her and, we rode beside the river. 

Cycling through little villages with the children running out of homes and schools to stand on the side of the road waving and wanting to “hi 5” us as we rode by.  Markets with very different produce for sale than what we would not normally see in our shops.   The Laotian people waste nothing and eat everything.  The beautiful tropical fruits, the chickens, dogs, ducks, pigs, buffalo, cats all roaming the roads around the villages, all part of the Laotian way of life.

We stayed in wonderful accommodation, the food was to die for and everything was so clean and tidy.  Most of the towns we stayed in, we were the only “Phalang” but never once did I feel unsafe or unwanted in their towns.   We travelled beside the river every day and stayed by the river every night.  There were 2 days which we spent on a boat travelling down the river.   One day in a traditional skiff and another day in a very luxurious long boat both equally as exciting and interesting.   The river provides so much livelihood for the villagers and the riverbanks were dotted with vegetable gardens and water buffalo.

We visited Pak Ou caves where the locals hid during the war.  Pak Beng where most of the people from China, Thailand and the north come into Laos on the river. Muang La which was a little bit of paradise in the middle of nowhere and where I had the pleasure of spending my birthday!

Thank you to Isabelle, our fantastic yoga teacher - the best way in the world to start the day and thank you Virginia for organising such a wonderful itinerary.
 

  

I could go on and on about the wonderful 10 days I had in a country as yet untouched by mass tourism but you need to go and experience it yourself and cycling around Laos and practising yoga every day with SoulFit adventures is the best way to see it.

Laos is a truly beautiful country and I certainly feel SoulFit and will be doing it again! ” Maggie Jennings, Sydney, Australia

If you would like to read more comments from this trip and others, then check them out on our testimonial page on the website  http://www.soulfitadventures.com/#!testimonials.

Maybe that has inspired you to join me on a SoulFit adventure next year. I certainly hope so..:-).  Why not do something that's good for you whilst relaxing and bring home some memories to last a lifetime.
 

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Dates in the Diary
Laos
20 May to 30 May 2013 - Yoga & Cycling Tour
14 October to 24 October 2013 - Yoga & Cycling Tour
30 December 2013 to 9 January 2014 - Yoga & Cycling Tour

Italy
8 June to 15 June 2013 - Soul Soothing Italy Yoga & Cycling Retreat
15 June to 22 June 2013 -Soul Soothing Italy Yoga, Biking & Hiking Retreat
31 August to 7 September 2013 - Soulicious Ladies Retreat
7 September to 14 September 2013 - Soul Soothing Italy Yoga & Cycling Retreat

If you get in now you can take advantage of the early bird specials which have been extended from 31 December until 31 January 2013. Book and pay your deposit by 31 January for any retreat or trip in 2013 and receive $50 off the cost. Better still, if a group of 2 or more sign up together then you all receive $100 off the cost! 
 

For more  information on any of the exciting trips planned for 2013 and beyond, contact me directly.

Thank you all for your support over the last 12 months. It's been a busy year and 2013 is shaping up to be even busier. 

 

Until next time, I wish you and your families all the very best for the coming festive season and here's to a safe, healthy, abundant and properous 2013!

 

Virginia

Virginia Slevin
SoulFit adventures

virginia@soulfitadventures.com

www.soulfitadventures.com

"There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday and the other is call tomorrow. Today is the right day to love, believe, do and mostly live". Dalai Lama XIV

Fun in the Tuscan Sun!

Wow, I can't believe we are nearly at the end of July, half the year has well and truly passed!

It's been a few weeks since I arrived home after SoulFit's first cycling & yoga adventure in Italy. I am slowly getting used to the Sydney winter, but the memories of the long balmy Tuscan days are keeping me warm.

I thought I would take this opportunity to share with you stories from the retreat and some feedback from the budding cyclists and yogis that I was fortunate enough to spend the week with.

Let me begin by telling you about the beautiful Villa Benvenuti, which was our base.

The property is located about 10 minutes out of the delightful Tuscan town Lucca and is set on a hill surrounded by forest.  Lucca is a walled town and unlike a lot of the bigger tourist towns these days, it is mainly inhabited by locals who still live within the walls, allowing the town to retain a truly Italian feel. Apart from the luscious surrounds that make up the grounds of Villa Benvenuti, all you can see for miles is another villa on the hill opposite. All you can hear are the sounds of birds tweeting in the trees and water trickling from the water feature, which together make this special place ideal for our retreat.

 

The villa is family owned and was restored from its previously dilapidated self by its current owners in 1989. It has seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, numerous sitting rooms, a pool, a secret garden with its own secret massage room, and an olive grove and vineyard.  The vino was enjoyed by everyone (it was a holiday after all, not a detox) and the olive oil was used liberally throughout the week. I can attest to the high quality of both may I add!

We started each day with a beautiful yoga practise in the early morning, with our gorgeous instructor Lauren, before indulging in a delicious breakfast.  We then set off on our bikes, heading in a different direction each day. We made many stops along the way visiting hilltop towns, the seaside, a frattoria on a working farm, an ancient Roman aquaduc and historical Lucchese villas. We tasted wines in a local winery and made frequent stops for gelati and cafe in between the odd puncture or 2! We pictured ourselves in the Tour de France – well not quite but one can dream...

 

We finished each days cycle feeling well worked but happy and with a sense of achievement. After a swim in the pool, a massage from Isabelle or a restorative yoga practise (sometimes all of the above), our evenings were spent on the terrace watching the sun go down and the fire flies play. We ate delicious Italian food lovingly prepared by Mariangela with the freshest of produce. Our wonderful host Siobhan looked after us during our stay.

Some members of the team hadn’t been on a bike for 20 years but revelled in learning how to ride all over again.  Others had never done any yoga before and believe it or not, one of them was doing a head stand by the end of the week!  This is definitely not recommended for most people, but he is physically strong and very capable.

Here's small sample of some of the feedback from the week. "Great combination of activities and a lot of attention paid to making sure everyone enjoyed the retreat, being flexible and making changes when necessary. Thank you very much for a wonderful week". Inessa Dvizova, London - italy, june 2012. Read more.

All up it was a trip to remember with lots and lots of belly laughs between new and old friends; we can’t wait to return next year.  If you weren't able to join us this year and you are keen for some fun in the Tuscan sun, the dates for 2013 are 22-29 June and it’s never too early to book! A second date in 2013 will be announced soon.

Take a look at the rest our collection of photos by clicking here, as the old saying goes, a picture tells a thousand words. 

  

I will finish on a more personal note to share with you one of many things I took away with me from this trip. Due to a couple of sad events happening in other parts of the world which effected people close to me, I was reminded that life is short. We must make the most of all the wonderful experiences that present themselves to us and remember always to love and laugh with those we are lucky enough to be around.

The next SoulFit adventure is coming up in October in Laos and there are still a few places left.  For more information, email me on virginia@soulfitadventures.com or click here.

Until next time, Courage does not always roar, sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying "I will try again tomorrow". Mary Anne Radmacher

Virginia
Virginia Slevin
SoulFit adventures

Laos Yoga & Cycling Tour 15 to 25 October 2012 Cycling & Yoga tour through Northern Laos. 11 days cycling the backroads of one of Asia's most mystical countries. Relax and unwind with private daily yoga and unlimited massages, fabulous local ciusine and stunning boutique properties. The adventure is limited to 12 people, is priced at $3325 per person and includes everything except some dinners, airfares, visas and travel insurance. Trip departs Luang Prabang on 15 October, 2012. BOOK NOW.

Bliss Balls Most of you have probably heard of these little bundles of joy before. If not, then you are in for a treat as I have the yummiest and easiest receipe for a healthy snack - Bliss Balls. Click here and enjoy!

SoulFit adventures: The Benefits of Cycling..

Do you need a little inspiration to work off some of those Easter eggs you MAY have consumed over the last few days? Then this may help..SoulFit adventures: The Benefits of Cycling..: By the time you all read this Easter will be over, but as I sit here writing I am looking forward to heading out of Sydney for the break and...

The Benefits of Cycling..

By the time you all read this Easter will be over, but as I sit here writing I am looking forward to heading out of Sydney for the break and taking my bike with me.  I’m excited about getting out on some country roads and taking advantage of everything that cycling has to offer (and, working off some of the chocolate I will eat over the course of the weekend!). Which brings me to the subject of this blog, the benefits of cycling?

There are many benefits to cycling both for your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Cycling is a fantastic form of exercise, and yet unlike jogging or spending time in the gym it is also relaxing and suitable for almost anyone. From toddlers to adults, to the elderly and disabled, nearly anybody can take part in cycling. Studies have shown that cycling strengthens the immune system, improves circulation, strengthens bones and gives your entire body a gentle workout as cycling exercises nearly all your muscles, not just your legs that are pedalling, but also your arms, your core and your back.

Cycling improves general muscle function gradually, with little risk of over exercise or strain. Regular cycling strengthens leg muscles and is great for the mobility of hip and knee joints. You will begin to see an improvement in the muscle tone of your legs, thighs, rear end and hips. Don’t we all want a set of toned legs and a good looking rear end, I know I do!!

Any regular exercise can help reduce stress and improve your overall health and wellbeing. Cycling outdoors is also a great way to be one with nature and to feel the breath of the earth. It takes your mind out of everyday-life stress and rejuvenates your soul.  You get the chance to see and smell the countryside in a completely different way. Cycling in the great outdoors could be exactly what you need to release the stress.

The other big plus of cycling is that it’s good for the environment.  You burn less fuel and going for the healthier option is ‘greener’ than you think.  With the world’s environment suffering from rampant pollution and carbon emissions, by choosing the greener alternative, you can reduce your carbon footprint on the world and, that can only be a good thing!

I know cycling on a regular basis can be difficult. In a busy schedule, taking time out to cycle is often a challenge. Really though you can ride a bicycle almost anywhere, at any time of the year, and without spending a fortune. Most of us know how to cycle and once you have learned you don’t forget.  All you need is a bike, a half an hour here or there when it suits, and a bit of confidence.

Lastly, by combining all the benefits you get with cycling with say a holiday with SoulFit adventures, (yes this is the plug!) you could get the perfect getaway.  Cycling holidays are a sedate, relaxing and healthy way of seeing the country you are visiting at handle bar level.  It’s a great way of enjoying all the pleasures that a country can offer, whilst also keeping fit and active.  Add yoga into the mix and you can’t really lose!

So, get on your bike (or borrow one!), love yourself, love your day, love your life and just maybe I might have inspired you to try something adventurous with SoulFit adventures...

Happy cycling…J

Namaste

Virginia

SoulFit adventures
virginia@soulfitadventures.com
www.soulfitadventures.com
Ph: 61 407 788 600

SoulFit adventures - Yoga & Cycling Tuscan Holiday Special - 9 to 16 June 2012- Save $200 - Italy,,yoga

SoulFit adventures - Yoga & Cycling Tuscan Holiday Special - 9 to 16 June 2012- Save $200 - Italy,,yoga

What's the Difference Between a Holiday with SoulFit adventures and a Yoga Retreat?

Happy New Year and welcome to my first blog for 2012! I hope you all enjoyed the festive season with family and friends wherever you may be.

It's that time of the year when most of us are back at work and we are planning our year ahead and thinking about when we can take our next break. I thought I would kick the new year off by explaining the difference between a healthy holiday with SoulFit adventures and a yoga retreat, as people often get confused between the 2.

We all know that the heath and wellness industry is alive and well around the world and is attracting more and more people every day as we all try to find ways of balancing busy and often stressful lives.  If you're thinking of going away and would like to do something different from the normal ‘fly and flop’ options (there’s is nothing wrong with a good fly and flop option mind you!)  and would like to incorporate yoga, there are two different types of yoga breaks: a yoga retreat and a yoga holiday. Although the two are linked the difference can be quite distinct and at SoulFit adventures we offer the latter of the 2.

Yoga holidays usually take place in holiday settings and place an emphasis on both 'yoga' and 'holiday'. At SoulFit adventures we incorporate yoga and cycling as well as all the things that you would normally do or may not do on a holiday. For example, sightseeing, interacting with the locals, travelling responsibly, supporting local communities, getting a massage, eating fresh local produce, or just relaxing in the sun. The amount of yoga and cycling each day varies on the country you are visiting and of course you – our holidays are a holiday and not a boot camp! It’s up to you how much or how little you do.


In many ways yoga and cycling holidays are an ideal mix: yoga relaxes you and the cycling answers that irritating 'must do something' feeling that often pops up when you're away.


A yoga retreat, on the other hand, places almost all the emphasis on yoga. A well as asana there might be philosophy lectures, a particular diet, chanting, as well as plenty of pranayama and meditation. Generally retreats are just that: a retreat from the outside world to concentrate purely on yoga. Yoga retreats tend to be run by established organisations, teachers or specialist retreat venues.


The choice between healthy holidays and a yoga retreat depends on what you want to get out of your break.
On a holiday with SoulFit adventures we offer you the chance to experience some of the place you're visiting, whilst at the same time doing something that’s good for you and the local communities you visit.


On a yoga retreat you might not see anything outside the boundary fence of wherever it is you're staying. However retreats offer the opportunity to learn about yourself – the journey is inward. A yoga retreat is aimed at transformation and learning: it's about self-development, more than simply getting away.


Healthy holidays have become increasingly popular over the last five years and indeed there are many advantages to a healthy holiday when considering a trip abroad. Aside from possibly losing a bit of weight, you have the chance to practice yoga free from the distractions of work, family or social life. If, on the other hand, you're a yoga newbie then it's a great way to learn– a holiday that incorporates yoga is a great way to kick start your practice or whatever you've learned so far. The cycling allows you to see the country and its people from handle bar level and along with the yoga will improve your overall fitness. An added bonus is when you decide to have that extra helping at dinner, there’s no need feel guilty as you know you will work it off the next day!


Are they difficult? As I mentioned earlier, our holidays ARE holidays and NOT boot camps. They are tailored to beginner, intermediate to experienced levels – yoga teachers, for example, usually offer advanced variations on postures so you can go further if you like. With the cycling, the days can be short or long depending on your fitness levels and, if you decide halfway through the day that you have had enough, you can hop into the air-conditioned support vehicle.


There's a careful distinction between a healthy holiday and a yoga retreat – with the latter being much more disciplined and challenging, the former being aimed at relaxation and fun.


Surprisingly, perhaps, most people who join our holidays are travelling solo and, there is no average when it comes to ages. If you are travelling alone, you're unlikely to be the only one. Actually this is often a benefit – people are away from their normal environments and are really free to enjoy learning something new without the expectations and preconceptions of life at home. And you get a chance to meet similar, like-minded people.


So whether you're a regular yoga practitioner or a complete beginner, experienced cyclist or novice, travelling alone or with friends, a holiday with SoulFit adventures is a great choice. You'll return home with a sense of achievement, more disciplined, with increased self-awareness and concentration, more relaxed and with your senses awakened and your mind and body invigorated – and what other type of holiday can say that?


If you have been thinking about booking a holiday with SoulFit adventures but weren’t sure what the difference was between a holiday with us or a yoga retreat, I hope the above goes some way to explaining the difference.


We have trips to Laos, Italy, Vietnam and Bali with departures scheduled throughout the year. All are very similar in concept but unique to the countries and I look forward to meeting you on a ‘soul soothing adventure’ somewhere soon!



Virginia
Owner/Director
SoulFit adventures