In the summer of 2015, yoga practitioners from around the world gathered on the sun-drenched southeastern coast of Italy for a transformative week of yoga, meditation, and relaxation. This retreat was led by two esteemed ISHTA Yoga teachers, Mona Anand and Ulrica Norberg, blending their deep expertise in meditation, yoga nidra, restorative, and yin yoga.
Set in Salento, Italy, at the very heel of the country’s boot, this retreat provided a rare opportunity to immerse in an unspoiled region of Italy known for its breathtaking beaches, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed pace of life. Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas of Italy, Salento offered a serene, authentic experience, where rolling olive groves, historical Greek and Roman ruins, and charming fishing villages created a magical backdrop for deepening one’s yoga practice.
A Sanctuary for Yoga and Healing: Agricola Samadhi
The retreat was hosted at Agricola Samadhi, an organic yoga farm in Zollino, an eco-friendly retreat center that harmonized with nature and embraced the principles of slow living. This tranquil oasis, surrounded by lush greenery and open skies, provided the perfect setting for rejuvenation. Guests were invited to unwind by the pool, explore the region by bike, horseback, or boat, or indulge in holistic treatments and massages.
At Cucina del Sole, the on-site restaurant, the retreat offered a mindful culinary experience rooted in Ayurvedic and Taoist macrobiotic principles. Meals were carefully prepared using fresh, local, and organic ingredients, combining Italy’s Slow Food tradition with Eastern philosophy to create nourishing vegetarian dishes. Here, food was more than sustenance—it was a ritual, a way of connecting with the body and nature in a harmonious rhythm.
Daily Yoga, Meditation, and Exploration
Each day at the retreat began with a morning yoga and meditation practice, designed to awaken the body and mind while preparing participants for the day ahead. In the afternoons, the group gathered for deeply restorative and yin yoga sessions, creating space for introspection and relaxation. The retreat also included satsangs (spiritual discussions and lectures) for those interested in diving deeper into yogic philosophy.
A dedicated yoga space, equipped with essential props, served as the hub for the retreat’s teachings. However, participants were encouraged to bring their own mats and any additional props they preferred. The retreat was inclusive, welcoming families and friends, and even offering a playground for children on-site, ensuring a holistic experience for all.
Meet the Teachers
Mona Anand, a Yogiraj (Yoga Master) in the ISHTA Lineage, brought her extensive expertise in yoga nidra, restorative practices, and Ayurveda to the retreat. Originally from Mumbai, Mona has developed her own Yoga Nidra Trainings and has a deep connection to the practice of deep relaxation. She co-leads restorative trainings worldwide and collaborates closely with ISHTA founder Alan Finger to integrate Ayurveda, asana, and yoga nidra into advanced teacher training programs.
Ulrica Norberg, an E-RYT 500 yoga teacher from Sweden, is a master teacher in ISHTA Yoga and a specialist in yin yoga. With over 20 years of teaching experience across multiple styles, Ulrica is also a celebrated author, having written ten books on yoga and meditation. Known for her inspiring, pedagogical approach, she brought deep wisdom and warmth to this retreat, guiding students through the intricacies of meditation, breathwork, and self-discovery.
Beyond the Retreat: A Gateway to Salento’s Beauty
While the retreat itself offered a deeply immersive experience, Salento’s pristine beaches, hidden coves, and charming historic sites provided endless opportunities for exploration. Participants could wander through centuries-old villages, visit pre-historic monuments, or simply bask in the quiet beauty of the countryside. Whether soaking in the sun, diving into the turquoise waters, or savoring the local wines and delicacies, the retreat was not just about yoga—it was about embracing the Italian way of life.
For those seeking a week of deep relaxation, spiritual growth, and cultural immersion, the 2015 ISHTA Yoga Retreat to Italy was an unforgettable journey—a chance to step away from the busyness of life and reconnect with the body, breath, and spirit in one of the most beautiful corners of the world.