Ashtanga for you with Adam Keen
March 11, 2023 - March 25, 2023
During these two weeks, we will explore how to make the practice work for you whilst maintaining a commitment to the traditional method. There is no ‘incorrect method’ if you are connecting to yourself more deeply through your breath. Learn how to work with injuries and obstacles to find a renewed enthusiasm for a daily practice that nurtures rather than punishes you.
A holistic attitude will be conveyed in all we do together, from the practice classes and workshops to the yoga philosophy. This is an inclusive space where everyone will be treated and embraced as they are, not as they ought to be.
Mornings will be Mysore-style classes, followed by a workshop on four days, followed by brunch. The rest of the time will be free to relax, connect with each other, enjoy the beauty of Goa and catch up with yourself away from your daily routine.
We will come together for dinner and share our experiences. This retreat is open for all levels of practitioners – from beginners to advanced, and everyone will be welcomed.
Course description
Mysore Classes
Adam teaches traditionally as he learnt Ashtanga yoga in Mysore. He sees Ashtanga yoga as he experienced it, defined by subtle, inner techniques and not the literal and rigid interpretation of the sequences.
All practitioners will be approached individually so that the system is made to work for you instead of you for the system. This means a gentler and more holistic approach to physical assistance (if you want that).
In addition, there will be options around sequences which are viewed as an ideal or blueprint. Adam’s approach also means an honest discussion around injuries and how to work with them in the practice so that they do heal.
All are welcome to the Mysore class; Adam is happy if you need practice sheets, or he or Theresa will show you the postures. This is a great way to begin an Ashtanga practice, for it’s only natural in the self-practice scenario that a person may start to grasp the power of their experience of breath and deeper embodiment in a way that feels right for them.
Course Schedule
Saturday 11 March
Arrival to the retreat. Rooms are available after 2pm.
6pm Introduction meeting followed by dinner. The participants should aim to attend the meeting.
Sunday 12 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Principles of the Practice with a Beneficial Attitude
6pm Dinner
Monday 13 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Fundamentals of an Effective Practice
6pm Dinner
Tuesday 14 March
8am Morning Mysore
11 am Brunch
Afternoon off
6pm Dinner
Wednesday 14 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Jump Through and Jump Back for All Levels
6pm Dinner
Thursday 16 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – The History of Modern Yoga
6pm Dinner
Friday 17 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
6pm Dinner
Saturday 18 March
Sleep in!! Day Off!
10am Special Saturday Brunch
6pm Dinner
Sunday 19 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Transitions & Vinyasa
6pm Dinner
Monday 20 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – A New Definition of Backbends
6pm Dinner
Tuesday 21 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
6pm Dinner
Wednesday 22 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Including Intermediate in Your Practice at Any Level
6pm Dinner
Thursday 23 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – What Has The Bhagavad Gita Got to Do With Us?
6pm Dinner
Friday 24 March
8am Morning Mysore
11am Brunch
3pm Chai
4pm Workshop – Students Choice, Round Pp, Q&A
6pm Dinner
Saturday 25 March
9am Check out from rooms
10am Breakfast
About the teacher – Adam Keen
Adam has taught Ashtanga yoga for almost 25 years. Coming from an academic background in philosophy and a professional one as a chef, he is knowledgeable, practical, and relatable in his approach. Many consider him humorous too.
Adam is one of a few students who completed the Advanced A series in Mysore with Sharathji and received Level 2 Authorisation in 2012. However, he is equally at home teaching all levels and gives all students the same attention and interest. He is democratic in his approach and kind and believes that the practice should not feel like an exam.
Instead, it is his firm belief that the practice can remain traditional and be suited to the demands and needs of each body without contradiction. This means that everyone will be considered on their terms as they need as opposed to being fitted into a generalised template.
Adam and his wife Theresa run the online yoga platform Keen on Yoga from their current home in Bali. He hosts the Keen on Yoga Podcast & YouTube channel, interviewing many of the world’s most renowned Ashtanga teachers and philosophical academics.
Booking information
Please read the booking information before booking a retreat.
Accommodation Options
Take a look at our 3 accommodation options: