La Colombaia
La Colombaia is a large, lovingly restored house with origins stretching back centuries. Accommodation is in beautiful twin and triple rooms, sharing a bathroom and two shower rooms. The house is situated in unspoilt countryside in the Appenine mountains, on the border between Tuscany and Le Marche. The nature reserve of Sasso di Simone is close by, as are the historic towns of Urbino, Arezzo and Ravenna. There are many sites of historical interest, good local shops, restaurants and markets nearby. The weather at Easter can be chilly, but the house is well heated (with central heating and a wood-burning stove), and there are often beautiful warm days. It is an ideal time for walking.

The course
The main session (before brunch) will be a two-hour led astanga practice, followed by sitting meditation. If there are students with sufficient experience of astanga, there is also the possibility of Mysore-style practice. Most days in the late afternoon there will be a shorter session of yin yoga. With eight people only on this retreat, you are assured of lots of individual attention. Free time can
be spent relaxing, walking or sightseeing. If the group is interested, for an extra charge of about £25 per person an afternoon lesson in pasta-making from a local chef can be arranged. A local therapist offers massage, holistic healing and shamanic drumming for about €40. For those interested in exploring the emotional content of the body one-on-one, Ali is available to give Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy sessions at a reduced cost.

Astanga vinyasa
Astanga vinyasa is a vigorous, flowing yoga practice consisting of a series of linked postures. Much of the teaching is done through hands-on adjustment of the body. This is an energetic form of yoga in which you will move dynamically and sweat.

The teacher
Ali Glenny has been practising yoga for 24 years and is a devoted astanga practitioner. While maintaining the characteristic dynamism of astanga vinyasa, she encourages a sensitive approach that honours the body and the emotions. Ali is accredited as a yoga teacher by the Yoga Alliance and is also a certified Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapist.