tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9193968862209110202024-03-12T19:09:32.958-06:00AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness CenterAmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-53328129834896834032017-10-30T16:37:00.001-06:002017-10-30T16:37:10.970-06:00An Attitude of Gratitude<div class="MsoNormal">
Gratitude. <o:p></o:p></div>
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by Jill Ruttenberg</div>
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How do you feel inside when you are truly grateful for
something someone has done for you, whether they have listened, helped you in a
crisis or even made your favorite food for you? Does it make you feel warm,
happy, humble? In my Native country, the US, we celebrate a day of Thanksgiving
each year at the end of November. It is actually my favorite holiday, partly
for the food, but mostly because it feels good to set aside a time to celebrate
the people and things for which we are grateful. </div>
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But Gratitude, the most
fleeting of human emotions can become a DAILY practice, not something just
reserved for church on Sunday or a Thanksgiving dinner. Being truly grateful
for something or someone in your life begins a flow of other emotions and helps
to align us with our Higher Purpose. </div>
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Here
is one definition of Gratitude, offered by Harvard Medical School: <b><i><span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">“Gratitude is a
thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or
intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives … As
a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than
themselves as individuals – whether to other people, nature, or a higher power”</span></i></b><i><span style="background: white; color: #333333; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></i></div>
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Check it out yourself: Perhaps in meditation, focus on a few
things you are grateful for, and allow the FEELING of gratitude to come into
your heart. It may be helpful to think of a gift-either material or of someone’s
time or energy-you’ve been given recently. Does it bring you an inner smile? Do
you like the feeling of being grateful? How do you feel when someone thanks <i>you</i> for something you do for them? In this often staccato world of disconnection, it seems to me we all need tools to help us feel more connected, more loved and appreciated. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Many people find it life-changing to keep a Gratitude
Journal. A small notebook and pen next to your bed will do, and first thing in
the morning you can write down one to three things (or more!) you are thankful
for today. It could be something as simple as the warm blanket on your comfy bed. Do the same at night before retiring, perhaps recalling something nice that occurred during the day. When we develop an “attitude of gratitude”
and align our Hearts and Minds (see <u>Heart Math</u> for a more detailed
explanation of how this works) and when we express that gratitude to others we
start a ripple of graceful, loving energy that flows out to the Universe and in
many cases brings us more things and people to be grateful for. Little by
little our lives change. Soon we find we complain less, we appreciate the
little things in our lives more, and we feel good more often inside. <span style="background: white; color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">According to a 2011 study by
Positive Psychology, <i>“Gratitude</i></span><i><span style="background: white; color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> helps people
feel more positive emotions, relish good
experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong
relationships.”</span></i><span style="background: white; color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">And this is a perfect time for Bob
and I to give you, across the miles and ether-ways, our sincere and deepest
thanks for all you do to raise your consciousness and contribute to a better
world, and personally for staying connected to our vision and mission here at
AmaTierra Retreat & Wellness Center. We hope you enjoy all the gifts of
Life you so richly deserve, each and every day. Feel free to write us about your experience of Gratitude and to share this blog with others; it just might raise the vibration for all! </span></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>“Gratitude
Unlocks the Fullness of Life<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>It turns
what we have into enough, and more<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>It turns
Denial into Acceptance, Chaos to Order and <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Confusion
to Clarity. <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>It can
turn a meal into a Feast, A House into a Home<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>A Stranger
into a Friend ---Melody Beattie,
Self-help Author</b></span></span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; line-height: 115%;">Jill Ruttenberg, RH, Co-Owner & Wellness Director of AmaTierra Retreat & Wellness Center in Costa Rica, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">is a professional nutritionist,
certified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and clinical herbalist
registered with the American Herbalist Guild. She is also an experienced
massage therapist, energy healer and Hatha yoga instructor. The Wellness Center
at AmaTierra is Jill's living dream, the fruition of decades of training,
practice and experience in natural medicine and the healing arts. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">To learn more about Jill and AmaTierra please visit our web page at <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/">www.amatierra.com</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: x-small;">Your comments are most welcome!!!</span></div>
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AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-44117494562298193992017-03-30T10:47:00.004-06:002017-03-30T10:49:59.447-06:00Sharing the Gift of Yoga<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This week, I had the distinct pleasure of teaching yoga for Dream Trips’ Dream Body retreat at AmaTierra. It was a full house, with guests from Texas, Colorado and Alabama, Baltimore and Orlando, France, Japan, China and Curacao. Men and women, young to middle-aged, both tall and short, some super stick-skinny, others athletic-build strong, and a few deliciously curvaceous. Minds, bodies, hearts and spirits from a world of different backgrounds came together in the name of wellness to experience this special slice of jungle in the heart of Costa Rica. For many, it was a willing step outside their comfort zone to explore a primarily plant-based organic diet, brave the creepy crawly critters of the tropical forest, and get active outside the gym. And as serendipity would have it, for most, it was their first ever exposure to the practice of yoga.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As a seasoned yogini – with seventeen years of regular practice and counting, plus growing up with a yoga mom who started teaching all the way back when yoga was still weird – my asana practice has come to feel like second nature to me. Airports, tiny hotel rooms, ocean-view yoga decks, penthouse city studios, campgrounds and roadside picnic tables – wherever I go, my yoga mat is sure to follow. So instilled into my lifestyle, yoga has become a part of my core identity, a self-care ritual for spiritual connection, and my thirty-one year-old body’s essential saving grace. Yet while the practice and lifestyle philosophy of yoga have come to play an integral role in my everyday world, the experience of teaching yoga has been quite the opposite, I must confess. While I’ve taught both regularly and sporadically for years, it’s never felt completely natural to be the one in charge of guiding others through their yoga practice. And while the Yoga Alliance – the internationally accepted accreditation body for yoga instructors - seems to have very few qualms about churning out yoga teachers with unbelievably little experience on the daily, I’ve found it hard to describe myself as a yoga teacher despite my experience practicing and living yoga for more than half of my life - mostly because of the deep responsibility I believe such a title both entails and deserves. So, needless to say, being confronted with the opportunity to share my practice as a teacher with twelve souls from around the world, many new to yoga, I embraced both the honor of such an experience and the self-inflicted pressure of doing justice to the ancient spirit of yoga and its powerful manifestation through all of our modern little bodies. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nerves were collective on our first morning together, eager hearts open and willing to explore; some seeking to give yoga another go after traumatic experiences with instructors who pushed too hard and instilled a sense of shame around injury and physical limitations; others taking their at-home video-led practice to the next level in a real live studio far from home; and still others completely brand new, like the day-old baby goat we saw at the farm near the local waterfall, finding his legs for the very first time. I welcomed the challenge and taught a gentle Hatha class, warming up slowly and sticking mostly to the basics, while my mom helped with adjustments when needed. I wanted the new and traumatized yogis in the room to experience yoga as accessible despite any physical limitations in their bodies, and encourage them to explore the essence of yoga – the profoundly spiritual practice of peace, mindfulness, connection and lasting well-being that often gets left out of corporate-style yoga gyms in the Western world. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bodies flowed and bellies breathed and our shared vibration felt peaceful and by the time savasana rolled around, I found a deep satisfaction in knowing that perhaps I don’t need to self-identify as a yoga instructor to share the gift of yoga that lives in my heart and flows through my veins. That I don’t need to feel superhuman for bodies and hearts and minds and souls to benefit from the yoga I’ve cultivated into my being over the course of half a lifetime. That doing what I showed up to do – to teach a mellow yoga class to a rainbow of people on wellness retreat in the Costa Rican jungle – doesn’t need to be anything more or less than exactly what it is; exactly what I was meant to be doing in exactly that moment. And finally, that in sharing the gift that has made me who I am with those who have never experienced it before, I find profound humility in the warrior-like honor of passing on the light of peace, itself a gift to behold. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">So I thank you, new yogis, for your practice. For your willingness. And I thank you for sharing with me on this journey, together.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tara Ruttenberg, M.A., is a writer, surfer and graduate student of sustainable surf tourism. To read more of Tara's work, visit her web site at <a href="http://www.tarantulasurf.com/">www.tarantulasurf.com</a> and follow her on Instagram: @tarantulasurf.</span>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-42118036863312934792016-08-17T09:24:00.002-06:002016-08-18T10:07:52.165-06:00 From my Window by Tara Ruttenberg<br />
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<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">For ten years, I've watched you. </span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b style="background-color: transparent;">All of you. </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">I've watched you walk into this place wound up tight, and leave days later somehow lighter. Like magic, or clockwork, maybe. Lips unfurl and creased brow-lines relax, subtle smile lines return. Sinewy muscles in cricked necks lose their muster against the world and everything that fights back, hard. Lackluster skin catches the sunshine, and I wonder if you know you'll never be the same. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">Stuck with the muck of cities, the stress of modern life, the symptoms of systems we harden ourselves against so our souls might feel safe, somewhere deep inside bodies we've forgotten how to care for. I sit across from tired eyes over a healthy lunch on the balcony, wondering if you see the depths of the valley in the postcard-worthy vista before you, or if it's just all too much to bear when you're filled to the brim with everything you've come to leave behind. From my hiding spot in polite smiles and practiced nods, I see you. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I don't blame you for your heavy presence when you forget to chew before you swallow medicine in the form of food grown with care, just steps from your plate. I don't judge you when you'd rather escape to your smart phone than chat with your fellow guests, whose own stories might provoke an emphatic overwhelm beyond your emotional threshold for casual conversation. My sensitive skin finds the hardened presence of your 'before' hard to sit with; like a mirror of everything I also once chose to leave behind, I choose to keep my distance, sometimes for the length of your stay. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">You might not see me, but for ten years, I've watched you transform. Like a spy on the wall, you can't hide from me the skins you've shed. You aren't the same when you leave here. Held in a space created for your healing, you feel safe enough to drop your defenses and let the good stuff in. You drink wine, you do yoga, you meditate, you hike, you waterfall, you get touched by intuitive massage therapists and healers, you detox, you cry, you watch a movie, you sunbathe poolside, you read a book in the hammock, you eat gourmet in the jungle among the birds and bugs. You stop complaining and start singing, sometimes. You drop the mask and get real. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">And I watch you break free from the strangling confines of your cocoon, too tight now for wings. And your shoulders settle and your smile doesn't look like a chore. I watch you transform, and wonder if you see you, too. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">It's not coincidence. It's not magic or rocket science, either. But it is something special. This place is the space where you come home to your true self. And that's no small thing. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">I see you from my window. </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">----- </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">This isn't shameless marketing for my family's business. This is homage to the beautiful humans who gave me life, whose passionate creations manifest in a healing space of transformation and evolution for the benefit of the thousands of happenstance souls who have blessed AmaTierra with their presence over the years. This is thank you to the place they've dreamed into reality, a sacred space that vibrates with an energy both theirs and all its own. This is congratulations on ten years and counting of their impossible dream come true. This is gratitude for the transformation they catalyze in the hearts of those who meet their presence on the special land, the beloved earth, they've chosen to call home, work, play and <a href="http://amatierra.com/" target="_blank">AmaTierra</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;">And still, gratitude seems too small a word.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span> <span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Tara Ruttenberg, writer.</b> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=es&q=http://www.tarantulasurf.com&source=gmail&ust=1471538034024000&usg=AFQjCNGC6rdTNMOoIjqnZWdE2aT3VJf5Jg" href="http://www.tarantulasurf.com/" style="color: #1155cc; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">www.tarantulasurf.com</a><span style="font-weight: normal;"> @tarantulasurf</span></span></div>
</span>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-71693104016465822392013-04-06T18:17:00.001-06:002013-04-06T18:17:26.745-06:00March Yoga Madness Leaves us Full and Laughing<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wak8TkYeh-Q/UWB9WISpBLI/AAAAAAAABHM/eaPz0GQdWj4/s1600/whitefaced+monkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wak8TkYeh-Q/UWB9WISpBLI/AAAAAAAABHM/eaPz0GQdWj4/s1600/whitefaced+monkey.jpg" /></a>The monkeys are quiet this week after spying on us (we wonder what they think of all those people in downward dog pose, the Kirtan chanting and southern drawl at the dinner table) throughout the month of March where we hosted one <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/yoga-retreats-costa-rica.html">yoga retreat</a> after another. Thank you <a href="http://www.lifecoreyoga.com/page0/page13/page13.html">Nora Byrne</a> from Minnesota, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Empower-Yoga/176177932408112">Suzy Weyenberg</a> from upper Wisconsin and our returning (for the third year in a row) instructor <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/the-OM-place-yoga-massage/269537205066?fref=ts">Erin Smith</a> from Winchester Kentucky. Erin, you always bring such colorful, wonderful characters with you. This year we learned all about horse racing and training, the Kentucky Derby and how you self-reliant, down-home folks like to laugh and have fun! Massage Oil flowed with everyone enjoying <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/hotel-massage-therapy.html"> wellness services</a> and not ONE complaint at this year's yoga retreat. We are so grateful for the Kentuckians' generosity. Our staff lives on a pretty meager salary, and your "propinas" (tips) meant the world to them. One employee has been waiting years to put in a cement floor over the dirt that now serves as her home's platform....thanks to all of you filling our place and the staff's pockets, she can now afford that floor. Things we take for granted in the good ol' U.S.A. are not so easily accomplished in developing countries. It's rewarding to be able to make a difference.<br />
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Speaking of helping, please remember that we assist the townspeople here through our<a href="http://www.amatierra.com/amatierra-foundation-hotel.html"> AmaTierra Foundation</a> . We helped 14 students attend school this year, outfitting them with uniform, shoes, backpack and notebook. Education is free and pretty good here in Costa Rica (this country has the most educated work force of all of Latin America) BUT some families cannot afford the uniforms, so they keep their children at home, which is tragic. With the school year beginning each year in February, we have spent our allotment and need to build up funds for next year. To donate to the Foundation, please call us (toll free from the U.S.) at 1-866-659-3805 or write to us at amatierra@gmail.com and we'll call YOU if you're in a different country. It's a great way to make a very direct difference in the lives of children and the community at large. The kids thank you!<br />
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The spring season has been a good one for AmaTierra, and it is not over! We're recharging our batteries to welcome Shata Ben-Avari from Florida, with her group of 12 yogis arriving April 13th. Of course we still have room for the single traveler who just wants to escape the rat race for a time. Sunny mornings and cloudy afternoons with a short shower is what you can expect in April and May. <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/hotel-standard-room-rates.html">Lower seasonal rates</a> for nightly stays or<a href="http://www.amatierra.com/yoga-relax-nature-packages.html"> wellness/yoga packages</a> begin in May also. See the <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/index.html">web site</a> for more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7x5eQJ_DUYQ/UWCmPYlI8AI/AAAAAAAABHk/UyNiWXWaEw4/s1600/CostaRica_Waterfall047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7x5eQJ_DUYQ/UWCmPYlI8AI/AAAAAAAABHk/UyNiWXWaEw4/s320/CostaRica_Waterfall047.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exhilaration at the Waterfall!</td></tr>
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Our Customized Detox program is gaining popularity. Guests report increased energy and a wonderful feeling of well-being from eating our fresh organic produce right from the greenhouse, fresh squeezed juices and medicinal herbs made from plants that grow on AmaTierra's property. See more at <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/detoxification-program.html">http://www.amatierra.com/detoxification-program.html</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1aRiKUxkXk/UWCmLOCArvI/AAAAAAAABHc/qAtl9VlBtPs/s1600/CostaRica_Yoga057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e1aRiKUxkXk/UWCmLOCArvI/AAAAAAAABHc/qAtl9VlBtPs/s200/CostaRica_Yoga057.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partners in Nora Byrne's group</td></tr>
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Namaste,<br />
Jill Ruttenberg, reg. herbalist AHG<br />
Owner, Wellness Director at AmaTierraAmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-91771119923400040462011-09-26T15:46:00.007-06:002011-09-26T19:59:56.825-06:00Healing the Emotional Self & Somatic (Body) Memory--It's all in the Belly!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNwaiAW-lV8/ToEBwHSe_MI/AAAAAAAABE8/5sjyLcg7p3A/s1600/Jill%2Bin%2Bsunlight.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 199px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xNwaiAW-lV8/ToEBwHSe_MI/AAAAAAAABE8/5sjyLcg7p3A/s200/Jill%2Bin%2Bsunlight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656804533055978690" border="0" /></a><br />Much of what we call healing can be accomplished by understanding a problem, using the right therapies, and changing our attitude, our thoughts, our habits and our lifestyles. But the emotional Self often dominates our whole energy field and healing this aspect can be the most difficult. How do we handle anger, grief, loneliness, anxiety, and fear? And how do these emotions really affect our health? <div><br /></div><div>In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ system has a corresponding emotion. Liver disorders, for example, may be accompanied by anger and one could go as far as saying excess or unexpressed anger can cause liver problems. It doesn't really matter which comes first, and when we address the physical aspect through liver cleansing, eating fewer fatty foods or subduing rising liver fire with herbs or acupuncture, for example, a person generally becomes less angry. And contrarily, if we find ways to release the anger, the physical symptoms of liver imbalance may actually subside.</div><div><br /></div><div>What I have been shown over and over again in my practice as an herbalist and massage therapist is that there truly is no separation between the emotional and physical bodies. </div><div>Our modern culture puts tremendous demands on us and gives us few tools to deal with the onslaught of stimulus to which our little bodies must react.We take it all in and don't know how to let it out!<br /></div><div>As one of my teachers of the abdominal massage modality CHI NEI TSANG, Gilles Marin, explained:<i> </i></div><div><i>Everything we encounter gives us an emotional charge, and some charges are easier to digest than others. The tougher ones stay in the belly and get held there until we make the time to unravel them.</i> </div><div>It is no wonder that over 80% of North Americans take some sort of digestive medicine on a regular basis. We're all carrying a belly full of tangled, unexpressed emotional charges.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The Abdominal Chi Mover has become the most popular treatment here at AmaTierra Retreat & Wellness Center in Costa Rica. People come here to destress, to confront and change old patterns, and to get FREE of these pent up emotions. In our busy lives we need time to process and digest our feelings.<br />Here is one small exercise you can do to move the energy and the somatic memories that may be stuck in your belly.</div><div>1) Lay down on your back with your knees propped up</div><div>2) Put both hands on your belly and breathe deeply, feeling your breath rise and fall</div><div>3) Ask yourself: What am I feeling right now? Stay in your body, in your belly, and feel the answer. Try to stay out of your thinking mode, just be with your breath. Perhaps nothing comes up. That is ok too. </div><div>4) If you do feel an uncomfortable emotion rising in your belly (or anywhere else) try to go with the feeling of it. Treat it as just energy; don't judge it, fear it or repress it. You also don't need to trace it back to any kind of history or storyline. Just be with the emotion and breathe it out, let yourself cry, make sound or pound your fists, kick your feet if you like. </div><div>5) End with soothing thoughts and your hands once again on the belly. Perhaps a mantra such as "I am safe, all is well" will now help you regain your balance. Let yourself feel the freedom now that you have made space in your belly for true healing to happen. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh....<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For further information about our emotions, the belly etc. I recommend a simple book by my main teacher of this work, Allison Post. The book is titled <i>Unwinding the Belly</i>, and you can find it on line at www.unwindingthebelly.com </div><div>Watch for Allison's new book to be released in electronic form soon!</div><div><br /></div><div>Look for our Next blog: <i>Exercises & Herbs for Resolving Anger & Frustration<br /><br /></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:'trebuchet ms',verdana,arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >Jill Ruttenberg is a registered AHG herbalist and the owner/wellness director at <b>AmaTierra</b> <b>Retreat & Wellness Center in Turrubares, Costa Rica. To learn more about AmaTierra please visit <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/">www.amatierra.com</a></b></span><br /><i><br /></i></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-83887521998848881522011-09-04T14:01:00.007-06:002011-09-04T14:31:52.692-06:00The Healing Spiral Part 2: Observations from an herbalist<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lzhAtehasho/TmPZhAbmADI/AAAAAAAABEw/UPzzg9sFMus/s1600/Jill%2Bin%2Bsunlight.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 199px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lzhAtehasho/TmPZhAbmADI/AAAAAAAABEw/UPzzg9sFMus/s200/Jill%2Bin%2Bsunlight.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648597518727381042" /></a>We were talking in the last blog about how healing happens in a spiral rather than any kind of linear progression, and we left off with the question of what are the true healing influence? What really heals human beings? <div>
<br /></div><div>Within each of us is the Power to heal ouselves, Whole books have been written on this subject (Andrew Weil, MD, <i>Spontaneous Healing</i> & Lewis Mehl Medrona <i>Coyote Healing</i> are 2 good ones), written from both a Spiritual and Medical perspective. But it seems if we are to truly heal a wound, a chronic illness, a deep emotional hurt, we must be willing to go IN there, and to ask the hard questions. One thing I ask myself, when I get injured or sick is, "Did I need a break?</div><div>Was I pushing too hard, doing too much and my body rebelled?" Another question might be, "How is this pain or illness or clinging to the past serving me?" Finding honest answers, and being willing to face those answers without judging oneself harshly can be tricky. Everyone experiences times in life when things just feel too hard to handle, and if we can focus on how sick we feel or how sad we are, we might decide to ignore the very things/people/solutions that might help us feel better. Could it be we are wanting to avoid responsibility for our lives? I know for myself this is a natural response when things feel too hard to handle.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>If you find yourself in this state of mind, try to really SEE it and don't criticize yourself for falling into this attitude, but instead just KNOW: This is where I'm at right now. And trust that when you are ready (either you are tired of feeling bad or you've stayed long enough in that space) you will eventually get to asking yourself "How do I WANT to feel?" And you'll notice a little shift happening, pulling you back into the center of the Healing Spiral once again. Chances are you will also begin to attract tools to enhance your own body's ability to heal itself. Someone will recommend a certain herb, you'll decide to visit your acupuncturist, a friend will call and lift your Spirits or you'll suddenly decide to go outside and be in nature.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Did you know that being in nature, noticing a beautiful tree, butterfly or flower can instantly raise feel-good hormones? So can receiving a hug (don't be afraid to ASK for one! It will serve the other person well too!) I believe we humans not only have the power to heal ourselves, but we have a natural urge (call it survival?) to want to feel better. When you are in distress, ask yourself: What tiny shift can I make that will make me feel just a little bit better? Simple things may come to mind: a warm bath, a phone call to a friend, picking a flower, 20 minutes of meditation, reading a poem...Your inner wisdom will answer you, and you will be led by that ever-present healing force. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Next blog: Healing the Emotional Self & Somatic (Body) Memory--It's all in the Belly!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Jill Ruttenberg is a registered AHG herbalist and the owner/wellness director at <b>AmaTierra</b> <b>Retreat & Wellness Center in Turrubares, Costa Rica. To learn more about AmaTierra please visit <a href="http://www.amatierra.com">www.amatierra.com</a></b></span></div><div></div><div></div><div>
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<br /></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-5371747423391808382011-08-21T14:56:00.010-06:002011-08-23T21:02:17.322-06:00The Healing Spiral: Observations on the Healing Process<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMryg8XzRT8/TlF0IYChAGI/AAAAAAAABEU/s9wqQYoN_I4/s1600/om%2Bin%2Bflower.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 128px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMryg8XzRT8/TlF0IYChAGI/AAAAAAAABEU/s9wqQYoN_I4/s200/om%2Bin%2Bflower.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643419495312719970" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">During these last 20 some years as an herbalist and massage therapist<span> </span>I have noticed patterns that seem universal no matter what a person is healing from. Many people come to a wellness center such as AmaTierra to regain their energy and to heal from any number of things: a broken relationship, grief over loss, long-term stress and fatigue, chemotherapy, chronic health issues. <span> </span>And the one common misnomer I see is that people believe and expect that the healing process is a linear one…one that progresses from point A to point B and eventually to Z as though one is climbing a staircase.</span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span"> <p class="MsoNormal">“I should be over this by now!” many say, especially regarding emotional pain. And if the problem is physical (although I also now believe there can be no actual separation between the mental/emotional/physical body) people will say “The doctors say the procedure was a success, that I should have this (limp, pain, whatever).</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The truth, as I see it, is that healing happens as a spiral, ultimately an upward one, and sometimes with dips. Imagine a spiral beginning at the bottom where the problem first manifested, and as the body/mind begins to understand, respond and use its innate healing power, together with helpful influences such as herbs, supplements, therapy, bodywork to put itself right, we progress<span> </span>more and more toward the Center, toward wholeness and good health. However, being a spiral, we generally return<span> </span>to the place of the original hurt (a song may bring back the grief, steep stairs re-injure the knee), but as the body has gained more wisdom, the pain is less acute. We recognize the return to woundedness and say “Ah, yes, you are part of me, but I have progressed. I feel different, more whole, more healed.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is it important to notice that healing happens in a spiral? One, to let ourselves off the hook and stop pulling on the leash, wrenching ourselves into rightness when we are not yet ready (“I should be over this…”). And if we accept that in order for true healing to occur the body must remind itself of the original injury then I believe we can become more conscious of our humanity, and more accepting of where we might be in the present moment. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Is there anything we can do to speed up the healing process? Actually, I think there are many things we can do, and I will save that for the next blog…. </p></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span">
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<br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" >Jill Ruttenberg is a registered AHG herbalist and the </span></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" > owner/wellness director at AmaTierra</span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" ><b><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Retreat & Wellness Center in Turrubares, Costa Rica. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">To learn more about AmaTierra please visit</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span">www.amatierra.com</span></div></b></span>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-28802837665076379542011-03-01T20:42:00.005-06:002011-03-01T21:37:33.136-06:00Yoga Expo Costa Rica 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DkL0kCfijAY/TW21wb4cd0I/AAAAAAAAA8M/tRy_P7MXIJg/s1600/IMG_0535.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DkL0kCfijAY/TW21wb4cd0I/AAAAAAAAA8M/tRy_P7MXIJg/s320/IMG_0535.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579315357104764738" border="0" /></a>This year, Costa Rica's annual Yoga Expo was a great success! Bringing together the Central Valley's yoga studios, retreat centers from the Pacific coasts, yoga-inspired clothing designers, alternative medicine professionals, delicious vegetarian and ethnic foods, jewelry designers and local artisans, the old Customs House in downtown San Jose hosted this wonderful yoga event in its unique brick and stained glass structure. 50+ vendor booths lined the inside of the building, coming together at the center stage, where we watched yoga clothing fashion shows, a belly dancing showcase, partner acro-yoga and a beautiful kirtan performance by Marianela of Yoga Lamat in Curridabat and drummer Carlos "Tapado" of Malpais and Editus fame. It was great to see Tapado in this intimate setting, and we were happy to reminisce about his private performance with Manuel Obregon at AmaTierra 2 years prior.<br /><br />On Saturday, Krishna Das performed an incredible Kirtan show, and the turnout was amazing! The weekend featured yoga classes, spiritual workshops and guided meditations. Jill, Bob and Tara all attended the Yoga Expo on Sunday, sharing brochures with fellow yogis, tasting strange and delicious culinary concoctions, like sweet-potato ice cream (they also had beet and avocado!), molasses bliss balls, homemade pesto and Indian curry empanadas, trying on fun, flow-ey yoga clothes, and feeling a part of the Costa Rican yoga scene. After five years here in the yoga biz, it's been such a learning experience to get to know the local yoga culture, meet its pioneers and join in as part of the community. AmaTierra is a member of AsoYoga, Costa Rica's yoga association, and it was fun to mingle with the other members who had booths at the Expo, and who welcomed us with open arms. When we attend events like the Yoga Expo each year, we are reminded of what a special country we live in. The vibrancy of Costa Rican culture continues to impress us in all of its nuanced ways, and we are so proud to be a part of it for over five years now.<br /><br />For more photos and video of the Kirtan and acro-yoga performances, visit our facebook page! http://www.facebook.com/amatierra#!/amatierraAmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-28978431775619557442011-02-22T14:53:00.000-06:002011-02-22T14:54:14.898-06:00New Mayor of Turubarres - Hope for the Future!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xx3LAlHakVw/TWQUEqE-MrI/AAAAAAAAA70/5ASB8gEkBb8/s1600/new%2Bmayor.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 301px; height: 226px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xx3LAlHakVw/TWQUEqE-MrI/AAAAAAAAA70/5ASB8gEkBb8/s320/new%2Bmayor.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576604308838691506" border="0" /></a>A few weeks ago we attended the inauguration of the new mayor of Turubarres county: Alcalde Ingeniero Bolivar Monge Granados of the center-right political party Partido de Liberacion Nacional (PLN). The ceremony took place in the church of San Pablo, and all of the newly elected members of the Municipal government attended, presenting a number of inspiring speeches to the townspeople. Most notable of the speakers The President of the Municipality, Victor Mora, is a long-time friend of AmaTierra, and many of you may know him as the famous tour guide of Carara National Park. Over the past year that he has been President of the Municipality, we have worked with him to begin strengthening environmental action in Turubarres. Under his guidance, the municipality now collects trash around town with a truck once every 2 weeks, and we continue to pursue dialogue with them on how to incorporate a recycling program into the municipal waste management system. This has been a battle that the AmaTierra Foundation continues to fight, and we are hopeful that the new mayor will help support our efforts in establishing a sustainable long-term solution to waste management and recycling in Turubarres.<br /><br />Last week, the new mayor (Bolivar Monge Granados), the President of the Municipality (Victor Mora), the First Vice Mayor, and the Second Vice Mayor (many of you know him as Beto, one of the drivers for AmaTierra) all joined us for dinner on the balcony, where we were able to discuss ideas for the recycling project. They were all on board to support a group of local women who <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rjh_pgNhiyo/TWQVNZSyehI/AAAAAAAAA78/dHq3HLOF_48/s1600/Dinner%2Bwith%2Bmuni2.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 280px; height: 210px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rjh_pgNhiyo/TWQVNZSyehI/AAAAAAAAA78/dHq3HLOF_48/s320/Dinner%2Bwith%2Bmuni2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576605558463691282" border="0" /></a>aim to take on recycling as a private business with municipal support, creating a recycling center just outside of San Pablo, and committing to sorting the recycled trash from the central park. While this project moves forward, the AmaTierra Foundation has offered to support the women's salaries for the first three months while they get things up and running. From there, the recycling program will be up and running, with the municipality taking on the role as benefactor until the recycling itself can generate a sustainable income.<br /><br />We are grateful for the reinvigorated support of the municipality, and look forward to helping this group of motivated women make recycling a realistic and sustainable project for Turubarres county and its residents.AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-29136477038064038892011-02-18T14:33:00.003-06:002011-02-18T15:20:44.237-06:00Marietta Pucillo's Yoga Retreat at AmaTierra<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xlkbWlsZr0Q/TV7bIfnN4nI/AAAAAAAAA7k/q-zS3Qfd8A4/s1600/Reverse%2BWarrior.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 217px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xlkbWlsZr0Q/TV7bIfnN4nI/AAAAAAAAA7k/q-zS3Qfd8A4/s320/Reverse%2BWarrior.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575134327702676082" border="0" /></a><br />Harley-riding Marietta Pucillo and her Milwaukee-based yoga students came to AmaTierra for an action- and adventure-packed 5-night yoga retreat, February 5-10, 2011. We were so amazed by their go-get 'em attitude, with daily double sessions of strenuous yoga taught by Marietta and Paige, plus excursions to the Adventure Park and Playa Jaco for the zip line canopy tour and kick-butt surf lessons. They were loving the food each night at dinner, and with good reason - this group had a jam-packed itinerary of yoga and Costa Rican adventure at its best, sure to work up a serious appetite!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoFXlSUv2kI/TV7bvwY1TXI/AAAAAAAAA7s/hSBnCmvWi4w/s1600/Super%2BBowl.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 221px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoFXlSUv2kI/TV7bvwY1TXI/AAAAAAAAA7s/hSBnCmvWi4w/s320/Super%2BBowl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575135002220645746" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Tara took one of Marietta's evening classes and came back saying "that was the gnarliest class I've ever taken!" Marietta's famous arm balances, martial arts-inspired vinyasas and extra-challenging binds were incredible, bringing the essence of "pretzel" back into the yoga experience. On Super Bowl Sunday, the football-loving yogis payed a visit to San Pablo's Coco Bongo bar to watch and celebrate the Green Bay victory, and from what we heard, it was a great party. Thanks for all of your energy, guys. We can't wait to have you back next time!AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-11404490954325734902011-02-11T14:38:00.004-06:002011-02-11T15:08:48.528-06:00AmaTierra Foundation Donates School Supplies & UniformsWe are so grateful for AmaTierra Foundation donors who have been so generous with their donations in the past, and especially so far in 2011. With the new school year beginning this week, many kids in our local county of<img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U2GJnlm5ZcU/TVWjfhDMHtI/AAAAAAAAA7A/ebAfAonyWP8/s320/IMG_3935.JPG" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572539875783876306" /> Turubarres faced the reality that they would not be able to attend school this year, since their families could not afford school supplies and the required uniforms. Learning this, we saw it as an opportunity for the AmaTierra Foundation to put your donations to work, helping make a difference in the lives of 9 school children from low-income families.<div><br /></div><div> Using funds we collected this year, we were able to buy 9 sets of school uniforms, shoes & socks, backpacks, notebooks, pencils, erasers, glue, colored </div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbTrHykhfNk/TVWks79PVDI/AAAAAAAAA7I/4Oxmn3KJ2Zc/s320/DSC02203.JPG" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572541205856605234" /><div>pencils, geometry sets and more so that the kids could start class on time the very next day. When we delivered the goodies to Cesar, Kimberly and Daniel, Ashley and Axel, Winston and Steve, they were all smiles, trying on their new shoes and proudly wearing their new backpacks. Their mothers expressed sincere gratitude with hugs, and we were filled with appreciation that we were able to contribute these things and make an impact in the lives of children and their families in our local Turubarres community.</div><div><div><br /></div><div>This would not have been possible without your generous donations - thank you for helping to make a difference! We are always ac</div><div>cepting donations to the AmaTierra Foundation. If you would like to donate, please contact us at amatierra@gmail.com. You can learn more about the AmaTierra Foundation by visiting <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/amatierrafoundation.html">http://www.amatierra.com/amatierrafoundation.html</a>. </div></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-8957854830443332042011-02-06T11:40:00.000-06:002011-02-06T11:50:11.164-06:00Silke Schroeder's Yoga Retreat at AmaTierra<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TU7ermK7QtI/AAAAAAAAA6w/wkyWNbLcmG0/s1600/Silke%2Bgroup%2Bfor%2Bblog.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 284px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TU7ermK7QtI/AAAAAAAAA6w/wkyWNbLcmG0/s320/Silke%2Bgroup%2Bfor%2Bblog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570634629665997522" border="0" /></a>From July 29 through February 5, AmaTierra played host to Silke Schroeder's 7-night yoga retreat, with a full house of guests learning from her expert knowledge and experience. Silke is an expert in Sanskrit, the Upanishads, and Vedic science, and all of us at AmaTierra learned so much throughout the week with her instructional and practical workshops. We held a new moon ceremony, and Silke explained that in Vedic Astrology the 3 stars that were prominent for this new moon, in the constellation of Capricorn, are the stars that vibrate the sound of OM.<br /><br /><br /><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TU7e2e71rdI/AAAAAAAAA64/4QdgImuNuLM/s1600/Silke%2Bgroup%2Bfor%2Bblog3.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TU7e2e71rdI/AAAAAAAAA64/4QdgImuNuLM/s320/Silke%2Bgroup%2Bfor%2Bblog3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5570634816702229970" border="0" /></a><br />The group studied and practiced yoga and meditation twice daily for 7 days, felt renewed and invigorated. We bid them farewell as they return to brave the cold of Minnesota (others from Colorado and Ontario Canada), after a warm week of sunshine and gentle valley breezes here in Costa Rica. Pablo's cooking classes are becoming famous, this week featuring his sesame ginger dressing, a special raw foods dessert with raisins, nuts and coconut, and Pita sandwiches with goat cheese. We plan to make Pablo's cooking classes a weekly event; please ask about them if you come to AmaTierra.<br /><br />Gracias, Silke, for a wonderful week!<br /></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-1310700109319891892011-01-28T21:55:00.000-06:002011-01-28T22:10:40.258-06:00Fiestas and Rodeo in San Pablo de Turrubares<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TUOSRYUJwlI/AAAAAAAAA6I/QQfWn4tfHj8/s1600/retreat%2Bgroup1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 263px; height: 197px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TUOSRYUJwlI/AAAAAAAAA6I/QQfWn4tfHj8/s320/retreat%2Bgroup1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567454391642473042" border="0" /></a><br />Over the past two weeks, AmaTierra guests have taken part in the local "fiestas" of San Pablo de Turrubares, the nearest town to AmaTierra, 3km down the road. Each year, Turrubares natives come together to put on a two-week carnival to celebrate local traditions, inviting visitors from throughout the country to enjoy typical foods of the area, horse shows, bull-riding, dance contests, karaoke and more. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TUOShdoESBI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/mv3k2W1RzxM/s1600/retreat%2Bgroup3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 246px; height: 185px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TUOShdoESBI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/mv3k2W1RzxM/s320/retreat%2Bgroup3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567454667946084370" border="0" /></a><br />The highlights this year were the bull-riding in the rodeo corral and the "Gran Tope" show, where community members bring out their best horses to parade around the central park and show off their horses' prancing style, known as "tope." This year was a bit more mellow at the fiestas than years past, and the famous Costa Rican motorcycle brigade was absent this time around. Hopefully next year, we can help support the publicity team so that more visitors will come to celebrate all things Turrubares at their special local fiestas. Tuanis!AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-63691825391530614242011-01-24T21:25:00.000-06:002011-01-24T21:33:13.421-06:00Hydroponics 101 at AmaTierra<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TT5DVKo1utI/AAAAAAAAA5o/UxT1IRIYgLQ/s1600/AmaTierra%2Bhydroponics%2B006.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 284px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TT5DVKo1utI/AAAAAAAAA5o/UxT1IRIYgLQ/s320/AmaTierra%2Bhydroponics%2B006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565960220388473554" border="0" /></a><br />We are so excited about our organic hydroponic garden - learning so much about sustainable small-scale farming and local production for sustenance consumption. So far, we're growing hydroponic ginger, arugula, lettuce, celery, cucumber, tomato and cilantro - using what we grow to add to Pablo's delicious gourmet creations in the kitchen. When we start producing more, we plan to give any excess to local distributors, so that they can sell it in the community markets and make a bit of profit for themselves. Sustainability in action, indeed.<br /><br />Our hydroponic plants grow in raised planters with no soil, sitting in beds of rice hulls ("garza" in Spanish) and coconut husks. They drink an organic cocktail of nutrients and water on a daily basis. We are in the beginning stages of hydroponics and have learned so much from others' experiences. If you are a hydroponic master, please share your secrets, we'd love to learn from you!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TT5DyRf_0LI/AAAAAAAAA5w/6iGgOB9_ReY/s1600/AmaTierra%2Bhydroponics%2B001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 236px; height: 177px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TT5DyRf_0LI/AAAAAAAAA5w/6iGgOB9_ReY/s320/AmaTierra%2Bhydroponics%2B001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565960720446640306" border="0" /></a><br />Hope to see you soon at AmaTierra so you can taste our hydroponic goodies for yourself. Pura vida!AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-41428100709966592992011-01-08T15:04:00.000-06:002011-01-08T15:14:07.804-06:00New Year's Wellness Adventure Yoga Retreat in Full Swing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TSjTHrlLoVI/AAAAAAAAA4c/UeRdiIevwOA/s1600/Jan%2Bgroup%2B1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TSjTHrlLoVI/AAAAAAAAA4c/UeRdiIevwOA/s320/Jan%2Bgroup%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559925868900098386" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="testimonialsSmall">Hosted by dynamic husband-and-wife team Aimee Roberson and Rawles Williams</span>, owners of Luminous Body Yoga, this week's retreat has been fantastic. Participants have enjoyed daily yoga sessions, crystal bowl toning sessions, meditations and excursions. On Tuesday, the group went on an adventure tour to the waterfalls; they spent Wednesday soaking up the sun at Esterillos Beach, famous for the squawking, joyful presence of the awe-inspiring scarlet macaws; this morning they went hiking to nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip to rejuvenate their spirits; and last night they partied latin-style with salsa and merengue dance lessons in the dining room. This 7-night retreat is our first of the year, and needless to say we are grateful for such a wonderful start to 2011.<br /><br />Thanks to retreat hosts Aimee and Rawles, we are so happy you were able to join us this week, and hope to see you all again in the future as part of our AmaTierra family. Blessings for the New Year!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TSjTRSOphaI/AAAAAAAAA4k/N0VHyFAO8Zc/s1600/aimee-rawles.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 198px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TSjTRSOphaI/AAAAAAAAA4k/N0VHyFAO8Zc/s320/aimee-rawles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559926033893393826" border="0" /></a>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-64591880577880068702011-01-03T22:12:00.001-06:002011-01-03T22:22:08.832-06:00A Unique New Year's Eve at AmaTierraTo ring in 2011 with grace, we hosted a meaningful New Year's Eve for AmaTierra guests and staff this year. The evening began with a delicious gourmet dinner, another incredible creation by our new Head Chef, Pablo. After dinner, we all gathered outdoors for a unique New Year's ceremony. First, Jill smudged us all with White Sage - used in native traditions for clearing old energies. We had written down some words about what we wanted to release and let go of from 2010, plus what we acknowledged as blessings, gifts and learnings from last year. To let go of the old year, we threw our papers into the ceremonial fire, allowing us to release the old to make room for welcoming the new.<br /><br />Next we gathered in the yoga studio and shared our intentions for 2011. Our favorite, from one guest, a Doctor from Florida, was "I want to DO less and BE more." The crystal singing bowls helped whirl our intentions out to the universe on a clear starry night, and we finished with a meditation and prayers for Peace. Traditional champagne was served before we all retired to our cozy beds.<br /><br /><div>Morning Yoga on the First Day of the year started us all on a good track - the perfect ending to such a unique way to celebrate and nurture all that we experienced and learned from 2010, and create new space for all that is yet to come in 2011. We are grateful for all of you who were able to join us for the celebration this year, and hope to welcome new and familiar faces to AmaTierra in the new year.<br /><br />Feliz Año Nuevo!<br /></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-83032417427501324072010-12-30T14:21:00.000-06:002010-12-30T14:48:13.247-06:00Newest Adventure Tour at AmaTierra<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TRzviuu-IEI/AAAAAAAAA3I/ALAsx7CFYX4/s1600/waterfalls%2Bcanopy%2Btour.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 120px; height: 160px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TRzviuu-IEI/AAAAAAAAA3I/ALAsx7CFYX4/s320/waterfalls%2Bcanopy%2Btour.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556579420207980610" border="0" /></a><br />We are so excited about AmaTierra's newest adventure tour option - <a href="http://www.adventureparkcostarica.com/">The Adventure Park!</a> Our guests are loving the extra-long zipline canopy tour, with 25 different cables soaring above gorgeous waterfalls and acres upon acres of lush tropical forest. The Adventure Park also offers the Superman zipline, where you fly hands-free like a bird in the sky. For a full day of adventure, you can add on additional attractions inside the Park, like the biggest high ropes course in Costa Rica (or low ropes for the kids) and horseback riding tours. A day of fun-filled adventure awaits you...<br /><br /><img src="file:///C:/Users/Tara/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot.png" alt="" />This tour is the newest addition to our well-rounded list of nature-inspired adventure tours, including <a href="http://www.victourscr.com/">Vic's one-of-a-kind experience at Carara National Park</a> - a guided hiking tour in the rain forest to see monkeys, tropical birds, and cool colorful frogs up-close and personal in their natural habitat. Plus, the exhilarating Mangrove Boat tour is a must-do to get a closer look at the fat and famous crocodiles of the Tarcoles River - don't worry they can't get you while you're in the boat! Vic might even feed them a snack so you can see their giant jaws snapping for a treat. Great photo ops.<br /><br />These attractions and <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/area_attractions.html">many more</a> are all available during your stay at AmaTierra, just <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/reservation.html">let us know</a> what interests you and we'll help you plan an experience you'll never forget.AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-4055069177004812192010-12-11T23:31:00.000-06:002010-12-11T23:40:23.930-06:00Exciting New Additions to AmaTierra's StaffWe are thrilled to welcome two new members to AmaTierra's staff - Pablo Montero Arce, Head Chef; and Rachel Shopper, Yoga Instructor. <div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549665797956659874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 193px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 111px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TQRfo81XaqI/AAAAAAAAA2A/CXFzt5a2hwo/s320/eggplant%2Bdish.jpg" border="0" /><br />We are getting rave reviews for AmaTierra's new chef, Pablo Montero Arce, who continues to tempt our taste buds by introducing new gourmet menu items, including this perfect salad, topped with roasted eggplant & tomato - one of his many delicious vegetarian creations. With Pablo spicing up our kitchen, we are happy to announce that AmaTierra now offers cooking classes for our guests - just let us know you're interested and we'll be sure to include it in your stay.</div><div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549665982134834946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 140px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 207px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TQRfzq83VwI/AAAAAAAAA2I/q36MiPoq7cw/s320/Rachel.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>We are so excited to introduce Rachel Shopper to AmaTierra's yoga program, bringing a versatile Vinyasa yoga style, emphasizing proper alignment and specially geared to all yoga levels, from beginning to advance. Guests have loved Rachel's yoga classes and we are grateful to have her on board.</div><div> </div><div>A big welcome to both of you, Pablo and Rachel - thanks for joining our team!</div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-71179342629740197212010-09-21T20:49:00.000-06:002010-09-21T20:54:12.205-06:00AsoYoga Festival and International Day of Peace<div style="text-align: center;">Commemorating the International Day of Peace, and the AsoYoga Festival<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TJlvOIl8aFI/AAAAAAAAAxU/z6uCDF8j63Y/s1600/yoga+festival+group+close+up.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TJlvOIl8aFI/AAAAAAAAAxU/z6uCDF8j63Y/s320/yoga+festival+group+close+up.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519565106934736978" border="0" /></a><br />Yoga para Todos (Yoga for Everyone) Festival here in Costa Rica was a wonderful event. Held in downtown San Jose, Jill led a meditation with Crystal Singing Bowls in an ancient tower with four foot thick stone walls. Performers, Indian music, Kirtan chanting, booths of fun foods and yoga clothing drew over 2000 people for all day yoga and meditation classes<br />AmaTierra's booth was a popular one as people signed up to win a free night for two at the Retreat Center. Lourdes Amador was the winner, and she is very happy!<br /><br />Costa Rica has long been a destination site for yoga, second only to India as the place to go to practice with a group or at one of the many studios which cater to foreigners.<br />But Costa Ricans too love their yoga, and practice it in a very spirited, strong and serious way. It was wonderful to be in classes led by Spanish-speaking instructors, (the language of sanskrit for the names of poses was helpful!) and amidst those who have a zestful love of yoga.<br /><br />All in all, a wonderful day, and a positive, collective intention was sent out for harmony and peace on the earth.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TJlu84croMI/AAAAAAAAAxM/JByVIeLUBgE/s1600/yoga+fest+jill.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TJlu84croMI/AAAAAAAAAxM/JByVIeLUBgE/s320/yoga+fest+jill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5519564810543145154" border="0" /></a>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-78274466852665606832010-09-12T12:42:00.000-06:002010-09-12T12:50:19.698-06:00Crazy Basil - Let's make Pesto!<div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TI0gBLvc-uI/AAAAAAAAAwo/VpHZhD1hBD0/s1600/basil+with+jill.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516100323302505186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TI0gBLvc-uI/AAAAAAAAAwo/VpHZhD1hBD0/s320/basil+with+jill.JPG" border="0" /></a> AmaTierra's basil supply is off the charts this year - we are up to our elbows in organic basil plants in the garden and planning new recipes daily to put all of that fresh spicy yumminess to good use. If you're like us, and you find yourself with too much basil in the garden, you can make pesto to eat immediately, or freeze/put it into sterilized jars and keep for later! <div></div><br /><div>You'll need: </div><div>4C basil, </div><div>1/2 C olive oil, </div><div>1/2 cup pine nuts OR walnuts(cheaper) or peanuts, </div><div>1/2 cup of your favorite parmesan cheese </div><div>3-4 cloves garlic. </div><div>No salt needed, as the parmesan has enough</div><br /><div></div><div>In food processor, chop garlic, add basil, olive oil & nuts, finally the cheese. Pesto is very rich! Use on pasta, pasta salad, in pita bread with tomato and mozzarella cheese, or as a sandwich spread or a dip for veggies. YUM!!!</div><div></div><br /><div>Hint: when using on pasta or pasta salad, add more olive oil so the pesto goes further.</div><div></div><br /><div>Buen Provecho from AmaTierra's Gardens (full of crazy basil!)</div><div></div><div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516100531176687554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TI0gNSIhR8I/AAAAAAAAAww/SyBfHSHW0XE/s320/basil+plants.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-40262374153068685142010-08-24T17:51:00.000-06:002010-11-02T13:15:21.187-06:00Fall and Winter Retreats at AmaTierra<div align="center"> <strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Fall and Winter Retreats at AmaTierra<br /></span>Make plans now to join us for a special week this season:</strong></div><div align="center"><strong></strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Holiday Celebration, November and January Yoga Workshops, </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Photography & more</strong><br /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">3rd Annual Escape to the Rainforest with Symmetree Yoga </div><div align="center">November 7-14, 2010<br /></div><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509134053408763810" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 373px; height: 61px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/THRgO6Fv76I/AAAAAAAAAu0/ExvGGbed47o/s320/Carlene+in+Studio.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">Join yoga instructor and retreat hostess Carlene Sullivan for this special 7-night retreat: </div><br /><div align="center">An all-inclusive Hatha yoga, relaxation and adventure retreat designed to quell the flames of anxiety and stress while experiencing what it means to be fully alive! This retreat is specifically designed to awaken the body, mind and spirit in an unbelievably beautiful setting. </div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.amatierra.com/retreat_rainforest.html">Click here </a>for more information and to register for this special yoga retreat.<br /></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">__________________</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Special Winter Holiday Week:<br />Rejuvenate for a Brand New Year<br />December 26, 2010 - January 2, 2011</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509134553785388194" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 245px; height: 138px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/THRgsCI1TKI/AAAAAAAAAvI/kCTwy-1Upcw/s320/sunset+amatierra+light.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">Give yourself the ultimate gift of relaxation, and join us for a one-of-a-kind celebration of reflection and gratitude to welcome the New Year.</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Join us at the end of 2010: 7-nights all-inclusive. </div><div align="center">Details coming this week at <a href="http://www.amatierra.com/">http://www.amatierra.com/</a>.</div><br /><div align="center">__________________</div><br /><div align="center">New Years' Yoga Retreat </div><div align="center">January 2-9, 2011</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509134858326869826" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 229px; height: 158px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/THRg9wpLh0I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/WYnS0QUQ5pk/s320/aimee-rawles.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">Start the New Year right with a rejuvenating yoga retreat hosted by Luminous Body Yoga. Join yoga instructor Aimee Roberson and naturalist Rawles Williams, known for their expertise in integrating many movement modalities into their practice.</div><p align="center">Use the energy of the new year to get back into balance and feel fabulous, more open, and in a state of expanded consciousness after a week immersed in nature, adventure and yoga at AmaTierra in Costa Rica. </p><div align="center">7 nights all-inclusive retreat.<br /><a href="http://www.amatierra.com/retreat_yoga2011.html">Click here for more information and to register </a>for the New Years' Yoga Retreat.</div><br /><div align="center">_________________</div><br /><div align="center">Costa Rican Paradise: Eye of the Beholder </div><div align="center">January 15-22, 2011</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509135138634673554" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 218px; height: 134px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/THRhOE3xLZI/AAAAAAAAAvY/YCG9ggV_ZTI/s320/cynthia2.jpg" border="0" /> <div align="center">Third Annual Photography Retreat with professional nature photographer Cynthia Delaney</div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center">Hone your photography skills in one of the world's most breathtaking destinations. Join us for an exciting journey photographing the vivid colors of Central America. On-location photography excursions include Carara National Park, a haven for wildlife including sloths, monkeys, and the beautiful scarlet macaw; TuruBaRi Tropical Park complete with a butterfly garden and canopy tour; Playa Esterillos Beach and the seaside town of Jaco; and Zoo Ave, a sanctuary for exotic birds. All levels are welcome, both film and digital shooters. </div><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.amatierra.com/retreat_photography.html">Click here for more information and to register </a>for Cynthia Delaney's Photography Retreat.</div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-797837998439689232010-08-02T14:32:00.000-06:002010-08-02T14:39:23.672-06:00Spend Labor Day at AmaTierra in Costa Rica!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Labor</span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 204);">Day</span> <span style="color: rgb(255, 51, 0);">Specials</span><br />September 1 - 12, 2010<br />at AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Center<br /><br />Our 2 Most Popular<br />Vacation Packages<br />at Deep Discounts<br />for Labor Day</span><br /><br /><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.292" alt="relaxing man" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs086/1101506099647/img/292.jpg" align="center" border="0" width="238" height="158" /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;">3-Night Wellness & Adventure Package: $449</span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;">5-Night Relax & Adventure Package: $795</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">All prices per person based on double occupancy with all taxes included</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">Single occupancy rates also discounted - inquire for special prices</span></span><br /><br /><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.269" alt="mi familia breakfast" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs086/1101506099647/img/269.jpg" border="0" width="238" height="158" /> <img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.220" alt="Yoga group" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs086/1101506099647/img/220.jpg" border="0" width="238" height="158" /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;" >3-Night Wellness & Adventure Package</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"> </span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">*Includes all healthy gourmet meals made from fresh local & organic ingredients</span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">*1-hour professional massage</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">*2 yoga classes in our open-air yoga shala</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">*An adventure excursion to Turubari Tropical Park</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;">Price: $449 per person</span><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"> <wbr> </span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;font-size:180%;" ><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;">5-Night Relax & Adventure Package</span></span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"> </span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">*Includes all healthy gourmet meals made from fresh local & organic ingredients</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;"> *1-hour professional massage</span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;"> *Daily yoga classes in our open-air yoga shala</span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;"> *An adventure excursion to Turubari Tropical Park</span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;">*Airport Transfers to and from AmaTierra</span><br /><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;"> Price: $795 per person</span><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:130%;"> <wbr> <wbr> <wbr> </span><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /></span><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;" >Don't miss this inexpensive opportunity<br />to experience Costa Rica at its finest.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;" >Labor Day Specials valid for reservations September 1-12, 2010.</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;">Additional Spa services and personalized wellness treatments available. </span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;">See our full Spa and wellness menu at www.amatierra.com .</span><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;"><a style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;" shape="rect" href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103594096950&s=1264&e=0019FWyXjE5EV-aIElRC6fSeMhEa_DDyheOH42HS08T5-8z9UOGzdmITqa-uYVFAZ9LlDij2lAcVHHye0upwd9Vs9c0U1jnNMV0f7_QHw2UaUU6xklf14lMIaFJiCVEUHHnbsMASMoi-F4=" target="_blank">Reserve today!</a> </span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;font-size:180%;">1-866-659-3805 </span><span style="font-family:Garamond,Times New Roman,Times,serif;"><span style="font-size:180%;">amatierra@gmail.com</span> </span></span></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-50346606201866324762010-07-13T20:27:00.000-06:002010-07-13T20:52:39.115-06:00Asoyoga's 1st Yoga Festival in Cartago, Costa Rica<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TD0lJ4YniHI/AAAAAAAAAtc/z2MIQUUyZ_8/s1600/AsoYoga.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493587972146563186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TD0lJ4YniHI/AAAAAAAAAtc/z2MIQUUyZ_8/s320/AsoYoga.jpg" border="0" /></a> AmaTierra is gearing up to attend Asoyoga's very first Yoga Festival this upcoming Saturday, July 17 in the city of Cartago, Costa Rica. The event is organized by Cartago's local yoga centers and all Costa Rican yoga studios, retreats, instructors and students have been invited to attend. We are inspired to be part of the excitement of Costa Rica's budding national yoga community and growing culture of alternative health and wellness.<a name="LETTER.BLOCK6"><br /></a><div><br /><br /></div><div>The Yoga Festival will highlight Project Peace on Earth, an effort to recognize our interconnectedness as a common global humanity and celebrate the role yoga plays in maintaining solidarity among us, and inspiring personal discovery and introspective meditation to recognize the interdependent web of our collective actions on this Earth. Specifically, the Festival hopes to motivate Cartago's local community and involve them in the practice of yoga toward greater social unity, vitality and stress-relief. </div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div>The day's events include lectures focused on practices to improve quality of life; booths and stands where local yoga centers and product exhibitors will be on display to showcase their unique services; spaces designated for different yoga classes throughout the day to enliven participants toward a newfound consciousness on yoga and wellbeing; artistic presentations of bellydancing, karate, children's activities, live music and an exciting closing meditation at 4:00pm to end the day with intention. </div><div><br />AmaTierra owner, Bob Ruttenberg, and our newest yoga instructor Socorro from San Francisco will be there to represent AmaTierra and support the event. We hope to see all of you Costa Rican yogis there with us to enjoy the Festival and support Cartago's growing yoga community!<br /></div><div></div><div>Project Peace on Earth is sponsored by the yoga centers of Cartago: Yoga Santocha Centro, Yoga Sol, Casa Alternativa Morpho Azul, and Yoga Luna.<br /></div><div>For the complete program of activities, visit: <a href="http://www.cartagovirtual.com/actividades/festivaldeyoga_cartago.html" target="_blank" shape="rect">www.cartagovirtual.com/actividades/festivaldeyoga_cartago.html</a> or <a href="http://www.cartagovirtual.com/" target="_blank" shape="rect">http://www.cartagovirtual.com/</a>.<br /></div><div>For more information on the Cartago Yoga Festival, call 2591-1050 or write to: <a href="mailto:info@cartagovirtual.com" target="_blank" shape="rect">info@cartagovirtual.com</a>. </div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493588333230821938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 194px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 154px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TD0le5h0EjI/AAAAAAAAAtk/v8-dNNsT964/s320/AsoYoga2.jpg" border="0" /> <div>You can find out more about Costa Rica's Yoga Assocation, Asoyoga, at: <a href="http://www.asoyogacr.com/">http://www.asoyogacr.com/</a>. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-83654706567728970902010-07-05T14:27:00.000-06:002010-07-05T14:36:36.999-06:00AmaTierra's Summer Recipe of the WeekIndian Cucumber & Mushroom Salad: A Refreshing Summer Treat!<br /><br /><strong>Ingredients:</strong><br /><br />2 Cucumbers, sliced lengthwise in quarters, seeds/pulp removed, then sliced in 1/2 inch pieces<br />1 can button mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms halved and sauteed or steamed)<br />1 small container plain nonfat yogurt<br />2 cloves garlic, crushed<br />rice wine or white wine vinegar cumin seeds, dry roasted and crushed salt to taste<br /><br /><strong>Preparation:</strong><br /><br />Prepare cucumbers, set in colander and dowse with vinegar, set aside while preparing other ingredients. Peel and crush 2 garlic cloves, put in non-metal bowl. Drain mushrooms. Dry roast the cumin seeds, when toasty and fragrant, remove from heat. When cool, turn onto cutting board, use rolling pin to crush. Mix all ingredients, yogurt, cucumbers etc, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to meld flavors.<br /><br />Buen Provecho!<br /><br />AmaTierra Cookbook Coming Soon! In the meantime, check our blog frequently for more delicious Summer recipes.AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-919396886220911020.post-62630260732818145992010-06-28T11:12:00.000-06:002010-06-28T11:51:01.336-06:00<div><div><div><div>On Saturday, June 26, 60 kids from Turrubares county - plus 25 of their teachers and parents - travelled to Jaco Beach on Costa Rica's Central Pacific Coast for a fun-filled day of activities hosted by the AmaTierra Foundation. As the well-earned prize for high school and elementary school students' unprecedented efforts in the month-long recycling contest, the winning classes took full advantage of their beach time: playing soccer in the sand, throwing frisbees around, playing beach paddle ball, making sand castles,and best of all - learning to surf!</div><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjc4JttK_I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/uCNLi3jmWk4/s1600/AmaTierra+Foundation+June+2010+016.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487879003189357554" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 294px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjc4JttK_I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/uCNLi3jmWk4/s320/AmaTierra+Foundation+June+2010+016.JPG" border="0" /></a><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487878230240989378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 287px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjcLKQdEMI/AAAAAAAAAsI/CdHphCSxI6g/s320/DSC00798.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>DJ Bryan from Cesar Vargas Productions set the mood for the day with reggae beats and dance music all day long. 15 local Jaco volunteers came out for the event, playing with the kids, helping chaperone and lifeguard, pushing surfboards into the waves for the kids to practice their new sport, serving lunch, and making sure the day went smoothly. This day of fun in the sun would not have been possible without the incredibly generous donations by local Jaco businesses and organizations: delicious lunch of arroz con pollo and bowtie pasta salad provided by Jimmy T of Jimmy T's Provisions; gift bags for all of the kids and dozens of bamboo beach mats donated by Marc Pontbriant from Souvenir Centro; Surf instruction with Gustavo Castillo and the instructors from Jaco Surf School; Christian Surfers for their support with chairs, soccer balls and extra volunteers; neighbor Gary for the juice boxes and use of his electric current for the DJ on the beach; and finally, beautiful beachfront Hotel 9 for the use of their restrooms and showers. </div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjgdLpy2OI/AAAAAAAAAso/QQowJJWIv_0/s1600/DSC00808.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487882937899866338" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 288px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjgdLpy2OI/AAAAAAAAAso/QQowJJWIv_0/s320/DSC00808.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjfcf_Km4I/AAAAAAAAAsg/yIV0H7lJCnM/s1600/DSC00816.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487881826666716034" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 309px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 205px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_93H1Z1UVtG0/TCjfcf_Km4I/AAAAAAAAAsg/yIV0H7lJCnM/s320/DSC00816.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><div>We are so grateful for the turnout for the event, and can't wait to plan another beach day for the community of Turrubares in the future. A big thanks to all who were involved, and here's hoping that this kick-off recycling contest is just the beginning of heightened recycling efforts throughout Turrubares County! </div></div></div></div></div>AmaTierra Yoga Retreat & Wellness Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02947154311492377084noreply@blogger.com0