Ranch Yoga: Q & A

Q:	What yoga supplies do I have to bring?
A:	Yoga mats, blocks and straps will be supplied. If you want to use your own supplies please feel free to bring them. A straw tatami mat is a good idea - but not necessary - in case we practice off of the deck. It is always a good idea to bring your own water bottle. It can get hot and the water there is GREAT. It also would be good to bring several changes of yoga clothes. We do have a washing machine so you will have an opportunity to do laundry if needed.
Q:	I understand this is an actual ranch and not a polished retreat center; what supplies will I need to bring?
A:	The retreat gives you the option to camp in a tent pitched in the family orchard by the ranch house or stay in one of the rooms in the house, bus, trailer or motor home. If you have a tent bring it, yet some tents are available. We have some foam pads and a mattress or two available. Bring your own sleeping bag and any extra creature comforts you would enjoy, such as pillow, extra blanket, lounge chair....
Q:	What bathroom facilities are there?
A:	The ranch house has a single bathroom with sink, toilet and shower. To minimize usage indoors we will have a rustic outdoor (and private) shower and porta-potty.
Q:	Where will the classes be held?
A:	Most of the classes will be held on an open-air sundeck looking over a lovely pond at "The Dam." This is approximately two miles from camp and can be driven or hiked to. It is up a country dirt road with some brush so we will use ranch vehicles to ferry you to the yoga deck. The scenery here is very beautiful and full of the sounds of nature. Deer, turtles, beaver, and countless birds come to visit. The deck will have some shade but be prepared with sunscreen and sunglasses.
Q:	What will the classes be like?
A:	Two classes are scheduled for both Friday and Saturday, as well as one on Sunday. The morning classes will be more vigorous and the evening more relaxed, including meditation and breath work. I base my teaching on the Anusara style of yoga which focus on aligning with the inherent goodness and light in all of life. Beginners and intermediate students will be guided to get as much from the classes as more advanced practitioners. Because yoga is so much more than just doing the poses (asana) the classes will incorporate other aspects such as breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation. The idea is to ease into the practice by integrating mind, body and spirit, then slowly warm the body up so as to be comfortable with the postures. As the body becomes integrated with breath and flowing movement the mind becomes more responsive to deeper internal work. I will introduce Anusara concepts of physical and energetic alignment throughout the classes. Each will end with a meditation period and opportunity to take in the incredible beauty of the surroundings.
Q:	What kind of weather can I expect?
A:	June is the end of the cool season and the beginning of the warmer days. It can range from very hot to temperate, Nights can be cool so bring a jacket. Dressing in layers is always best. We will respond to the weather conditions as they unfold.
Q:	How will I know how to find the Walking D Ranch?
A:	After you pay your deposit you will be mailed driving instructions within two weeks of the retreat.
Q:	What about kids?
A:	The retreat is designed for adults only. This is a time to get away from the responsibilities of the day-to-day world and focus on YOU and new yoga friends. We have been delighted to have a number of mother-daughter teams participate.
Q:	Are there any special rules that apply to the retreat?.
A:	Yes. Because this is an opportunity to move into a deeper knowledge and level of consciousness we request that there be no alcoholic beverages. Additionally, we value the land very highly and ask that all visitors honor it by treading softly and respecting the wildlife, foliage and terrain.


	Any other questions? Write to Will Doran at: wjddoran@comcast.net or call (206) 789-2321