Yoga on Molokai (2007 Retreat in Hawaii)

Head first without a safety net was how I embarked upon hosting my first yoga retreat. To say it wasn’t pretty would be an understatement. Still, half of the attendees signed up for my second retreat, so there is something to be said about the rewards that come from overcoming adversity.

The adversity came from my supposed “partners”, who had come to film a DVD with blatant disregard for their retreat obligations. Even more shocking was the lack of the common courtesies associated with being human let alone a “host”. Once we had defined the boundaries and wrested control of the kitchen, the retreat team moved forward into a supportive place of cooperation, relaxation, exploration and lots of yoga.

Our mornings started with breathing, meditation and yoga on the deck (overlooking the ocean). Our days were free to explore the beach, pool or shabby outposts that pass for towns on Molokai. The afternoon yoga sessions were less structured, more playful and much more photogenic. With our amazing sunset views came the evening feasts we prepared as a team (with strong leadership from Lolita and Cathy).

We shared experiences, bonded as friends and built memories. We didn’t see much of the film crew. Their DVD never got finished. Eventually lawyers got involved. We all choose how we go through life.