Ciao, Ragazzi! Who wants to meet me in Florence for a yoga retreat?
So, yes, it’s my first post of the year – first post in a long while, in fact. It’s been a crazy few years trying to get this whole being a mom thing down (keeping it real: I’m a mess of a work-in-progress).
To kick myself back into creativity mode, I’m heading to one of my favorite places in Italy – Florence – for a long weekend of yoga, art, calligraphy, and wine tasting. There are still a few slots open, so if you want to join the fun, read on.
Sole Yoga Holidays presents: Florence Manifestation
- Who: Sole Yoga Holidays is collaborating with local artist Betty Soldi and art guide Alexandra of Explore Florence.
- When: March 28 to 31, 2019.
- What: The three days in Florence focuses on art, beauty, and the “expression of the hands” – hence the name. Mani means hands in Italian.
- Where: Lodging is set at Saprarno Suites – a place I’ve wanted to stay since seeing posts from my gal Georgette of Girl in Florence. Seriously, if you aren’t following her on Instagram, you are missing out.
Florence Manifestation program:
YOGA: Shari, a fellow American expat who now calls Firenze home, is the group’s host and our resident yogi. She will lead the group in vinyasa flow with a focus on hands and breath.
The program includes two yoga sessions with one optional practice. I am so excited to meet Shari FINALLY after following her adventures on Instagram and Facebook. And, maybe, just maybe, she can help me stick crow pose. I’m fairly convinced that’s just not in the cards for me. Sigh.
CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP: Calligrapher and designer Betty Soldi will lead the group in a writing workshop. Shari says it is a time “to create, share, and learn all about this mindful art form”.
I had the pleasure of visiting Betty’s & CO studio during my 2015 trip, visiting Florence artisan shops with Georgette of Girl in Florence and Nardia of Lost in Florence. Her work is vibrant, energetic, and I’m so excited for a workshop with her!
PRIVATE ART EXPLORATION: Next, the group gets an art, history, and cultural immersion with the incredible Alexandra of Explore Florence. She will start with a mini introduction to Florence’s art and history, then a special focus on work that showcases the retreat’s theme: hands.
I met Alexandra on my 2015 Florence trip. My time with her in both Florence — and, our June 2018 weekend in Turin — are highlights of my expat travels. Not only does she have the most amazing energy and great spirit, she knows EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING when it comes to Italy’s art and history. She is beyond captivating.
For more on Florence, check out my Tuscany travel section. And, please let me know if you are coming to meet me in Florence!
