Anna M. Landauer, LAc, CMT

This expedition is a mindful adventure in Yosemite National Park, wilderness camping and backpacking... weaving together the practice of yoga and massage with explorations of presence in nature.

 

Cost:

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$225 deposit. The deposit will be used to pay for shared expenses such as permit fees, group gear and food that will be purchased prior to departure.

 

The deposit is the fee to cover expenses for the trip. Once the trip is complete we will accept donations to support the work that we have done and the services offered. A trip like this would, on average, cost around $650-700. A suggested contribution would be an additional $425-500. 

 

Teaching:

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All yoga, massage and backcountry skills instruction offered freely. Your generosity, dana*, is greatly appreciated.

 

*Dana (generosity) practice:

 

In the Buddhist tradition, the teachings are given freely because they are considered priceless; in the Buddhist tradition we also practice dana, or generosity, by making monetary offerings for the teachings. Thank you for your support!

 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

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Our intention for Yosemite Yoga and Thai Massage:

 

It is our desire to provide a gently facilitated wilderness adventure with enough structure to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip and enough flexibility to allow the specifics of each day to unfold according the needs and interests of the group.

 

Enjoy the tranquil and awe inspiring splendor of the Sierras in the company of friends. We will hike, practice yoga, enjoy shared bodywork and sit quietly in the presence of wind and breath.

 

Our Offerings:

 

●    Yoga, meditation and Thai Massage instruction.

●    Backcountry cooking and expedition skills, trip planning and logistics.

●    Lightweight backpacking instruction and gear recommendations.

●    Group facilitation and wilderness leadership.

●    Environmental awareness games and exercises, journaling and creative writing topics.

●    Our incredible love and passion for the Yosemite wilderness!

 

​Alok Rocheleau:

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Alok is an experienced wilderness leader, bodyworker and teacher who has traveled the world studying with various master teachers and modalities. With his dedication to the yogic arts and a degree in exercise physiology, Alok has a keen knowledge of the muscular and energetic systems of the body. Alok leads workshops and retreats with Contact Yoga and Thai Massage. This practice develops trust, communication, and awareness through touch and is essential to healing the self and relationship to others. Alok also enjoys sharing his love of the wilderness and how it can inspire us to find our true nature.  

rockwaterhealingarts.com

 

What to expect:

 

This will be an all levels backpacking and yoga retreat. Beginners welcome. Please note that appropriate health and fitness is necessary for safe travels on sometimes rocky and remote, though well maintained trails. Bring your enthusiasm and willingness to experience something new. Also perfect for seasoned outdoors people who would like to slow down and integrate mindfulness practice into their wilderness adventure.

 

The exact itinerary and daily mileage will be determined by the abilities and interests of the group.

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We recommend that you are able to hike at least 5-8 miles carrying 25-30 lbs. If you have questions or concerns about this don’t hesitate to contact us. The first day of hiking will be the most challenging as our packs will be heaviest at this point. Our packs will be much lighter and easier to carry on the return hike.

 

THE JOURNEY

Porcupine Creek to Snow Creek Overlook

 

“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in....” - John Muir

                                                           

Summary of Itinerary

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Our first night we gather and camp at the White Wolf Campground in Yosemite National Park. The following morning we drive to the Porcupine Creek Trailhead to begin our 5 mile hike to our basecamp. We have a lovely, mostly downhill walk through the fir and pine forest to our stunning camp where will be met by a magnificent view of Half Dome. We will have plenty of time for a leisurely afternoon and evening to set up camp, rest by the water and enjoy our first full yoga practice.

                                                           

Details

 

Day 1:

Meet at White Wolf Campground late afternoon or evening. We will spend the evening together getting acquainted with each other and our surroundings, preparing for our backpacking adventure. Enjoy hot drinks and a warm fire while we organize and review group gear and food, and offer tips on the basics of packing for backcountry travel.

                                                           

Day 2: Porcupine Creek Trailhead to Snow Creek Overlook, 5 mi.

With a relaxed hiking pace we will take time to enjoy the elements of our new surroundings. We will take our time to acclimatize and find our mountain legs. After arriving and settling in at camp we will enjoy a restful afternoon yoga and/or Thai Massage practice. In the evening we'll share the preparation and enjoyment of a delicious dinner. Evenings may include fireside stories, journal activities or gazing at the Milky Way from the cozy comfort of your sleeping bag.

 

Day 3: Layover at Snow Creek Overlook

We will spend the day settling into our home among the granite icons of Yosemite and the abundant waters of Snow Creek. There will be time set aside in the morning and afternoon for a structured yoga, meditation and Thai Massage. Throughout the day we will practice relaxation and retreat through creative journaling, quiet contemplation, reading, dipping in the creek or just taking a long nap amongst the trees or basking in the sun on a warm granite slab, it’s up to you.

                                                           

Day 4: Snow Creek Overlook to Porcupine Creek Trailhead, 5 mi.

On our last morning, we will enjoy a yoga and meditation practice before sharing our final backcountry breakfast. Then we will pack our packs and begin our gentle journey back to the start. We will aim to conclude by mid afternoon.

 

Note on Itinerary:

This itinerary is an outline of what is possible. All plans are subject to change based on the specific circumstances, acts of nature and the needs, interests and desires of the group. Our exact location may vary depending on permit availabilty and current conditions.