Wellness Escape: Yoga & Meditation Retreat by Lake Michigan

The retreat is built around giving you practical tools to reduce stress and improve well-being. Each day starts gently with tea, then moves into morning stretches, breathing exercises, and meditation. The practice is non-competitive and easy to follow, whether you're a beginner or experienced. After brunch, you have free time to explore the grounds, walk the Shrine Trail, or simply rest. Afternoon sessions are tailored to the group's needs, combining yoga nidra, visualizations, and pranayama.

What makes this retreat special is the guidance of Ema Stefanova, a highly trained yoga therapist and master teacher. Her approach is rooted in the Satyananda tradition, which emphasizes classical yoga and meditation. She is known for being approachable and skilled at customizing practice to individual goals. She leads retreats in Michigan and globally, and her teaching style is described as healing and transformative.

The Vivekananda Retreat Center has been hosting Ann Arbor Yoga and Meditation retreats since 1991. It's an established, welcoming space with large indoor practice rooms and a huge private patio for outdoor sessions in good weather. The 110-acre property includes the Shrine Trail, with shrines representing major spiritual traditions, each with benches for quiet meditation. The center also has a library and museum, adding to the cultural and spiritual atmosphere.

This retreat is inclusive, welcoming solo travelers, couples, friends, and families with older teens. It's suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The small group size (2-12 people) fosters a supportive community, and you'll leave feeling refreshed, with new meditation skills to integrate into daily life.

What's included

- 2 nights accommodation in cottages - All meals (vegetarian, vegan-friendly) - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Daily pranayama (breathing) classes - Specialized workshops - Expert guidance by Ema - Parking - Free cancellation up to 60 days before arrival

What's not included

- Yoga mats (bring your own) - Private yoga therapy sessions - Travel to the retreat center - Travel insurance - Personal expenses