Airports With Yoga Rooms: Air Travel Doesn’t Have To Be Terrible

Unfortunately, for most of us, to get to awesome destinations whether it’s for work, play or a yoga retreat it involves us getting in a plane, navigating airport terminals, losing sleep, watching our legs swell to out of this world proportions, but it doesn’t all have to be terrible. Pack your travel mat (or borrow one- just wipe it down first) and get your asana on at one of these on point yoga rooms.

Yoga rooms at domestic and international airport yoga rooms are popping up all over the place. The first airport yoga room sprouted up at SFO in 2012. It’s not just large international airports that have added airport yoga rooms, some of the smaller airports like Burlington Vermont have hopped on this trend too… and I love it. Check out this list of airports that totally understand our love of yoga.

Domestic and International Airport Yoga Rooms

Burlington, Vermont Yoga Room 

The airport in Burlington, Vermont is my favorite. It’s peaceful and serene and it also feels like a yoga studio. Evolution Physical Therapy and Yoga, a local yoga studio, had there hand in the planning and design of the space and it’s lovely. The space includes mats and meditation cushions. If you work up a sweat there is a shower in the family restroom across the way. Woohoo. You get to practice and freshen up in the same place… granted you’re probably not going to be having a layover in Burlington, but you never know. Second floor; hours: 4 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport Yoga Room

Chicago O’Hare is a popular layover stop and we are so thankful it has a beautiful yoga room with bamboo floors, a mirror (for you alignment junkies), soft lighting and music. You’ll find a handful of mats available, earth toned walls, natural diffuse lighting and a video monitor playing a yoga practice. Just outside of the room there is also a screen with departure and arrival info… no need to stress unless you’ve fallen asleep in savasana. Mezzanine Level of Terminal 3 near the Urban Garden; hours 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Chicago Midway Yoga Room

Chicago Midway also has a yoga room. The Midway room has similar tones, soft music, asana practices on a screen, and a wall of mirrors. There are also plenty of yoga mats, space to store your belongings and a bench to sit on if you’d like a seated meditation. Floors are made out of bamboo just like the Chicago O’Hare Yoga Room. Throw down a yoga mat, stretch it out or put in your headphones and enjoy a meditation or yoga nidra recording. Concourse C; hours 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.

San Francisco International Airport Yoga Room

San Francisco is the leader of the pack and was the first airport to build a yoga room… now they have not one, but two rooms dedicated to yoga. The SFO airport yoga rooms are open 24 hours a day, which is wonderful if you have one of those weird overnight layovers. Drop-in, do a few sun salutations, a couple of back, hip and shoulder stretches, then throw your legs up the wall. Before you know it you’ll be about to board your plane. Terminal 2 near boarding area D and Terminal 3 near gate 69; hours: 24 hours

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport

Dallas Fort-Worth has almost completely taken the plunge into yoga land, but not quite. They more-or-less have areas set up with mats available with semi privacy. What could be better: mat cleaner, dimmer lights, and privacy. Still it’s better than nothing. Between terminal B and D; hours: 24 hours.

Sioux Falls Airport Yoga Room

Sioux Falls, a surprising addition to the airport yoga scene is trying out the trend. They have sectioned off an area near the business center for yoga with a decent amount of privacy. They also provide mats and a poster with posture suggestions. I hope this one sticks around. Near the business terminal; 24 hours.

Helsinki International Airport Yoga

Helsinki International Airport has experimented with yoga classes in their Kainuu multi-use lounge. I’m not sure if they plan on doing a permanent yoga space or not. I wish they would. I would LOVE to go to a yoga class instead of wandering the terminals on a layover. I love the idea, so hopefully they keep it. I’ve heard that mats are available in the Kainuu lounge, but don’t take my word for it.

London Gatwick International Airport Yoga Room

London Gatwick has joined the trend now too. Open yoga practice space with mats and a 20 minute class playing on loop with Instagram sensation Shona Vertue. Move your body, reduce stress, reduce swelling, improve circulation with a few minutes of asana in this light filled space. Southern terminal; hours: unknown.

Frankfurt International Airport Yoga Rooms

During Frankfurt International Airports big renovation they added two yoga rooms! This summer (2016) they are even offering classes taught by local instructors from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on certain days. Another airport that totally gets it! Way to go Frankfurt! Terminal 1 near gates C14 and C16 and Terminal 2 near gates D1 to D4; hours: 24 hours.

Hong Kong and London Heathrow

Hong Kong and London Heathrow also have airport yoga rooms… the catch? You must pay for them. The yoga rooms at these two airports are controlled by Skyteam. And I have never paid for access to the Skyteam Lounge, so I can’t tell you much about them other than that they do exist.

Did I miss any airports? Let me know. I’d love to see this list continue to grow.

Safe travels yogis!

Love and Light,

Autumn

Autumn Adams
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5 Signs You Need a Yoga Retreat

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Okay, we get it. Sometimes we lose sight of our yoga practice… it gets boring or life and work take us away from our practice. Here are 5 signs you need a yoga retreat.

1. You’re bored

You might need a yoga retreat if you are you doing the same things over and over again? When you’re on autopilot you lose your passion and zest for life. You may feel comfortable in your routine but are you happy and fulfilled? Going on a yoga retreat can give you a fresh perspective and reignite your passion for life! You’ll be able to take a step back from your daily reality and find what truly fulfills you.

2. You’re stressed

You might need a yoga retreat if you are using phrases like, “I’m too busy” or “I’m running out of time.” Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and wired all at the same time! These feelings stem from stress and anxiety. 90 percent of all doctor visits are related to stress and can cause and/or contribute to SO many different health problems. Yoga is therapeutic and allows your body to relax. And since your body is only able to heal when it’s relaxed, a yoga retreat is the perfect way to restore, not only your physical health, but your mental health as well.

3. You need a technology detox

You may need a yoga retreat if you are so attached to your phone that it feels like another body part. How much time do you actually spend scrolling through Instagram or Facebook? While it’s nice to have communication and information at our fingertips, too much technology can be overwhelming and stressful. Going on a yoga retreat allows you to turn your phone off and connect with yourself, nature and have meaningful conversations with others.

4. You want to meet new yoga friends

Yoga retreats are a perfect way to meet like-minded people who share your same love for yoga. You’ll meet people from all over the world with some of the same interests as you. Maybe you’ll even find a yoga buddy who’ll accompany you on your next retreat!

5. You want to deepen your yoga practice

You may need a yoga retreat if you’d like to deepen your yoga practice. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been practicing yoga, a retreat is a great way to deepen your practice. Weather you’ve been practicing for 20 days or 20 years, you’ll be able to gently explore the limits of your body and expand your mind. On our retreats, you’ll practice yoga twice daily which will increase your strength and flexibility, while helping you invite more gratitude into your life.

Are you experiencing any of these signs? If you are, it’s definitely time to book a yoga retreat. Join one of our upcoming retreats.

Click here to learn more and book today!

7 Essentials for the Traveling Yogi

Whether it’s your first trip out of the country or your 100th I think we all figure out what our “must have” items are pretty quickly. I thought I would share some of mine with you. Here is a curated lists of my favorite travel essentials for the traveling yogi. Combining all of these into a sweet little gift bag would be an awesome gift for a friend or partner heading off to go on a yoga retreat or yoga teacher training.

Essential Oil(s)

essential oil for yoga

I bring essential oils with me every time that I travel… seriously! Here are some of my faves:

  • Lavender- calming and relaxing, antiseptic properties
  • Lemongrass- repels bugs & helps relieve gas
  • Grapefruit or Bergamot- uplifting and energizing
  • Tea Tree- antibacterial & antifungal
  • Clary Sage- balancing & helps relieve gas
  • Peppermint- Helps an upset stomach
  • Favorite pre-blended oils like Doterra OnGuard (keep those nasty germs away!)

I’m not a Doterra rep, but they make awesome therapeutic grade essential oils. Contact Toni at BarefootBlissYoga.com if you’d like to place an order.

Traveling Yoga Mat

manduka yoga mat

I use a Manduka Travel Mat. It has been a wonderful investment. Since I’m always on the go I love that it packs down small. It’s perfect for a home practice or to provide a barrier between me and a yoga studio rental mat.

Body Spray/ Mat Spray

body-spray-mat-spray

Long travel days sometimes mean not having time to freshen up. I like to create a custom blend of essential oils in water in a little bottle. I can spritz it on my face, my underarms, my yoga mat for a quick freshen up. It’s not perfect, but it always makes me feel a bit more human. If you’d prefer to purchase a pre-made spray I’ve enjoyed this one by Buddha Nose.

Neem Face Mask

face-mask

I live in the high desert of Oregon where it is dry all year round, but my traveling often brings me to hot humid destinations and my skin hates the transition going back and forth between ultra dry and humid. If I’m leading a retreat I need simple and effective skincare. I have no time for frivolous things. I bring a little mini pot of my Theraneem neem face mask with me always!

Calendula Face Cream or Balm

calendula

Calendula is wonderful for combatting inflammation. When I was dealing with perioral dermatitis I used it religiously day and night. Calendula is nice and gentle for sensitive skin (which I have) and can be used on your face and even on sunburns if you’re in a bind and forgot aloe. I’m currently using a homemade calendula balm similar to this product by MJ’s Herbals. When I’m at home I use Weleda’s Baby Calendula Face Cream. It’s a bit richer and perfect for the super dry air here.

Spotify

Playlists, radio, all your favorites and tons of music to discover and it works outside of the U.S. too. And you can follow your favorite teachers and their playlists. Music for the beach, for lounging by the pool, for relaxing, and for your yoga practice all in one. I’ve been using Spotify for two years now…. and I haven’t gone back to Pandora (at least not regularly). Follow me on Spotify.

Smartphone stocked up with Podcasts

iphone

Over the past year or so I have really gotten into Podcasts, particularly for long haul flights and long distance drives. I like that they’re more than just entertainment, they’re educational too. Interested in checking out a new podcast? Take a peek around our blog in the next couple of days. I will be posting my faves shortly.

Yogis what would you add to this list? I’d love to hear it!

Love and Light,

Autumn

Autumn Adams
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Interview With Vivianne Arango of Finca Esperanza Verde

One of my favorite parts of my job is the magnificent people it brings into my life, especially the strong, powerful and sensational women. One of those women is Vivianne Arango the owner and general manager of Finca Esperanza Verde, our host for our Nicaragua Yoga Retreat in February 2017. I’ve recently had the opportunity to interview Vivianne and I’d love to share her story with you.

Vivianne, if you’d just met someone what would you tell them about yourself?

I would tell them that I am independent and fierce. A true Capricorn! And as a Latina woman, I am very passionate. I live my life on purpose, which enables me to trust the process, be fully present, and give it everything I’ve got. It’s a way of being that has allowed me to live authentically and creatively – blessed and rewarded each day by the connection I feel to this beautiful community and our magnificent Earth.

How did you end up at Finca Esperanza Verde?

Finca-esperanza-verde-yoga-retreat-in-the-highlands

Vivianne Arango at Finca Esperanza Verde

It was to be called “Casa Gaia” – a clear vision which came to me in 2010 in a way that made me shift gears and begin to pay attention. This wild leap of faith was to be my so called Next Chapter. It appeared in a language that wanted to express itself from a deeper part of my being so I began creating a scrapbook with a design of each element of this sacred place. It would be a farm in the mountains within a cloud forest with rustic cabins and expansive views. We would be surrounded by a community who lived off the land. The campesinos would be there to teach us. It was all coming to life in the mountains of Panama, but instead, it manifested itself in the form of “Finca Esperanza Verde” in Nicaragua.

What is your vision for FEV?

We are beginning to see a good amount of growth in tourism here in the highlands. For that reason, FEV has been showing up on many eco-traveler’s radar. As a desirable destination, we are attracting more like-minded people looking to experience this land and community in a different way. I am envisioning folks from abroad who would want to join us in our efforts to build a stronger foundation that will contribute to the well-being of the families living in our surrounding communities – working together towards a common goal to preserve and protect this precious land for the next generations. We are making plans to offer small lots with cabins for those interested in investing in our dream, so they may live their dream!

How did FEV become what it is today?

The founders of Finca Esperanza Verde, an NGO from the US (Sister Communities of San Ramon), began developing an ecotourism business in 1998 in an effort to alleviate poverty in this region of Nicaragua. They brought countless visitors to the region through their cultural immersion and volunteer programs that focused mainly on health and education projects. From a modest beginning with a small lodge and two cabins, FEV has grown to become an award-winning, internationally recognized eco-lodge and farm with a complete tourism facility capable of hosting 28 guests. Today, the property covers 247 acres in a lush valley. Approximately 10% of the land is dedicated for the tourism buildings which includes the central lodge, volunteer cabins, vegetable gardens and trails; 15% is planted in shade grown coffee, and the remaining 75% of the property is a dense wet tropical primary and secondary forest as well as former pastures now being reforested.
coffee-mill-nicaragua-finca

What is your favorite part about running FEV?

My favorite part of running FEV is meeting the guests who visit the finca from all over the world. I enjoy sharing with them our latest projects or giving them a personal tour of our coffee estate. Most of the visitors are curious to learn about our daily operations and it gives me enormous pleasure to share this information with them.

What challenges have you faced running an eco-retreat in Nicaragua?

We are the keepers of this land so our job is to protect it, nourish it and sustain it in the most natural way possible. As we’ve taken on the stewardship of FEV, our biggest challenge is to maintain this extraordinary yet delicate balance between the natural environment that exists and the visiting groups and tourists it attracts. This harmony provides the solid foundation for our work where a community can thrive and the land can keep providing for all of us. Therefore, our most important work here is to teach the children of the community to respect their land and to show them by example the appreciation we have for our planet and what it means for their future and the future of their children.

You do a lot for your local community. Would you like to share more information about your involvement?

FEV is situated in the midst of the rural village of La Chispa. The farm provides members of this community with a very unique opportunity to support and be supported by a premier tourist attraction. This is offered as an activity when you visit the finca through our Green Hope Foundation program. Travelers wishing to be more than tourists have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of local Nicaraguans by visiting their homes to experience a cultural exchange. FEV also supports the community with an elementary school – “Escuela La Chispa”. The facility was built by FEV in 2001 with the help of volunteers and community members. It is located on a dedicated parcel of land inside the FEV property, just a 7 minute walk from the main lodge. A recent addition of 2 new classrooms and a small traditional kitchen was completed this year through the generous donation of guests from Spain and Holland. There are 45 kids attending from grades 1-6 plus 6 more in Pre-school.
Escuela-la-chispa-nicaragua-yoga-retreat

We love Nicaragua and hosting yoga retreats in Nicaragua. How did you become involved in the yoga community? How have you seen it evolve?

FEV is a little oasis in the highlands of Nicaragua. I love doing yoga here and I know how enjoyable it is for most of our guests as well. It is the perfect destination to clear your mind and connect with Mother Earth. In these uncertain times we are all searching to get away from the stress of our daily lives. At FEV we offer a holistic sensory experience in an inspiring and nurturing environment. What is really exciting is in the past several years we’ve seen yoga retreats evolve on many levels. Groups are looking to find a yoga destination for personal renewal where at the same time they can experience a connection with the local community. Visitors want more than just a destination – they want to get involved on a more personal level. We are excited about this new interest because it definitely works in harmony with our philosophy and mission.

What can your guests expect during their stay?

The unique “eco” experience at FEV is built around the beautiful forests, shade-grown coffee, 60 – 100 mile views, fantastic birding, a well maintained trail system, care and restoration of habitats and the watershed, reforestation of native trees, extensive use of local building materials, “green building” techniques and renewable energy systems (hydro and solar). Visitors to FEV experience a level of quality and comfort superior to any mountain accommodations in Nicaragua. It is an opportunity to live extremely close to wild nature with the benefit of being safe and comfortable.

Your food is amazing. Would you like to share your food philosophy?

Keeping it simple – that is our motto! From farm to table vegetables and locally sourced meats and dairies, FEV’s seasonal menus are served family style. Our two amazing cooks – self taught women from our community – prepare traditional Nica dishes from scratch creating beautiful dishes using only the freshest ingredients with the occasional Asian or Caribbean fusion!

What is a typical day like at FEV?

On any given morning, you’ll get a 5 am wake up call by the howler monkeys! By 6 am farm workers are busy tending to their chores; the sound of the “tortillera” tapping the masa for the tortillas made fresh each morning; the early rising birders are out to catch the first glimpse of their target birds. There is the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the dining room while the crew prepares to serve breakfast. Sunrise yoga in the pavilion. You’ll hear the bell ring promptly at 7:30am to call for breakfast, then again at noon for lunch and later at 6:30 for dinner. The day evolves around meals, hiking the trails or touring the coffee estate with the “Mandador”, our coffee manager. You may want to relax in a hammock in our open air pavilion enjoying a good book while gazing into the majestic westerly view of the mountains. You can choose to take a walk and listen to the exotic sounds of the tropics. While on the Blue trail take a dip in the waterfall. Each weekday morning, the school children walk in front of the lodge heading to class. Stop by the school to say hola on your way down the Red Trail. Daytrippers arrive by foot or hitch a ride on our FEV truck. Everyone mingles, the day is full of activities. Before you know it, the evening arrives to greet you with a spectacular sunset. More yoga. The perfect ending to an active day in a peaceful place.
handmade-tortillas-nicaragua-yoga-retreat

Your team maintains miles of hiking trails. Which hiking trail is your favorite and why?

It’s hard to pick a favorite. Each of our 5 hiking trails are quite unique in their own way. But if I had to choose one I would pick the Blue Trail. It offers a first time visitor lots of different features and diverse wildlife, all within an hour’s walk. At the end of the hike there’s a wonderful swimming hole with a waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip. Continue on the trail and you will find our butterfly sanctuary. It’s one special moment after another.

FEV is a pretty sensual place… the flavors, smells, sights and sounds. How would you describe these?

FEV is a place where natural elements artfully blend together to balance one another. Minimalism balanced with quality; wild jungle balanced with comfort; rich woods, brightly colored flowers and wild calls surround you. One could call it a jungle Zen! It is clean, light, and open – and at the same time, personal, comfortable, even romantic.This combination of mountain wilderness blended with modern comforts is present in the architecture and design of the property, in the accommodations, and in the food. We like to believe we are giving our guests an experience that doesn’t take them out of the local culture but rather immerses them in the best of Nicaragua.

FEV is involved with many university and high school programs. What types of groups are coming to FEV right now?

The former owners of FEV introduced the finca to several high schools, universities and birders from North Carolina where they were from. We have continued to host these diverse groups because of our commitment to their cause, an important part of our mission today and one that we feel we can build on. We’ve been promoting our finca to grad students, yoga studios and other groups interested in learning what we do and to help us continue with the important work of sustainability.

FEV is a birder and nature lovers paradise. Tell me about your favorite sightings.

We have many beautiful creatures which call FEV home. I enjoy seeing and hearing the howler monkeys as they swing across the canopy close to the lodge. The sighting of a Rainbow Toucan is always a treat. But there is nothing quite like watching a Mama Sloth with her baby in tow moving ever so elegantly from one tree limb to another. Pure grace!

hummingbirds-nicaragua

A Long Billed Hermit Hummingbird photographed by John Diener Research Curator of Ornithology at North Carolina Museum of Natural Science.

And just for fun, chocolate or coffee?

Coffee

If you were an animal what would you be?

A Lioness.

Vivianne and I hope to see you in the Nicaraguan highlands soon. Join us for our yoga retreat in the mountains of Nicaragua: Yoga in the Clouds February 11-18, 2017.

Love and Light

Autumn

Autumn Adams
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Top Five Carry On Necessities

carry-on-items-for-yogis

Happy Tuesday yogis and yoginis. I’ve just made it home from an incredible trip to Nicaragua where I had the opportunity to host my second annual yoga and surf retreat at Costa Dulce and explored Finca Esperanza Verde in the high country above Matagalpa. I feel truly blessed.

I’m constantly traveling and I thought that it’s about time I share my must have carry on items. These are the items that are always in my carry on bag.

  1. My phone. I load my phone up with music, guided meditations and podcasts. I also transfer off old photos and videos to clear space for new memories. My phone also has Duolingo (a language app) and XE (a conversion app).
  2. Journal and pen. I love writing lists and flying is the perfect time to write lists, to-do lists, goals, business plans, brainstorm ideas, etc. Your journal and pen can also help you de-stress (get those thoughts out of your head on paper) and connect with your seat-mate (tic-tac-toe, hangman, etc.). Also, nice to collect other people’s contact info, etc (make sure to write a note or two about them, so you’ll remember them later).
  3. Toiletry kit. I occasionally overdue the toiletry kit ie. I stuff as much possible into that little bag. Here is my loot: Alaffia Purely Coconut Fair Trade Lip Balm or ALL Good Lips Coconut Lip Balm with SPF 20, Weleda Calendula Baby Face Cream, ALBA Pineapple Enzyme Face Wipes, Crystal travel size deodorant, toothbrush and paste, and doTerra OnGuard or Wyndmere Immune Support Essential Oil.
  4. Tea and Emergen-C. When traveling we’re not sleeping well and we’re continually being bombarded by germs. I pack a couple of packs of Emergen-C and a couple of different teas (Peppermint for digestion, Lavender Honey for relaxation, and Green Tea for an energy boost)
  5. Comfort Kit. My manduka travel yoga mat (awesome for long layovers and in-seat lumbar support), inflatable neck pillow, eye cover, ear plugs and ear buds.

I know I said 5, but I also ALWAYS pack a destination appropriate change of clothes. Fresh clothes and a few minutes in the bathroom freshening up can make a world of difference… trust me.

What are your favorite carry-on items?

Safe travels yogis!

Love and Light,

Autumn

Autumn Adams
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