Story: Relaxation and Yoga High in the Colorado Rockies

It was my mother's birthday, and I was at a loss as to what to get her. What do you get for the woman who has everything? The woman who works hard at her full time job in addition to teaching five yoga classes a week? The woman who is always so busy that she never takes time out to pamper herself? When a friend suggested Shoshoni Yoga Retreat, I knew that I had the perfect present for my mom. I got online and made reservations for both she and I to attend a Yoga Day Retreat. I knew that the yoga and pranayama (breathing) classes, the wholesome vegetarian lunch, and the facial or massage would be a great way to honor my hardworking mom.

The drive to Shoshoni, which is located about 35 minutes west of Boulder, would take us nearly three hours, so we had to leave at the crack of dawn to get there by 9:00am. After we exited the interstate, the drive was delightful. We passed peaceful, small mountain towns and spectacular views. Turning onto the dirt road at Rollinsville, I felt transformed into a little girl on my first day of summer camp. The cabins, the lake, the chorus of croaking frogs, the smell of pine needles, the panoramic mountain views all brought me back to those carefree summer days. Once out of the car, I felt the stress and tension melt from my back and shoulders, and we had only just arrived.

After registering, exploring the temples, and being greeted by a friendly resident cat, we were ready for our first session. Since we were tired from sitting in the car, we chose a group walking meditation instead of pranayama class. The leader led us on a narrow mountain path where we could get in touch with our inner peace while convening with nature. It wasn't difficult to find inner peace in this place, so far away from the noise and chaos of the city. The quiet was so gratifying.

Next we attended our yoga class. The yoga class was invigorating and left me feeling relaxed and as limp as a noodle. At the class, we met several individuals who were completing the month-long yoga teachers training and living together in the dormitory. Their time together had obviously bonded them together closely and felicitously. They seemed so serene and amiable. Why couldn't I always be that way? Was it from doing yoga every day? Or was it just the magic of this place?

After yoga, I was ravished. The cafeteria was intimate and welcomed us with a very promising aroma. It looked promising too, except for that orange stuff. I hesitantly scooped some of it anyway and followed my mom to a long table where a few other people already sat. The food was indeed delicious, and the orange stuff turned out to be heavenly. I believe it was made from yams, but that was not like any ordinary yam I had ever tasted; it was completely sublime. I had seconds. Thirds.

We sat and talked to the other people at our table. Normally I am reserved with strangers, but I found myself talking to these people like they were old friends. Maybe this place was indeed magical. There were people from all over the country, as far as New York and Florida. Women on girlfriends only retreats, a couple from Boulder looking for a romantic week together, people on day visits like ourselves. Yoga teachers and yoga novices convened together. There was one man who had given up all of his worldly possessions to come and live here at the ashram and to conduct selfless service. I wondered to myself if I could give up my possessions and live at an ashram, dedicating my life to service and healthy living. Normally, my answer would be a resounding no, but being there in these peaceful surroundings, it seemed like a possibility.

The last part of our day was the spa. My mom had chosen a facial, and I had decided to go for the massage. It was pure bliss. In addition to facials, massages, and herbal wraps, the facilities also offer ayurvedic (ancient Hindu health system) treatments and full retreats. We were both glowing when the treatments were over, and I felt so relaxed that I could have easily melted into puddle on the floor. I coaxed myself up; there was still much more to do. We perused the bookstore, and I bought a Shoshoni cookbook.

Although all of our activities and treatments were finished, we could stay at the center until 4:00. Not wanting to waste any of our precious time at Shoshoni, we decided to hike one of the trails that wound through the woods. I was delighted by the play of light and shadow on the forest floor between the thick woods. It was so desolate - we didn't see a single soul on the entire hike. When it was time to head home, I had to try and shake myself out of my blissful fog of tranquility in order to face the rush hour traffic and drive home.

Shoshoni Yoga Retreat encompasses the quintessential yoga rejuvenation retreat. Mom and I plan on going there again soon and staying overnight in one of their cabins, which I hear are very nice. Those who insist upon opulent luxury will be disappointed. Anyone who is ready to relive those summer camp days of yore with wholesome, delicious food, warm people, abundant nature, and classes and spa services that provide the utmost in rejuvenation will be satisfied and yearning for more.