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7-Day “Self-Inquiry” Yoga Retreat in Ioannina, Greece
”A week to turn inward, question, and meet the truth of who you are.”
ABOUT THE ''SELF INQUIRY'' YOGA RETREAT
Step into a week of profound self-exploration in the heart of Ioannina, Greece, where city life and nature blend seamlessly. Held at the Yoga Fusion Shala, this retreat offers multi-style yoga sessions, including Ashtanga Mysore, Vinyasa flows, Yin and Restorative practices, and meditative self-inquiry sessions. Each practice is designed to cultivate focus, presence, and inner awareness, guiding you to connect deeply with your body, breath, and mind while exploring the subtleties of self-inquiry.
Our home away from home is the Urban Yoga House, a simple shared-living space fostering reflection, connection, and a sense of community. Situated in the city center, the retreat allows easy access to Ioannina’s charming streets, cafés, and culture, while still being within reach of breathtaking mountains, serene lakes, and beaches nearby for mindful excursions.
This 7-day journey is perfect for yogis of all levels seeking a diverse yet meditative practice container, a supportive environment, and the opportunity to reconnect deeply with themselves while experiencing both the vibrant heart and natural beauty of Ioannina.
RETREAT PRACTICES OVERVIEW
Vinyasa Yoga
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Flowing with the breath.
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Dynamic Flow: Experience a continuous sequence of poses synchronized with breath, creating a rhythmic and energizing practice.
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Varied Sequences: Classes may include sun salutations, standing poses, balancing postures, backbends, and seated stretches, offering a comprehensive full-body experience.
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Mind-Body Connection: Emphasis on linking movement with breath to cultivate mindfulness and enhance mental clarity.
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Physical Benefits: Improves strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health.
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All Levels Welcome!
Traditional Hatha Yoga:
Sivananda
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Each class follows a traditional sequence designed to build strength, flexibility, and inner peace.
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Pranayama (Breathing Techniques): Techniques like Kapalabhati and Anuloma Viloma to cleanse and energize.
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Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar): Dynamic sequences to warm up the body.
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12 Basic Asanas: Foundational poses such as Cobra, Shoulderstand, and Triangle Pose.
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Final Relaxation (Savasana): Deep rest to integrate the practice.
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Enhances physical health and flexibility. Reduces stress and calms the mind.Promotes emotional well-being and self-awareness.
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All Levels Welcome!
Ashtanga Primary Series
Led & Mysore
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Mysore style: Self-paced, allowing participants to move through the Ashtanga sequence at their own rhythm. Personalized guidance and adjustments from the teacher.
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Led Ashtanga: Instructor-led Primary Series with postures called out in Sanskrit. Cultivates unity, discipline, and focus in a group setting Structured environment to refine technique and alignment.
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Preparatory Postures and Modification postures of the difficult asanas for health in alignment.
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Respecting the tradition: Opening & Closing mantras
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Technique & Alignment Workshops: These classes will bring safety, awareness, and mindfulness to your practice.
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All Levels Welcome!
Yin & Restorative
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Slow-Paced, Deep Stretching: Hold poses for 3–5 minutes to target deep connective tissues, enhancing flexibility and joint health.
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Mindfulness Focus: Cultivate patience and mental clarity through stillness and breath awareness.
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Complementary Practice: Balances more dynamic styles like Vinyasa, promoting overall well-being.
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Restorative Deep Relaxation: Utilize props to support the body in restful poses, held for 5–20 minutes to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
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Stress Relief: Reduces anxiety and promotes emotional balance through gentle stretching and mindful breathing.
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All Levels Welcome!
Pranayama & Raja Yoga
(Breathing, Mental Training & Meditation)
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Breath Control Techniques: Learn to regulate the breath through various techniques, enhancing the mind-body connection.
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Physical Benefits: Improves lung capacity and respiratory function. Enhances oxygen absorption and detoxification. Regulates blood pressure and heart rate.
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Mental & Emotional Benefits: Reduces stress and anxiety levels. Promotes better sleep quality. Increases mindfulness and emotional resilience.
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Holistic Integration: Incorporate pranayama practices into daily life to maintain balance and well-being
Nada Yoga &Yoga Nidra
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Sacred Sound Practice: Engage in the repetition of specific sounds or phrases (mantras) to focus the mind and elevate consciousness.
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Sound Immersion: Experience sound baths and resonance techniques to release tension and promote relaxation.
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Deep Relaxation: Guided meditation practice inducing a state between wakefulness and sleep, promoting profound rest.
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Emotional Release: Facilitates the release of stored emotions and promotes emotional well-being.
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Spiritual Upliftment: Facilitates a deeper connection to one's higher self and spiritual growth.
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Community Connection: Participate in group chanting to foster a sense of unity and shared energy.
Iyengar Yoga Elements
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Precision & Alignment: Focus on anatomical details to ensure each posture is performed with optimal alignment, enhancing effectiveness and safety.
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Use of Props: Incorporating props like blocks, straps, and blankets to support proper alignment and make poses accessible to all practitioners.
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Therapeutic Benefits: Designed to systematically cultivate strength, flexibility, stability, and awareness, with potential therapeutic effects for specific conditions.
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Mindfulness & Focus: Emphasis on holding poses for extended periods to develop concentration, mental clarity, and a meditative state.
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All Levels Welcome!
Sattwic Yogic Lifestyle
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Yogic Ethics in Practice
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Three gunas: spiritual and energetic effects. Lifestyle for advanced hatha yoga practice. Introduction to Ayurveda.
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Healing based on a type-related lifestyle. Healthy Lifestyle & Holistic Life.
*During our retreat we will learn all about the benefits of implementing a sattvic yogic diet into our daily lives and the deep connection of Yoga and Ayurveda philosophies, while following a vegetarian balanced food that will optimize our spiritual and physical yogic practices.
To prepare yourselves for the retreat we advise you to abstain from using drugs, alcohol, tobacco, onion, garlic, meat and fish.
TRAINING'S INCLUDED EXTRAS & HIGHLIGHTS
Daily Optional extra Hands On Assists, Anatomy & Adjustments Workshops
Opening & Closing Circles
Daily Optional extra Philosophy Sessions and discussions
ALSO INCLUDED IN THE TRAINING:
Airport - Venue Transfers
Accommodation, 3 daily vegetarian / vegan meals and daily unlimited fresh water, tea/coffee with dried fruits, nuts, biscuits / cake of the day
YOU GET YOGA FUSION SHALA'S MEMBERS SPECIAL DISCOUNT CARD FOR:
Massage Sessions
Live & Online Classes
Live & Online Future Teacher Training Courses, Workshops & Retreats
NOT INCLUDED:
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Flight tickets
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Travel Insurance
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Extra Activities not mentioned above
DAILY SCHEDULE
Each day of the retreat is thoughtfully designed to balance dynamic practice, deep relaxation, and cultural exploration. Mornings begin with meditation, mantra chanting and pranayama to awaken the body and focus the mind, followedby energizing yoga sessions such as Ashtanga Mysore or Ashtanga led practices.
Mid-mornings and afternoons there are several optional extra workshops featuring technique and alignment workshops, hands on assists and adjustments learning, yoga philosophy discussions and documentary screening, or yoga anatomy, allowing participants to deepen their practice at their own pace. Evenings are reserved for gentle Yin, Sivananda, Technique alignment or restorative and yoga nidra sessions, fostering deep rest and integration, while still leaving time to explore the vibrant streets, cafés, and historic sites of beautiful Ioannina. Each day seamlessly blends movement, mindfulness, and leisure, ensuring a holistic and rejuvenating experience.
YOGA PROPS & EQUIPMENT
All essential yoga props for practice —including mats, blocks, straps, bolsters, Iyengar chairs, and more—are fully provided on site and aligned with the styles and traditions we teach. If you prefer to use your own personal equipment, feel free to bring it with you. It is good to bring anything you might need to take notes etc on optional included workshops you might wish to participate into.
Looking for something new?
A brand-new Manduka yoga mat can be provided upon request for an additional fee.
PRE-REQUISITES & CONDITIONS
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This retreat welcomes all levels. Many participants join simply to deepen their personal practice and understanding of yoga. While a basic knowledge of asanas, yoga philosophy, and a regular practice is welcomed, it is not mandatory—you will still benefit fully from this immersive experience.
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Participants should be in good general health and able to engage in gentle to moderate physical activity.
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The retreat will be conducted entirely in English. Participants should have a basic understanding of the language.
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This retreat is ideal for those who wish to: Deepen their personal yoga practice, explore yoga on a physical, mental, and spiritual level.
*Deposit Policy: Please note that the Deposit is Non-Refundable.
TEACHERS
(Guest Assisting retreat teachers are not participating in all retreat circles)
LEAD RETREAT TEACHER
Thina Chat E-RYT 500, YACEP®
Yoga Teacher / Founder of
Yoga Fusion Shala
Thina was into her music and performing career when she decided to move from Athens to the Netherlands in 2011. In 2012 she started studying in Yoga Vidya in the Netherlands and completed her first 2-year teacher training course in Sivananda. Followed a TTC in Ashtanga by Manju Pattabhi Jois and practices with authorized teachers Bela Lipat and Vairagya Ranko. Since 2018 she is the owner of ''Yoga Fusion Shala'' center and retreat in Ioannina, Greece, while sharing her knowledge, love for this philosophy, and her multi-year experience as a E-500RYT and YACEP educator with Yoga Alliance, through her teachers' training courses and workshops internationally...
GUEST RETREAT TEACHER
Jonas Vellas E-RYT 500
Yoga Teacher / Founder of
Studio 108
GUEST RETREAT TEACHER
Stratos Marougkas RYT 200
Yoga Teacher
IOANNINA: THE LAKESIDE TREASURE OF NORTHERN GREECE
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Nestled in the heart of Epirus, Ioannina—once known as the “Capital of Enlightenment”—offers a unique blend of natural wonder, cultural depth, and tranquil charm. This lakeside city carries the soul of forgotten centuries, where history breathes through narrow stone streets and traditional architecture, yet gently meets the rhythm of modern life.
Your retreat home sits in the old city, a district rich with folklore architecture and timeless atmosphere. Within the fortified walls of Ioannina Castle, time seems to slow down. Wandering through its hidden pathways feels like stepping into another era, where stories echo from centuries past. From the castle’s vantage points, sweeping views of the landscape might just tempt you to stay longer than planned.
Just below lies the iconic Lake Pamvotida, the shimmering heart of Ioannina. Its lakeside promenade, shaded by ancient plane trees, offers a peaceful escape for morning walks, silent contemplation, or sunset relaxation. A short boat ride takes you to the tiny island of Nisaki, a serene corner of the lake dotted with monasteries, artisan shops, and quiet cafés. The mirror-like reflections of Mount Mitsikeli complete this magical setting.
When you’re ready to explore beyond the city, the region offers unforgettable experiences.
Visit Dodoni, one of the most ancient oracles in Greece. Wander the stone-built villages of Zagorochoria, cross charming bridges, or marvel at the dramatic depths of Vikos Gorge, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. For a taste of mountain culture, the traditional town of Metsovo awaits with warm hospitality and alpine charm.
Ioannina is also a gateway to some of Greece’s most beloved summer destinations. Within a short drive, you can reach the turquoise beaches of Parga, Syvota, and Preveza, or even venture out to the islands of Lefkas and Corfu.
Whether you’re seeking nature, culture, history, or simple stillness, Ioannina offers the perfect landscape to support your inner journey throughout the retreat.
NOURISH, REST, REPEAT
Welcome to the Urban Yoga House. A Place to Rest, Recharge, and Grow
ROOMS...
Our Ganesha room offers a bright and comfortable 4-bed setup that can also be arranged as a peaceful twin share room blending community living with flexibility.
Our Ganesha room offers a bright and comfortable 4-bed setup that can also be arranged as a peaceful twin share room blending community living with flexibility.
Lakshmi is your bright and peaceful sanctuary during the training. Available as a 4-bed dorm or twin-share, this cozy room offers comfort, calm energy, and the perfect space to rest and recharge.
Lakshmi is your bright and peaceful sanctuary during the training. Available as a 4-bed dorm or twin-share, this cozy room offers comfort, calm energy, and the perfect space to rest and recharge.
JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETABLE EXPERIENCE
Tucked into the historic heart of Ioannina, the Urban Yoga House offers a cozy and soulful base for your stay. This intimate retreat will host us across four thoughtfully designed rooms: the Ganesha and Lakshmi Dorms, each accommodating four participants. Each space blends comfort with a welcoming, restorative atmosphere to support your inner journey.
You will practice in our serene yoga studio, where light and openness create a perfect environment for both dynamic movement and mindful reflection. When you’re off the mat, unwind in the house’s communal lounge, stroll through the old city streets, or along the scenic shores of Lake Pamvotida. Our terrace offers breathtaking views of the city, Mount Mitsikeli, and the shimmering lake—perfect for morning meditations, sunset reflections, or simply relaxing with a cup of tea. Quiet corners and cozy seating areas throughout the Urban Yoga House offer peaceful spaces to rest, journal, or connect with fellow yogis.
Adding to the warmth of your stay is Rex, our amazing 16-year-old dog and one of Ioannina’s most beloved former strays. Known by locals throughout the city since his early days on the streets, Rex now enjoys the comforts of the Urban Yoga House and loves greeting visitors with his gentle, friendly presence—a true symbol of love, resilience, and community.
Whether practicing yoga, enjoying the terrace views, sharing stories in our welcoming spaces, or spending time with Rex, every moment at the Urban Yoga House is designed to nourish your body, mind, and spirit throughout your retreat time.
TASTE THE MAGIC OF IOANNINA! EVERY MEAL MADE WITH LOVE.
Discover the authentic taste of Greek cuisine with meals crafted by our talented chef Antonis in collaboration with Mystilli Restaurant. Every day, you will enjoy vibrant vegetarian and vegan dishes, delivered directly to the Urban Yoga House and Yoga Fusion Shala, blending traditional Greek flavors with modern fusion twists and using the finest local ingredients.
From wholesome salads and hearty mains to freshly prepared Greek classics and plant-based creations, each vegetarian and vegan meal is designed to nourish your body, delight your senses, and support your yoga practice. Seasonal, local produce ensures every dish is fresh, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner become daily anchors—moments to connect, relax, and recharge.
Antonis’s vegetarian and vegan meals provide not just nourishment, but a delicious taste of Ioannina’s culinary soul, supporting your body and spirit throughout your retreat.
DATES, BOOKING & COST
2026 Dates
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2027 Dates
Book Now!