Yoga Earthbag Retreat

Dates: September 22 - October 14


Location: Sri Ashram, Kumamoto

Embark on a unique journey that combines the transformative power of Yoga with the hands-on experience of sustainable building. At our Yoga Earthbag Retreat, you will immerse yourself in the holistic lifestyle of Yoga while learning the practical skills needed to construct an Earthbag Dome. Nestled in the serene surroundings of Sri Ashram in Kumamoto, this retreat offers a rare opportunity to harmonize mind, body, and the environment.

Imagine starting your day with the tranquility of meditation, followed by invigorating yoga sessions that align your body and spirit. You will engage in breathing practices and challenging asanas under the guidance of experienced instructors, fostering both physical strength and inner peace. As the day progresses, you will shift from spiritual practice to the tangible task of earthbag building. This hands-on workshop will teach you how to create a sustainable, eco-friendly structure from the ground up.

The retreat not only focuses on physical and environmental well-being but also on cultivating a deeper connection with nature. The peaceful landscape of Sri Ashram, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil spaces, provides the perfect backdrop for this immersive experience. Whether you are a seasoned yoga practitioner or a beginner, the blend of yoga and sustainable construction offers a comprehensive approach to holistic living.

Daily Schedule:

4:30 AM: Meditation

5:00 AM: Himalayan Kriya

6:00 AM: Asana

7:30 AM: Breakfast (Chai, Nuts, and Banana)

8:30 AM - 4:30 PM: Earthbag Building Workshop (12:30-13:30 Lunch Time)

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Philosophy Class

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Kirtan

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Dinner

7:30 PM: Onsen

9:00 PM: Noble Silence Until Breakfast

What We Will Be Building:

3m diameter Earthbag Dome

Course Options:

• 10-Day Course: Earthbag Building Frame

• 3-Week Course: Comprehensive Earthbag Construction (Building will not be completed in 3 weeks but partially we will finish so everyone can learn all the finishing techniques)

Fee:

• 10-Day Course: $1,500 USD (¥233,000)

• 3-Week Course: $2,200 USD (¥333,000)

Capacity:

• Total Capacity: 15 people

• Female Capacity: Maximum of 5 out of the total

What's Included:

• Earthbag Workshop: Professional earthbag Instructors, Earthbag material & tools, a take-home Handbook

• Yoga Classes: Morning Sadhana(Meditation, Himalayan Kriya, Asana), Philosophy, Kirtan

• Vegetarian Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Zuddha Chai

• Tent Pitch Fee and/or Sleeping in your car

What's Not Included:

• Transportation: To and from Sri Ashram

• Camping Tools: Tent, Sleeping bag, etc.

• Onsen (Hot Spring): Approx. ¥600 per visit

• Insurance

Who will be leading the retreat?

Kohji Kozakai: (Earthbag)

Kohji Kozakai has nurtured a passion for artistry from a young age, beginning with the search for the perfect land to create his ideal studio. Since 2004, he has specialized in crafting Mexican-style interiors and exteriors, tree houses, dome houses, mobile houses, sculptures, mosaic tile art, and stone ovens. In 2011, he discovered the "Earthbag Construction Method," which led him to establish the Japan Earthbag Association in December 2012. Kohji Kozakai focuses on creating spaces using earth as the primary material, blending the Earthbag construction method with traditional Japanese techniques.

Waylon Belding: (Yoga)

Waylon Belding was born in the forest mountains of British Columbia, Canada. When he first discovered Yoga at 17, his mind and body were healed, transforming his life henceforth. Following the lineage of his Guru and many great teachers, Waylon is dedicated to the practice, lifestyle, and principles of Yoga. Specializing in Raja Yoga and Kriya Yoga and advanced Asana, he has been practicing for over 20 years and teaching since 2001. He regularly teaches retreats and Teacher Training courses internationally, traveling with his partner and great Yoga teacher Shihoko Otsubo and their Yogini daughters: Padma and Amrita-Lila.

Finally

This retreat is designed to be a sanctuary where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with your inner self and the natural world. The integration of yoga practices with earthbag building workshops creates a unique rhythm to your day, balancing exertion with relaxation, and learning with reflection. By the end of the retreat, you will not only have gained new skills and insights but also a renewed sense of harmony and well-being. If you would like to join the retreat, please contact: sri.ashram.kumamoto@gmail.com

Participants Agreement form: Google form

Check out our Official Instagram: Sri.ashram_kumamoto