Move with Grace, Find your Space - Inner Kindness Sets the Pace
with Sampada Desai, M.A., LPC, NCC, E-RYT 500, CLL/CLTT
February 20 - 22, 2026
This weekend retreat offers a transformative experience designed to nurture self-compassion through an integral blend of psychology, yoga, and laughter. Grounded in science yet infused with joy and levity, you will learn to soften self-criticism, reconnect with your entire being and rediscover the healing power of community and play in a safe, nurturing space. Come as you are—leave lighter, brighter, and more connected—to yourself and to others.
Objectives:
- Understand the science and practice of self-compassion.
- Cultivate emotional awareness and respond with kindness.
- Reconnect with the body through yoga practices like poses, breathwork,
meditation and relaxation.
- Rediscover joy and play as tools for resilience.
- Build community and shared humanity.
- Integrate learning into daily life with practical strategies.
Target Audience:
Adults seeking personal growth, stress relief, or emotional resilience. Ideal for individuals interested in mind-body-spirit practices, those struggling with self-criticism or burnout, and anyone open to reconnecting with joy.
Testimonials:
“Sam’s joy is truly infectious. The experiential practices created a profound shift in me. When the student is ready, the teacher appears—and Sam is an amazing teacher! I’m leaving with so many valuable takeaways. I feel better equipped to give myself permission to let go and accept that everything is as it should be in this moment.” Maria Olsen
“This weekend helped me break free from outside expectations and find peace in knowing that I am enough and on my own unique journey. I feel more at peace than Ihave in a long time.” Whitney Peterson
“Sam is always amazing! I’ve taken several of her programs, and each one has been life-enriching. I love her knowledge, spirit, and infectious smile.” JoAnn Whitely
FRIDAY |
|
| 3–5 pm | Registration |
| 5–6:30 | Mixed Level Hatha |
| 5–5:45 | Yoga Nidra |
| 6–6:30 | Meditation |
| 6:30–7:15 | Dinner |
| 7:30–9 | Welcome and Intention Setting |
SATURDAY |
|
| 6–7 am | Integral Yoga Meditation |
| 7:10–8:40 | Integral Yoga Hatha – Level 1 |
| 7:10–8:40 | Integral Yoga Hatha – Level 2 |
| 7:10–8:40 | Joint Freeing Series with Hope Mell |
| 8–9:30 | Breakfast |
| 10–11:30 | Science of Self Compassion & Quieting the Inner Critic |
| 11:45 | Van to LOTUS |
| 12–12:30 pm | Meditation at LOTUS |
| 12:45–1:30 | Lunch |
| 3–5 | Kindness in Motion: Practical Tools for Daily Life |
| 5:30–6:15 | Dinner |
| 7:30–9 | Satsang (gathering of the seekers of Truth) |
| Kirtan (Music & Chanting), Video of Swami Satchidananda | |
| Speaker | |
SUNDAY |
|
| 6–7 am | Integral Yoga Meditation |
| 7:10–8:40 | Integral Yoga Hatha – Level 1 |
| 7:10–8:40 | Integral Yoga Hatha – Level 2 |
| 8–9:30 | Breakfast |
| 10–11:30 | Integration and Growth |
| 12–12:30 pm | Meditation |
| 12:45–1:30 | Lunch |
About the Presenter
Sampada Desai, M.A., LPC, NCC, E-RYT 500, CLL/CLTT
Sam Desai is a licensed professional counselor with over 30 years of experience helping individuals cultivate balance, resilience, and holistic well-being. Her career spans healthcare organizations, educational settings, and mental health agencies. She is the proud founder of Desai Counseling and Yoga and the creator of the 2-Day Choose Laughter Certification Program. As an experienced […]
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