One of the questions I frequently get asked is “why did you decide to host yoga retreats in Minnesota?”
Several years ago I began to dream up these retreats. I spent countless hours poring over retreat locations online, focusing on areas that have already been made popular for yoga retreats, such as Joshua Tree. Somewhere along the way I started to wonder what I would have to offer that the locals in these locations weren’t already providing. There were so many incredible-sounding providers and offerings out there, and while it would still be a dream come true to teach in such a place, something wasn’t quite right.
Part of the challenge I saw for me personally was having enough time to fully “retreat,” while not being away from my family longer than I was comfortable with. A longer, out-of-state retreat also seemed out of my personal budget, therefore beyond the reach of the people I was interested in working with and providing retreats for.
Looking around me, the solution seemed obvious. This state I have called home for all of my 40 years has more to offer than many people realize. I find my spirit renewed each time I step on one of the nearby trails, take a dip in a lake, lie down on a snow-covered hill, or spend a quiet evening gazing up at the stars. There was a “ah-ha moment” as I began to see how the retreat activities could connect with our everyday lives.
My retreat location search shifted to the Twin Cities and surrounding areas, no more than a 3-hour-drive away. It wasn’t easy, but I found a handful of options that fit into my budget and dream retreat scenario.
Sweet Spirit Yoga was born (Under the name of “Sattva Spirit”! I kept the name for about a year or so until it no longer resonated and after many more brainstorming sessions Sweet Spirit came along).
I saw the opportunity to provide retreats that were affordable and accessible to more people, along with realizing what a major value that is for me. Many of my retreat guests are moms, employed full-time, and have other responsibilities that can make it difficult to get away. I love having options that they can enjoy guilt-free!
Our incredible Land of 10,000 Lakes is full of beauty and talented people. I find myself incredibly blessed to be sharing yoga retreats here.
***I recognize that while the retreats may be accessible to some, they are not accessible to all. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please reach out to explore other options with me.
Amber Perry
Amber loves sharing retreats in MN (& now Wisconsin!). She is passionate about sharing tools folks can use “off the mat” and in daily life. She shares her work through retreats, group classes, private yoga sessions, Thai Yoga Bodywork, & Facial Reflexology. Most of all, she just really loves people.