Yogis were in Jamaica For Second Annual Caribbean Yoga Conference
By Theo Chambers
Whether looking to master the ‘downward facing dog’ or ‘warrior’ poses, the island of Jamaica was ripe with master yoga instructors ready to engage the cores of yogis of all levels during the second annual Caribbean Yoga Conference.
This weekend-long event was designed for participants to connect with one another while learning new skills and sharpening existing ones.
The conference was held at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay. Yoga enthusiasts from around the world participated.
Surrounded by a tranquil backdrop of palm trees, turquoise waters and sandy beaches, the event featured workshops and seminars led by celebrated instructors, such as Toni Bergins, Gaia Budhai and Elena Brower.
The 2013 event also included the new family-friendly CircusYoga programme, geared towards children ages seven-14. These classes playfully blend the practice of yoga with the skills of the circus and can be done as a family affair.
Additionally, as a special way to give back to the island, Caribbean Yoga Conference organisers invited the SOS Children’s Village, a Montego Bay-area orphanage, to participate in the CircusYoga programme.
The Jamaica Tourist Board sponsored the Caribbean Yoga Conference 2013. “The practice of yoga has been performed by many on our island for years,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s director of tourism.
The Caribbean Yoga Conference was successful in accomplishing its goals last year, and welcomed even more yogis to the 2013 event.
The conference was a fitting addition to the island’s calendar of events and demonstrated the diversity of Jamaica’s sports-tourism offerings.
The Caribbean Yoga Conference is the brainchild of Kimberly Moon, founder of Bella Luna Yoga, a consulting firm that assists destinations and resorts in expanding their yoga and wellness programmes.
The conference cost US$345 per person. Group rates were also available through Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa.
For more information on the Caribbean Yoga Conference 2014, please visit www.caribbeanyogaconference.com
