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Author: Todd

Thanh Nguyen – PYTT

Written by Todd on . Posted in Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Testimonial, Testimonials.

In 2021, I had the opportunity to take a 1:1 Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training course with Bobby Bessey in Hanoi. It was one of the best learning experiences I have ever had. Not just a course on how to teach yoga to pregnant women, the program also opened up a treasure trove of useful knowledge related to pre- and post-natal care for women, especially pelvic floor health – an important but under-regarded topic.

Bobby is a dedicated, approachable, experienced teacher who has been a birth doula for many years. Her deep understanding of the female body, combined with her practical experience and love for the profession, brings to the course an authentic, inspiring, and receptive learning atmosphere. I was particularly impressed by the way she integrated knowledge of anatomy, maternal psychology, and maternity care skills into each lesson. Each posture and exercise was thoroughly analyzed from a safety perspective and appropriate for each stage of pregnancy. In addition, knowledge about the pelvic floor, how to recognize, care for, and recover is also a highlight of the course – not only for pregnant mothers but also useful for all women who care about their long-term health.

Năm 2021 mình có cơ hội được học khóa đào tạo giáo viên Yoga Bầu (Prenatal Yoga) 1:1 với Bobby Bessey tại Hà Nội. Đó là một trong những trải nghiệm học tập tuyệt vời nhất mà mình từng có. Không chỉ đơn thuần là một khóa học về cách hướng dẫn yoga cho mẹ bầu, chương trình còn mở ra cho mình một kho tàng kiến thức bổ ích liên quan đến chăm sóc phụ nữ trước và sau sinh, đặc biệt là về sức khỏe sàn chậu – một chủ đề quan trọng nhưng còn ít được quan tâm đúng mức.

Bobby là một cô giáo tận tâm, gần gũi, giàu kinh nghiệm, người từng làm birth doula (birth doula là người tốt nghiệp đại học Y khoa, 4 năm tập trung vào sinh nở) trong nhiều năm. Sự hiểu biết sâu sắc về cơ thể người phụ nữ, kết hợp cùng kinh nghiệm thực tiễn và tình yêu nghề của cô, đã mang lại cho khóa học một không khí học tập chân thực, truyền cảm hứng và dễ tiếp thu.

Mình đặc biệt ấn tượng với cách cô lồng ghép kiến thức giải phẫu, tâm lý mẹ bầu và kỹ năng chăm sóc thai sản vào từng buổi học. Mỗi tư thế, mỗi bài tập đều được phân tích cặn kẽ từ góc độ an toàn và phù hợp với từng giai đoạn thai kỳ. Ngoài ra, những kiến thức về sàn chậu, cách nhận biết, chăm sóc và phục hồi cũng là điểm sáng của khóa học – không chỉ dành cho mẹ bầu mà còn hữu ích cho mọi phụ nữ quan tâm đến sức khỏe lâu dài của mình. Có thể nói Bobby đã truyền đạt kiến thức với tất cả kinh nghiệm thực tế và trái tim. Nếu bạn đang tìm kiếm một khóa đào tạo thực tiễn, chuyên sâu, nhân văn và truyền cảm hứng, thì đây chắc chắn là một lựa chọn không nên bỏ qua!

Japan Zen Meditation Study and Tour

Written by Todd on . Posted in International, Teacher Training.

Japan 2027:

Scroll down for more info and register to hold your spot below.

 

Other Shakti Study Retreats with Bobby

Vietnam (Spring 2026) Yin Yoga and Taoism study retreat. Join Bobby in HoiAn for an unforgettable study retreat in one of Vietnam’s most enchanting locations. Set in the historic trading port of Hoi An, renowned for its lantern-lit riverboat rides, this retreat is nestled between an ancient river and the pristine white sands of the Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the perfect environment to explore yoga and Taoism, surrounded by ancient temples, fresh, vegetable-rich cuisine, and the world-famous local coffee variations.

Japan 2027: Not your Usual Yoga retreat!
Join Bobby Bobby Bessey, B.Sc., E-RYT 500, RPYT, Yoga Teacher Trainer, for an immersive Zen Meditation retreat in the captivating and exotic surroundings of Tokyo and its tranquil environs. Experience the timeless beauty of Mt. Fuji, visit ancient temples, partake in traditional tea ceremonies, unwind in soothing hot springs, and more. Let Bobby guide you through a journey of mindfulness, history, and culture in her beloved home away from home.  Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to be contacted when registration is open.

  • ASHRAM RETREAT AND INDIA TOUR DATE:

    Dates TBA

  • INCLUDES:

    • Arrival support in Mumbai and ongoing assistance for duration of tour. 
    • Transit from Mumbai to ashram
      ACCOMMODATIONS (16 days)
    • 10 nights shared ashram accommodations
    • 1 night hotel Pushkar
    • 2 nights hotel Jaipur pink desert city
    • 1 night hotel Agra Taj Mahal city
    • 2 nights hotel New Delhi
      FOOD
    • Three organic, fresh, locally made ashram meals daily during 10 day Ashram stay.
    • Breakfast at hotel in Jaipur, Agra, & Delhi.
    • Dinner in Pushkar and Delhi
      YOGA ASHRAM ACTIVITIES
    • Daily morning and evening asana, pranayama, meditation classes 
    • Daily Yoga Nidra
    • Daily sunset havan ceremony (mantra)
    • Daily Lectures/theory/philosophy
    • Experienced Instructors in an Ashram setting
    • Study the Esoteric teachings of the Ramayana (100 hours)
    • Daytrips to Nashik sites described in the Ramayana to enhance the learning experience
      AYURVEDA
    • Access to onsite ayurvedic treatment center
    • Experience ayurvedic approach to eating in all ashram meals.
    • Lectures on how to work with doshas for wellness
      YOGA ALLIANCE
    • Up to 100 Yoga Alliance CEUs* and Shakti Traditional Yoga Studies Certification.
      DAYTRIPS AND TOURS
    • Nashik day trips from ashram 
    • Daytrip to Lord Rama’s bathing Ghat on Sacred Godavari River 
    • Daytrip to Ram & Sita’s cave dwellings
    • Daytrip to Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple
    • Daytrip to Pandev Leni Buddhist Rock Caves
    • Daytrip Trek to Hanuman’s Birthplace Hilltop
    • Flight from Nashik to Jaipur
    • Pushkar tour (1 day) visit this ancient holy city known for being a camel trading center; ride a camel in the dunes and/or shop in ancient markets world famous Rajasthani costumes, textiles, jewelry, pottery, and decorative pieces. 
    • Jaipur tour (1.5days), Amber Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Patrika Gate, Birla Temple.
    •  Akbar’s Palace tour (0.5days) Abhaneri Stepwell and Akbar’s desert Palace; Fatehpur Sikri & Harshat Mata Temple
    • Agra Taj Mahal Tour (1 day)-sunset & next day sunrise at the TAJ MAHAL, Agra Fort Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
    • Delhi Tour  (1.5 days) Old and New Delhi.  Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi’s most bustling market, Red Fort, India Gate, Mahatma Gandhi resting place, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar
    • Airport transfer on last day.

    *Participation in all yoga activities, daytrips, and lectures are optional.
    *Study hours may go toward Module one of  three-part 300hr Shakti Traditional Yoga Studies YTT. Contact Bobby for details.
    *Jaipur, Agra, & Delhi based on double room booking. Single room upgrade option available.
    *Tour locations may be adjusted to fit group interests.

  • NOT INCLUDED

    • Airfare from your country to Mumbai, health insurance, travel visa, personal excursions, tourist site entry fees. Expenses associated with early arrival to Mumbai if applicable. Anything not listed above.

  • INVESTMENT:

    $3700+hst CAD
    Space is limited. A deposit of $500 is required to hold your spot.

  • WHAT TO BRING:

    Clothing appropriate for hot, dry temperatures. Include yoga clothing for asana classes. head scarf, hat, sunglasses, at least one outfit of loose, modest, temple-appropriate attire. Comfortable shoes appropriate for easy hiking, and *sandals that are easy to slip in and out of (important for ease of moving around the ashram). Yoga mat, easy to carry luggage for getting in and out of cars, etc. Mosquito spray, sunscreen, sunglasses.

  • REGISTRATION:

    Winter/Spring 2026 dates to be released soon. Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to be added to the 2026 interest list and be contacted as soon as dates and registration options are released. Register early to hold your spot in this limited space, once in a life time study and Tour experience!

Experience Details

The ashram is located in a breathtaking rural area just a short drive from the city. There is a beautiful view from every direction, with a small village nearby. 100% organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, beans and grains are grown onsite and prepared for the ashram by women at the nearby village. Evening walks to the ashram hill to view sunsets are a highlight. Guruji was a student of Swami Satyananda Saraswati and continues to follow and teach the Bihar school of yoga traditions.

Accommodations are clean and basic comfort ashram style. Rooms are shared with 3-4 people per cabin. Bathroom is shared. Each person has a single bed with mosquito nets, a storage locker for personal items, and a privacy curtain. There is no air conditioning in the rooms. It will be hot so come prepared with cool sleeping attire. It tends to cool a little in the evenings.

While all yoga classes, lectures, and excursions are optional, even when relaxing at the ashram it is important to respect all ashram rules. There is absolutely no alcohol or drugs allowed on premises, meal times are for silent contemplation, no noisy behavior at night, etc. Shirts should cover shoulders (t-shirts fine). In general simply following common sense behavior codes for a spiritual community.

There will be a full day of yoga study options and/or excursions available that begin at sunrise and conclude with satsangs, mantra or other activities appropriate for end of day. All of these activities are optional. You are free to relax in your room, or elsewhere on the ashram if desired.

Participants will meet in Mumbai and be provided support in connecting with transport from Mumbai to the ashram. Bobby will be with participants for both ashram and northern travel experience.

Once our ashram time ends we will celebrate and relax as we fly north to the pink desert city of Jaipur. We will stay in air conditioned hotels, with travel provided by private drivers and guides to all remaining destinations. We will road trip from Jaipur to a stay in Agra to see the breathtaking Taj Mahal and other sights on the way. We end with time in New Delhi to see the sights and markets before being dropped off at the airport for return home.

  • hatha-yoga

Who

    • ANYONE interested in an authentic India experience.
    • ANYONE interested in an authentic ashram experience.
    • Beginner Yoga Practioners wanting an introduction to yoga and yoga tradition in a supportive environment.
    • Experienced Yoga Practioners who would like to delve deeper into yoga traditions and practices.
    • Yoga Teachers interested in gaining Yoga Alliance CEUs (100 hours-could be used toward a Shakti Yoga 300 Hour Program).
    • The “non-tourist” traveller or those interested in transcending the usual tourist experience and would like to meet and interact with locals in both rural and city settings.
    • Spiritual seekers looking to experience the sacred resonance of ancient spiritually significant sites, while also living a traditional yogic lifestyle. 

Daytrips & Sacred Sites 

Nashik Area

While little known to the Western Tourist, the city of Nashik and its environs is one of the most sacred places in India. It plays a pivotal role in the Ramayana epic, and every 12 years is host to the largest pilgramage on earth, the Kumbh Mela. Devotees come to bathe in the sacred Godavari River that flows through the heart of Nashik, to free themselves from sins and to become liberated from the cycle of birth and death. This area is also home to the birthplace of the monkey god Hanuman, has one of the 12 most sacred jyortirlinga Shiva temples, and is an important site for the development of early Buddhist practices. *Specific site visitation may be dependant on weather conditions, site maintence or other unforseen circumstances. *Shopping opportunities will be made available at convenient points throughout.

  • Ancient Buddhist Rock Hewn Caves

    The Pandav Leni Caves consist of twenty four 2000 year old rock cut temples holding various statues of Buddha, each a unique example of buddhist architecture and art at various stages Buddhism’s early development.

  • Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple

    An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that holds 1 of 12 sacred Jyotirlingas that are part of a pilgramage all on their own. This Jyotirlinga is extraordinary as the only one featuring three faces, representing Lord Shiva, Vishnu & Brahma. Adding to its importance is its location, at the origin of the sacred Godavari River.

  • Birth Place of Hanuman

    A short hike up to Anjaneri Hill boasts incredible views. Among the sites along the way is the understated temple dedicated the Goddess Anjana, and the cave where she is thought to have given birth to Lord Hanuman.    

  • The Old City & Bathing Ghats

    The Godavari is one of the three holy rivers of India. It is here that Lakshmana cut off the nose of a demoness, giving Nashik its name, which comes from the Sanskrit word nasika, or nose. Situated in the Old city Ramkund is a sacred bathing ghat on the Godavari where Lord Rama and his wife Sita are thought to have bathed during his exhile. Today  pilgrims come here to bathe, pray, and immerse the ashes of their dead in this temple dense area of the city.

  • Sita Gufa

    The 3000 year old site where Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita lived while in 14 years of exile. Walk under the 5 (panch) ancient banyan trees (vat) from which this area of Panchavati gets its name. These surround the Devi temple which has an entry way to the cave that is thought to have been the trio’s living area. It is also the famed location for Sita’s abduction and the reason for Rama’s famed journey to Sri Lanka to save her. Line up with devotees to await your turn to crawl into cave tunnels that lead to the shivalinga at the center. The spiritual resonance is palpable.

  • Tapovan area of Nashik

    A mesmerizing area of lush greenery used long ago as a meditation area for the great sages, hence the name Tapo-van (meditation forest). This area is believed to have been part of the holy Dandaka forest from the Ramayana. It is here on the banks of the sacred Godavari River that Rama’s brother cut off the demon Surpanakha’s nose for her advances toward Rama. It is from this incident that the ancient city of Nashik (Nose) gets its name.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

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MJ Marsden – India 2025

Written by Todd on . Posted in India Retreat, International Retreats, Testimonials.

The India Ashram Study and Tour trip was a trip of a lifetime for me.  It was a huge learning experience that I will never forget. To see yogis, and local people, in their environments, doing what they do daily, was very eye opening. There is so much to learn about the world, and about yoga. The authenticity of the devout at the ashram, temples and mosques was all very moving.
 
I was often way out of my comfort zone during this whole process- from reading The Ramayana- to the rickshaw ride- to monkeys on the mountain- I’m so glad I did it all! I learned a lot about my own personal beliefs and privilege. The experience has me re-evaluating various aspects of my life. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to take part in this journey and for giving me the courage to grow. 
Image of bicycle in rice field

Vietnam Yin Yoga Study and Tour

Written by Todd on . Posted in International, Teacher Training.

Vietnam 2026: A Yin Yoga Retreat of stillness and flow in HoiAn

  • YIN YOGA AND VIETNAMESE CULTURAL IMMERSION

    Dates: April 2-12, 2026 

  • LOCATION: HOIAN VIETNAM

    Escape to the serene beauty of Hoi An, UNESCO World Heritage town, where ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes meet tranquility and renewal. 

  • INCLUDES:

    • Transit to and from Danang to Hoian
    • Bicycle rental for full 10 days
    • All of the items listed below

    ACCOMMODATIONS (11 days)

    • 11 nights accommodations (double occupancy)
    • Rice paddy view swimming pool
    • Convenient access to yoga studio, UNESCO site old town Hoian and beach
    • Bicycle rental for full period of stay
    • Open air cafe and restaurant area with breathtaking rice field view

    FOOD

    • Buffet breakfast daily
    • Vegetarian breakfast options
    • Personalized assistance to access the best traditional, sea food, dairy-free and/or plant-based options that Hoi An’s vibrant array of local, traditional, and vegan-friendly eateries are famous for

    CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

    • Bike rides through the rice fields
    • Beach excursions 
    • Traditional market visit
    • Vietnamese style coffee making workshop 
    • Vietnamese tea and traditional sweets workshop 
    • Vietnamese traditional lantern making workshop 

    DAYTRIPS AND TOURS

    • My Son Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A stunning collection of ancient Cham Hindu temples nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountains. Steeped in history and architectural beauty, it offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual past.
    • Hoi An’s Old Town is a well-preserved historical area featuring narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and a mix of local, Japanese, Chinese and European architecture that reflects its rich history with these cultures. A bustling hub with shops, cafes, and markets, where one can explore the town’s cultural heritage, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and shop for handmade goods.
    • The Marble Mountain Shrines in Ngu Hanh Son District. A blend of natural beauty and sacred sites, featuring Buddhist and Hindu cave temples with intricate carvings and statues, providing a sense of awe, tranquility, and spirituality. 
    • Bicycle Tour Check out the safe network of rice paddy travel routes that Hoi An is famous for. They allow one to avoid the busier streets while taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Simply hop onto your bicycle in front of the hotel and ride 20 minutes to the lantern draped riverside old town, or head out in the opposite direction for a 20 minute ride to the pristine, undeveloped beaches of the Hoi An’s coastline (both also very easily accessed by hiring a car cheaply to and from if bicycling is not your thing!)
    • Assistance booking desired destination day trips on your free afternoons and evenings

    YOGA ACTIVITIES

    • Daily morning open air yin yoga classes overlooking rice paddies
    • Daily AM yin yoga lecture topics, anatomy and discussion *optional
    • Evening meditation sessions that incorporate study themes or local ambiance
    • Optional 100 Hour Yin Yoga Certificate*
    • Option to book afternoon/evening classes at partner studio. Fee associated 

    YOGA ALLIANCE

    • Up to 100 Yoga Alliance CEUs* and Shakti Yin Yoga Studies Certification*

    *Optional 100 hour certification requires participation in all asana and lectures. Required text will include Bernie Clark’s The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga, and the Tao Te Ching (which is intended to serve only as an introduction to the concept of yin). Participation in three study discussions via Zoom prior to course start that will focus on yin yoga theory, anatomy and background, as well as submission of workbook activities post trip is required for the 100 hour yoga study certificate. Those attending the lectures and asana classes in Hoian but uninterested in the 100 hour program can receive a certificate for YA CEUs for the number of hours participated. .
    *Study hours may go toward one Module one of a  three-part 300hr Shakti Traditional Yoga Studies YTT. Contact Bobby for details.
    *accommodations based double room booking. Most rooms have queen/king size bed. Some with two single beds.
    *Hoian is a safe and vibrant town with abundant opportunity to explore on one’s own, to take part in workshops, classes, shopping or plan day trips to areas of individual interest. Assistance will be provided to access directions and/or transportation.

  • NOT INCLUDED

    • Airfare from your country to Hoi An, Vietnam, health insurance, trip insurance, travel visa, personal excursions, tourist site entry fees. Expenses associated with early arrival or late return if applicable. Anything not listed above.

  • INVESTMENT:

    $2500+hst CAD
    Space is limited. A deposit of $500CAD is required to hold your spot. Space is limited.

  • WHAT TO BRING:

    Clothing appropriate for warmer temperatures. Include yoga clothing for asana classes. head scarf, hat, sunglasses, at least one outfit of loose, modest, temple-appropriate attire. Comfortable shoes appropriate for easy hiking, and sandals that are easy to slip in and out of. Yoga mat, easy to carry luggage for getting in and out of cars, etc. Other suggestions include mosquito spray, sunscreen, Polysporin, Benadryl (anti-histamine in topical cream and tablet form).

  • REGISTRATION:

    Register to hold your spot in this limited space, once in a life time, opportunity to study yoga and experience Vietnam!

Register Now

Experience Details

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a charming town steeped in rich history and culture. Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, Hoi An offers a fascinating blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural styles. Stroll through narrow, lantern-lit streets lined with traditional wooden houses, vibrant markets, and ornate temples that showcase the town’s unique heritage. The ancient architecture, illuminated by hundreds of colorful lanterns in the evening, creates a magical atmosphere, making it the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection during your retreat. You can also explore the stunning countryside by bicycle, cycling through lush rice paddies and picturesque villages, immersing yourself in the peaceful rhythms of rural life.

Beyond its history and architecture, Hoi An is renowned for its exceptional food scene, offering a delicious mix of fresh, local ingredients and regional specialties. From the iconic cao lau noodles to fragrant banh mi sandwiches and fresh seafood, the town is a paradise for food lovers. With countless family-run restaurants, street vendors, and slow-food cafes, you’ll savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine in its most vibrant and flavorful form. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal or exploring the local markets, Hoi An’s culinary delights will enrich your retreat experience. At night, the glow of lanterns reflecting in the Thu Bon River creates a serene and unforgettable ambiance.

Our days begin with a yin hatha yoga practice followed by a lecture related to yin yoga topics. Yin yoga is a relatively modern term based on Paul Grilley’s teachings that combine longer held hatha yoga poses, study of fascia and skeletal variation, and Dr. Motoyama’s modern meridan theory.

Yoga study is followed by breakfast. The late morning and afternoon is free for day trips, biking the rice paddies, lounging on the beach, checking out local cuisine, or relaxing by the pool. There will be a meditation gathering or assignment related to contemplation of the local environs each evening. 

Image of bicycle in rice field

  • Japanese Bridge Hoian Shakti Vietnam Retreat

    hatha-yoga

  • Hoian Rice Paddy Shakti Retreat

  • Hoian Lanterns Shakti Retreat

  • Hoian old town shopping Shakti Retreat

  • Hoian food Shakti Retreat

  • Yin Training Hoian Vietname Shakti Retreat

  • Yin Training Hoian Vietname Shakti Retreat

Who is this trip for?

  • ANYONE interested in an authentic Vietnam experience.
  • Beginner Yoga Practioners wanting an introduction to yin style hatha yoga in a supportive environment.
  • Experienced Yoga Practioners who would like to delve deeper into yin yoga anatomy and concepts.
  • Yoga Teachers interested in gaining Yoga Alliance CEUs (100 hours-may be used toward a meandering Shakti Yoga 300 Hour Program that will take place in three different locations at a sedate pace of study).
  • The “non-tourist” traveler or those interested in transcending the usual tourist experience and would like to meet and interact with locals in both rural and city settings.
  • Spiritual seekers looking to experience the sacred resonance of spiritually significant sites of the far east.
  • Anyone who loves travel, good food, meeting new people, enjoying life to the fullest.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

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Carol T- Hatha

Written by Todd on . Posted in Hatha Testimonials, Testimonials.

My tests have shown that my bone density has increased at an amazing rate since I started yoga. I don’t know if it is a coincidence but my results have moved from osteopenia to normal in my hip, and from osteoporosis to ‎osteopenic in my spine. I have had 4 bone density scans in my life and this recent improvement was considered drastic!  My doctor described my results as stark improvement!