The purpose of this residential retreat is to rediscover play, pleasure, and learning in a community of individuals who, in the same way, seek to bring greater tranquility, grounding, and a sense of coherence into their existence.
SuperBrain Yoga combines breathing, movement, and rhythm to restore balance between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. Our brain is divided into two parts, the right hemisphere and the left hemisphere, connected by a bridge called the corpus callosum. There are significantly fewer neurons in the corpus callosum than in the hemispheres, so communication between the right and left can be blocked when we are under stress, especially if there is a lack of training in using the brain in an integrated form.
Clinically, it has been discovered that there is a direct relationship between specific learning difficulties and the lack of hemispheric integration. The left hemisphere is focal, analytical, and sequential in its approach. It controls language and motor muscle functions on the right side of the body. The right hemisphere is diffuse, holistic, and simultaneous in its approach. The seat of intuition, it also controls muscle functions on the left side of the body. Reading, writing, and any form of learning require the integration of procedures from both hemispheres to be successfully completed.
In learning difficulties, the two halves of the brain do not work together in an integrated manner; there is a general preference in each of us for homolateral functioning, which becomes more pronounced with increasing stress levels.
The union of yoga and drumming gives rise to a powerful method to facilitate the union of body, mind, and spirit. The sound of the drum represents a new way to enhance and stimulate our yoga practice and deepen our inner exploration. Yoga and percussion form a natural partnership; the vibrant energy of the drum seems to exert a powerful attraction towards a deeper practice, both for students and the teacher themselves. The percussionist moves energy in space, while the yogi moves energy in the body, and the rhythm of the drum can influence the intensity of the movement.
Massimo has finally found a way to combine his 35 years of experience as a percussionist with his 30 years of experience as a martial arts practitioner, therapist, and yoga teacher.
During this residential Super Brain Yoga retreat, we will explore the practice of Hatha Yoga, meditation, and Pranayama with the help of the drum’s sound. A beautiful dance between the teacher, percussionist, space, and students will take shape.
We will also have the opportunity to experience the rhythm and art of the drum through the exploration of sound, vibration, and movement. We will discover how joyful the experience of playing together with various types of drums and percussion instruments can be. During this retreat, we will also have the chance to explore the use of voice through kirtan, bhajan, and other chants.
In all past eras, humans have used the drum to facilitate meditation and awaken awareness. We want to use the power of the drum to guide and stimulate our inner investigation and transformation.
Dr. Assagioli defines rhythm as the “fundamental primordial element of music” and quotes the poet D’Annunzio in his proclamation of rhythm as “The heart of music.” Assagioli continues by saying, “Rhythm is the element that possesses the most intense and immediate influence on man and directly influences both the body and emotions.”
Daily Schedule:
7:00 – 9:00 Yoga-Drumming, Meditation, Pranayama, Hatha Yoga
9:00 – 10:00 Breakfast
10:00 – 12:00 Super Brain Yoga, Kirtan, Bhajan, meditation, and voice workshop
12:00 – 16:00 Lunch and free time
16:00 – 19:00 Rhythmic percussion workshop
19:00 – 20:30 Dinner
The style of Yoga practiced is Hatha Yoga. The standard easily adapts to beginner and intermediate level students as well as an advanced level.
Cost of the Yoga Retreat:
COST: 690 € (The cost includes all lessons, all meals, accommodation in a double room, use of instruments, course materials, transportation to and from the airport, any excursions on the island).
To register, send an email to info@holismos.com or call +39 3383824280. A non-refundable deposit of €100 will be required to secure your place after March 15, 2024.
Instructors for this course:
Massimo Cantara:
Graduated as a Yoga teacher (500h) with the international school SYM, where he also taught. Diploma in Yoga Therapy (300h) with Vasistha Yoga Foundation in Kerala, India. Founder of “Three Treasures Yoga,” an International teacher training school. Founder of Holismos Center for health and Holismos Yoga and Wellness Center in Varese. Cranio Sacral Balance Diploma, Kinesiologist, Shiatsu Operator, Yoga Teacher. Released a musical CD “Elemental World” in 2020 and published the book “Hospital without Pain” in 2021.
Piero Bianciardi:
Yoga teacher since 1988. Practitioner Feldenkrais and Assistant Trainer of the Feldenkrais Method. Aikido practitioner with a 2nd Dan degree. Experienced in Taijiquan, Shaolin chuan, Tango, and Costellazioni Familiari Sistemico.
Molly Cofman:
Master’s in Oriental Medicine from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Degrees in ecology and evolutionary biology and performing arts and dance. Practicing Medicine Tradizionale Cinese, private practitioner, and instructor in various centers and clinics. Approaches teaching with fluidity, influenced by Taoism and Buddhist philosophy. Strives to facilitate a journey of wonder and discovery for every person she teaches.
