Mindful Movement's Immersive 200-Hour YTT

Playa Gigante - Nicaragua

Rt
Room to Roam
  • Email address verified
55 reviews
Jul 1 - 14, 2024
Group size: 10 - 15
Mindful Movement's Immersive 200-Hour YTT
Playa Gigante - Nicaragua

Room to Roam
  • Email address verified
55 reviews

$2,949
Deposit: $500
Jul 1 - 14, 2024
Group size: 10 - 15

About this trip

 Get ready to give complete focus to your personal and spiritual growth. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in yogic philosophy, becoming a certified yoga teacher or is drawn to experience personal development through yoga practices. Your teachers, Bonnie and Elyse, will guide you through the perfect blend of focused education and challenging movement while immersing yourself in another culture. The beachside hotel offers a private, personal space to relax, practice and drop in while staying comfortable in A/C, hot showers, and ceiling fans in every room. Wifi is also available throughout the entire hotel campus. 

The Space

 Equipped with a sparkling pool, WiFi, and A/C, you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable 4-star hotel accommodations without losing the rustic touch that makes Gigante unique. Yoga will be held between a tropical open space underneath our beautiful grand palapa and a cliffside ocean view shala.

Breaks in the day are encouraged, so feel free to take a moment to relax in one of our day beds or hammock, and appreciate the cloudy blue skies, palm trees, and gift yourself the feeling of serenity. 

The Meals

 “By purification arises aversion for one’s own body and for contact with other bodies.” Saucha is observing purity of what is taken in by the senses, as far as food, and other things we put into the body, as well as what we listen to, what we watch, and what thoughts we allow our awareness to pursue. To live in our yoga fully for our weeks together, we will practice saucha and ahimsa, non-violence, in the foods we eat by maintaining a vegetarian diet. Any other dietary restrictions will gladly be accommodated for. 


Our onsite restaurant will prepare thoughtfully-crafted vegetarian cuisine that still highlights the delicious, fresh, and local flavors of Nicaragua.  There will be absolutely no alcohol or drugs consumed during your in-person training. Consumption of alcohol or drugs are grounds for immediate dismissal from the program. 

The Community of El Gigante

 A colorful fishing village off the beaten path, El Gigante is located just over an hour north of San Juan Del Sur on Nicaragua's beautiful Pacific Coast. The town is aptly named “big foot” when translated from Spanish to describe the gentle green foothills that meet the ocean with such ease. A town filled with untouched beaches, roaming farm animals, and dirt pathways; you’ll quickly remember the importance of slowing down and to embrace living simply.  


The lifestyle and culture here very much embodies the phrase “Take it Easy”. Arriving here feels like taking one long exhale and a chance to just be. 

Your Instructors

 Bonnie is an E-RYT 500 certified yoga teacher. Bonnie’s personal yoga practice expands across many styles including Bikram, Ashtanga, and free flow Vinyasa. She has studied many styles of yoga, and continuously studies various forms of movement. She enjoys challenging her body to find new ways to move from one side of the mat to the other, and finds passion and self-discovery through this intuitive style. Trained under Jonny Kest and Courtney Fletcher, her style of teaching stems from breath. She reminds students that yoga practices are really just breathing practices, and draws awareness inwards to focus on sensation rather than appearance. With this in mind, she is strong believer that all of life is yoga and whether you are driving your car, catching a wave, or laying on your mat- if your breath can be found then your yoga is present.  


Elyse is a RYT-200 Hour certified Yoga Teacher and has been teaching for 4 1/2 years. She specializes in Vinyasa, Power Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative and Meditation. Her intention as a teacher is to help students discover self-love, strength and peace by teaching them to connect body, mind, and soul. She wishes to empower all students with the ability to breathe, move, and rise above any challenges on and off the mat. She is also passionate about bringing yoga, mindfulness and pranayama to people from all walks of life who have been through any type of trauma. She currently teaches Trauma Sensitive Yoga at various non-profit organizations in New York City. 

200-Hour Training Details

Completion of this course will certify you as a 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. You will receive your certificate upon completion of the 200-hours of study, including pre-arrival homework and post, in-person training essay completion. This course is a Hatha focused practice. If you think about yoga as a tree, Hatha is the trunk and other branches include styles you have likely practiced- Ashtanga, Yin, Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyengar, etc. With your Hatha Yoga certification you will be able to teach your preferred style of yoga upon graduation. Your final 75 minute class can be taught in the style of your choosing.


200 Hours of coursework is broken down into: 75 hours of Techniques and Training Practices (Asana, Pranayama, Subtle Energy, Meditation), 30 hours of Anatomy and Physiology, 30 hours of Yoga Humanities (History, Philosophy, Ethics), and 50 hours of Professional Essentials (Teaching Methodology, Professional Development, Practicum).


This hybrid training completes our 200 hours through pre-arrival homework, 150 hours together in Nica, and 3 virtual sessions (24 hours) together via zoom after leaving Nicaragua. You will teach your final 75 minute class prior to leaving Nicaragua. Your virtual classwork will consist of workshops and working towards completing a small project with another student to present on your last day. 200 Hours of coursework is broken down 

ADVICE FROM YOUR LEAD TRAINER

There is a place for both softness and strength. You will confront many emotions and experiences through this journey, and that is intentional. You cannot heal what you do not acknowledge. This journey will guide you to both physical and mental edges, make you intentionally uncomfortable, and remind you to soften into it to experience it all. We cannot teach what we do not practice. I can’t wait to be a part of this journey with you!


Feel free to reach out with any and all questions- We want to make sure this training is the right fit for you!

With love and gratitude,

Bonnie

Tentative Schedule

 6-8AM- Asana, Breathwork, Meditation

8-9AM- Breakfast

9-10:30AM- Philosophy

10:30-12pm- Asana Workshop

12-1PM- Lunch

1-3PM- Anatomy

3-4PM- Practice Teaching

4-4:30PM- Prana Anatomy

4:30-5PM- Satsang

*Our schedule will shift a bit each day to offer more time for practice teaching as we learn more on class creation and cueing.

Testimonials

 “I was lucky enough to have Bonnie as my 200YTT facilitator and, from the very first moment I met her, I immediately noticed her sparkly spirit.  She was especially helpful regarding the breaking down of Asanas and different ways to adjust students and find the best way of teaching different bodies. She gave me a complete and well rounded overview of the foundations of guiding yoga, with nurturing guidance for myself to follow this amazing path. Thank you, Bonnie!”

-Lucia Cornell, Virtual YTT Student

“I found Bonnie to be an amazing teacher. I was lucky to have her guide my YTT because she really understood how to hold space for myself and the other students when we were going through it, but also has a unique mastery of teaching how to teach asana. This program was challenging in a very good way. Bonnie is so wise- thank you, Bonnie!”

-Camila, Jacksonville YTT Student

"Bonnie's style of teaching is truly unparalleled. The reminders that she provides in the beginning and throughout her classes regarding breath control and stillness, really help you understand that as funny as you may feel in any posture your first time, it simply is not about what it looks like. A lesson that is physically and mentally challenging, all intertwined with self-love that you grow in those moments with yourself. Bonnie will encourage you to lean into those places rather than stray away from them, as well as trying any of her classes no matter where you are in your journey/ practice." 

-Stormi, In-person student from Vital, Grand Cayman Islands

"Bonnie's classes are great! They're pitched really well for all levels, and are challenging enough while still giving you the freedom to express yourself creatively. My yoga journey and practice has benefited so much from being guided by Bonnie!" 

-Laura, In-person student from Vital, Grand Cayman Islands

What’s included

  • 14 Night Stay
    Complete 200hr YTT certification while staying in our 4-Star Beachside Boutique Hotel with a pool, grand palapa wellness space, A/C, hot water, Wifi
  • All Meals Daily
    During the retreat, enjoy all meals, snacks, and beverages from our onsite restaurant. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
  • 200 YTT Certification
    Your 200-hour Yoga Teacher certification.
  • One Day Trip
    Explore San Juan Del Sur: a hip, beachy surf town about 1 hour south of our hotel. See the sights, enjoy vegetarian lunch near the water, and shop for colorful souvenirs from this journey.
  • Airport Shuttle
    Roundtrip Airport Shuttle to get you safely + seamlessly between airport + hotel. Can fly into either MGA or LIR.
  • Concierge Travel Service
    From finding and selecting the best flights, ensuring you are ready and prepared for your trip, and accommodating any needs for dietary restrictions, extra activity arrangement, ect.

What’s not included

  • International Airfare
    Easily fly into either Managua (MGA) or Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR) and our trusted shuttle providers will pick you right up!
  • Travel Insurance
    *Required* For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance Services protection plans. www.travelexinsurance.com Enter Agency Location # 28-0102 in the blue box.
  • Extra Activities
    We work with our trusted partners for the extras like : day trip excursions, horseback riding, boat trips for surf/fishing, massages, golf, moto rentals, whatever you want to do!
  • Optional Gratuity
    If you loved your service + stay with us, feel free to leave a tip to be shared evenly amongst all of our awesome staff. Average tip per guest is $100-$200, however completely at your discretion.

Available Packages

Shared Room | Triple Occupancy

The most budget-friendly option with 3 twin beds in one room that shares a private bathroom. Room also includes a built in dresser, blackout shades, hot water shower, and refreshing A/C.   All hotel rooms are on the ground level surrounding the onsite pool.  

$2,949
Deposit: $500
Shared Room | Double Occupancy

 Our shared rooms are equipped with your choice of a queen size bed or two twin size beds, a side table/desk, built in dresser, blackout shades, hot water shower, and refreshing A/C.   All hotel rooms are on the ground level surrounding the onsite pool. 

$3,349
Deposit: $500
Private Room | Single Occupancy

Our private single  rooms are equipped with a queen size bed,  a side table/desk, built in dresser, blackout shades, hot water shower, and refreshing A/C.   

$3,749

Available Add-Ons

60 Minute Massage
$60
90 Minute Massage
$80
$2,949
Deposit: $500


Your Organizer


Rt
Room to Roam
55 reviews
Room to Roam is an all-inclusive retreat service provider that streamlines the retreat leading process and connects people to amazing experiences off the beaten path.

Reviews

Our women’s retreat in Joshua Tree was pure soul medicine. Surrounded by 10 incredible women, we laughed, cried, and shared stories, cultivating deep connection and reflection. We moved our bodies with yoga, hiked through stunning landscapes, and even pushed ourselves with rock climbing! Dressing up for a photoshoot in the desert was pure magic, and we did a cold plunge together in the cold wind—which was both crazy and invigorating! Every meal from our amazing chef was so nourishing and delicious. The whole experience was the perfect blend of adventure, healing, and sisterhood! Thank you Ashley and Sadie!
By Callan G for ARISE: Joshua Tree on Mar 21, 2025
I’ve attended 6 other retreats, so I came in with certain expectations, and overall, this one had a lot of positives, but there were also significant disappointments. First, the people and the classes were fantastic. Heather, Ashley, and the community that gathered were exactly what I hoped for – warm, engaging, and inspiring. The Booty Luv and yoga sessions were well-run, and the group dynamic was lovely. Conversations flowed easily, and I definitely left with a sense of connection. However, I was let down by the venue, which really didn't match the caliber of the experience I was expecting. The meal service was a major issue. Waiting anywhere from 30 to 50 minutes for lukewarm food was frustrating, especially in a retreat setting where the supposedly have done this before. Waiting over 45 minutes for a drink to be delivered was common – if I could even get someone to take my order. For the long waits, it would’ve been nice to have something simple like chips and salsa available to tide us over. I found myself eating a snack before meals just to avoid getting hangry. The rooms also didn’t provide the ambiance I anticipated. They felt very generic – like a room you could find anywhere, with no real connection to the Costa Rica or the area. The yoga shala lacked any pretty views or aesthetic charm that I’ve come to expect from retreats, especially those at BL locations. As for the location itself, I didn’t feel like I got the Costa Rican experience I was hoping for. Unless you’re a surfer, Playa Grande isn’t much to explore. The beach had no shade or umbrellas, and while you could walk along it, it was too hot to do so during the day, where morning/evening walks often conflicting with class schedules. The town didn’t offer much in terms of places to visit either. I ended up taking a day trip to Tamarindo, which had a much better vibe. I didn't care for retreat schedule being different every day. While I understand that adjustments happen, I didn’t love that the times for meals, classes, and activities were different every day, except for the 4pm class. It made me feel like I had to stay glued to my phone for updates or find the schudule. Plus, getting up early for class and then having to wait until 9am or later for breakfast was difficult. I found myself eating a snack first thing in the morning because I was starving. For the extra expense and travel hassle to get to Costa Rica, the location didn’t deliver the experience I expected. Overall, I loved the people and the classes but would not return to Playa Grande or the Rip Jack Inn.
By LAUREL S for Booty Luv® Beach Retreat on Feb 10, 2025
CG
Another amazing Booty Luv retreat in the books! The location was fantastic, steps from the beach with ample pools and hammocks to lounge in. The movement classes were excellent, with plenty of booty break downs and opportunities to go deep in yoga. And, an extra special group of ladies creating a supportive and inspiring community for each of us to immerse ourselves in for 6 glorious days together. Thank you to Heather, Kate, and Ashley for being our guru's and ensuring we were well taken care of!
By Cara G for Booty Luv® Beach Retreat on Feb 09, 2025
I had a fantastic time! Travel to and from the airport went perfectly. The additional activities/excursions were amazing and Kate’s local guides were absolutely incredible. A trip organizers and instructors went above and beyond to ensure everything was taken care of and that we had an unforgettable time!
By Stacey M for Booty Luv® Beach Retreat on Feb 02, 2025
Nicaragua is beautiful! I highly recommend visiting this part of the world. It's small, it's local, it's quaint. Ashley is absolutely amazing at being a gifted yoga instructor. 10/10 would participate in another travel yoga retreat with her. My one thing: watch what you eat if you have a weak stomach, such as street food.
By Kay C for PRITHVI: Nicaragua Neature on Jan 31, 2025
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References

I can’t say enough about my wonderful experience with Kate, Ashley, Lorenzo and the whole staff at Room to Roam! This trip was truly magical. I was a little nervous to travel for the first time since COVID. Kate took such great care ushering me in to Nicaragua. I was very stressed at home prior to leaving and Kate kept taking things off my plate as I prepared to leave. Upon arrival we were greeted so warmly by the staff. I was instantly relaxed. Marco’s truly does make the BEST passion fruit margarita on the planet! My intention was surf and boy did I fall back in love with surfing, but I am really walking away with so much more- a complete reboot for my body, mind and soul! I’ll be back again soon! PS the food is out of the this world! Every single meal…. Mouth watering!
By Meredith P on 03 Jun, 2022