playa hermosa, costa rica

Experience the best of both worlds in this thoughtfully
designed Ashtanga retreat that combines the structure of
led sessions with the freedom of Mysore-style practice.

NOT JUST A VACATION, A TRANSFORMATION

Each class begins with a brief talk and Pranayama practice which will help you bridge the gap between the physical and meditative elements of Ashtanga. Jennifer and Erica will use their almost three decades of experience using the tools of Ashtanga Yoga to deepen your focus on your internal environment. By practicing with the intention to withdraw the senses (Pratyahara), you will turn what is often thought of as a Work-OUT into a Work-IN. This approach helps beginners build confidence and learn modifications in a supportive environment, while encouraging all students to turn inward and cultivate trust in their own inner teacher. As their teacher David Williams often says, “What’s important is what’s invisible.”

Students who have memorized the series can move at their own pace (Mysore Style), while still receiving essential hands-on and verbal cues from the led instruction happening near them. We’ll start the week with the Primary Series and alternate with the Intermediate Series as the week progresses.

Jennifer and Erica are passionate about creating an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome—regardless of experience. They will guide you through a practice that supports all levels—from curious beginners to seasoned practitioners.

your instructors

ERICA - With over 27 years of experience as an Ashtanga practitioner, instructor, teacher trainer, studio owner, and mother, I bring a deep and lived understanding of yoga both on and off the mat. My journey began in 1998 with my first teacher training at the iconic It’s Yoga in San Francisco. Since then, I’ve continued to evolve my practice and teaching through trainings with renowned teachers such as David Swenson, Beryl Bender Birch, Kathy McNames, David Williams, and many other leading voices in the U.S. Ashtanga community. In my classes, I encourage students to let their breath and gaze lead the way, gently guiding attention to the subtle, often invisible aspects of the Ashtanga practice—the ones that ultimately create meditation in motion.
Off the mat, I find joy in the simple things: playing in nature, cooking for friends, and spending time with my two dogs, cat, and a quirky flock of chickens.

JENNIFER - After taking my first yoga class in 1992, I continued to practice because I knew I had found a way to heal my body for the rest of my life. In 1998, I decided to become a teacher and I started a four-year Ashtanga training with Dee Silvers, where I was able to assist her and another student in their practice of the Complete Ashtanga Syllabus, all 6 series. Manju Jois was present for two years of my training, the eldest son of Pattabhi Jois, the guru of Ashtanga yoga. Since the training, I’ve had other influential teachers, including David Williams, the first American student of Pattabhi, David Swenson, Nancy Gilgoff and Maty Ezraty.
Through the years and my practice, I’ve learned the breath is the main focus and in order to have a lifelong practice, you need to respect your body each and every time you get on your mat and modify when necessary. I see my practice and every student I encounter, as an opportunity to learn. Not every modification works the same for everyone and as a teacher I need to discover what works best for the student. With that in mind, I feel my classes are for all students, focusing mainly on connecting to the breath.

OUR DESTINATION

Just 90 minutes from the airport in San Jose, Vida Asana is located on a river in the jungle one mile from the beach of Playa Hermosa. Playa Hermosa offers natural beauty, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife. With pristine grey/black sand beaches and tranquil waters perfect for swimming, it’s no surprise its name means beautiful beach in Spanish, and is known as one of the best in Costa Rica! The area’s serene environment offers a perfect escape from crowded tourist spots yet the charming and walkable Downtown of Hermosa Beach has shops & restaurants to meet your everyday needs.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

What sets Vida Asana apart from other yoga retreat centers is our jungle setting, with two yoga shalas, spacious dining and lounge area, pool, hammocks, and many places to chill, relax, write in your journal, and get to know your peers. Their rooms are modest yet very quiet and comfortable. Bicycles are on site for guests to use and they provide access to surfboard rentals, nature hikes, and visits to waterfalls.

NUTRITIOUS MEALS

Indulge in healthy, garden-to-table cuisine, where three delicious meals per day are offered at Vida Asana, created with a healthy lifestyle as the inspiration. Every menu item is made from scratch using whole, and as often as possible, organic ingredients. The food caters to various dietary preferences, including plant-based, mostly gluten free, with eggs, yogurt, and some fish served. Ensuring that every guests needs are met, all allergies or dietary needs are easily accommodated.

ACCOMMODATIONS

* Shared rooms (2-3 beds) OR
* Private rooms (single)
* All rooms at Vida Asana are equipped with A/C, ceiling fans, private bathrooms, and hot water. Most rooms have a mini fridge, and the common area also has a large fridge, exclusively for guests.
* Rooms are stocked with Raw Botanicals: a local, all organic hair and body care producer.
* WIFI in the guest room on the property, and all common spaces.
** Traveling alone? We are happy to pair you with a compatible roommate(s) if you would like a shared room.

ADDITIONAL EXCURSIONS

Want to add an excursion that we haven’t already included? Choose from any adventure below and add it on once you arrive!

* Horseback riding
* Trip to a local National Park
* Hikes
* Zip lining
* Surf lessons
* Paddle boarding
* Sweat lodge

what is not included

• Roundtrip airfare to San Jose Airport (SJO)

• Meals outside of those included in retreat

• Tip for deep tissue massage

• Night at airport hotel (if required)

• Additional activities and excursions not listed above

all inclusive PRICING

June 1-October 31, 2025 ($300 OFF!)
$1775 Double or Triple Occupancy
$2575 Single Occupancy

November 1, 2025-March 31, 2026 ($150 OFF)
$1925 Double or Triple Occupancy
$2725 Single Occupancy

After March 31, 2026 Regular Price:
$2075 Double or Triple Occupancy
$2875 Single Occupancy

Registration information

STEP 1: Fill out the Costa Rica Yoga Retreat Registration Form using the button below and read the cancelation policy at the bottom of this page.

STEP 2: When you click SUBMIT, a confirmation page will come up with the link to pay your DEPOSIT OF $500. Don’t miss this page!

STEP 3: You’ll receive a Welcome Email which confirms your deposit.
** This important email includes due dates for your balance as well as recommended flight times!

STEP 4: Purchase your plane fare, follow Erica and Jennifer on Instagram and look for important emails from us over the next few months with important info about the retreat. Make sure our emails are heading to your inbox and pack your bags!

Cancelation Policy: 

• $500 deposit is due at time of registration to secure spot

• Full payment is due by May 1 , 2026

• Cancel before May 1, 2026: 50% of deposit ($250)

• Cancel between May 1, 2026-August 1, 2026 and receive a 50% refund of total paid.

• Cancel after August 1, 2026, no refund.

• Travel insurance, airline fees and service charges related to cancellation of flights are the responsibility of the individual traveler.