Ashtanga Yoga Reset The Healing Power of Ashtanga, Nature and Community

Ashtanga Yoga Reset

The Healing Power of Ashtanga, Nature and Community

With Jo & Mikey · Ashtanga Yoga Essex Tertsa, South Crete · 22–28 May 2027

Six mornings of practice in spectacular surroundings, warm air and the sounds of the valley. Afternoons free, or spent in a practical 90-minute workshop that's fun and full of new skills to learn. Evenings for swimming, eating well, and talking to people who understand your practice.

This is a week to step out of ordinary life and give your practice — and yourself — some proper attention.

What makes this one different

Fifteen places, two teachers. Small enough that nobody gets lost in the room. You'll be seen, listened to, and taught as an individual.

Ashtanga without the dogma. Rooted in the Mysore method, but with no rigid rules about which postures you're allowed to do. Just guidance to help you practise well and keep practising.

More doing, less theory. You'll leave with variations that actually suit you, a clearer sense of how to build strength, and a practice you can take home and keep.

Consent and care. Adjustments are offered, never imposed. Ask for them if you want one or tell us no if you don’t — either is completely fine.

The practice

07:45 Pranayama

08:00–10:00 Mysore self-practice (four mornings) · Led Primary (one morning) · Led Intermediate, adapted for all levels (one morning)

17:00–18:30 Workshop, every other day (three in total)

Both teachers are in the room every morning. Workshop days alternate with free days, so there are always afternoons that are entirely yours. Two workshops are followed by a guided yoga nidra to let the body properly rest.

The workshops

The Art of Lifting — chaturanga, bakasana and jump throughs Strength isn't a gift, it's an adaptation: the body builds what you ask of it, at any age. We'll find the places inside the practice you already do where strength can be built — where to pause, what to hold, and for how long — and finish with an open clinic on whatever feels weak in your own practice.

Finding Ease — hips and back-bending The two places most of us meet resistance. Less about going deeper, more about practical methods to build mobility, strength and understanding in these commonly difficult areas of the practice.

Hands That Heal — supporting people in your life with hands-on adjustments Learn and practise safe, effective adjustments in some of the most common postures, so you can share the practice with the people in your life who'd benefit from it. This one is for all students, not just those who teach.

What's included

• Six mornings of practice: daily pranayama, four Mysore self-practice sessions, one Led Primary and one Led Intermediate, with both teachers in the room throughout

• Three afternoon workshops, 90 minutes each

• Two guided yoga nidra sessions

• Six nights' accommodation in the village, a few minutes from the beach

• All meals — local, organic, mostly vegetarian, cooked fresh each day

• Welcome dinner at a local taverna on the first evening

• Plenty of free time: swim, walk, explore, or do nothing at all

Not included: flights, airport transfers, travel insurance. Airport transfers can be arranged by the retreat.

Who it's for

Anyone from a beginner with some Ashtanga experience through to long-established practitioners. Injuries and post-natal practitioners are genuinely welcome — that's a large part of what we do at home.

If you're brand new, we'd suggest learning the standing sequence up to Trikonasana before you book, so the mornings feel like practice rather than a first lesson.

About Jo & Mikey

Jo and Mikey run Ashtanga Yoga Essex, a daily Mysore programme from their home shala in the UK, which they've taught for nine years. They've studied across the lineage with Sharath Jois, Saraswathi Jois, David Swenson and Hamish Hendry.

Their teaching is clear, kind and practical, and their room holds a broad mix of people — construction workers, business owners, parents, and plenty of people rebuilding health or confidence after something difficult.

Jo has practised for over twenty years and works closely with mothers post-natally, helping women find strength through the practice. Mikey brings a background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and strength and conditioning, and is at his best helping people move past what they assumed their body couldn't do. 

About Yoga Retreat in Tertsa (Crete) 

Tertsa is a tiny village hidden in a beach-side valley on the island of Crete.

It is a haven for those that seek true retreat from the fast paced modern world.

Off the usual tourist trail, Tertsa’s lush valley and beachfront location offer the best of Crete; living in harmony with nature, generous hospitality, a slow paced lifestyle and the shining Mediterranean Sea… Located on the Southeastern Coast of the island, the surrounding Dikti mountain range shelters the small valley from the cold North wind making Tertsa one of the warmest places in Greece.

Tertsa Retreat center – is a 5 minute walk from the village and the beach. A place created with mindfulness and care for nature. A place of healing, banana trees, sun, sea and peace… We are happy to offer you an opportunity to step out of the day to day world and live in pristine nature while you dive deeply into yoga.

 Accommodation 

We have different apartments available for you to choose from all only a couple of minutes walking distance to the beach:

*The price includes: yoga classes (6 morning sessions and 3 afternoon workshops), accommodation and all meals.

BEACH APARTMENT

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.190 EUR/pp (double occupancy) 990 EUR/pp (triple occupancy)

This is a fully renovated apartment literally on the beach. Enjoy your coffee on the terrace overlooking the sea. The kitchen is equipped with everything you need and a private bathroom. The bedroom has one double bed and one bunk bed. We have three beach apartments that are all slightly different, please contact us for more details. The other two beach apartments have one double bed and no bunk bed.

STUDIO LAMBROS

Price: 1.350 EUR (single occupancy) 1.050 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

Studio Lambros is a few minutes walking distance from the beach. It has a queen size bed suitable for two people. It has a small kitchenette, private bathroom and a balcony which offers sea view.

TERTSA SUITES STUDIO

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.090 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

The studio features modern amenities, a private bathroom, and a comfortable double bed. With its charming decor and natural light, the studio room creates a calming ambiance.

TERTSA SUITES APARTMENT

Price: 1.490 EUR (single occupancy) 1.250 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

This one-bedroom apartment is the perfect oasis for anyone looking for a tranquil and comfortable living space. The apartment features a cozy bedroom with a double bed, an attached bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen with, living space with a sofa bed and all the necessary appliances.

POPI APARTMENT

Price: 1.290 EUR (single occupancy) 1.050 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

A tiny but cosy independent apartment with a sea and a hill view. A shared entrance with a spiral staicase connects the ground floor. There is two single beds a bathroom and a private kitchenette outside the room. There is also a garden where you can find organic vegetables.

CIELTO APARTMENT

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.150 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

Nestled between the hills and the sea, this apartment is the perfect cozy hideaway. After entering through a shared ground-floor space and heading up the spiral staircase, you'll find a private haven equipped with two double beds-one on the main floor and another tucked away up a ladder, making it a fun and perfect setup for two or three friends. The space features its own private bathroom and your own dedicated kitchenette. On top it all off, you can relax on your private terrace and soak in the stunning sea views.

GARDEN APARTMENT

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.150 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

Situated on the ground floor, this larger apartment is a true oasis nestled directly within the organic garden. It’s the perfect place to unwind, whether you're relaxing in the garden hammock or enjoying the fresh, homemade treats. Inside, you will find a generous, fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom a comfortable living and sleeping area with one double bed and one single bed.

KIKI APARTMENT

The house is located a few footsteps away from the beach. Fully renovated 45 m² apartment with a beautiful balcony and a bedroom that has one double bed.

Price: 1.350 EUR (single occupancy) 1.050 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

RODULA APARTMENT UPPER FLOOR

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.150 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

The apartment is a one bedroom with a double bed and a private bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, living room with the possibility of 1 more sofa bed. On the terrace there is an outdoor dining area with the most beautiful seaviews.

RODULA APARTMENT LOWER FLOOR

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.150 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

This charming ground-floor apartment offers the exact same layout as our upper unit, featuring one bedroom with a comfortable double bed and a private bathroom. Enjoy a fully equipped private kitchen and a cozy living room with a sofa bed that easily accommodates extra guests. Step outside onto your private enclosed patio, complete with an outdoor dining table.

KATHARINA APARTMENT

Price: 1.390 EUR (single occupancy) 1.150 EUR/pp (double occupancy)

The apartment is a one bedroom with a double bed and a shower, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, living room with the possibility of 2 more beds. On the terrace there is a marble table and a wood-burning stove to spend unforgettable evenings or enjoy the sea view on the shared terrace. It is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is full of flowers and lemon, orange, banana and loquat trees.

Food 

Organic vegetarian cooking, fresh from farm to table!

Mediterranean cuisine at it’s best. Our meals are catered by two local chefs who source almost all ingredients directly from local farmers.

Traditional Mediterranean dishes with a vegetarian twist, a variety of seasonal vegetables and fruits, fresh bread, fresh fruits an array of traditional Greek and of course an abundance of Cretan olive oil.

Schedule 

Saturday May 22ndth: Check in afternoon

Dinner in a local tavern 19:00

Daily Schedule: TBA

Friday May 28th: Check out after brunch

GETTING THERE - Tertsa is one and a half hours drive from Heraklion airport. We can arrange transportation for you if you request it. Some people may prefer to rent a car or take the bus to the neighboring town of Ierapetra.

For more information or to book your spot, please contact us any time:

 tereza.poljanic@gmail.com 

For questions about accommodations, food or transportation

contact Tereza on Whatsapp

+386 51 347 497

TERMS & CONDITIONS // CANCELLATION POLICY 

1. Booking   (a) Your booking is not considered definite and no contract will exist until we receive a 30% deposit from you and you agree to these terms and conditions. (b) We do not share customer details with any 3rd parties nor do we store credit crad details.

2. Payment   (a) The price is the exact amount to be received by us in Euros. (b) The full payment amount is due on or before the first day of the retreat by paying with credit card or bank transfer, or cash in person. (c)Please instruct your bank to charge all costs to you in order to avoid a short all in the amount that we receive.

3. Your Travel

Arrangements All travel arrangements are your responsibility and at your own cost. We shall not be held liable for any consequences arising from delays or cancellations in any of the companies you may have made arrangements with, or for any irregularities in your documentation required for travel. Transfers to/from the retreat are at your own cost, unless otherwise specified.

4. Travel Insurance   (a) Travel insurance is highly recommended. If you choose to buy insurance we require that your travel insurance covers the activity of this retreat as well as unexpected cancellation, sickness, losses and all the usual risks. You should bring the policy with you in case of an emergency.

5. Your Health   (a) It is your responsibility to let your Yoga Instructor know if you have any injuries and to be mindful at all times of your own body’s capability during the retreat. If you experience any injury or discomfort during any activity during the retreat, then you must desist immediately. (b) It is also your responsibility to consult a doctor with an understanding of yoga to check that you are sufficiently fit and healthy to undertake yoga classes and other physical activities that you may chose to do whilst on the retreat. (c) Please advise Your Yoga Instructor of any mental or physical health conditions and dietary requirements before you book. If you have health conditions and dietary requirements that may be affected by the activities offered on our retreats we reserve the right to advise you to desist and in the interests of your wellbeing, or others, we may decline your stay at our retreats. (d) Women who are 12 to 28 weeks pregnant should provide a letter from their health practitioner specifying that they are fit to travel and able to engage in the activities that we provide. They should hand over the letter to their Yoga Instructor. We would prefer pregnant women to have done already yoga before they arrive.

7. Cancellation by you   (a) You (or any member of your party) may cancel your booking at any time, providing that the cancellation is made by the person submitting the booking form and is notified to us in writing. Cancellation will take effect the day such notification is received by us. If such cancellation is made we will retain the deposit of the retreat. However, if another person can be found to take your place, then we may offer you a refund at our discretion. All deposits are non-refundable for any reason.

Cancellation fee amount (a) If you cancel more than 21 days before the retreat start date, the cancellation fee is 75% of the retreat fee.

If you cancel less than 21 days and more than 1 week before the start of the retreat, the cancellation fee is 90% of the retreat fee.

If you cancel less than 1 week and more than 48 hours before the start of the retreat, the cancellation fee is the full retreat fee. (b) Bookings are for the stated period of the retreat. There are no refunds for an unused portion of the retreat. If the reason for cancellation is covered under the terms of your Insurance Policy, you may be able to make a claim on your insurance.

8. Amendments by us

Occasionally, changes may have to be made (e.g., yoga teacher, class times or other arrangements), which we reserve the right to do at any time. If a significant change becomes necessary, we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure.

9. Cancellation by us   We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel a retreat. In particular our retreats require a minimum number of at least 75% of the participants to have booked by 30 days before the start date. If this minimum number is not reached by that date we may cancel and refund the money to you.

10. Our liability to you   (a) We and the involved parties such as your Yoga Instructor, accept the responsibility for ensuring that the retreats are supplied as described and that the services we are contractually obliged to provide are to a reasonable standard. (b) We do not accept any liability for cancellations, delays or changes caused by war, threat of war, terrorist actions or threats, closure of airports, civil strife, industrial action, natural disaster, viruses, technical problems to transport, staff cancellations, unforeseen changes in your personal circumstances or other events beyond our control. (c) We and the involved parties, such as your Yoga Instructor, are not liable for any injuries you may incur. Yoga classes are undertaken at your own risk. We are not liable for any medical or psychiatric conditions, which may develop during or subsequent to the retreat. We are not liable for loss of, or damage to, your personal property.

11. Group Bookings   Where a booking is made on behalf of several individuals the booking is conditional on the person(s) paying having authorization from all the individuals named on the booking form to enter into this contract. The terms of this contract will apply to each member of the group as though they had paid for their own retreat individually and directly to us.

12. No Liability for possessions

(a) The property will not be left empty and unlocked at any time, and you will be given your own personal key to your room. It is your responsibility to ensure that your possessions are kept safe at all times. This includes hire cars or other hired equipment.

13. Complaints   If you have a problem during your retreat, please inform the organizer immediately and he/she will endeavor to put things right. Please note that we cannot be responsible for the individual behavior of any group member or other guest sharing your accommodation.

14. Privacy Policy   We and the involved parties do not share customer details with any 3rd parties. Any personal information that you provide to us will be used only for the service you requested. This information is used only for administration of the site system and in the compilation of statistics used by us to assess the use of the site. This privacy policy does not cover the links within this site linking to other sites.

I am of full legal age and have read and fully understand the terms of this release.

15. Accommodation changes

Accommodation is arranged in collaboration with local property owners. While all listed accommodations are confirmed in advance, in rare cases changes may occur due to unforeseen circumstances such as maintenance, safety issues, or owner-related constraints.

Should a change be necessary, participants will be offered an alternative accommodation of equal or higher standard, similar location, and comparable comfort. No additional costs will be charged to participants in such cases.

We commit to communicating any changes as early as possible and to ensuring that the quality and overall experience of the retreat remains fully intact. No deposit can be returned due to accommodation change.