Thanksgiving Day Yoga Class

Thanksgiving Day Yoga Class

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Marina Lisjonok, E-RYT 500, MSW

Special Class | Thursday, Nov 28
9:30 - 11am | $20 or use your class subscription | registration required

Start your thanksgiving day by opening your heart in gratitude and prepare for the festivities with a thankful yoga practice. Join us for a mix of vinyasa flow and static postures. Class is focused on body awareness, breath and meditation and infused with the bits of yogic wisdom and positive affirmations. All levels welcome.


How to Register & Pay

$20 or Use Your 8-digit Certificate Code

Click this Thanksgiving Day Yoga—Studio link to register for the In-Studio class. You will receive a confirmation email reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before class. Please read these before class.

Yoga for EveryBODY—6 week series

Yoga for EveryBODY—6 week series

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Experience the Benefits of Yoga Tailored to Your Needs!

Yoga for EveryBODY
with Jessica Gonsiorowski
6 Mondays | 11 am - 12:15 pm
Dec 2-Jan 13, No class Dec 23
$125 for 6-week series or $25/class

Sign up for the 6-week series and save $20!

Practice yoga in a supportive environment and enjoy classes designed for larger bodies. All classes include movement, breath, and meditation to help you connect with yourself and will allow you to feel calm and confident in your body. Learn how to build strength and mobility with props for functional alignment in yoga poses and gain more resilience for your everyday life. Everyone is welcome.


Jessica Gonsiorowski

About Jessica Gonsiorowski

Born and raised in Germany by a German mom and American father, Jessica enjoyed a multicultural upbringing that has given her a curious, open mind and warm heart. Jessica took her first yoga class at 19 years old and discovered that letting go of thoughts and stressors, as well as finding inner strength through creating a strong body, made her feel better and reconnect with herself. Learning to live in the present moment has been the biggest gift she has received from her yoga practice.

As a teacher, Jessica focuses on the body-mind connection, healthy alignment, creating awareness of personal needs, and nourishing the relationship with oneself. She continues to be impressed by the parallels of life on and off the mat and hopes to communicate that within her classes. She strives for her students to have fun and find their personal practice and become their own agents of change.

Jessica completed her 200-hour certification through Bloom Yoga Studio, Chicago, and 300-hour Advanced Teacher Training at Prairie Yoga. Becoming a yoga teacher has filled her life to the fullest, and she is overjoyed about how much happiness it has created in her life.


Register

for the Series: dec 2-Jan 13

6 Week Series: $125

For Individual Classes

$25/Class

Upon registration and payment, you will receive a class registration confirmation.

Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

Register early; space is limited.

Cultivating Inner Peace: Light up the Night

Cultivating Inner Peace: Light up the Night

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Nadine Behaveolos

Workshop | Tuesday, December 3, 2024
6:30-8:30pm
$30, Registration encouraged, walk ins (cash-only) welcome

“Let peace begin with me, let this be the moment now”

A desire for peace runs deep in our DNA. The fabric of our being allows us to meet ourselves and others with loving kindness. This quality of inner balance contributes positively to our health and wellness, encouraging harmony within for optimal physical and functional integrity.

Inner peace allows us to remain calm, centered, and balanced, even amid chaos and uncertainty. Yoga offers tools to cultivate this quiet strength.

Join us as we explore the following
theme:

December 3: “Light up the Night”

Candlelight is the backdrop for this workshop as we celebrate the winter season and learn about the importance of rituals (Charya in Sanskrit) that connect us to the light and one another.

Each session will include a gentle yoga practice suitable for all levels, guided meditation, and time for reflection & journaling.

No prior yoga experience is necessary.


Nadine Bahaveolos

Nadine Bahaveolos, 2RYT-200

Nadine is passionate about sharing yoga tools to encourage others on a path toward healing and wholeness. She is a certified yoga instructor in the Vinyoga tradition of the Krishnamacharya lineage, where she studied under Laura Jane.


Register for the Workshop

Online Payment $30

  1. Click this Cultivating Inner Peace link to register and pay for the class. Registration closes one hour before the class starts.

  2. You will receive reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before each class.

300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Information Meeting

300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training Information Meeting

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Wednesday, December 4
6-7 pm | FREE

Join Jessica Gonsiorowski to learn about Bloom Yoga’s upcoming 300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training (300TT). You can attend this information session in person at Yoga Among Friends or online via Zoom.

Hear how you can become an expert in teaching yoga and support others in transforming through their practice. This comprehensive training is designed for those who have already completed their foundational 200-hour training and are ready to continue their education, learn to specialize and emerge as a leader in the field.

300TT starts January 24, 2025 at Bloom Yoga in Chicago.

Therapeutic Yoga for Low Back Health

Therapeutic Yoga for Low Back Health

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Understand your body better and live more resiliently

Therapeutic Yoga for Low Back Health
Tuesday, Dec 10, 6:15-8:15pm
with Jessica Gonsiorowski
$57 | Register


Therapeutic Yoga Series

Habitual postures and movement patterns can create imbalances in your body that contribute to discomfort, pain, or even injury over time. Although yoga is a great support in keeping your body healthy, it is not uncommon to take these imbalances into your yoga practice and perpetuate some of them. Feel the liberation of understanding your body, its patterns, and imbalances. Expand your yoga practice or come and start your yoga journey in these intelligently developed workshops. Learn how a therapeutic approach to your yoga practice can create more balance, stability, and freedom in your body.

In each 2-hour workshop, you will study a specific area of the body, learn its basic anatomy, how to strengthen and lengthen the key muscles and get insight into the specific area's energetic component. You will learn about your habitual patterns and how to move towards more functional alignment and movement in your daily life and on the mat.

Yoga for Low Back Health

Low Back pain is omnipresent in our modern culture and one of the main reasons students come to Yoga. In fact, it is estimated that up to 80% of people will deal with back pain in their lives at some point. Low back pain can be caused by many reasons, such as structural issues and/or spinal injuries, habitual posture patterns, weak and/or tight muscles, and stress of any kind.

In this 2-hour workshop, we will focus on functional alignment, posture, and movement of the lumbar spine and pelvis. Learn how releasing and strengthening supporting muscles can alleviate discomfort and bring more freedom into your movements. Learn about your own habitual patterns in these areas of your body and how you can create more functional and sustainable movements on and off your mat.

 

You may be interested in this workshop if:

  •  you are experiencing acute or chronic low back pain

  • you are recovering from an injury

  • you want to improve your posture and movement patterns

  • you want to deepen your yoga practice

 

Class includes:

  • Basic anatomy lecture on the lumbar spine

  • Yoga asana for stretching and strengthening key muscles

  • Breath practice

  • Stress reduction practice

  • Utilizing props to adapt the practice in a personalized way

  • Q&A


Jessica teaches therapeutic yoga workshops monthly on Tuesday evenings. Each workshop focuses on different parts of the body and anatomy.


Jessica Gonsiorowski

About Jessica Gonsiorowski, RYT 500

Jessica Gonsiorowski is an experienced teacher who works and lives in the Chicago area. Jessica focuses on adapting the practice for everybody at every age and stage. She believes that knowledge is power and is excited to educate you in a way that allows you to become your agent of change.

Qualifications

200 hour Teacher Training with Bloom Yoga, 85 hours Prenatal Teacher Training with Bloom Yoga, 300 hours Advanced Teacher Training with Prairie Yoga, 200 hours in training and mentoring with Yoga Therapist Linda Troutman with Head to Toe Yoga.

Jessica's Weekly Class Schedule

  • Mon 9:30–10:45a, Multi-Style Yoga

  • Mon 11a-12:15p, Plus Size Yoga


Register

Yoga for Low Back Health Only

$57

  • Upon registration and payment, you will receive a class registration confirmation.

  • Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

  • Register early; space is limited.

3 Therapeutic YogaWorkshop Series

$156

Welcome to a Night of Rasayana: The Ayurvedic Path of Rejuvenation

Welcome to a Night of Rasayana: The Ayurvedic Path of Rejuvenation

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Julie Stewart

Workshop | Tuesday, December 11, 2024
6:30-8:15pm
$40 paid online, $45 walk-ins (cash/check only) welcome

Julie Stewart

Julie Stewart

Yoga and Rasayana are the threads that weave together the fabric of balance and vitality, aligning body, mind, and spirit in a timeless symphony of well-being. Join us for an evening of deep renewal, where we will journey through Yoga Nidra, Restorative Yoga, and guided meditation focused on the root chakra to cultivate grounding and rejuvenation.

Throughout the evening, we’ll explore Ayurvedic insights for the Soma (moon) season, with guidance on supportive herbs, essential oils, and daily routines that nourish and sustain. Leave feeling refreshed, connected, and empowered with the practices to support your well-being throughout the winter season.


Register for the Workshop

Online Payment $40

  1. Click this Ayurvedic Path of Rejuvenation link to register and pay for the class. Registration closes one hour before the class starts.

  2. You will receive reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before each class.

Women's Wellness Workshop: Self-Care and Connection Under the Waning Gibbous Moon

Women's Wellness Workshop: Self-Care and Connection Under the Waning Gibbous Moon

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Amy Hallenbeck, RYT200

Workshop | Tuesday, December 3, 2024
6:15-8:30pm
$40 paid online, $45 walk-ins (cash/check only) welcome

Join us for a nurturing and rejuvenating women's wellness workshop focused on self-care, connection, and preparing for the holiday season. With the moon in its waning gibbous phase, this is a powerful time to let go, reflect, and prepare for a fresh start. The waning gibbous moon encourages us to release what no longer serves us and turn our focus inward, making it the perfect backdrop for self-care and inner work.

Our workshop will offer a gentle, accessible yoga practice to help you center and reconnect with yourself, regardless of your experience level. Surrounded by like-minded women, you’ll learn self-care techniques to relieve stress, promote balance, and help you wind down before the holiday rush. Together, we’ll create a supportive space to explore and release, leaving you feeling renewed and ready for the season ahead. Come as you are, and take what you need!


Register for the Workshop

Online Payment $40

  1. Click this Women’s Wellness Workshop link to register and pay for the class. Registration closes one hour before the class starts.

  2. You will receive reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before each class.

Sound Bath Meditation with Marian & Gabriela Kraus

Sound Bath Meditation with Marian & Gabriela Kraus

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Marian Kraus & Gabriela Kraus

Saturday, December 21, 2024
5:30-7p
$40 prepaid online, $45 cash only at the door (if room available)

Embark on a journey to holistic well-being through the transformative power of sound. Presence, the art of embracing the here and now, unfolds as tonal vibrations guide awareness inward during our immersive sound bath event. Release past and future fixations, allowing your consciousness to unfold naturally. Reconnect with your true nature beyond identifications, where insights and creativity blossom. Saturate yourself in the harmonious embrace of ambient sounds from gongs, didgeridoo, flute, hand-pan, singing bowls, and drums…all crafted to rebalance your body-mind-spirit connection.

The event will be geared toward a complete recharge and re-boot of your body-mind-spirit connection and mobilizing and accessing your resources to inner healing and expansion.

Harmonizing Gratitude: A Sonic Journey to Expanded Consciousness

This session will delve into the importance of a gratitude practice, demonstrating how specific tones and rhythms can shift brainwave patterns, promoting a state of receptivity ideal for nurturing thankfulness. Participants will experience how gratitude acts as a catalyst for positive personal transformation, broadening perspectives and building emotional resilience and enhance their overall well-being.

The event is about 90 minutes in duration and includes 3 segments, the first 2 are about 15 - 20 minutes in duration, and the following sound bath fills the remainder:

The sequence is:

  • 1st Segmentthe introduction - participants receive a general overview of sound therapy and how the upcoming meditation and Sound Bath experience work together to facilitate a personal transformation, evolution, and healing method within the conscious mind, followed by

  • 2nd Segment – a carefully chosen guided meditation that primes the subconscious mind to transition into the essential personal transformation experience brought on by the healing sounds in the…

  • 3rd Segmentthe sound bath where guests flow in a stream of ancestral and otherworldly sounds generated by several large gongs (44” to 28”), one of man’s oldest therapeutic instruments, singing bowls, bells, chimes, tuning forks, ocean drum, rattles, and other sound tools. Our sound space envelopes listeners in a uniquely rhythmic, melodic, and pleasing fashion while the gong’s vibrational and sonic characteristics deeply resonate and harmonize all 50+ trillion cells of the body. The experience energizes and relaxes simultaneously in a most powerful and unique way and invites a natural synchronization of the brain's right and left hemispheres.

Combined, these powerful elements facilitate a change in one’s nature of being and potentially restore an intrinsic state of inner balance, homeostasis. Throughout, you will be introduced to mindfulness techniques of a sonic nature. The only requirement for you to benefit is to bring an open mind, wear comfortable clothing, and come with a mat, pillow, and blanket to cover up (all optional).

You can learn more at their Delamora website


Reserve Your Spot -

Online Payment $40 prepaid (or $45 at the door, cash only)

Click this Sound Bath Meditation link to register and pay for the class. You will receive an email confirmation.

You will also receive reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before class with our safety protocols.


Your Facilitators

About Marian

Marian generates a broad spectrum of fascinating rhythms and functional harmonics by exploring the full range of frequencies within his instruments ranging from shimmering explosive highs to deep mysterious lows. His meditative and transformative sound journeys are driven by his innate rhythmic hand drum abilities and keen sense of visual and intuitive perception. The result is that these sonic, vibrational and mystical characteristics energize and quiet the mind & body in a very unique fashion. His gong sound meditations are psychoacoustic gateways to higher states of awareness and consciousness. They provide spaces for inner healing while taking listeners into truly otherworldly realms.

After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he began his career as a professional architectural and fine art photographer in the Chicago area in 1999. By being a long time hand drummer, he expanded his creative repertoire by expressing images also through the sound of gongs. Marian is a member of the Sound Healers Association and refines his advanced interpretation and application of gong sound healing under the guidance of senior instructor, lecturer and teacher Mitch Nur, PhD of

About Gabriela

Growing up in the bustling and colorful surroundings of Mexico City, Gabriela holds masters degrees in art, religions and psychotherapy, and degrees in communication and history. She is certified as a Life Coach and facilitator of Universal Energy. In her earlier career she applied her extensive experience in corporate marketing and communications for the Ford Motor Company and the Interlomas Commercial Center, among others. Following, she moderated several health related programs on national TV in Mexico for nearly two decades in broadcasting corporations such as cultural Channel 11, Televisa, TV Mexiquense, TV Formula, DGTVE, and the art and cultural Channel 22.

 
New Year's Eve Candlelight Yoga with Crystal Bowls  & Handpan Sound Healing

New Year's Eve Candlelight Yoga with Crystal Bowls & Handpan Sound Healing

Yoga Among Friends (map)

Led by Marina Lisjonok, E-RYT 500, MSW, Yolanda Lozano, and Mike McGuigan

Special Workshop
Tue, December 31 | 6–8pm | $65
Please Register early. This event sold out in previous years!

Say goodbye to 2024 by immersing into the magic of a candlelight all-level yoga practice with Marina. The practice will be accompanied by the sweet healing sounds of crystal and Tibetan bowls, skillfully played by Yolanda and handspan with Mike McGuigan.

The event will include the following:

  • Opening mantras

  • Setting an intention and group sharing

  • All-level yoga practice with Marina accompanied by the sound of singing bowls and handpan – 1 hour

  • Sound Healing with Yolanda

  • Pranayama

  • Meditation to a Handpan with Mike

  • Silent Meditation

  • Metta Meditation

  • Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu Chanting

  • Reflection and Final Sharing

  • Closing Mantras


Reserve Your Spot

Payment $65

Click this New Year’s Eve Yoga with Sound Healing link to register and pay for the class. You will receive a confirmation email. You will also receive reminder emails 24 hours and 2 hours before the workshop.

or

Mail your check of $65, payable to Yoga Among Friends, to 4949 Forest Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515. YAF only accepts cash and checks at the studio.

Prenatal Yoga - Jan/Feb 2025

Prenatal Yoga - Jan/Feb 2025

Yoga Among Friends (map)

we understand the profound connection between mind, body, and baby, and we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Prenatal Yoga
3 Wednesdays | Jan 21, 28, Feb 4
6:15-7:15pm
$84 for the 3-workshop series or $30/workshop

Step onto your mat and into a sanctuary crafted exclusively for expectant mothers. Led by experienced prenatal yoga teacher and nurse, Therese Carlson, who specializes in prenatal care, our classes blend gentle yoga poses, mindful breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to promote physical comfort, emotional balance, and spiritual serenity throughout your pregnancy journey.

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

  • Alleviate discomfort: Relieve common pregnancy aches and pains through targeted stretches and gentle movements.

  • Strengthen your body: Build strength and flexibility in preparation for childbirth and postpartum recovery.

  • Connect with your baby: Cultivate a deep bond with your little one through breath awareness and mindful movement.

  • Nurture your well-being: Reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue while enhancing overall emotional and mental wellness.

  • Join a supportive community: Share experiences, wisdom, and laughter with fellow expectant mothers in a warm and welcoming environment.

Who Can Benefit

Our prenatal yoga classes are suitable for all stages of pregnancy and all levels of yoga experience. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, our classes are designed to meet you where you are and support you on your unique journey to motherhood.

Why Choose Yoga Among Friends Prenatal Yoga

At Yoga Among Friends, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and well-being above all else. Our intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our nurturing atmosphere fosters a sense of community and belonging. With a focus on holistic health and empowerment, we empower you to embrace the transformative power of pregnancy with confidence and grace.

Join Us Today

Embark on self-discovery, empowerment, and radiant vitality with prenatal yoga at Yoga Among Friends. Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional support, or a tranquil space to connect with your baby and fellow mothers-to-be, we invite you to experience the magic of prenatal yoga.


Therese Carlson

About Therese Carlson, RN, CYT 500

Therese is a registered nurse and certified yoga teacher. Therese has taught Hatha, a mindful Vinyasa, and gentle yoga but found a love for Prenatal yoga classes. She uses her 35+ years of nursing experience and her love of yoga to nurture, strengthen, and guide moms-to-be through this exciting journey.

Her mom and dad, Tricia Fiske, Lori Gaspar, Julie Gudmestad, and Tias Little, are the teachers who strongly influenced her life and yoga. She also works as a nurse in the community and is the mother of 3 young adults.

Her background includes the following:

  • Certified Yoga Teacher, 500 Hour, Prairie Yoga Institute, Lisle, IL

  • Certified Prenatal Yoga teacher, Global Yoga Center, Chicago, IL

  • 15+ years of yoga teaching experience

  • 25+ years of yoga practice

  • 45+ years of nursing


Register for the Workshops

3-Workshop Series $84

Single Workshop $30

You will receive a class registration confirmation.

Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

Register early; space is limited to 16.

2025 Jamaica Yoga Retreat

2025 Jamaica Yoga Retreat

Good Hope Coach House (map)

Enjoy 7 nights at Good Hope, an 18th-Century Georgian house in the Jamaica countryside, with Laura Jane Mellencamp

Join Laura Jane and fellow like-minded friends for a yoga retreat at Good Hope Plantation in Jamaica. Originally a sugar plantation, Good Hope is 2,000 acres in size and is located in the parish of Trelawny, Jamaica. This property, including its historic 18th-century Great House, sits in an idyllic valley surrounded by the lush green hills of the cockpit country and the meandering Martha Brae River.

The plant life, scenic views, and private beach provide the perfect environment for togetherness and discovering nature, deeply amplifying the effects of your yoga and meditation practice. Immerse yourself in Jamaica's history, nature, and beauty and nourish a deeper understanding of yourself!

An Unforgettable Yoga, Meditation & Travel Experience

Using the practice of meditation, Laura Jane has designed this week to support you in exploring the tools of stilling the mind and embracing your authentic self. The yoga classes will blend the disciplines of various styles of Hatha yoga with mindfulness meditation. They will cover the fundamental principles underlying the therapeutic application of yoga and how to incorporate them into your practice. Work to dissolve old blockages, unravel samskaras, and create new pathways to vibrant health and happiness. The end result will be one of the most incredible, unforgettable yoga experiences you will ever have.

This week is a perfect balance between rest and play. Through leading and attending many retreats, Laura has discovered that traveling together and saying yes to life and its opportunities at the moment create lasting friendships and gratitude for life’s abundance that will last forever.

This yoga retreat is for all ages and all life experiences. It is perfect for all levels of practitioners, yoga teachers, and bodywork therapists. Private yoga sessions will also be available.


It is perfect for all levels of practitioners, yoga teachers, and bodywork therapists.


Sample Daily Schedule*

(Optional to meet each student’s needs)
• Early morning hike and meditation
• Breakfast
• In-depth yoga practice with Laura Jane
• Lunch
• Free time to explore this beautiful and healing environment
• Late practice includes asana, chanting, sutra study and meditation
• Dinner
• Evening shared sanga

*Schedule is subject to change.

We will be going down to the private beach most days (15 min from the Coach House). Price includes daily transportation to the beach.


Reviews of Laura's Previous Retreats



  • I am so excited to attend my third retreat with Laura Jane and this amazing community of yogis. There is a reason so many of us keep coming back year after year. Beyond the incredible resort we are staying at (and "incredible" doesn't do it justice), Laura Jane creates such a warm and welcoming atmosphere in which to explore your yoga practice regardless of where you are at in your life. The twice daily practices and daily sutra study, combined with the beauty of the Baja peninsula and the phenomenal food, make this a retreat everyone should experience!
    — CATHY CHRISTOFF


  • A trip to Greece had been on my “bucket list” for many years. The experience with Laura Jane in Amorgos was beautiful, peaceful, and exceeded my expectations about visiting Greece! We practiced well thought out yoga classes twice a day, and still had plenty of time for outings on the island, or time to relax by the pool. The group was a true sangha, community, of friendly open people. Old friends reconnected, and new friends were made by each yogi. I feel confident about traveling with Laura Jane!
    — KAY GILMORE


  • I try to never miss Laura Jane's wonderful yoga retreats! They are the one time of the year that is just about me. I don't have to take care of anyone or anything other than myself. The combination of yoga, healthy food, journaling, quiet time, a wonderful guide and amazing friends is just what I need to regenerate for the year ahead. Not to mention that Prana Delmar is a real jem!
    — KANDICE HENNING

Accomodatations

The Coach House

Forty minutes from the Sangster Intl Airport in Montego Bay, the Coach House villa, situated in the heart of the beautiful 18th century historic Good Hope Plantation, is the Coach House, a country villa with 7 contemporary bedrooms, all with ceiling fans, air conditioning & en-suite bathrooms.

Recently renovated with stylish new interiors and the addition of a 50-foot infinity edge pool & an open air dining terrace. Good Hope’s private beach house (15 min drive away) has a 110-foot white sand beach and calm waters for swimming.

Good Hope Coach House offers exclusivity and privacy. She sits on a hill with breathtaking views. The garden is full of trees, tropical flowers and bird life. The vibe at Good Hope is surely one to experience true Jamaican Hospitality. Like travelling through a time warp, the pace is slow here, the lifestyle uncomplicated, the people are kind and calm, service is relaxed and meals are served family style.

In addition, the Good Hope plantation is the Caribbean’s first and only nature adventure park with an unparalleled variety of adventures and cultural experiences including the thrilling zip line canopy, rugged ATV and Dune Buggy adventures, relaxing jungle river tubing, Appleton Rum Tasting, Great House tour, and bird aviary.

Fun fact: The Bachelor Final was filmed here in 2016.


Retreat Costs

$2900
FULL PRICE
Double Occupancy

3% transaction fee will be added for credit card payments for a total cost of $2987.

$700 deposit is required when booking. Balance due by Saturday, January 4, 2025.

BOOK

Double Occupancy
$2987 Full Price Credit
$2900 Full Price Cash or Check, paid in full

If you have any questions or concerns about sharing a room, please reach out to Laura Jane about a possible single room. We are here to help!

The cost of the retreat includes:

  • Roundtrip airport transportation to & from the resort

  • Deluxe accommodations for 7 nights. All bedrooms have bathrooms, A/C, and ceiling fans

  • 3 gourmet, mostly vegetarian meals daily with some seafood meals during the week. Gluten/dairy-free options are available upon request

  • Water, teas, & juices

  • Daily yoga classes & sutra studies—Private yoga sessions are available

  • Full use of all resort amenities - including pool, beach, boogie boards, paddle boards, kayaks, river swimming, hiking trails, movie night, yoga room, pool table, ping pong table, and ADSL internet access.

  • Daily transportation to and from the private beach

  • Sales & hospitality taxes

The retreat cost does not include:

  • Airfare to Sangster Intl Airport in Montego Bay

  • Spa treatments (massage, mani/pedis, reflexology, etc.)

  • Alcoholic beverages & personal purchases

  • Optional excursions such as golf, dining in local restaurants, pottery classes, painting classes, horseback riding, rafting, snorkeling, fishing, Dunes River Falls in Ocho Rios, Chukka Adventures (zip lines, river tubing, horse and buggy rides, dune buggy rides, ATVs, and history talk of local area)

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Gratuities


Registration

To hold your place, a deposit of $700 is due at the time of registration. The remaining balance is due in full by Saturday, January 4, 2025.

Register and Pay by
Credit Card

1. Click the button below to complete registration

2.Pay your $700 deposit online with a credit card

3. Pay your balance for the trip by January 4, 2025.

Register and Pay by
Cash or Check

1) Click the button below to fill out and submit a registration form

2) Mail in or drop off your deposit by cash or check.

  • Make checks payable to Yoga Among Friends.

  • Amount of $700

  • The mailing address is 4949 Forest Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515

3) Pay your balance for the trip by January 4, 2024.


Refund/Cancellation

Payment will be refunded, less a $700 cancellation fee, if this request is received in writing by December 1, 2024. Any refund requests postmarked after December 1 will be granted only if the canceled reservation can be filled.


Interested, but need some questions answered before you can commit?

Prenatal Yoga - Feb/Mar 2005

Prenatal Yoga - Feb/Mar 2005

Yoga Among Friends (map)

we understand the profound connection between mind, body, and baby, and we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Prenatal Yoga
3 Wednesdays | Feb 18, 25, Mar 4
6:15-7:15pm
$84 for the 3-workshop series or $30/workshop

Step onto your mat and into a sanctuary crafted exclusively for expectant mothers. Led by experienced prenatal yoga teacher and nurse, Therese Carlson, who specializes in prenatal care, our classes blend gentle yoga poses, mindful breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to promote physical comfort, emotional balance, and spiritual serenity throughout your pregnancy journey.

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

  • Alleviate discomfort: Relieve common pregnancy aches and pains through targeted stretches and gentle movements.

  • Strengthen your body: Build strength and flexibility in preparation for childbirth and postpartum recovery.

  • Connect with your baby: Cultivate a deep bond with your little one through breath awareness and mindful movement.

  • Nurture your well-being: Reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue while enhancing overall emotional and mental wellness.

  • Join a supportive community: Share experiences, wisdom, and laughter with fellow expectant mothers in a warm and welcoming environment.

Who Can Benefit

Our prenatal yoga classes are suitable for all stages of pregnancy and all levels of yoga experience. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, our classes are designed to meet you where you are and support you on your unique journey to motherhood.

Why Choose Yoga Among Friends Prenatal Yoga

At Yoga Among Friends, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and well-being above all else. Our intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our nurturing atmosphere fosters a sense of community and belonging. With a focus on holistic health and empowerment, we empower you to embrace the transformative power of pregnancy with confidence and grace.

Join Us Today

Embark on self-discovery, empowerment, and radiant vitality with prenatal yoga at Yoga Among Friends. Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional support, or a tranquil space to connect with your baby and fellow mothers-to-be, we invite you to experience the magic of prenatal yoga.


Therese Carlson

About Therese Carlson, RN, CYT 500

Therese is a registered nurse and certified yoga teacher. Therese has taught Hatha, a mindful Vinyasa, and gentle yoga but found a love for Prenatal yoga classes. She uses her 35+ years of nursing experience and her love of yoga to nurture, strengthen, and guide moms-to-be through this exciting journey.

Her mom and dad, Tricia Fiske, Lori Gaspar, Julie Gudmestad, and Tias Little, are the teachers who strongly influenced her life and yoga. She also works as a nurse in the community and is the mother of 3 young adults.

Her background includes the following:

  • Certified Yoga Teacher, 500 Hour, Prairie Yoga Institute, Lisle, IL

  • Certified Prenatal Yoga teacher, Global Yoga Center, Chicago, IL

  • 15+ years of yoga teaching experience

  • 25+ years of yoga practice

  • 45+ years of nursing


Register for the Workshops

3-Workshop Series $84

Single Workshop $30

You will receive a class registration confirmation.

Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

Register early; space is limited to 16.

Prenatal Yoga - Mar/Apr 2005

Prenatal Yoga - Mar/Apr 2005

Yoga Among Friends (map)

we understand the profound connection between mind, body, and baby, and we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Prenatal Yoga
3 Wednesdays | Mar 18, 25, Apr 1
6:15-7:15pm
$84 for the 3-workshop series or $30/workshop

Step onto your mat and into a sanctuary crafted exclusively for expectant mothers. Led by experienced prenatal yoga teacher and nurse, Therese Carlson, who specializes in prenatal care, our classes blend gentle yoga poses, mindful breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to promote physical comfort, emotional balance, and spiritual serenity throughout your pregnancy journey.

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

  • Alleviate discomfort: Relieve common pregnancy aches and pains through targeted stretches and gentle movements.

  • Strengthen your body: Build strength and flexibility in preparation for childbirth and postpartum recovery.

  • Connect with your baby: Cultivate a deep bond with your little one through breath awareness and mindful movement.

  • Nurture your well-being: Reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue while enhancing overall emotional and mental wellness.

  • Join a supportive community: Share experiences, wisdom, and laughter with fellow expectant mothers in a warm and welcoming environment.

Who Can Benefit

Our prenatal yoga classes are suitable for all stages of pregnancy and all levels of yoga experience. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, our classes are designed to meet you where you are and support you on your unique journey to motherhood.

Why Choose Yoga Among Friends Prenatal Yoga

At Yoga Among Friends, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and well-being above all else. Our intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our nurturing atmosphere fosters a sense of community and belonging. With a focus on holistic health and empowerment, we empower you to embrace the transformative power of pregnancy with confidence and grace.

Join Us Today

Embark on self-discovery, empowerment, and radiant vitality with prenatal yoga at Yoga Among Friends. Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional support, or a tranquil space to connect with your baby and fellow mothers-to-be, we invite you to experience the magic of prenatal yoga.


Therese Carlson

About Therese Carlson, RN, CYT 500

Therese is a registered nurse and certified yoga teacher. Therese has taught Hatha, a mindful Vinyasa, and gentle yoga but found a love for Prenatal yoga classes. She uses her 35+ years of nursing experience and her love of yoga to nurture, strengthen, and guide moms-to-be through this exciting journey.

Her mom and dad, Tricia Fiske, Lori Gaspar, Julie Gudmestad, and Tias Little, are the teachers who strongly influenced her life and yoga. She also works as a nurse in the community and is the mother of 3 young adults.

Her background includes the following:

  • Certified Yoga Teacher, 500 Hour, Prairie Yoga Institute, Lisle, IL

  • Certified Prenatal Yoga teacher, Global Yoga Center, Chicago, IL

  • 15+ years of yoga teaching experience

  • 25+ years of yoga practice

  • 45+ years of nursing


Register for the Workshops

3-Workshop Series $84

Single Workshop $30

You will receive a class registration confirmation.

Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

Register early; space is limited to 16.

Prenatal Yoga - Apr 2025

Prenatal Yoga - Apr 2025

Yoga Among Friends (map)

we understand the profound connection between mind, body, and baby, and we're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Prenatal Yoga
3 Wednesdays | Apr 15-29, 2025
6:15-7:15pm
$84 for the 3-workshop series or $30/workshop

Step onto your mat and into a sanctuary crafted exclusively for expectant mothers. Led by experienced prenatal yoga teacher and nurse, Therese Carlson, who specializes in prenatal care, our classes blend gentle yoga poses, mindful breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to promote physical comfort, emotional balance, and spiritual serenity throughout your pregnancy journey.

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

  • Alleviate discomfort: Relieve common pregnancy aches and pains through targeted stretches and gentle movements.

  • Strengthen your body: Build strength and flexibility in preparation for childbirth and postpartum recovery.

  • Connect with your baby: Cultivate a deep bond with your little one through breath awareness and mindful movement.

  • Nurture your well-being: Reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue while enhancing overall emotional and mental wellness.

  • Join a supportive community: Share experiences, wisdom, and laughter with fellow expectant mothers in a warm and welcoming environment.

Who Can Benefit

Our prenatal yoga classes are suitable for all stages of pregnancy and all levels of yoga experience. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, our classes are designed to meet you where you are and support you on your unique journey to motherhood.

Why Choose Yoga Among Friends Prenatal Yoga

At Yoga Among Friends, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and well-being above all else. Our intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our nurturing atmosphere fosters a sense of community and belonging. With a focus on holistic health and empowerment, we empower you to embrace the transformative power of pregnancy with confidence and grace.

Join Us Today

Embark on self-discovery, empowerment, and radiant vitality with prenatal yoga at Yoga Among Friends. Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional support, or a tranquil space to connect with your baby and fellow mothers-to-be, we invite you to experience the magic of prenatal yoga.


Therese Carlson

About Therese Carlson, RN, CYT 500

Therese is a registered nurse and certified yoga teacher. Therese has taught Hatha, a mindful Vinyasa, and gentle yoga but found a love for Prenatal yoga classes. She uses her 35+ years of nursing experience and her love of yoga to nurture, strengthen, and guide moms-to-be through this exciting journey.

Her mom and dad, Tricia Fiske, Lori Gaspar, Julie Gudmestad, and Tias Little, are the teachers who strongly influenced her life and yoga. She also works as a nurse in the community and is the mother of 3 young adults.

Her background includes the following:

  • Certified Yoga Teacher, 500 Hour, Prairie Yoga Institute, Lisle, IL

  • Certified Prenatal Yoga teacher, Global Yoga Center, Chicago, IL

  • 15+ years of yoga teaching experience

  • 25+ years of yoga practice

  • 45+ years of nursing


Register for the Workshops

3-Workshop Series $84

Single Workshop $30

You will receive a class registration confirmation.

Additional reminder emails will be sent 24 hours and 2 hours before class.

Register early; space is limited to 16.

Yoga Retreat in Italy - October 2025

Yoga Retreat in Italy - October 2025

La Rosa (map)

🌟 SAVE $200 WITH OUR BLACK FRIDAY DEAL—DETAILS TBA! 🌟


The Light Within, Awaken to Your True Essence
A Yoga Retreat Adventure in Puglia, Italy

Experience a week of transformative days focused on uncovering your inner light amid the world’s ongoing uncertainties. Engage in twice-daily yoga sessions going deeper into the teachings of mindfulness. Share in conversations of the yoga sutras and ancient teachings as we move from the disruptive chatter of those inner voices to the peaceful tranquility of the heart. Align with the beauty and peacefulness of nature at this amazing retreat center.

Puglia, Italy, is a sun-drenched paradise known for its stunning coastline, charming whitewashed villages, and rich cultural heritage. With endless olive groves, turquoise waters, and golden beaches, this tranquil region offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and serenity. Embrace Puglia’s laid-back lifestyle by enjoying farm-to-table cuisine and the hospitality of its welcoming locals. Whether meditating by the sea or practicing yoga at sunset, Puglia provides a rejuvenating retreat for both body and soul.

This captivating region is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. Wander through historic towns like Alberobello with its unique trulli or Lecce, the "Florence of the South." Unwind on the pristine beaches of Salento or Polignano a Mare and delight in authentic dishes such as orecchiette pasta, burrata, and local wines. From hiking among ancient olive groves to exploring the enigmatic Castel del Monte, Puglia offers unforgettable experiences in an idyllic Mediterranean setting.

Join me for a week of healthy living as we restore the gift of a joyous heart!

Location

Our retreat center overlooks the terrain of this magical place as we enjoy the privacy of having the entire resort to ourselves.

The NY Post calls the region of Puglia magical, and Lonely Planet put it on its 2014 must-see places list. This area is full of historic and cultural sites. Beautiful beaches are easily accessible. Martina Franca, the closest town to the center, is old and charming, surrounded by stone walls with prominent Baroque gates leading to piazzas and narrow, winding streets. And the retreat center is known for its incredible farm-to-table dining, forested walking trails, and proximity to the Adriatic Sea.


La Rosa Yoga Room, Puglia, Italy

Yoga and Meditation

An Unforgettable Experience with Laura Jane Mellencamp

Using the practice of yoga and meditation, Laura Jane has designed this week to support you in exploring the tools of stilling the mind and embracing your authentic self. The yoga classes will blend the disciplines of vinyasa flow with a strong emphasis on pranayama and meditation to still the roaming mind, calm the system, and live in a state of balance. They will cover the fundamental principles underlying the therapeutic application of yoga and how to incorporate these principles into your practice. Work to dissolve old blockages, unravel samskaras, and create new pathways to vibrant health and happiness. The result will be one of the most incredible, unforgettable yoga experiences you will ever have.

This week is a perfect balance between rest and play. Laura has discovered through leading and attending many retreats that traveling together and saying yes to life and its opportunities in the moment create lasting friendships and a gratitude for life’s abundance that will last forever.

This yoga retreat is for all ages and all life experiences, including all levels of yoga practitioners, yoga teachers, and bodywork therapists.

Private yoga sessions will also be available.


La Rosa Retreat Center, Puglia Italy

Sample Daily Schedule*

(Optional to meet each student’s needs)
• Early morning hike and meditation
• Breakfast
• In-depth yoga practice with Laura Jane
• Lunch
• Free time to explore this beautiful and healing environment
• Late practice includes asana, chanting, sutra study and meditation
• Dinner
• Evening shared sanga

*Schedule is subject to change.


Activities

Opportunities abound for tours and activities.

street market in Puglia, Italy

These include:

  • Beaches

  • Hiking

  • Massage 

  • Olive Oil Tastings

  • Wine Tastings

  • Shopping at the famous District of Ceramics

  • Forest Bathing

  • And more!

*The cost of some activities is not included in tuition.


Join us for a transformative experience.

Rave Reviews: What Participants Are Saying About Laura Jane's Yoga Retreats


Accommodations

The retreat will be held at an intimate yoga center located in Martina Franca. This is a must-see and experience center- the architecture and decor are exquisite. There are ten rooms with occupancy varying from singles to triples, and all are consciously decorated. Each room at this center is unique, and the size of the rooms vary.

The location is imbued with deeply spiritual, friendly, and calming energy that will be felt throughout your visit.

Brunch and dinner are prepared daily and include healthy vegetarian options and fish. The food is local and organic when available and prepared with nourishing ingredients. This center focuses on its food philosophy, which features a cleansing element.

The grounds contain lovely gardens, a swimming pool, a wild forest and fields, and a tiny church. There is plenty of space to walk and be free.


Investment

🌟 SAVE $200 WITH OUR BLACK FRIDAY DEAL—VALID ONLY WHEN YOU BOOK NOV 29-DEC 2. DETAILS COMING SOON. 🌟

Standard Accommodations

$3595 USD - Shared
$3995 USD - Single

Large Accommodations

$3695 USD - Shared
$4095 USD - Single

 

The cost of the retreat includes:

  • 6 nights accommodations 

  • 2 meals per day (brunch and dinner), starting with dinner on the first night and ending with breakfast on the last day. Alcoholic beverages are not included. 

  • Group Ground Transportation to/from Bari (BRI) Airport to Retreat Center

  • Twice Daily yoga practices

  • On-site Forest bathing paths 

  • Guided Hike – Starting from the retreat center, you will follow the routes of the native Hunter’s paths, exploring the protected natural woods and ancient ruins till you reach a view of the Ionic Seaside. 

  • Private concert – a magical musical evening planned only for the group

  • Meet the Chef – learn from the venue’s chef how to create sustainable recipes at home while following the secrets of a professional kitchen  

  • Personal retreat time (having time to nap, explore, walk, read, and just be)

The retreat does not include:

  • Airfare to Italy.

  • Alcoholic beverages & personal purchases

  • Optional excursions

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Gratuities

Note: Rome is a 5-hour drive from the retreat center, and Naples is 4 hours. There are two nearby airports: Bari (BRI) 1.5 hours and Brindisi (BDS) 50 minutes from the center. The group shuttle for this retreat will be provided from the Bari (BRI) airport on the arrival day. We will book the shuttle to accommodate the last arriving passenger. Before booking tickets, please be sure you have received your official confirmation letter that the retreat has met its minimums.

There will be one group airport shuttle each way based on our flight window guidelines. Be sure your flights align with the provided flight windows if you wish to use the group shuttle.


Ready for 6 days of movement, friends, and relaxation? Space is limited, and we will sell out.

Let’s do this!

Register

🌟 DON’T REGISTER YET. SAVE $200 WITH OUR BLACK FRIDAY DEAL—VALID ONLY WHEN YOU BOOK NOV 29-DEC 2. DETAILS TBA 🌟

Paying an initial non-refundable deposit of $350 and a $35 Payment Processing Fee (added to the tuition rate upon registration) will lock in your tuition rate and hold your space for the trip.

Laura is planning this trip in conjunction with True Nature Travels, a holistic, educational travel company that provides planning, support, and guidance for the trip. For more information about our Italian retreat, including things to do, sites to see, how to book your flight for the best price possible, how to get to the Bari Airport, and cancellation policies, visit the True Nature Travel website. All bookings and payments are handled on the True Nature Travel website.


Interested, but need some questions answered before you can commit?