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Ready to Shed Stress and Find Yourself?
Step away from the busy world, shut out the noise, and discover true renewal at our Thanksgiving Spiritual Retreat with Zen teacher Akiva Shapiro—hosted by Jivana, Toronto’s first Urban Yoga Homestay.

Perfect for anyone seeking a break from family or work, longing for clarity, healing, and real self-care in a community that feels like home.

## 🌿 Featured Guest: Akiva Shapiro

Zen teacher, educator, and author of The Path to Spiritual Surrender. Akiva trained for five years under Ram Dass and was his roommate. Ram Dass is a legendary spiritual mentor, and brings nearly 50 years of mindfulness and Vipassana expertise. His heart-centered teachings will guide our journey.

## 💫 Why You Should Join?

  • Release stress, find deep relaxation, and nourish your spirit.
  • Experience authentic yoga—beyond exercise—exploring all four classical paths: Bhakti (devotion): Heart-opening chanting & music, Jnana (wisdom): Practical teachings for modern living, Raja (asana & meditation): Mindful movement, classic breathwork, Karma (service): Community cooking, shared meals, conscious connection.
  • Special workshop with Akiva: Unplug for a full day, dive into powerful exercises for truth, vulnerability, and belonging you simply won’t find anywhere else.
  • All meals, accommodation & materials included: Just bring yourself and let us take care of everything.

## 👌 What’s Included:

  • 2 nights cozy lodging at Jivana House (Sat–Mon)
  • Nourishing vegetarian meals, prepared together and shared in community
  • Daily programs spanning yoga, meditation, music, philosophy, meaningful dialogue
  • Sunday transportation and entry to Akiva’s transpersonal intensive workshop
  • Yoga mats and all refreshments provided!

## ⏰ Event Schedule:

## Saturday Oct 11th:

  • 4:00pm — Arrival & Welcome Gathering
  • 5:00pm — Pranayama & Asana (guided movement & breathwork)
  • 6:30pm — Light Community Meal (karma yoga—join in preparation)
  • 7:30pm — Meditation Circle
  • 8:00pm — Evening Satsang with Akiva: chanting, music, yogic philosophy

## Sunday Oct 12th:

  • 8:00am — Yoga Massage Therapy
  • 9:00am — Breakfast
  • 10:00am–7:00pm — Akiva Shapiro Workshop (transport & meals included)
  • Morning: Breakthrough (movement, identity exercises, deep sharing)
  • Afternoon: Spiritual Deepening (reflection, dialogue, practical steps)
  • Evening: Integration & Celebration (music, dance, closing circle)
  • 7:30pm — Dinner
  • 8:30pm — Satsang: integration, chanting, open discussion

## Monday Oct 13th:

  • 8:00am — Morning Yoga & Meditation
  • 9:30am — Satsang (kirtan, mantra, Vedic chant)
  • 10:30am — Breakfast
  • 11:30am — Closing Community Circle: share, reflect, set intentions
  • 1:00pm — Farewell & Departure

## 🙌 Who Should Attend?

  • Stressed urbanites, wellness lovers, spiritual explorers, and anyone seeking real connection and deep rest.
  • All levels welcome—no experience needed.
  • Come as you are, with curiosity, gentle intention, and an open heart.

## ✨ Why This Retreat?

This isn’t just an escape—it’s a reset. Be seen, be heard, and come away renewed, ready to face Monday with more peace and clarity.
Spaces are intimate and limited—reserve your spot now and experience the heart of yoga, lived.

👀 To inquire about flexible pricing or accessibility, email [jivana.living108@gmail.com](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/awaken-renew-thanksgiving-urban-spiritual-retreat-with-akiva-shapiro-tickets-1708792146309?aff=oddtdtcreator "mailto:jivana.living108@gmail.com").

🟠 RSVP early, the journey begins here!

🗒️ Important Notes

  • This is an invitation-only gathering, with limited space to ensure intimacy
  • All meals and accommodations are included
  • Please bring comfortable clothing for yoga and meditation, and an open heart
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