Take your yoga on tour! Join us for an incredible opportunity to advance your yoga practice while immersed in the beauty and culture of Florence, one of the most iconic cities in Europe.
Springtime is an optimal time to travel to Italy. The city is sunny and vibrant, and you can beat the touristy Summer season crowds!
Yoga Garden asked Marisa to explain more about her connection to Italy and what she’s looking forward to share most with students during the retreat. Read on to find out more!
Yoga Garden: Tell us about your connection to Florence?
Marisa: Both of my parents are Italian. My ancestors immigrated to North Beach, San Francisco in the late 1800s. Florence holds a very special place in my heart. I’ve always felt a strong connection to travel there when I can, and that is why I am so excited to go back there to share my love of the city with the group of yogis.
Yoga Garden: What do you love about the city?
Marisa: I love the walkability of the city. It’s so convenient and such a delight to walk around so easily and see all of the sites. From Florence, you are just a short train or bus ride away from other cities worth exploring, such as Pisa. When I ask the Florentine locals, “Where should I go to eat dinner?”, they always say, “Anywhere! You can’t go wrong!”. Which I find to be true. I’m fascinated by the Renaissance period, and the high level of humanity from the art that was created during that time. Modern day Florence is urban yet progressive, and the people are extremely friendly. It’s a very international city. I like to say that the whole world goes to Florence! You really do see the whole world when you walk down the street.
Yoga Garden: As an artist yourself, how have you been influenced by the wide array of museums and art in Italy?
Marisa: Oh, where do I begin? I do find that whenever I go to Florence, I always bring my watercolors. I’m inspired and in awe by the intricate fashion at the Gucci Museo and the shop windows. The Uffizi Gallery is just incredible. I will say that the Church of Santa Croce is my favorite place to go to gain inspiration. Two years ago I traveled with my daughters to study Italian near the Church of Santa Croce square. The school was in the square and we would study for four hours in the morning and then go explore the city together with the other students. It is such a beautiful area lined with restaurants, perfect to stop and enjoy a delicious cheese plate.
Yoga Garden: Speaking of Italian food, what other places are you looking forward to going to eat?
Marisa: There is this fabulous panini sandwich shop, called Vinaino di Parte Guelfa, it’s my absolute favorite! I can’t wait to go back there. I also love walking though the Mercado Centrale, and picking up some fresh fruit and seasonal treats. And of course, I do have this one gelato place that I always go to. I can’t recall the name, but can picture the location perfectly and definitely plan on going back.
Yoga Garden: What excites you about taking your yoga teaching on tour to Europe?
Marisa: As we all know, yoga is an ancient practice. I’m from California, and I love that when I go to Europe, I am guaranteed to discover a new place or building that is hundreds of years old. I love sharing my experience with others by bringing back souvenirs from places that hold such history. There is this company founded in 1212, located near the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. It is an old apothecary that now sells products for the body and home, and they are fantastic! It’s such a blessing to walk into a place to buy a souvenir that people have been walking into for over 400 years. You just don’t get to experience that too often living in the States.
Join Marisa Toriggino for 7-days of yoga that will include:
-2.5 hour daily practice focusing on alignment-based Hatha Yoga
-Open afternoons to explore the many wonders of Florence
-1 hour pranayama practice every evening
Classes will be held at Yoga Garage, a historic studio conveniently located in in the heart of the city – just a few blocks from the world-renowned II Duomo di Firenze.
All are welcome!
Coursework will be closely tailored the individual needs and interests of yoga students and teachers alike. Are you working towards your 500-hr Yoga Alliance certification? This is a truly unique opportunity to earn 25 hours towards your 300-hour certification!
Transportation and lodging are not included. Inexpensive, off-season flights are available, as well as affordable lodging in nearby hotels or Air B&B’s. There are some incredible Tuscan villas available to rent on Air B&B for very reasonable prices!
Course is structured to allow for plenty of free time to explore the cobble streets, take in city sights and historic museums. Dive into Italian culture with an art class, or a cooking, or pasta-making lesson. Better yet, this culinary region delights with olive oil tastings, Italian espresso tasting and of course wine tours through Chianti and Brunello vineyards.
*Earn 25 Yoga Alliance CEUs
YGSF Members receive 10% off and alumni receive 15% off regular price.
Full details at YogaGardenSF.com/Event/Florence
