Herbal Workshops on Silver Island

A special retreat combining the healing benefits of yoga and herbal medicine

Join The Greek Herbalist on Silver Island for a yoga retreat to reflect, to create space for the new (a new habit, a new perspective), to get rid of the old (an old habit, anything that doesn't serve you), to move, and to breathe. There will be 2 yoga classes per day led by instructor Evi Bouzaki in the Hatha Vinyasa tradition. Morning classes will progress your practice day after day in a dynamic yet mindful flow of the body, being aware of the breath. We will explore together expansions also restrictions, what gives (you) space and how you can move through your practice efficiently. The early evening practice will have a more detailed approach on soft sequences and focus on Pranayama (breathing techniques). 

During the afternoons we will be joined by our guest workshop host - Maria Christodoulou - known as The Greek Herbalist, who will be with us for 4 days to share her extensive knowledge and passion for exploring herbal medicine from ancient to modern Greece. Each day for 2 hours we will explore different themes in relation to the island's nature and the abundance of spring flowers and will have the opportunity to be hands-on during the workshops. 

An outline of the herbal workshops we will be exploring:

Day 1: Myths & Medicine Plant Walk

The plants around us are filled with fantastical ancient stories and healing medicines. Join us on a forest walk to explore the island's trees, including pine, fig, cypress, and oak, and their connection to ancient and modern Greece. We will also explore the healing presence of the island’s patron saints, Cosmos and Damien, who were venerated as Unmercenary Physicians. Our forest walk will conclude with a sacred tree meditation under the big oak tree.

Day 2: Greek Mountain Landscapes & Forest Bathing Meditation

For thousands of years, the Greek mountains inspired poets, priests, and physicians to explore the meaning of the sacred. Learn about the cultural and botanical significance of mountains in ancient and modern Greece, as well as the threats to mountain ecosystems throughout the country. A forest meditation to tune into the sights, smells, and sounds of nature will conclude the experience.

Day 3: Greek Herbs Tea Tasting & Herbal Tea Blend Workshop

As one of the most biodiverse countries in Europe, Greece is home to a variety of medicinal plants that have been used for thousands of years in food and medicine. Enjoy a Greek herbal tea-tasting and learn about the medicinal benefits of each herbal ingredient. To complement the experience, we will make our own dried herbal tea blends to bring the joy of Greece’s botanical bounty home with us.

Day 4: Plant Harvesting with Herbal Oil Infusion and Herbal Oxymel Workshop

Harvesting plants for medicine is a joyful experience. We will learn the techniques of respectful harvesting and collect medicinal plants in abundance on the island, including rock rose (Cistus) and olive leaf (Olea europaea). Then we will learn how to make an herbal oil infusion and an herbal oxymel (a vinegar-honey-herb combination), and be able to take home our own 100ml bottles of each.

Read about the beauty of Silver Island in Om Yoga & Lifestyle Magazine

Join us on Silver Island

All registration is completed on the Silver Island website. Visit the website to learn more and join us for yoga and herbal medicine.