Zika affects Ashiyana Brazil Retreat Village opening this summer

Chris Nelson posted on 23 February 2016

Dear Friends and Family,

It is sad for me to have to let you know that we are postponing the opening of our new Yoga Retreat Village in Brazil, including our new Yoga Teacher Trainings (200 & 300 hour Advanced). This is due to the unfortunate situation that has arisen over the last months regarding the so-called Zika Virus.

Whilst we are not in agreement with the unfounded stories propagated by the pharmaceutical and biotech companies and the traditional media, we feel that it is not worth fighting this. Sometimes in life it is better to slow down, observe inwardly and accept what is arising, since this allows us to maintain our inner peace – which is, in any case, the essential teaching of yoga.

Specifically in the case of microcephaly among newborns, we are told by mainstream media that our “enemy” is the Zika Virus, and the mosquito which is supposedly spreading this virus. However, according to the scientists on the ground in Brazil, the cause has been linked to a toxic substance, Pyriproxyfen, (a growth inhibitor of mosquito larvae) being added to the water supply in the affected area.

We have decided to delay our Brazil Yoga Retreat Village opening until Spring 2017, by which time we hope that the reality of the Zika Virus story will have fully emerged.

We are excited about the level of interest and enthusiasm that we have received for our new Ashiyana Retreat Village, and the 300hr Advanced Training, and as soon as we have firm dates we will let you know! In the meantime, if you would like to register your interest, please email yogaschool@ashiyana.com.

With love and gratitude,

Chris x