Sometimes a girl just has to get away. I had a day off recently and decided to maximize that time by taking a solo trip to The Yoga Lodge on Whidbey Island. A picture of the Yoga Lodge has been posted on my vision board for months. It was written up in Seattle magazine and the picture of lush green trees, a calm pond and welcoming wooden chair just called my name.
On a whim, I called Wendy Dion (the owner). Since it's November, she gave me the winter rate of only $65 a night. There was no reason not to go!
From our first phone conversation, I was impressed with Wendy's honesty and kindness. She told me about a retreat group and a few kids that would be at the lodge on Saturday night. Instead of trying to make a few extra bucks, she truly wanted to ensure the best experience for me. I decided to stay for just Sunday night. That was the perfect decision because I had the entire place to myself and could really make the experience my own.
The drive to Mukilteo was easy and the ferry ride was beautiful. Crossing the water creates the illusion of entering a different world. While I was on the ferry, I scheduled a massage for later that night at the Yoga Lodge. Talk about accomodating! My self-care mini-getaway just kept getting better and better. Once on the island, I had a Dim Sum brunch at a local restaurant called the Basil Cafe. I saw another woman dining alone and invited her to join me. She was a local and taught me so much about life on the island. Only when traveling alone do these magical, unexpected friendships pop up. Life stories are bound to be shared!
The Yoga Lodge itself is beautiful with natural wooden banisters, tall ceilings and a community-living feel. The yoga studio is located on the bottom floor of the lodge. While I was practicing, a deer walked by the huge windows and peaked inside. THAT definitely doesn't happen in the city! Wendy also prepared a lovely vegetarian breakfast tray for me with granola, almond milk, eggs, fruit, homemade sprouted bread, almond butter, tea and coffee. I ate some with my dinner and some for breakfast. The generous portions and large kitchen allowed me to make myself right at home.
Both days on the island, I visited a magical place called the Earth Sactuary. I didn't know much about it, but I could instantly sense that this place was special. The entire park was filled with sacred relics, prayer wheels, stone stacks and trails. I felt tingles when I walked into the huge Stone Circle and saw the altar on the ground. After some research, I've learned that a man named Chuck Pettis is responsible for the awesomeness that is the Earth Sactuary. He has dedicated his life to making the world a better place by creating sacred spaces. I definitely value his work and spending time in this amazing park.
I went for long walks in the woods both days. As a city dweller, I forget how rejuvenating it is to tromp around in the woods with the moss, animals, mushrooms and quiet. Those long muddy hikes were exactly what I needed to recharge my soul. I would absolutely recommend the Yoga Lodge to anyone needing a peaceful, meditative getaway.
On a whim, I called Wendy Dion (the owner). Since it's November, she gave me the winter rate of only $65 a night. There was no reason not to go!
From our first phone conversation, I was impressed with Wendy's honesty and kindness. She told me about a retreat group and a few kids that would be at the lodge on Saturday night. Instead of trying to make a few extra bucks, she truly wanted to ensure the best experience for me. I decided to stay for just Sunday night. That was the perfect decision because I had the entire place to myself and could really make the experience my own.
The drive to Mukilteo was easy and the ferry ride was beautiful. Crossing the water creates the illusion of entering a different world. While I was on the ferry, I scheduled a massage for later that night at the Yoga Lodge. Talk about accomodating! My self-care mini-getaway just kept getting better and better. Once on the island, I had a Dim Sum brunch at a local restaurant called the Basil Cafe. I saw another woman dining alone and invited her to join me. She was a local and taught me so much about life on the island. Only when traveling alone do these magical, unexpected friendships pop up. Life stories are bound to be shared!
The Yoga Lodge itself is beautiful with natural wooden banisters, tall ceilings and a community-living feel. The yoga studio is located on the bottom floor of the lodge. While I was practicing, a deer walked by the huge windows and peaked inside. THAT definitely doesn't happen in the city! Wendy also prepared a lovely vegetarian breakfast tray for me with granola, almond milk, eggs, fruit, homemade sprouted bread, almond butter, tea and coffee. I ate some with my dinner and some for breakfast. The generous portions and large kitchen allowed me to make myself right at home.
Both days on the island, I visited a magical place called the Earth Sactuary. I didn't know much about it, but I could instantly sense that this place was special. The entire park was filled with sacred relics, prayer wheels, stone stacks and trails. I felt tingles when I walked into the huge Stone Circle and saw the altar on the ground. After some research, I've learned that a man named Chuck Pettis is responsible for the awesomeness that is the Earth Sactuary. He has dedicated his life to making the world a better place by creating sacred spaces. I definitely value his work and spending time in this amazing park.
I went for long walks in the woods both days. As a city dweller, I forget how rejuvenating it is to tromp around in the woods with the moss, animals, mushrooms and quiet. Those long muddy hikes were exactly what I needed to recharge my soul. I would absolutely recommend the Yoga Lodge to anyone needing a peaceful, meditative getaway.
