12/05/05 by Lori Huneke
The words and photos that describe Lino Miele’s retreat at Ca Le Suore, Italy, are just part of the experience. It is more than the amazing views, food, yoga, people, and day-long travel excursions. It’s the beauty – of them alone and together – that makes it so special. I had the opportunity to go there in June, 2005. Along with these photos I will try and provide a written snapshot of the trip.
The first thing one notices upon arrival at Ca Le Suore is the views. Oh the views, the views! When I first arrived I thought it was like Napa, California. A native of the state, at first - to be frank - I was not too impressed: I’d been there, done that. Each day, however, the beauty and (at the risk of being “new-agey”) energy of it increased. I could be lost in thought or in conversation, and I/we would suddenly just stop and look. Whether the rolling green hills, flowers bursting with color, or surreal sunset was the sight, Ca Le Suore’s surroundings would (ironically) take one’s breath away. Soon after arrival, you learn why Lino says in his welcome talk why attendees gain a few kilos. The food is unbelievable! The cooks spent all day in the kitchen creating vegetarian delicacies ranging from fresh tomatoes in olive oil to salads. Lino requested that the meals be free of meat, eggs (except for cakes), and garlic. A friend who has been there twice has these memories of the food (thank you, Paola!): I remember: baked eggplants "parmigiana" (topped with tomato sauce, basil, mozzarella and breadcrumbs, delicious!); wholemeal pasta with tomato, black olives and herbs (also very nice); lots of salads (green, tomato and carrot with olive oil); vegetable soups (depending on the day there was "minestrone soup": a typical Italian mixed vegetable soup, spinach soup, carrot soup, lentil soup, and chick pea soup); vegetarian lasagne (very basic, topped with tomato and basil sauce and parmesan cheese); once a week a cake (strawberry and yogurt or apple tart I think); a variety of fresh cheeses (generally fresh low fat cheeses). Breakfast was based on herbal teas and barley coffee, slices of toasted bread with homemade jams and marmalades (excellent I thought!), cereals, honey, yogurt and fresh ricotta cheese form a local store (it was very nice and low fat ). I loved the yoga. Although I heard that the asana practice was fantastic, little did I know what other aspects of yoga to which I would be exposed. The start times of the asana practice, like in Mysore, were staggered. Between Lino and his assistants, there was always enough attention given – and personal space when needed. In the afternoons we did pranayama, naoli, and Lino’s infamous “playground” – where you never knew what would be discussed. On Saturdays one could choose to go on day trips, or participate in other yoga related activities. One highlight of the latter was basically a cleansing day. This included water neti, string neti, and then my favorite: the oil bath. (One also had the option of doing an internal cleansing as well.) The day was incredibly refreshing and invigorating; I felt clarity of body and mind like never before. Like with summer camp when I was young, I was a bit nervous about going to a retreat not knowing anyone – except Lino from one workshop (not that he remembered me!). This anxiety quickly decreased as I met more and more great people. My first Italian roommate and I managed to communicate in “Engtalian”. Several days later, I was nervous about moving in with three new roommates (this was due to the decision to extend my stay). Questions such as “What about my personal time?”, “How will we get along?” and “How will four women share one bathroom?” came to mind. Respect, kindness, and humor enabled all to go smoothly. Each person does not take but receives something differently from one’s time at Ca Le Suore. Perhaps one benefits from the down time which so infrequently accompanies yoga practice in our day-to-day lives. Perhaps learning a few new asanas is the main benefit. Whether spending time alone contemplating life is the preference, meeting incredible yogis literally from around the world is wanted, or another type of experience is sought, all can be honored. I encourage you to go on your unique journey there.
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