Men can attest to myriad ways that society challenges their self-actualization with contradictory demands. Jumping from one standard of perfection to another can take precedence over men intentionally crafting the selves they intuitively desire. The messages we receive in boyhood do not prepare us to ask deeper questions of ourselves as young men. Many of us do not even have an opportunity to ask these hard questions until much later in life, often in the midst of crisis or disillusionment. Whether you are navigating your way through some form of inner conflict or have simply become more reflective over time, the same questions about identity connect you: what does it mean to be a man?

Studying yoga philosophy with like-minded men can help you remember parts of your identity that make you whole. Come find camaraderie in retreat. To be clear, Santosha has no expectation that you have any prior knowledge of yoga practice or philosophy. This retreat is open to men of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are entirely new to yoga or not, you will find new ways to relate to the various facets of your inner life. The weekend generates opportunities for men to speak and commune openly about their diverse lived experiences with vulnerability and safety. Guided by Matt O’Donnell and Kevin Feeley (LCSW), weekend activities include all Holistic Retreat offerings; the possibility of writing and reflection time around the fire; mountain biking, hiking, and running on the trails behind Santosha (bike rentals are available at nearby Carrabassett Valley Bike and Allspeed); and craft beverage classes.

Meanwhile, Santosha provides all the programming you know and love from our Holistic Retreats every day, so you have plenty of options outside the program—four daily meals, three daily yoga classes, two daily meditations, our nightly dharma talk, and more. Spend the days in reflection, then wrap up the day with a good soak in the jacuzzi, a steam in our brand new cedar barrel sauna, and a hot toddy by the fire.

$ - The value of this Specialty Retreat is the same as the value of our Holistic Retreats. Learn more about value here. Lift passes, equipment rental, ski lessons, and food/beverage purchased outside Santosha are not included.