Sweat & Soul Sicily
Join Mari and Phil June 2026 for 8 days of yoga, movement, breath, and embodied connection!
Discover the magic of Sweat & Soul Sicily: Movement, Connection & Curiosity— a private 8-day retreat from June 6th-13th, 2025 designed to awaken your body, nourish your spirit, and invite deeper presence. Guided by Mari's mindful, breath-led yoga and Phil's dynamic strength and wellness coaching, this experience blends movement, curiosity, and connection against the serene backdrop of Danena's restored Masseria. Together, we'll explore embodied practices that balance effort with ease, creating space for renewal, growth, and authentic rhythm—all while soaking in the rich beauty and culture of southern Sicily.
Our home for the week is Danena Sicily, a lovingly restored 19th-century farmhouse—La Masseria—set among rolling hills, olive groves, and the sparkling Mediterranean landscape of southeastern Sicily. Unlike a hotel, Danena offers a private, rustic, and intimate retreat experience, where the entire property is reserved exclusively for our group.
Here, life unfolds at a slower pace: nourishing meals prepared daily by your local hosts, cozy and uniquely styled rooms, and spaces that invite both connection and quiet reflection. With just 15 bedrooms, a serene pool, shaded courtyards, and sun-drenched terraces, Danena feels more like staying in a warm Sicilian farmhouse than a resort.
You’ll practice together in a spacious indoor yoga shala and an expansive outdoor platform, surrounded by the scents of citrus and the sound of birdsong. Between sessions, wander the gardens, rest by the pool, or enjoy fresh Sicilian flavors at long, communal tables. Your hosts are on hand not only to cook, but also to share their insights into the land, culture, and traditions of this soulful region.
Just 15 minutes from the sea and close to historic treasures like Noto and Siracusa, Danena is the perfect base for exploration—yet always a haven to return to for rest, renewal, and connection.
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Mari believes that growth comes from the willingness to challenge ourselves and explore stepping outside our comfort zone.
Transformation occurs when we are curious and open to what is possible. I want to be brave enough to always try even if I fail and fall and to have the courage to rise again. The yoga practice provides a safe space where she can play in the unknown- can connect with what is real- here and now, and delve into that deeper part of herself that is true and ever steady.
Mari teaches an alignment-based practice of movement and breath that is both accessible and challenging- a flow that is dynamic, strong and fluid with lots of opportunity to get rooted through the hands and play upside down.
She is humbled and inspired everyday she get to teach and to share space and watch courageous yogis go deep into themselves and realize their own potential.
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Phil has been coaching and training for 2 decades.
He lives what he teaches and believes that optimal health and performance is a matter of adopting the right habits and making them a part of your lifestyle. He takes a holistic approach and uses his different skill sets in order to develop an individualized approach to suit each client's needs.
About your hosts
Mari and Phil have been movement practitioners and teachers for over 40 years combined and are interested in building community, inspiring curiosity and connection, and cultivating discipline and awareness in all facets of their lives.
Accommodations
Retreat in comfort at Danena's beautifully restored 19th-century Masseria, nestled among olive and almond groves in southeastern Sicily. Choose from 15 unique bedrooms, with options for shared or private bathrooms. Enjoy the freshwater infinity pool, multiple relaxation patios, and stunning sunset terrace - all just minutes from golden-sand beaches and the Mediterranean Sea.
Deluxe Shared Room
SOLD OUT
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7 nights accommodation in a spacious shared room with shared bathroom, includes 2 king beds, luxurious and spacious living area, shared bathroom and outdoor space, daily brunch & dinner, all sessions, full use of facilities, and group activities
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€4800 (€2400 pp)
Deposit: €500 to secure your spotBalance due: 60 days before retreat start
Flexible payment plans available — inquire for details
Superior Private Room
SOLD OUT
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7 nights accommodation in a private apartment, private room with ensuite or private bathroom, A/C, king bed, spacious living space or kitchenette, private terrace, daily brunch & dinner, all sessions, full use of facilities, and group activities
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€4100 (€2050 pp)
Deposit: €500 to secure your spotBalance due: 60 days before retreat start
Flexible payment plans available — inquire for details
Shared Accommodations
SOLD OUT
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SOLD OUT
Includes: 7 nights accommodation for single occupancy in a shared 3 bedroom apartment, private room with shared bathroom, shared kitchenette, living space and terrace, daily brunch & dinner, all movement sessions, full use of facilities, and group activities.Single Private Accommodation
SOLD OUT
Includes: 7 nights accommodation for single occupancy in a shared 2 or 3 bedroom apartment, private room with ensuite or private bathroom, shared kitchenette and living space and outdoor terrace, daily brunch & dinner, all sessions, full use of facilities, and group activities.
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Private bathroom €2200 per person
Shared bathroom €2075 per person
Deposit: €500 to secure your spotBalance due: 60 days before retreat start
Flexible payment plans available — inquire for details
Included in your retreat package:
8 days / 7 nights' accommodation at Danena Sicily
Daily nourishing meals: brunch and dinner (vegetarian with pescatarian options)
Exclusive use of retreat facilities: pool, yoga spaces, common areas
Twice-daily yoga, movement, meditation, workshops, yin, and restore classes with Mari & Phil
Group boat excursion
Cooking class with Sicilian chef
Pizza night
Not included in your retreat package:
Flights to/from Sicily
Airport transfers (can be arranged)
Optional excursions and activities
Alcoholic beverages and all gratuities
Spa and body treatments
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Deposits are non-refundable after January. Cancellations made 60+ days before the retreat receive a 50% refund of balance paid; cancellations within 60 days receive no refund. Please verify your passport expiration date and consider purchasing travel insurance.