Every Atsitsa Bay holiday provides unique shared accommodation only moments from the sea, three delicious meals per day and up to 5 hours of courses, including yoga, per course day. There is a choice of up to 15 different courses per session and a variety of ‘happenings’ and evening activities.
The ten nights holiday begins on the 1st, the 11th and the 21st of each month, and people arrive in Athens the day before. The nine full days in Skyros island are split in two with four days of courses in each half, punctuated by a day's break in between.
‘Atsitsa attracts some of the world's best teachers.’ Here’s Health
‘There is an embarrassment of riches on the timetable and a wealth of talent among both teaching and permanent staff.’ Yoga Magazine Listed below are the holiday dates, prices and courses available. Select the course title and facilitator's name for more information.
Charismatic presence is the ability to be yourself, and allow your natural 'you' to take centre stage unselfconsciously. Self censorship, lack of confidence, frozen body language, inability to communicate - we've probably all felt rather fake, sometimes at important moments. This is a chance to play with and try on some of the techniques actors learn in order to be seen, heard and understood - as well learning to listen to the wisdom of your body through touch based exercises. Enjoy being the real you, even more!
Annabelle is best known for her role in the hit television series, Shameless as well as Soldier, Soldier, The Lakes, Midsommer Murders and Coronation Street. She has taught theatre, self-presentation and vocal work over the last 10 years, and is also co-founder and practitioner of Rosen Method Bodywork in the UK.
Laura’s teaching reflects her appreciation of a diversity of Yoga styles. Classes are dynamic and creative; grounding and refreshing. Sessions will include free movement to loosen and open; vinyasa sequences (moving with the breath) to warm and invigorate; standing asanas to strengthen; and calming stretches to cool and increase flexibility. Each class will end with the deeply relaxing practice of Restorative Yoga, allowing rest, re-balancing and rejuvenation. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace, bringing the qualities of fun and playful exploration to the practice of Yoga.
Laura's own teaching style has developed through an appreciation for the diversity of yoga styles, having studied Scaravelli, Vinyasa Flow, Kundalini and Restorative yoga.
The practice of mindfulness is a simple path to our core self, the place of inner wisdom, well being and happiness. It also provides tools for recognising and reducing unhealthy stress and for becoming aware of our habits of our thoughts and action, which keep us stuck. This course combines western psychology with the wisdom of the East.
Laughter Yoga (additional activity)
It's good to laugh. There are health benefits to laughing. In this session we will trigger your laughter muscles (no humour required) through a series of laughter exercises and breathing exercises. We will develop full-bodied laughter. Once you start you might not want to stop!
Meditation (additional activity)
This will give you the basic tools to start a Meditation Practice. Michael will teach Anapana Sati, the most simple Buddhist minfulness meditation with a focus on the breath. If there is interest he will offer a second session on using a Mantra and chanting.
AT12 Fri 21 Sep-Mon 1 Oct 12 Michael Eales, a group facilitator for 25 years, is one of the leading figures in Humanistic Psychology. He is the co-author of The Personal Management Handbook and The Coaching Cube and a management consultant with major organisations.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Release the power of your singing voice through Susie's easy method which gets you singing quickly with an increase of range, breath and confidence. These workshops offer fun singing in a group with harmonies. No previous singing experience needed!
Painting(additional activity AT2)
We will go into the gorgeous Skyrian landscape and into the inner landscape of ourselves to create appealing paintings that you will want to hang in your home. Susie draws on contemporary abstract painting techniques which release your artistic potential. No previous experience of painting is needed.
Wild Swimming (additional activity AT1 & AT2)
An energetic, enjoyable workout. We walk at a brisk pace to an area of outstanding beauty and swim. Sturdy shoes and 'sea' shoes are recommended.
Susie, a singer/songwriter, performs at Covent Garden, Glyndebourne and co-starred with Jasper Carrot in the West End. She leads voice and sound healing retreats. Her latest album is Seachanges.
In comedy, there is no such thing as a bad idea, just an under-developed one.
People have been telling each other stories for thousands of years. Each of us has the ability to make other people laugh. Then why do our brains seize up when we are told to be funny? How can we remove the terror at staring at a blank page and kick start our creativity? In essence, by playing a series of games which trick us into being funny.
Participants will spend four sessions creating a series of sketches in different comedy genres.
The course will cover the following areas:
1) Joke Structure. What makes people laugh and how can we trigger it?
2) Thinking outside the box (lateralisation). How to mine even the most mundane idea to unlock its comic potential.
3) Monologue and two-handers. Using the idea of comic flaws and social etiquette we will create funny performance pieces ready to show off to a live crowd.
4) Finessing the script. Technical tricks that professional writers use.
Although a writing course, there will also be some non-writing exercises designed to encourage creativity. There would also be writing games with group feedback and tutor led suggestions to help you build up a sense of comedic grammar and hone your comedy writing skills. By the end of the course you will know how to write jokes and will have the confidence to stand up on your own and make a group of total strangers laugh.
Logan Murray has been in the comedy industry for over 25 years. He is an accomplished stand-up comedian (performing at every major comedy club and festival in Great Britain), television and radio writer, presenter and actor, as well as stage-director, author and tutor. His London-based comedy courses are considered one of the best in the country and his book 'Be a Great Stand Up', currently tops the Amazon best selling list. He has taught over 1,600 people how to be funny. Many have gone on to become award-winning comedians.
The seven colours of the rainbow will lead you to a journey of self discovery, while stirring your creative juices! Through breathing, movement, meditation and a variety of hands-on exercises colour will become your indispensable tool for joy and self knowledge. Painting and weaving exquisite pieces, will bring back home with you the loveliness of the Greek light!
Theresa Sundt’s unique approach to colour is a result of a lifetime’s work as an art teacher, textile artist and colour therapist. She brings deep awareness of the healing qualities of colour and how colour stimulates every cell of the body. Colour awakens loveliness and creativity, which pleasantly surprises everybody who is consciously exposed to it!
Each session of ‘Playing with Colour’ is divided in 2 parts. The first part covers colour in healing, the 9 colour personalities, colour in décor and in clothing. The second part of the session is creative; painting step by step still lifes and weaving with materials found in the local nature, colour is applied and deeply experienced. There is no need to have an inclination to art or any artistic experience; colour will guide you to unexplored talents!
Theresa Sundt is a professional artist and art teacher focusing her work on the therapeutic qualities of colour. She gives colour workshops all over the world that vibrate with enthusiasm and life changing creativity.Her newly published book The Art of Colour Therapy, has been translated in four languages.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Laughter Yoga, Meditation, Paperless Writing, Restorative Yoga, Songwriting, The Power of Touch, Weaving, Wild Swimming
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
Being an Entrepreneur Mon 11 - Thu 21 Jun 2012 AT2
A fun, inspiring and motivating way to plan your business, recognising your personal values, putting them at the heart of your business. Addressing both the emotional and practical side to business start up. Or simply rejuvinating the business you already run. Ensuring you leave knowing what you really want, your confidence and self-motivation is high and you have the practical skills to help you plan your successful business.
Our methodolgies are based on our research and the content of our internationally published book ' Making It, Women Entrepreneurs Reveal Their Secrets of Success'. Together with the expertise and knowledge gained from studying enterprise in both the UK and the USA.
Louise Gimson is an accredited business trainer, coach and author, with a wealth of enterprise experience. She works with businesses of all types and sizes. Her specialization is bringing pre-start entrepreneur's business dreams to reality. She is an accomplished mentor, inspirational speaker and author of 'Making It Women Entrepreneurs Reveal Their Secrets of Success'. As a fellow of the 'Winston Churchill Memorial Trust' Louise has spent time researching entrepreneurship in the USA. Louise uses the expertise gained as a fellow to develop and deliver enterprise training, faciltation, qualifications and competitions.
Laura’s teaching reflects her appreciation of a diversity of Yoga styles. Classes are dynamic and creative; grounding and refreshing. Sessions will include free movement to loosen and open; vinyasa sequences (moving with the breath) to warm and invigorate; standing asanas to strengthen; and calming stretches to cool and increase flexibility. Each class will end with the deeply relaxing practice of Restorative Yoga, allowing rest, re-balancing and rejuvenation. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace, bringing the qualities of fun and playful exploration to the practice of Yoga.
Laura's own teaching style has developed through an appreciation for the diversity of yoga styles, having studied Scaravelli, Vinyasa Flow, Kundalini and Restorative yoga.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Release the power of your singing voice through Susie's easy method which gets you singing quickly with an increase of range, breath and confidence. These workshops offer fun singing in a group with harmonies. No previous singing experience needed!
Painting(additional activity AT2)
We will go into the gorgeous Skyrian landscape and into the inner landscape of ourselves to create appealing paintings that you will want to hang in your home. Susie draws on contemporary abstract painting techniques which release your artistic potential. No previous experience of painting is needed.
Wild Swimming (additional activity AT1 & AT2)
An energetic, enjoyable workout. We walk at a brisk pace to an area of outstanding beauty and swim. Sturdy shoes and 'sea' shoes are recommended.
Susie, a singer/songwriter, performs at Covent Garden, Glyndebourne and co-starred with Jasper Carrot in the West End. She leads voice and sound healing retreats. Her latest album is Seachanges.
Unleashing your inner idiot 'All creativity comes out of play’ Winnicott.
Human beings love playing games; we love to look at things from fresh and novel angles. In essence this is all the comedian does: They ‘play’ with ideas until the world is shaken into a new shape. Laughter is the reward our mind gives us for liberating our thoughts from the tyranny of our mundane selves.
This course offers a unique opportunity to find out what a comedian’s job is like and is very successful at uncovering the individual’s unique comic voice. Teaching will be broken down into three basic areas:
- Performance exercises designed at encouraging spontaneity, creativity and developing your own comic style.
- Focusing on the type of fool you are capable of playing
- Increasing your confidence in what you are saying and how you say it.
Logan Murray has been in the comedy industry for over 25 years. He is an accomplished stand-up comedian (performing at every major comedy club and festival in Great Britain), television and radio writer, presenter and actor, as well as stage-director, author and tutor. His London-based comedy courses are considered one of the best in the country and his book 'Be a Great Stand Up', currently tops the Amazon best selling list. He has taught over 1,600 people how to be funny. Many have gone on to become award-winning comedians.
The seven colours of the rainbow will lead you to a journey of self discovery, while stirring your creative juices! Through breathing, movement, meditation and a variety of hands-on exercises colour will become your indispensable tool for joy and self knowledge. Painting and weaving exquisite pieces, will bring back home with you the loveliness of the Greek light!
Theresa Sundt’s unique approach to colour is a result of a lifetime’s work as an art teacher, textile artist and colour therapist. She brings deep awareness of the healing qualities of colour and how colour stimulates every cell of the body. Colour awakens loveliness and creativity, which pleasantly surprises everybody who is consciously exposed to it!
Each session of ‘Playing with Colour’ is divided in 2 parts. The first part covers colour in healing, the 9 colour personalities, colour in décor and in clothing. The second part of the session is creative; painting step by step still lifes and weaving with materials found in the local nature, colour is applied and deeply experienced. There is no need to have an inclination to art or any artistic experience; colour will guide you to unexplored talents!
Theresa Sundt is a professional artist and art teacher focusing her work on the therapeutic qualities of colour. She gives colour workshops all over the world that vibrate with enthusiasm and life changing creativity.Her newly published book The Art of Colour Therapy, has been translated in four languages.
First of all we will look at the large scale shape of a story – the macro view, and how to plan a piece of work that doesn’t just dry up after 20 pages. We will explore the engineering of what agents and publishers call ‘traction’ – that is, the feeling that a story is pulling you through it.
We will arrive at an understanding of how feelings are evoked in a story – how writers conjure emotion to sustain and gratify readers with a vicarious experience of life, which at its best is just as powerful as the original.
Throughout, we will keep an eye on the different motivations for writing. We all write for different reasons, and we need to define accurately what it is we want to get out of writing, what we want to give. This motivation, after all, is the mainspring of our energy, and if it’s in good shape it will give us the impetus to start and to complete the work, and finish it to a high standard.
We will focus on how good writers lift their characters off the page and bring them alive, and how we, as writers, can maintain our readers’ interest in a character.
Last of all, we will narrow our focus to the words ourselves – prose style. Everyone can write – but how to write beautifully? What is prose style, and how can we, as individuals, reach out for such a thing, and attain it? Writing exercises will be set during the morning sessions, and there will be longer exercises (voluntary, of course!) for completion during the afternoons.
Sam North has written eight novels: The Old Country (2007), The Velvet Rooms (2006), The Unnumbered (2004) that was long-listed for the Man Booker prize, The Lie Of The Land 2000), The Automatic Man (1990) that won a Somerset Maugham Award and several others. He has also written a screenplay commissioned by Samuelson Productions - a supernatural thriller - and was the third writer on a thriller set in Australia for Working Title. He works as a lecturer in the English department at the University of Exeter, and lives on the edge of Dartmoor.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
In this course we will explore, in a playful and body-focused way, how to make good boundaries that allow us to connect with integrity and joy. When we recognize and respect our own and other people’s boundaries, when we listen to our own and others' choices, and when we differentiate and express what is negotiable and what is not, then we learn "tender toughness" - the toughness of clearly and fiercely standing for our important boundaries and the tenderness of making real connection across those boundaries.
When we clearly speak (with words and also non-verbally) of what we will or will not do, and really listen, then our longing for contact will show itself afresh - with interest and curiosity and a sense of safety and excitement …
Silke will also offer an additional activitiy exploring Body Language.
Silke Ziehl is a body psychotherapist specialising in training professionals. She is the founder of the Entelia Institute for Creative Bodywork in Munich and London, and a member of the Open Centre, London.
Classes focus on developing body awareness, flexibility and strength through the practice of asana (posture work) and sun salutations with a particular focus on the breath. This will be followed by pranayama (breathing practice), relaxation and meditation. Some classes may have a special focus on chakras, mantra, yoga nidra (deep relaxation) or movement meditation. The overall aim of these classes will be to promote well-being and help participants incorporate yoga into everyday life.
Classes are suitable for everyone, all levels and abilities will be catered for.
Creative Sparks (additional activity)
How to manage and develop creativity, access the creative brain and achieve your full potential. Experience techniques and exercises used by professional actors and artists. Ignite the creative spark, awaken spontaneity and reveal the bright, creative individual you truly are! Learn skills to help express your 'self' clearly and confidently in front of a group.
Drawn from experience in Theatre, Dance & Live Art, the course will involve practical fun exercises that focus on removing blocks, trusting impulse, accepting change and releasing tension in order to devise original, vibrant performance:
- Freeing the voice & body
- Improvisation & devising with ease
- Responding to various stimuli
Marina, as well as being a yoga teacher, is an accomplished theatre director, writer and performer who has worked internationally with theatres, galleries, festivals, prisons, health and mental health groups.
Jo Wood is a singer and choral director, who plays piano and sax. Her Rock Choirs released a top 10 album in 2010. She has taught harmony workshops at the Central School of Speech & Drama and in Kent.
Digital cameras are great! ..But what do all those symbols mean on the knobs and buttons, and why can't I take a decent close-up shot? ..And what do all those numbers on the lens mean? And why don't distant things come out properly, even with the flash? ..And how do I take sunsets? ..they don't look anything like the real thing! And the instruction book is utterly incomprehensible!
Ring any bells? I'll be de-mystifying it all!
We'll cover how to choose a camera if you're aiming to buy one - and also how to get the very best out of a camera you've already bought! We'll do pictures outdoors, and pictures indoors, at parties or in dim light. How to take better pictures without flash. Taking portraits, and holiday snaps, and movie-making with an ordinary camera. And we'll look at cameras which still take film ..so it's a course for everyone. If you've ever been dissatisfied with your photos, this is where to come to shoot masterpieces!
Last year's course in Atsitsa (Skyros, Greece) was so popular that I had to do it all over again! It's for beginners, and advanced photographers, too. But if you just can't get the hang of your camera... here's where it all becomes clear.
Bring you own camera and diiscover how creative you actually are!
David Babsky, formerly Technical Editor of Practical Photography magazine, has taught photography and movie-making. Bring your own camera and a head full of creative ideas, and watch them come to life!
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
The Nature of Happiness Thu 21 Jun - Sun 1 Jul 2012 AT3
Robert will explore some of his discoveries and teach techniques he has developed working with artists and creative people over the last 20 years. He will explore in an interactive way why these understandings and approaches are effective and how they bring about success. The nature of anxiety will be explored and how to create a peaceful mind/body. You will also learn:
- A simple meditation approach and the rationals behind it.
- How visualization works to achieve and manifest goals
- How to programme and reprogramme the unconscious mind
- Discuss and practise the importance of language and self talk
- How to unhypnotise yourself from past suggestions and injunctions by power figures
Robert will give you the key to the simple concept of how the mind functions, so that anyone can unlock their right to a happier and more enjoyable life. Robert believes that humor and fun are often the best mediums for learning about ourselves!
One of the best routes into writing in any genre is through true stories. Some of our best material lies in personal experiences, whether our own or other people’s. Memoir, biography, fiction, poetry: all these can stem from real life.This course concentrates on looking, honing skills of observation and description. How do you evoke memories, feelings, and the past? We also focus on the world around us, often using Skyros and its people as inspiration, and explore the cross-overs where truth turns into fiction. How much flesh can you put on the bones? Are certain subjects out of bounds? On the technical side we look at openings, dialogue, characterisation, structure and editing, style, polishing up prose, and avoiding the pitfalls. Using games and exercises, the course explores techniques of using our material to tell our stories clearly and thoughtfully. Appealing to both beginners and more experienced writers, this course is challenging and fun.
Helena Drysdale’s books include Looking for George, shortlisted for the Esquire/Apple/ Waterstone’s Non-Fiction Award, and the PEN/ J.R. Ackerley Award for Autobiography. Her latest book is Strangerland, A Family at War (Picador 2007), and she is currently writing children’s fiction. She is an editor for the Writer’s Workshop, and tutors at the Arvon Foundation.
More Activities AT3 Thu 21 Jun - Sun 1 Jul 2012 AT3
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Body Language, Breathwork, Creative Sparks, Hypnotherapy, Jazz, Public Speaking, Theatre Improvisation, Vocal Beatbox
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
Intimacy, while sometimes hard to find or maintain, is what we yearn for. Intimacy is also the doorway to meaningful connections and loving relationships.
Whether your longing is for a deeper connection with your love partner or with family and friends, the first step is to deepen the connection with yourself. In growing your awareness of your own body, emotions, mind and soul you become more 'at home'.
This course invites you to make friends with parts of yourself you have confined to the dark corners of your psyche. It invites you to be true to yourself and to feel into another person, at the same time. It will encourage you not to shut down, but learn to open up your consciousness.
This workshop provides a safe and nourishing space where you'll be invited into guided meditations and processes. There will be dance, some physical touch, some times of silence and reflection, some times of sharing. Always you will be encouraged to be in tune with yourself.
Jan has been leading workshops on intimacy, relationships, sexuality and life vision since 1999 in Europe and Hawaii. She is a certified coach and Art of Being teacher.
Classes focus on developing body awareness, flexibility and strength through the practice of asana (posture work) and sun salutations with a particular focus on the breath. This will be followed by pranayama (breathing practice), relaxation and meditation. Some classes may have a special focus on chakras, mantra, yoga nidra (deep relaxation) or movement meditation. The overall aim of these classes will be to promote well-being and help participants incorporate yoga into everyday life.
Classes are suitable for everyone, all levels and abilities will be catered for.
Creative Sparks (additional activity)
How to manage and develop creativity, access the creative brain and achieve your full potential. Experience techniques and exercises used by professional actors and artists. Ignite the creative spark, awaken spontaneity and reveal the bright, creative individual you truly are! Learn skills to help express your 'self' clearly and confidently in front of a group.
Drawn from experience in Theatre, Dance & Live Art, the course will involve practical fun exercises that focus on removing blocks, trusting impulse, accepting change and releasing tension in order to devise original, vibrant performance:
- Freeing the voice & body
- Improvisation & devising with ease
- Responding to various stimuli
Marina, as well as being a yoga teacher, is an accomplished theatre director, writer and performer who has worked internationally with theatres, galleries, festivals, prisons, health and mental health groups.
Jo Wood is a singer and choral director, who plays piano and sax. Her Rock Choirs released a top 10 album in 2010. She has taught harmony workshops at the Central School of Speech & Drama and in Kent.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Stoney's course is deisgned to be fun, creative and practical. You'll learn the basic techniques, unchanged since medieval times, combined with a modern glass perspective and lots of handy tips. You'll be taken through all the processes step by step so that you have a good grounding if you want to continue with stained glass in the future. This stained glass course combines the creative and the practical in a most satisfying way so that you can make something that you can take home and be proud of, having learnt a new skill and opened up new creative horizons for yourself.
Mandala making from found objects (additional activity)
Make a mandala out of found objects from the environs. Participants will collect objects from locality and make mandalas. This can be as meditative or as fun as you like. You will be free to take photos of them when they are finished. Suggestions and encouragement will be given by Stoney throughout.
Stoney Parsons is a professional stained glass artist of very long standing. She is also a painter. Her glass work and paintings are all about colour. She enjoys teaching and her courses are practical, creative and fun!
T'ai Chi
T'ai Chi is, for me, a moving meditation and a lifetime friend. This introductory course, specially designed for Skyros, is open to all and no previous experience is necessary. It is guaranteed to improve your sense of balance, is a great way to start the day, and has overall health-giving properties. My recent extended stay in China has deepened my understanding of the place of T'ai Chi in the lives of ordinary people.
Outdoor Art
Art in Landscape creatively explores the amazing landscape of Skyros Island. It remains incredibly unspoilt with large areas virtually untouched. The course aims to increase our sensory awareness and perception, exploring natural and man-made materials to collaboratively construct temporary artworks. You'll also be encouraged to produce a journal of your experiences and we will aim for a public showing or exhibition at the conclusion. Absolutely no previous experience is necessary and I particularly like working with people who feel they're not artistic.
AT5Wed 11 - Sat 21 Jul 2012
Richard Layzell is a ResCen Research Associate Artist. He is internationally recognised for his work in performance, video and installation and for pioneering a series of innovative residencies in industry, defining the role of the 'visionaire'. The Manifestation, a major work for galleries, in collaboration with Tania Koswycz, is currently on tour. He is the author of The Artist’s Directory, Enhanced Performance and Cream Pages.
This course is aimed at complete beginners and will take the student gently through the basic skills required to learn this exciting sport.
Skills are broken down into bite size chunks and the majority of the time is spent on the water.
Windsurfing will help improve your coordination, flexibility and strength.
The course will challenge you; however, the emphasis is on enjoyment.
You will be encouraged to take intelligent risks and develop an awareness of your environment
During most of the summer you will only need to wear swimwear and wetsuit shoes. You can bring your own or use the centre's. At the beginning and end of the season it may be necessary to wear a shortie wetsuit. Again, these will be provided.
The equipment used is ideally suited for beginners.
It is not necessary to be a strong swimmer or athletic to learn windsurfing. However, a basic level of mobility and some confidence in the water is required.
Students may continue onto the Improvers class in the 2nd half of the session.
Improvers Windsurfing
This is a drop in series of classes suitable for those with previous experience. An ability to sail away from the beach, turn around and sail back is the only minimum requirement. It is also open to those who took part in the Learn to Windsurf course during the first half of the session.
Each class will take the form of a short clinic followed by on water practice.
Continued coaching and feedback will be available or you can just practice without instruction.
Walks Mark will also be offering local walks for all.
Mark Gunston has been teaching skiing and watersports for 30 years in Europe, Israel and the US. Mark is a qualified RYA Windsurfing Trainer, Dinghy Sailing Senior Instructor, Powerboat Instructor, an internationally licensed Ski Instructor, and a qualified life coach. He has been teaching in Atsitsa since 1996.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Barefoot Boogie, Breathwork, Creative Sparks, Jazz, Meditation and Movement, Mandala Making, Performance Art, Vocal Beatbox
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
Take up the challenge and experience abseiling in the stunning scenery and nature of Atsitsa. Berny offers a Greek experience with a difference! From a basic, beginners abseil, to the amazing experiences of tackling sea cliffs, mineshafts and the possible ultimate experience of abseiling directly into the warm, blue sea! Whether with previous experience or a complete novice, here’s the opportunity to challenge yourself and achieve the satisfaction of “safely” defying gravity, in a shared, group experience with a very experienced instructor who offers adventure, camaraderie and a diversity of ways to overcome your fears, both actual and analogous. Return back to the UK with spectacular photos and memories of the unique experience of an abseil in the sun!
Berny holds the UK Mountain Instructors Certificate and has extensive experience having worked in the RAF as an Outdoor Adventure Instructor for over 20 years. He is also a self taught artist and poet.
Richard Lewis is a musician, film maker and writer who has worked for many companies including Microsoft, Skype and Oxford University Press. He believes everyone is creative through music, words and images.
AT5Wed 11 - Sat 21 Jul 2012
Richard Layzell is a ResCen Research Associate Artist. He is internationally recognised for his work in performance, video and installation and for pioneering a series of innovative residencies in industry, defining the role of the 'visionaire'. The Manifestation, a major work for galleries, in collaboration with Tania Koswycz, is currently on tour. He is the author of The Artist’s Directory, Enhanced Performance and Cream Pages.
Mia will teach a delicious, juicy and deep form of flow yoga, created by Shivea Rea. Depth and dynamics follow in a sensory flow of asana, wrapped in music that resonates with our innermost pulse of prana shakti.
Mia is a devoted jnana yogini, dancer, writer and photographer. Trained in Prana Flow Yoga by Shivea Rea, she loves to share the power of organic rhythm, the flow of breath with movement, and the exquisite freedom of sinking into ones inner experience of yoga.
In this course you’ll learn how to make a mosaic that you can take home with you. It’s fun, creative, absorbing, and very sociable: an ideal activity for those hot summer days! Although we’ll cover classic mosaic techniques (and a little history), the emphasis is on individual creativity. Both beginners and experienced mosaicists are welcome on the course.
Rosalind Wates is an experienced mosaicist, renowned for her public art projects up and down the UK. She works in a variety of styles and materials, mainly by commission: her clients range from film stars and billionaires to public bodies and local communities. Although versed in traditional mosaic techniques, she constantly explores the creative possibilities of the medium to produce new work. As well as producing mosaics, Rosalind also teaches and has carried out TV and radio work. Her book, The Mosaic Decorator’s Sourcebook, has been translated into several languages and is sold worldwide.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
This course is aimed at complete beginners and will take the student gently through the basic skills required to learn this exciting sport.
Skills are broken down into bite size chunks and the majority of the time is spent on the water.
Windsurfing will help improve your coordination, flexibility and strength.
The course will challenge you; however, the emphasis is on enjoyment.
You will be encouraged to take intelligent risks and develop an awareness of your environment
During most of the summer you will only need to wear swimwear and wetsuit shoes. You can bring your own or use the centre's. At the beginning and end of the season it may be necessary to wear a shortie wetsuit. Again, these will be provided.
The equipment used is ideally suited for beginners.
It is not necessary to be a strong swimmer or athletic to learn windsurfing. However, a basic level of mobility and some confidence in the water is required.
Students may continue onto the Improvers class in the 2nd half of the session.
Improvers Windsurfing
This is a drop in series of classes suitable for those with previous experience. An ability to sail away from the beach, turn around and sail back is the only minimum requirement. It is also open to those who took part in the Learn to Windsurf course during the first half of the session.
Each class will take the form of a short clinic followed by on water practice.
Continued coaching and feedback will be available or you can just practice without instruction.
Walks Mark will also be offering local walks for all.
Mark Gunston has been teaching skiing and watersports for 30 years in Europe, Israel and the US. Mark is a qualified RYA Windsurfing Trainer, Dinghy Sailing Senior Instructor, Powerboat Instructor, an internationally licensed Ski Instructor, and a qualified life coach. He has been teaching in Atsitsa since 1996.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Beginner's Guitar, Creative Landscape, Dance, Filming, Jamming, Meditation and Movement, Singing, Wild Walks.
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
Take up the challenge and experience abseiling in the stunning scenery and nature of Atsitsa. Berny offers a Greek experience with a difference! From a basic, beginners abseil, to the amazing experiences of tackling sea cliffs, mineshafts and the possible ultimate experience of abseiling directly into the warm, blue sea! Whether with previous experience or a complete novice, here’s the opportunity to challenge yourself and achieve the satisfaction of “safely” defying gravity, in a shared, group experience with a very experienced instructor who offers adventure, camaraderie and a diversity of ways to overcome your fears, both actual and analogous. Return back to the UK with spectacular photos and memories of the unique experience of an abseil in the sun!
Berny holds the UK Mountain Instructors Certificate and has extensive experience having worked in the RAF as an Outdoor Adventure Instructor for over 20 years. He is also a self taught artist and poet.
Richard Lewis is a musician, film maker and writer who has worked for many companies including Microsoft, Skype and Oxford University Press. He believes everyone is creative through music, words and images.
Ilene Sawka facilitates creativity workshops for top Swedish managers and politicians using an array of original forms and techniques. She is also a Qi Gong teacher.
In this course you’ll learn how to make a mosaic that you can take home with you. It’s fun, creative, absorbing, and very sociable: an ideal activity for those hot summer days! Although we’ll cover classic mosaic techniques (and a little history), the emphasis is on individual creativity. Both beginners and experienced mosaicists are welcome on the course.
Rosalind Wates is an experienced mosaicist, renowned for her public art projects up and down the UK. She works in a variety of styles and materials, mainly by commission: her clients range from film stars and billionaires to public bodies and local communities. Although versed in traditional mosaic techniques, she constantly explores the creative possibilities of the medium to produce new work. As well as producing mosaics, Rosalind also teaches and has carried out TV and radio work. Her book, The Mosaic Decorator’s Sourcebook, has been translated into several languages and is sold worldwide.
Mia will teach a delicious, juicy and deep form of flow yoga, created by Shivea Rea. Depth and dynamics follow in a sensory flow of asana, wrapped in music that resonates with our innermost pulse of prana shakti.
Mia is a devoted jnana yogini, dancer, writer and photographer. Trained in Prana Flow Yoga by Shivea Rea, she loves to share the power of organic rhythm, the flow of breath with movement, and the exquisite freedom of sinking into ones inner experience of yoga.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Gentle, thoughtful tuition and super-easy equipment in the picture-perfect setting of Atsitsa Bay make this the ideal way to add the exhilarating skill of windsurfing to your repertoire. The course is for absolute beginners, but you’re welcome to join us if you’ve done it before.
Street Theatre (additional activity)
‘Street Theatre‘ is the best name we could come up with for these unique, playful, interactive games that will bring out the inner personas that you didn’t know or had forgotten existed, challenge your ideas of reality – and get you laughing so much that your sides hurt!
A Skyros windsurfing instructor since 1994, John Wigham went on to introduce music, street theatre and general silliness into his repertoire. While not doing this, he is a landscape architect based in Dubai.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Beginner's Guitar, Dance, Photography, Self Presentation, Singing, Songwriting, Soul Writing, Street Theatre, Wild Walks.
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
An introduction to improvisation by an expert practitioner. Using a wide range of games and exercises it covers: mindmapping, storytelling, character-building, status-play, comedy-business, how to fail happily and devising skills.
The class gives participants confidence and the ability to think on their feet (useful for all sorts of situations!). It stimulates creativity and helps unlock the huge range of characters and stories within, that can be used to delight an audience, professionally or in everyday life. It aims to broaden comic and performance skills, motivate mind and body, and release lots of laughter in the process.
This is one of the best impro classes you’ll ever do. And it’ll make you look younger, give you a six-pack and attract the person of your dreams.*
*This bit isn’t 100% certain.
Flirtshop (additional activity AT7) Games, exercises, role-play, coaching and discussion encourage you to make the first move and keep the confidence flowing.
Alison Goldie is a professional actor, theatre director, broadcaster and facilitator. She has a wealth of experience performing comedy and drama in London, the UK and all over the world. Alison has taught comedy, drama, flirting and creativity to professionals and non-professionals for over 20 years. She has worked as a stand-up comic, TV presenter and corporate trainer. She is currently touring her one-woman autobiographical show, Lady, in Bed, to great acclaim.
As children we marvel at the world around us, longing to be grown up and able to taste life's many gifts. Somehow as adults we have learned to shut down and avoid our pain and struggle. Unfortunately and unknowingly, we also close down our passion and joy. This workshop is designed to reawaken our appetite for the richness of life. Using a blend of psychotherapy, sensual techniques, dance, small group exercises, laughter and communication, we will explore and embrace our passionate selves.
Ecstatic Dance(additional activity) No previous dance experience is required, just a courage and willingness to practice stepping onto the dance floor and moving with who we are, and how we are, moment to moment.
Malcolm Stern is a group and individual psychotherapist, co-founder of Alternatives at St James Church, London. He has recently co-presented Channel 4’s relationships series.
Beverley is a Nia Brown Belt Instructor, Kundalini Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master and bodyworker with a passion for healing, inspiring and empowering others to reach their highest potential. She has extensive experience teaching groups and individiuals in the UK and abroad, and has developed a speciality in adapting her work to therapeutic settings.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
If you can talk, you can sing! Join this course, run by an exceptional singer with three number one dance hits in the UK, and experience the power of sound and song. Whether you are new to singing, or have some experience, this course will be an exciting journey of vocal discoveries. Using breath, movement, dance, song, improvisation, harmony, toning and more, you will be given the opportunity to sing and create. Free your voice, increase your confidence, enjoy self-expression, ignite your creativity and stimulate healing on all levels.
Sarah Warwick is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, performer and recording artist with 3 number one dance hits in the UK and the US. She also runs voice workshops.
Michael Gahagan's art and his artwork are exhibited in a number of galleries, books and magazines. As a qualified coach he encourages individuals to enjoy and develop art at their own pace.
Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga
Hatha Yoga is the classical way of teaching Yoga. The emphasis in Andreas’ Hatha Yoga classes lies in learning the poses (Asanas), holding them properly and becoming aware of proper alignment that is quite crucial to get the benefits of a Yoga practice in a long run. This teaching is mostly inspired by Iyengar and Anusara Yoga. The classes usually begin with Pranayama (breathing exercises) and chanting of Mantras. Vinyasa Yoga is a more dynamic form of Hatha Yoga, (Vinyasa means breath movement synchronization). The emphasis in Andreas’ Vinyasa Yoga classes lies on a challenging, flowing and precise Asana practice interwoven with spiritual insights, selected music, and meditation and chanting. This teaching is mostly inspired by Jivamukti Yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.- Participants will experience Yoga as a spiritual path and will feel the innate healing power of the practice. They will find out what sort of practice is most beneficial for them. Through Andreas’ classes a lot of former Skyros participants were inspired to take up a regular Yoga practice.
Andreas is a practising Yogi. He trained with masters in India and the US. He runs his own Yoga Centre on the shores of Lake Konstanz in Switzerland and leads workshops and retreats all over Europe. A former film and TV director he combines worldly and spiritual experiences in his very unique way of teaching. Presently, he is involved with theatre work as a producer/actor and is interested in exploring the opportunities which both theatre and yoga provide for being completely present in the here and now.
Gentle, thoughtful tuition and super-easy equipment in the picture-perfect setting of Atsitsa Bay make this the ideal way to add the exhilarating skill of windsurfing to your repertoire. The course is for absolute beginners, but you’re welcome to join us if you’ve done it before.
Street Theatre (additional activity)
‘Street Theatre‘ is the best name we could come up with for these unique, playful, interactive games that will bring out the inner personas that you didn’t know or had forgotten existed, challenge your ideas of reality – and get you laughing so much that your sides hurt!
A Skyros windsurfing instructor since 1994, John Wigham went on to introduce music, street theatre and general silliness into his repertoire. While not doing this, he is a landscape architect based in Dubai.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Ecstatic Dance, Flirtshop, Indian Head Massage, Kirtan, Kundalini Yoga, Meditation, Photography, Street Theatre.
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
Do you want to want to find your inner Casanova or submerged Mae West? Or just have more fun and less fear in your communications with others? Flirtshop is a crash-course in self-awareness, a guide to coming out of your shell, suspending self-censorship, selling your assets, and relating to others with ease and cheerfulness.
Games, exercises, role-play, coaching and discussion encourage you to make the first move and keep the confidence flowing. We’ll look at eye-contact, body language, opening gambits, knowing what you want, and how men and women differ in approach and response.
It won’t hurt a bit, you’ll meet new people and we’ll really enjoy the process. Then you can go out and test your new risk-taking self.
‘I haven’t laughed so much in ages….people were raring to get back into the real world and start flirting for England’. Sally Shalam, Sunday Express
Storytelling and Games (additional activity AT8)
Alison will also offer one offs or drop in sessions of storytelling and games.
Alison Goldie is a professional actor, theatre director, broadcaster and facilitator. She has a wealth of experience performing comedy and drama in London, the UK and all over the world. Alison has taught comedy, drama, flirting and creativity to professionals and non-professionals for over 20 years. She has worked as a stand-up comic, TV presenter and corporate trainer. She is currently touring her one-woman autobiographical show, Lady, in Bed, to great acclaim.
Beverley is a Nia Brown Belt Instructor, Kundalini Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master and bodyworker with a passion for healing, inspiring and empowering others to reach their highest potential. She has extensive experience teaching groups and individiuals in the UK and abroad, and has developed a speciality in adapting her work to therapeutic settings.
As children we marvel at the world around us, longing to be grown up and able to taste life's many gifts. Somehow as adults we have learned to shut down and avoid our pain and struggle. Unfortunately and unknowingly, we also close down our passion and joy. This workshop is designed to reawaken our appetite for the richness of life. Using a blend of psychotherapy, sensual techniques, dance, small group exercises, laughter and communication, we will explore and embrace our passionate selves.
Ecstatic Dance(additional activity) No previous dance experience is required, just a courage and willingness to practice stepping onto the dance floor and moving with who we are, and how we are, moment to moment.
Malcolm Stern is a group and individual psychotherapist, co-founder of Alternatives at St James Church, London. He has recently co-presented Channel 4’s relationships series.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
If you can talk, you can sing! Join this course, run by an exceptional singer with three number one dance hits in the UK, and experience the power of sound and song. Whether you are new to singing, or have some experience, this course will be an exciting journey of vocal discoveries. Using breath, movement, dance, song, improvisation, harmony, toning and more, you will be given the opportunity to sing and create. Free your voice, increase your confidence, enjoy self-expression, ignite your creativity and stimulate healing on all levels.
Sarah Warwick is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, performer and recording artist with 3 number one dance hits in the UK and the US. She also runs voice workshops.
The seven colours of the rainbow will lead you to a journey of self discovery, while stirring your creative juices! Through breathing, movement, meditation and a variety of hands-on exercises colour will become your indispensable tool for joy and self knowledge. Painting and weaving exquisite pieces, will bring back home with you the loveliness of the Greek light!
Theresa Sundt’s unique approach to colour is a result of a lifetime’s work as an art teacher, textile artist and colour therapist. She brings deep awareness of the healing qualities of colour and how colour stimulates every cell of the body. Colour awakens loveliness and creativity, which pleasantly surprises everybody who is consciously exposed to it!
Each session of ‘Playing with Colour’ is divided in 2 parts. The first part covers colour in healing, the 9 colour personalities, colour in décor and in clothing. The second part of the session is creative; painting step by step still lifes and weaving with materials found in the local nature, colour is applied and deeply experienced. There is no need to have an inclination to art or any artistic experience; colour will guide you to unexplored talents!
Theresa Sundt is a professional artist and art teacher focusing her work on the therapeutic qualities of colour. She gives colour workshops all over the world that vibrate with enthusiasm and life changing creativity.Her newly published book The Art of Colour Therapy, has been translated in four languages.
Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga
Hatha Yoga is the classical way of teaching Yoga. The emphasis in Andreas’ Hatha Yoga classes lies in learning the poses (Asanas), holding them properly and becoming aware of proper alignment that is quite crucial to get the benefits of a Yoga practice in a long run. This teaching is mostly inspired by Iyengar and Anusara Yoga. The classes usually begin with Pranayama (breathing exercises) and chanting of Mantras. Vinyasa Yoga is a more dynamic form of Hatha Yoga, (Vinyasa means breath movement synchronization). The emphasis in Andreas’ Vinyasa Yoga classes lies on a challenging, flowing and precise Asana practice interwoven with spiritual insights, selected music, and meditation and chanting. This teaching is mostly inspired by Jivamukti Yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.- Participants will experience Yoga as a spiritual path and will feel the innate healing power of the practice. They will find out what sort of practice is most beneficial for them. Through Andreas’ classes a lot of former Skyros participants were inspired to take up a regular Yoga practice.
Andreas is a practising Yogi. He trained with masters in India and the US. He runs his own Yoga Centre on the shores of Lake Konstanz in Switzerland and leads workshops and retreats all over Europe. A former film and TV director he combines worldly and spiritual experiences in his very unique way of teaching. Presently, he is involved with theatre work as a producer/actor and is interested in exploring the opportunities which both theatre and yoga provide for being completely present in the here and now.
This course is aimed at complete beginners and will take the student gently through the basic skills required to learn this exciting sport.
Skills are broken down into bite size chunks and the majority of the time is spent on the water.
Windsurfing will help improve your coordination, flexibility and strength.
The course will challenge you; however, the emphasis is on enjoyment.
You will be encouraged to take intelligent risks and develop an awareness of your environment
During most of the summer you will only need to wear swimwear and wetsuit shoes. You can bring your own or use the centre's. At the beginning and end of the season it may be necessary to wear a shortie wetsuit. Again, these will be provided.
The equipment used is ideally suited for beginners.
It is not necessary to be a strong swimmer or athletic to learn windsurfing. However, a basic level of mobility and some confidence in the water is required.
Students may continue onto the Improvers class in the 2nd half of the session.
Improvers Windsurfing
This is a drop in series of classes suitable for those with previous experience. An ability to sail away from the beach, turn around and sail back is the only minimum requirement. It is also open to those who took part in the Learn to Windsurf course during the first half of the session.
Each class will take the form of a short clinic followed by on water practice.
Continued coaching and feedback will be available or you can just practice without instruction.
Walks Mark will also be offering local walks for all.
Mark Gunston has been teaching skiing and watersports for 30 years in Europe, Israel and the US. Mark is a qualified RYA Windsurfing Trainer, Dinghy Sailing Senior Instructor, Powerboat Instructor, an internationally licensed Ski Instructor, and a qualified life coach. He has been teaching in Atsitsa since 1996.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Comedy Improvisation, Ecstatic Dance, Flirtshop, Indian Head Massage, Kundalini Yoga, Meditation, Storytelling, Weaving.
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
We are all born with the freedom to dance. This freedom is innate but can go underground, obscured by the ‘stuff’ of life. During this course we will learn to listen to our body, and to surrender bit by bit to its unique dance. We will dance to gently wake up to our creativity, to love power, ecstasy, acceptance, playfulness and sensuality. We will discover our body loves to dance and find ourselves making moves we never knew we could make.
There will also be space to share our experiences and stories in words so that we can both learn from, and be touched by each other. No previous dance experience is required, just a courage and willingness to practice stepping onto the dance floor and moving with who we are, and how we are, moment to moment.
Meditation (additional activity)
We will welcome our body, breath and feelings into the day with guided, mindfulness based movement and meditation. Each day we will learn how to listen a little more deeply to what is happening for us, and to practice welcoming our experience with kindness.
Jo is an accredited 5 Rhythms teacher, psychotherapist and supervisor with 18 years experience. She has been a trainer at the Karuna Institute for many years in Contemplative Psychotherapy, a psycho-spiritual, body orientated approach. She is known to teach with a grounded and gentle clarity, with good humour and great music.
Painting By the time we reach adulthood, most of us have lost confidence in our natural birthright as artists. We have been convinced that draughtsmanship is to do with ‘getting it right’, and have had repeated experiences of ‘getting it wrong’. In fact, drawing is a basic form of literacy which anyone who can see and hold a pencil can acquire – quickly. Creativity, in drawing as in life, has little to do with talent or superficial competence and much to do with getting comfortable with mess, play, exploration and process. This course will explore drawing as a form of creative play; as a means of learning to see more clearly; as a way of sitting mindfully in the present moment; and as a way of increasing our appreciation of our surroundings. In addition it will equip participants with a set of skills that will allow them to practise and progress independently. In the process participants – including those who have always believed they cannot draw – will develop a more adventurous and confident relationship with their artistic skills, and discover drawing as a doorway to mindfulness, clarity, passion and inspiration. Sketchbooks and drawing materials will be provided, although you are welcome to bring your own.
Drawing Workshop
Open to all, beginners and those with experience as well. Sarah would provide group instruction to complete beginners, and then circulate amongst participants gearing teaching to their particular needs.
Morning pages (additional activity)
An introduction to writing as a tool for personal growth and creativity. Sarah will provide ideas and resources for developing this kind of writing with independent work and sharing.
Sarah Livingstone is an established painter and printmaker, and for the last 30 years has taught and exhibited extensively in the UK and France. In addition she is a trained psychotherapist with a particular interest in mindfulness-based psychotherapies, and has published in the field. As an art teacher, she has a passion for enabling beginners to discover drawing as a basic form of literacy and as a doorway to stillness, clarity and creativity.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
If you can talk, you can sing! Join this course, run by an exceptional singer with three number one dance hits in the UK, and experience the power of sound and song. Whether you are new to singing, or have some experience, this course will be an exciting journey of vocal discoveries. Using breath, movement, dance, song, improvisation, harmony, toning and more, you will be given the opportunity to sing and create. Free your voice, increase your confidence, enjoy self-expression, ignite your creativity and stimulate healing on all levels.
Sarah Warwick is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, performer and recording artist with 3 number one dance hits in the UK and the US. She also runs voice workshops.
This course is aimed at complete beginners and will take the student gently through the basic skills required to learn this exciting sport.
Skills are broken down into bite size chunks and the majority of the time is spent on the water.
Windsurfing will help improve your coordination, flexibility and strength.
The course will challenge you; however, the emphasis is on enjoyment.
You will be encouraged to take intelligent risks and develop an awareness of your environment
During most of the summer you will only need to wear swimwear and wetsuit shoes. You can bring your own or use the centre's. At the beginning and end of the season it may be necessary to wear a shortie wetsuit. Again, these will be provided.
The equipment used is ideally suited for beginners.
It is not necessary to be a strong swimmer or athletic to learn windsurfing. However, a basic level of mobility and some confidence in the water is required.
Students may continue onto the Improvers class in the 2nd half of the session.
Improvers Windsurfing
This is a drop in series of classes suitable for those with previous experience. An ability to sail away from the beach, turn around and sail back is the only minimum requirement. It is also open to those who took part in the Learn to Windsurf course during the first half of the session.
Each class will take the form of a short clinic followed by on water practice.
Continued coaching and feedback will be available or you can just practice without instruction.
Walks Mark will also be offering local walks for all.
Mark Gunston has been teaching skiing and watersports for 30 years in Europe, Israel and the US. Mark is a qualified RYA Windsurfing Trainer, Dinghy Sailing Senior Instructor, Powerboat Instructor, an internationally licensed Ski Instructor, and a qualified life coach. He has been teaching in Atsitsa since 1996.
Ailon's classes weave together the precision of lyengar yoga, the breath-movement synchronisation of Vinyasa yoga, the "dropping in" to postures found in Scarvelli yoga and the fun and connection of Partner Yoga. We will explore these styles in order to find out which ones work best for you. Ailon's aims for these classes is that participants will discover how a yoga practice can structurally re-align the body, calm and soothe both the mind and the emotions, and allow one to tap into a greater reservoir of lifeforce energy.
AT10 Sat 1 - Tue 11 Sep 12
Ailon is a yoga teacher, artist and rhythm therapist who has featured as a yoga expert for The Times. Coined the ‘Master of Fun’, Ailon runs a corporate wellbeing business that incorporates his passion for music, comedy and yoga.
Andrew will help you determine what you want out of life. Then, layer upon layer, he’ll work together with you to literally transform you into the person who can confidently create, pursue, and maximise those dreams.
Andrew Risner is a leading trainer, facilitator and coach who utilises comedy improvisation and magic skills to quantum leap peoples confidence, creativity and sense of fun. He spent several years as a stand up comedian and improviser and brings a wealth of fun and insight to his workshops. Andrew has appeared several time on BBC TV Heaven & Earth show as well as radio.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Comedy Improvisation, Dance, Magic Tricks, Managing Stress, Mindfulness Meditation, Morning Pages, Partner Yoga, The Power of Laughter
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
A Life Full of Stories Sat 1 - Tues 11 Sep 2012 AT10
Our lives are full of stories; like buried treasure, it sometimes it takes a little digging inside ourselves to find them. Develop useful tools to unlock your creative writing life, while learning to mine your own experiences to produce meaningful works of fiction.
Amanda Smyth is Irish-Trinidadian and was educated in England. Her short stories and poetry have been published in New Writing, London Magazine, the TLS and broadcast on BBC Radio 4. Amanda was awarded an Arts Council grant for her first novel, Black Rock, published by Serpent’s Tail. She was chosen for the Waterstones New Voices 2009, and short-listed for McKitterick Prize 2010. Black Rock, published as Lime Tree Can’t Bear Orange in the USA, was selected for the Oprah Summer Read 2009 – one of 25 Books You Can’t Put Down. It was also short-listed for NAACP Award 2010, Outstanding Literary work, debut author. Foreign rights sold in France, Germany, Portugal, Holland and Russia. Amanda, currently long-listed for Prix Femina in France, has just won the the prestigious French award for first novel.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Singing, Songwriting Sat 1 - Tues 11 Sep 2012 AT10
Sing the World & Write Your Own Song
This is a week of vocal adventure. By singing songs from different cultures participants discover the sounds they love and learn to write their own song in that style. African harmony, Native American, Beach Boys, Gospel and Baka Tribe chants (amongst others) help people discover their own sense of melody, harmony and rhythm. Hand-claps, shakers, wood blocks and tambourines get the group moving, encouraging them to sing with joy from within. And there’s always lots of laughter in the warm-up games.
Day by day participants build confidence and develop musical skills. Rich subject matter is uncovered during facilitated Storytelling sessions, where the group invents and acts out scenes in its own ‘Hero’s Journey’. By the end of the week each guest has written their own song, and they’ve recruited an enthusiastic backing band (the other participants) to help them perform it. Everyone goes home with a recording of their own unique song, plus a heart full of special memories.
From playing drums with the band Scritti Politti in his 20's through studying songwriting in his 30's, to studying psychology in his 40's, Tom is now an expert at applying his knowledge to community needs.
During this workshop you will learn how to perform a wide range of close up magic using cards, rope, coins and every day objects. You will also learn how to magically read peoples minds. This is a rare opportunity to find out “How they did that”. Magic is also a great metaphor to assist with teaching and presenting. The magic workshop is built around the premise that magic is fun and, with a little practice, anyone can learn to be an Amazing Magician! Feel free to bring your own white rabbit.
Andrew Risner is a leading trainer, facilitator and coach who utilises comedy improvisation and magic skills to quantum leap peoples confidence, creativity and sense of fun. He spent several years as a stand up comedian and improviser and brings a wealth of fun and insight to his workshops. Andrew has appeared several time on BBC TV Heaven & Earth show as well as radio.
The Path of Happiness Sat 1 - Tues 11 Sep 2012 AT10
Feeling good, but I could feel better? What about those people who always seem to be happy in their lives? Wouldn't it be great to be more like them more often?
Positive Psycology, based on the latest research, focuses on what makes some people happier and healthier than others, rather than just focussing on what makes us depressed or ill.
The key to happiness is to identify and build on our personal strengths, and not to waste too much time working on our weaknesses. However, we also need to develop emotionl intellegence and mindful awareness, so that we do not dwell too much on the past or the uncertainties of the future, and can have more 'here and now' choice in our relationships and our life path.
The course will focus on finding connection with others. All this and lots of fun too!
Dreams & Dreaming(additional activity) Dreams can be powerful parts of our lives. We seach for our dream of the future, and hope to make it happen.
We wonder about the meaning of our night or day dreams. We are intrigued by the dream world where normal rules of reality are changed.
We will work with dreams to better understand their meaning and hear the messages of our unconscious and higher conscious minds. We will work with the physiology of sleep in order to access dream states and remember dreams. We will follow a journey of creative discovery, where you can tap into your creative process, move through blocks, and reconnect with your life's dream. We will use structured dreaming techniques, visualisation, image work, storytelling, art and writing.
AT12 Fri 21 Sep-Mon 1 Oct 12 Michael Eales, a group facilitator for 25 years, is one of the leading figures in Humanistic Psychology. He is the co-author of The Personal Management Handbook and The Coaching Cube and a management consultant with major organisations.
This course is aimed at complete beginners and will take the student gently through the basic skills required to learn this exciting sport.
Skills are broken down into bite size chunks and the majority of the time is spent on the water.
Windsurfing will help improve your coordination, flexibility and strength.
The course will challenge you; however, the emphasis is on enjoyment.
You will be encouraged to take intelligent risks and develop an awareness of your environment
During most of the summer you will only need to wear swimwear and wetsuit shoes. You can bring your own or use the centre's. At the beginning and end of the season it may be necessary to wear a shortie wetsuit. Again, these will be provided.
The equipment used is ideally suited for beginners.
It is not necessary to be a strong swimmer or athletic to learn windsurfing. However, a basic level of mobility and some confidence in the water is required.
Students may continue onto the Improvers class in the 2nd half of the session.
Improvers Windsurfing
This is a drop in series of classes suitable for those with previous experience. An ability to sail away from the beach, turn around and sail back is the only minimum requirement. It is also open to those who took part in the Learn to Windsurf course during the first half of the session.
Each class will take the form of a short clinic followed by on water practice.
Continued coaching and feedback will be available or you can just practice without instruction.
Walks Mark will also be offering local walks for all.
Mark Gunston has been teaching skiing and watersports for 30 years in Europe, Israel and the US. Mark is a qualified RYA Windsurfing Trainer, Dinghy Sailing Senior Instructor, Powerboat Instructor, an internationally licensed Ski Instructor, and a qualified life coach. He has been teaching in Atsitsa since 1996.
Ailon's classes weave together the precision of lyengar yoga, the breath-movement synchronisation of Vinyasa yoga, the "dropping in" to postures found in Scarvelli yoga and the fun and connection of Partner Yoga. We will explore these styles in order to find out which ones work best for you. Ailon's aims for these classes is that participants will discover how a yoga practice can structurally re-align the body, calm and soothe both the mind and the emotions, and allow one to tap into a greater reservoir of lifeforce energy.
AT10 Sat 1 - Tue 11 Sep 12
Ailon is a yoga teacher, artist and rhythm therapist who has featured as a yoga expert for The Times. Coined the ‘Master of Fun’, Ailon runs a corporate wellbeing business that incorporates his passion for music, comedy and yoga.
More Activities AT10 Sat 1 - Tues 11 Sep 2012 AT10
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Art from the Heart, Comedy, Dance, Dreams & Dreaming, Managing Stress, Meditation, Multi-instrumental performance
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
This workshop will use a system of so-called archetypes or channels of consciousness, to expand participants' repertoire of experiencing and responding. The interests and needs of group members will shape the sessions. Gaie Houston is a playwright, opera director and psychotherapist who enjoys seeing people fulfil more of themselves.
A psychotherapist and playwright, Gaie Houston has written eight books on group and organisational behaviour including The Red Book on Groups and Being & Belonging - topics she has also presented in three TV series.
This tried and tested holistic-creative movement practice uses the chakra system and a variety of tools (movement, voice, toning, sound, colour, writing and artwork) To bring you on a creative and healing journey through the colours of your soul. In a safe and gentle space you are encouraged to try new ways of moving and being, replenish your energy and re-connect with the playful, spontaneous you. Any anxieties and fears are included as part of the process and Lani will support you to find new and creative ways to work with these issues.
Meditation (additional activity)
Lani will also offer a one off or drop in course in meditation.
Lani O’Hanlon, co-creator and author of Dancing the Rainbow, is a voice and movement artist, writer and holistic therapist with over 15 years experience as a director, teacher/trainer and creative mentor.
On this course, participants will be making jewellery from beads. You will learn to make earrings, bracelets and some necklaces.
There will be tuition about different threads, finishing techniques, some basic knots and how to use some wire in jewellery making.
All tools will be provided by the tutor, but do bring any tools, beads or even broken bead jewellery that you have. Sara's course is suitable for complete beginners, or those with a little experience. You will need some dexterity and good eyesight, or glasses!
Sara has been designing and making jewellery for many years. Her work concentrates on the use of beads, selling her work at events such as Art in Action and the Country Living Show, and a selection of shops and galleries throughout Britain. She is the author of seven and a half books of bead jewellery projects! The most recent being ‘The Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery Techniques’.
She teaches bead making and jewellery making in several arts centres amongst them West Dean College and the Oxford Summer School, and also at Skyros holidays. Another of her bead related interests is the Arkell bead collection in the Pitt Rivers Museum, University of Oxford. In 2007 she was one of the speakers at the International Bead and Beadwork Conference in Istanbul.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
Sing the World & Write Your Own Song
This is a week of vocal adventure. By singing songs from different cultures participants discover the sounds they love and learn to write their own song in that style. African harmony, Native American, Beach Boys, Gospel and Baka Tribe chants (amongst others) help people discover their own sense of melody, harmony and rhythm. Hand-claps, shakers, wood blocks and tambourines get the group moving, encouraging them to sing with joy from within. And there’s always lots of laughter in the warm-up games.
Day by day participants build confidence and develop musical skills. Rich subject matter is uncovered during facilitated Storytelling sessions, where the group invents and acts out scenes in its own ‘Hero’s Journey’. By the end of the week each guest has written their own song, and they’ve recruited an enthusiastic backing band (the other participants) to help them perform it. Everyone goes home with a recording of their own unique song, plus a heart full of special memories.
From playing drums with the band Scritti Politti in his 20's through studying songwriting in his 30's, to studying psychology in his 40's, Tom is now an expert at applying his knowledge to community needs.
Ken has developed a fluid technique that taps into your individual needs, releases energy and works to heal injuries or chronic discomfort. Known as the Eyerman Technique, the workshop will introduce you to Ken’s unique take on movement based bodywork. Classes are suitable for all levels, including those who have injuries or are restricted in their movement. Experience how Ken integrates Yoga with Feldenkrais. His intuitive and spontaneous hands-on approach emphasises the benefits of using your breath and developing an awareness of your inner process. Participants will learn to use their bodies with intelligence, awareness and efficiency. The Eyerman Technique will ease you into new postures while encouraging you to explore movement in a way that is both developmental and restorative. Ken seeks to work with you, by developing core movement, and helping you tune into the constant flow of life energy essential to maintaining health and clarity of mind.
Massage (additional activity) Ken will also offer a one off or drop in session of massage.
Ken Eyerman, author of Massage, has taught yoga and bodywork for 30 years and directs his own training programme. He was named as one of London’s Evening Standard’s top 3 masseurs.
For anyone, beginner or more experienced, who wants to explore their creativity and develop a personal voice. We’ll look at finding ideas as well as writing style, including using memories, imagining characters, describing settings and using dialogue. The emphasis is on enjoyment and fun, and ideas are adaptable to any genre from poetry to novels. I also offer 1:1 sessions to discuss and advise on personal work.
Crysse was inspired by a Skyros Writers’ Lab session to make a career change, and is now a full-time free-lance writer. Her two novels were published by Hodder & Stoughton and she also writes short fiction, drama, and performance poetry, with a regular style column in Writing Magazine. Crysse is an experienced creative writing tutor and has led courses throughout the world.
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Guided Walks, Jamming, Meditation, Salsa, Poetry Cafe, The Art of Touch, Toning and Voicework
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.
There are three rules of comedy. Unfortunately no one can remember what they are. In these sessions we shall do our best to recover them and to bring out the funny in every student. Whether you wish to write gags, sitcoms or plays you will find something here to stimulate you. At the end of the course we will present a comedy night to the other students. ‘Laughter is the one true metaphysical consolation’ (little Jimmy Osmond).
Arthur Smith is a comedian, writer and broadcaster; He has performed comedy all over the world and has written every form of comedy from stand up to one-liners to full-length plays and screenplays. His comedy is based on observation tinged with a strong flavour of the absurd, although he is an expert at telling one-liner jokes. He also ventures into extreme comedy, sometimes stripping off during his performances and, during his Edinburgh shows, taking the entire audience out of the theatre for a guided tour of the city. His play An Evening with Gary Lineker ran for several years in the West End. He appears regularly on Radio 4 but finds that he is best known for BBC’s Grumpy Old Men. His acclaimed autobiography My Name is Daphne Fairfax was published in 2009.
Dancing the Rainbow Fri 21 Sep - Mon 1 Oct 2012 AT12
This tried and tested holistic-creative movement practice uses the chakra system and a variety of tools (movement, voice, toning, sound, colour, writing and artwork) To bring you on a creative and healing journey through the colours of your soul. In a safe and gentle space you are encouraged to try new ways of moving and being, replenish your energy and re-connect with the playful, spontaneous you. Any anxieties and fears are included as part of the process and Lani will support you to find new and creative ways to work with these issues.
Meditation (additional activity)
Lani will also offer a one off or drop in course in meditation.
Lani O’Hanlon, co-creator and author of Dancing the Rainbow, is a voice and movement artist, writer and holistic therapist with over 15 years experience as a director, teacher/trainer and creative mentor.
On this course, participants will be making jewellery from beads. You will learn to make earrings, bracelets and some necklaces.
There will be tuition about different threads, finishing techniques, some basic knots and how to use some wire in jewellery making.
All tools will be provided by the tutor, but do bring any tools, beads or even broken bead jewellery that you have. Sara's course is suitable for complete beginners, or those with a little experience. You will need some dexterity and good eyesight, or glasses!
Sara has been designing and making jewellery for many years. Her work concentrates on the use of beads, selling her work at events such as Art in Action and the Country Living Show, and a selection of shops and galleries throughout Britain. She is the author of seven and a half books of bead jewellery projects! The most recent being ‘The Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery Techniques’.
She teaches bead making and jewellery making in several arts centres amongst them West Dean College and the Oxford Summer School, and also at Skyros holidays. Another of her bead related interests is the Arkell bead collection in the Pitt Rivers Museum, University of Oxford. In 2007 she was one of the speakers at the International Bead and Beadwork Conference in Istanbul.
The course will help you find your voice and experience the joys of singing together in harmony, in peaceful surroundings and in a totally non-judgemental environment. You will learn a variety of beautiful songs and chants from around the world. The course is open to everyone who wants to sing, from the self-assured to the downright terrified and requires no past experience or ability to read music.
Shannon will also offer musical support throughout the session and foster a general break out of music making throughout Atsitsa.
Shannon has worked most recently with Lily Allen and Amy MacDonald and, in between tours, with other artists including Rod Stewart, Ricky Martin and Beverly Knight. As well as producing folk records, he performs with his own Brazilian jazz band.
Philip is a qualified RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and also an RYA Instructor. An experienced teacher and trainer, he also enjoys snorkelling, scubadiving, windsurfing and snowboarding.
This course will introduce new and inspiring coaching techniques that you can use with peers or by yourself to help yourself. The focus will be on your life goals.
Andry is an experienced, qualified coach, coaching trainer, teacher and a Fierce Conversations Facilitator. She has a strong background in learning healing and self-healing techniques; Qi Gong, self-hypnosis, meditation and relaxation. She works with a diverse client base, from holistic to the more mainstream professional. Andry has published a range of research work on leadership, coaching and diversity. She has been teaching and training in personal and professional development for 20 years and coaching and mentoring for 12 years.
Yoga with Awareness Fri 21 Sep - Mon 1 Oct 2012 AT12
Ken has developed a fluid technique that taps into your individual needs, releases energy and works to heal injuries or chronic discomfort. Known as the Eyerman Technique, the workshop will introduce you to Ken’s unique take on movement based bodywork. Classes are suitable for all levels, including those who have injuries or are restricted in their movement. Experience how Ken integrates Yoga with Feldenkrais. His intuitive and spontaneous hands-on approach emphasises the benefits of using your breath and developing an awareness of your inner process. Participants will learn to use their bodies with intelligence, awareness and efficiency. The Eyerman Technique will ease you into new postures while encouraging you to explore movement in a way that is both developmental and restorative. Ken seeks to work with you, by developing core movement, and helping you tune into the constant flow of life energy essential to maintaining health and clarity of mind.
Massage (additional activity) Ken will also offer a one off or drop in session of massage.
Ken Eyerman, author of Massage, has taught yoga and bodywork for 30 years and directs his own training programme. He was named as one of London’s Evening Standard’s top 3 masseurs.
More Activities AT12 Fri 21 Sep - Mon 1 Oct 2012 AT12
More Activities In Atsitsa, there are always events and activities that take place in addition to the main courses listed. Many of them are impromptu but we have included a few of the programmed additional activities below. Guided Walks, Jamming, Meditation, Salsa, Team Coaching, The Art of Touch, Toning and Voicework.
Additional Activities will be available in Atsitsa hosted by the facilitators. For more details, please see the individual sessions under the programme section of the website.