Return to Center: A Fall Equinox Retreat of Yin Yoga and Rest

Return to Center is a weekend yin yoga retreat at Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, held just before the autumn equinox. Led by Melissa Lago, it blends Slow Flow Yoga with Yin and Restorative Yoga, breathwork, contemplation and unhurried time in the mountains. It suits both returning students and people who have never tried yin, and no experience is needed.

What to Expect

The retreat is built around a seasonal threshold, when day and night come into balance and the aspens begin to turn gold. The practice invites you to slow down with that shift rather than carry summer's busyness straight into fall. Through long, gently held postures, breathwork, contemplation and inquiry, the weekend aims to release deep tension, calm the nervous system, and make room to reflect on what you are harvesting from the season and what you are ready to set down.

Slow Flow sessions build strength, circulation, mental clarity, flexibility and balance. Restorative and Yin sessions use longer holds and supported postures to help body, mind and heart open more deeply. Between practices there is time outdoors on the property and shared meals.

The weekend begins with arrival on Friday between 2:00 and 5:00 PM, when you check in at the Guest Services Cabin, settle into your lodging and get your bearings on the grounds. Guests arriving after hours find a packet placed beside the door. Saturday is the full day of practice and contemplation. Sunday brings a closing practice and reflection, with departure at 12:30 PM.

About Melissa Lago

Melissa Lago holds an MA and an MDiv and is a Visiting Instructor in Yoga Studies at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. She was introduced to yoga as a child at home and at the Oak Grove School in Ojai, California, which was founded by Jiddu Krishnamurti. As a teenager she dedicated herself to the study of Ashtanga Yoga before branching out into other approaches. She also teaches Yin Yoga for Rest and Renewal online, and students describe her as a warm, inviting presence who helps people show up as they are.

The Setting

Drala Mountain Center sits in the mountains near Red Feather Lakes, Colorado. Lodging is chosen at checkout, and the two nights of lodging are part of the retreat. The options are:

- Single and Double Tents: 12 x 14 foot tents in campgrounds across the property, with two twin beds, two bookcases and a hanging clothes rack. A shared bathhouse serves each campground. A tent can be booked alone or with a roommate. Some campgrounds were affected by a recent wildfire, and while the effects may still be visible, they are safe to use.
- Dormitories: gender-segregated rooms with beds for up to seven or eight people and a shared bathroom down the hall, with shower stalls.
- Monk Rooms: private indoor rooms with a bed, bedding, closet, large window, desk and chair, and a shared bathroom. They are a more affordable choice.
- Single and Double Rooms: private rooms with a dresser, closet and attached three-quarter bathroom (toilet, sink and shower, no bathtub).
- Junior Suite: a lodge suite with a queen bed, desk, dresser, closet, sitting area and private bath with bathtub.

All meals and drinks are provided, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Before You Go

All levels are welcome. The slow flow and restorative sessions are adaptable, and the yin practice relies on long, supported holds rather than demanding positions. The retreat is taught in English.

Tuition covers teaching with Melissa Lago, two nights of lodging, all meals and drinks, and the use of yoga mats, blocks, blankets and straps on site. You are welcome to bring your own props if you prefer them. Extra nights can be added at 50% off.

Transportation to and from the center is not included. Also bring a journal or notepad and a pen, walking shoes, a water bottle, and, if you like, a closed-top mug for tea. Tent guests need to bring their own twin sheets, a blanket or sleeping bag, a pillow and towels, since bedding is not provided.