IYOGA online classes/workshops/privates/Wellness Retreats.

We have our annual Iyoga Retreat in Rarotonga. It’s a great time with like minded people, they also love yoga and are keen to take some time out from there daily life and do 2 x daily yoga classes with swimming in the warm turquoise sea, turtle viewing and with daily fresh seafood. A sunset cocktail and laughter.
The warm breeze s a treat after a N.Z winter, have this to look forward to. I’m sure you deserve it!
We have a pre yoga retreat programme to get you ready for more of a deep dive into yoga for 5 days in beautiful Rarotonga. Excludes airfares and accommodation.

WOMEN'S WELLNESS 5 Day YOGA RETREAT
25-29 March 2026 ... consider staying at Te Wahi Ora Women's Retreat while you attending this IYOGA retreat at Piha.

🧘🏻‍♀️ Yoga, nature and no cooking.
All meals are provided as part of your stay here at Te Wahi Ora!

BOOK NOW if this sounds like something you are interested in as there is a lot going on that weekend.

Vanessa is an Iyengar Association certified yoga teacher.

MARCH 25-29th 2026
Wed-Sat, morning sessions: 9.30am-11.30am
Wed-Sat, afternoon sessions: 4.00pm-5.45pm
Sun morning session: 9.00am-11.30am

Venue: Piha Schoolhouse Hall, Seaview Road, Piha
(2min drive and 15min walk from Te Wahi Ora Retreat Centre)

Use the QR code in this image to BOOK your IYOGA 5 Day Retreat

Click here to book your accommodation:
https://www.tewahiora.co.nz/booking-form/

Neuroscientists and physiologists at the University of Copenhagen have characterized the precise neurobiological mechanisms behind the stress resilience benefits of habitual cold water immersion — finding that regular cold water swimming (10-15°C water, 10-20 minutes, 3-5 times weekly for 6 months) produces permanent structural changes in the locus coeruleus (the brain's primary norepinephrine hub), including increased dendritic branching, enhanced norepinephrine synthetic capacity, and upregulated alpha-2 autoreceptor sensitivity — changes that result in more controlled, proportionate stress responses that persist indefinitely after cold swimming cessation. The cold is rebuilding the brain's stress architecture. 🏊
The locus coeruleus is the neurological origin of the acute stress response — it produces the burst of norepinephrine that drives increased heart rate, alertness, and fight-or-flight physiological changes. In individuals with anxiety, PTSD, and burnout syndrome, the locus coeruleus is dysregulated — firing too readily and too intensely in response to non-threatening stimuli. Copenhagen's findings show that the repeated controlled stress of cold water immersion — which activates the locus coeruleus intensely but briefly, with the swimmer maintaining behavioral control throughout — acts as graduated functional training for the stress system, analogous to progressive overload training for muscles. The repeated controlled activation followed by recovery builds a more regulated, more resilient norepinephrine response architecture.
The mental health implications are immediately practical. Conventional anxiolytic treatments (SSRIs, benzodiazepines) suppress stress responses pharmacologically without addressing the underlying locus coeruleus dysregulation. Copenhagen's data suggests cold immersion therapy creates durable structural changes that improve stress regulation from the neurological architecture level — and unlike medications, the effect outlasts the treatment. Six months of cold swimming produces stress resilience that persists for years.
Copenhagen is now running a clinical trial of cold water swimming for treatment-resistant anxiety and PTSD. A swimming pool and cold water may be among the most cost-effective mental health interventions identifiable.
Source: University of Copenhagen Neuroscience Center, Cell Reports Medicine 2024

Piha is a stunning location, especially at this time of the year, with majestic sunsets, the air is so fresh, there is still a feel of Summer, with the chorus of the cicadas.
Yoga twice a day with Vanessa Greenwood Senior Iyengar teacher offers important ways to practice yoga when you are dealing with perimenopause symptoms which there are many.
Get a sense of ease and deep relaxation
A pause from your own life.
Laugh with others, chat , share and learn.
Walk through the bush, have waterfall swims,
Beach swims and watch magical sunsets.
Enjoy
Caco ceremony by the outside fire under the stairs.
Join us for a night out for a meal from awarded chefs.

Www.iyoga.co.nz

Dear Esteemed Ladies, You may be in need of a rejuvenating break, and I invite you to consider my proposal. Often, the prospect of taking time out can evoke mixed emotions, ranging from enthusiasm to hesitation due to various obligations. Take a moment to reflect on your needs and set an intention, such as 'I deserve this break, and everything will work out for my highest good.' Personally, I've found this approach beneficial. With 30 years of experience in the health industry, primarily focusing on yoga, I can attest to its efficacy. My extensive training and experience leading yoga retreats have equipped me to guide you through this practice. Yoga has been instrumental in helping me navigate various life challenges, including raising four children, managing a business, and being a supportive partner. Given the demands of life, yoga can provide women with a sense of balance and resilience during different life cycles. This retreat aims to help you regain strength, achieve balance in body and life, cultivate ease and resilience, and deepen your connection to your values. You will experience deep rest, forge new connections, enjoy nature, and have time for leisurely walks and swims in the picturesque setting of Piha. To secure your spot, please register promptly, as spaces are limited. We also offer assistance with accommodation booking and additional treatments like cranial work, kinesiology, and acupressure with Be Well With Justine to support hormonal balance. This exclusive retreat is limited to 12 women, and only four spots remain. Will you be one of the fortunate participants? Seize this opportunity to experience yoga tailored to your needs for only $749.