Forrest Yoga Gathering: Legacy of Wisdom
April 23–26, 2026
Himalayan Institute
Poconos, PA
Connection. Compassion. Community.
4 Past + Current Guardians.
100+ Years Experience.
1 Epic Weekend.
Join us for deep, immersive yoga to nourish your body, heart, and spirit. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or brand new, you’ll be welcomed with enthusiasm and care. Our theme for the weekend? Connection, compassion, and community. It’s what you’ll feel on the mat and carry with you long after because this is the kind of yoga that changes you.
A Journey To The Heart Of Forrest Yoga
It’s been years since Forrest Yoga teachers of this caliber have gathered under one roof. For the first time ever, Denise Hopkins, Cat Allen, Heidi Sormaz, and Leslie Pearlman are joining forces to lead a retreat together.
Collectively, we’ve been teaching Forrest Yoga for nearly 100 years. We’ve shared the mat in different pairings and configurations over the years, but never have the four of us come together to teach, explore, and create magic side by side.
Step Into What Is Possible
🧘🏽♀️ 3 full days of long, transformative practices that will surprise you with what you’re capable of.
🧘🏽♀️ Wisdom and guidance from four Guardians who’ve lived and breathed Forrest Yoga for decades.
🧘🏽♀️ A throwback to Forrest Yoga’s roots: immersive, communal, soul-stirring practice in the company of a vibrant community.
Your Retreat Home:
The Himalayan Institute
Wake to the quiet of the Pocono hills. Step outside your room and breathe in crisp mountain air. Wander trails that wind through 400 acres of forest, lakes, and meadows.
At the heart of your stay is Conscious Simplicity. The Institute’s simple, clean, and peaceful rooms are designed with minimal distraction, giving your body and mind the space to rest, digest, and absorb the practices of the day.
You’ll also enjoy:
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Nourishing vegetarian meals made on-site
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Cozy community spaces to gather with fellow yogis
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Quiet corners for reflection, journaling, or simply being
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Scenic trails and breathtaking views perfect for grounding between sessions
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Access to the PureRejuv Wellness Center offering integrative health services and therapeutic treatments such as chiropractic care, ayurvedic therapies, and bodywork designed to restore vitality and inner peace
Prefer a little more luxury? There are Airbnb’s and boutique hotels nearby if you’d like to curate your own retreat vibe.
Daily Schedule
Thursday, April 23
4:00–7:00 PM | Check-in & Arrival
6:00–7:00 PM | Dinner
7:15–9:00 PM | Yoga
Forrest Yoga Foundations: Building Strength & Integrity
Friday, April 24
7:30–8:30 AM | Breakfast
9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Yoga Foundations In Flight: Arm Balances Made Simple
12:30–1:30 PM | Lunch
1:30–3:30 PM | Free Time (spa, hiking, rest)
3:30–5:45 PM |Yoga
Revitalize The Spine: Twists For Energy & Renewal
6:00–7:00 PM | Dinner
7:30–8:30 PM | Yin + Nidra
Saturday, April 25
7:30–8:30 AM | Breakfast
9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Yoga Open Your Core: Backbends For Courage & Compassion
12:30–1:30 PM | Lunch
1:30–3:30 PM | Free Time (spa, hiking, rest)
3:30–5:45 PM | Yoga
Hip Wisdom: Awakening Freedom & Depth
6:00–7:00 PM | Dinner
7:30–9:30 PM | Bonfire
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Sunday, April 26
7:30–8:30 AM | Breakfast
9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Yoga
Playshop: Standing Poses & Inversions
12:30–1:30 PM | Lunch
1:30 PM | Departure
Pricing & Registration
Your weekend investment has two parts (you must book both separately)
Lodging
Lodging & Meals at the Himalayan Institute
Rates vary by room category (shared and private options available). These rooms are clean and simple. Rates per night:
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Single Room (two twin beds) with shared hall bathrooms: $199 to reserve alone
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Shared Room (two twin beds) with shared hall bathrooms: $130 (per person)
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Single Room (Queen bed) with private bathroom: $249
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Shared Room (share Queen bed) with private bathroom: $155 (per person)
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Deluxe Suite (Full/Queen/King bed) with private bathroom: $364 to reserve alone or $429 to share with another ($215 each)
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Private Apartment with private bedroom (full bed) + sleeping loft (queen bed) + small living room with private bathroom: $364 to reserve alone or $429 to share with another ($215 each)
Includes three daily vegetarian meals and full access to the Himalayan Institute campus (trails, meditation spaces, lounges)
Optional treatments available at the PureRejuv Wellness Center (spa, chiropractic, ayurvedic therapies, bodywork)
Prefer something more private or luxurious (or live nearby and plan on commuting)?
If you live nearby or want to stay off-site at nearby Airbnbs or boutique hotels, you can still join us. Please note the Institute requires a minimal "Commuter Rate" ($135) for those staying off-site. This fee includes meals and access to campus during the retreat. You must purchase the Commuter Rate if staying off-site (even if you plan to eat elsewhere).
Getting There
The Himalayan Institute is located in Honesdale, PA, within driving distance of New York City and Philadelphia.
By Car: 2.5 hours from NYC; 3 hours from Philadelphia
By Train/Bus: Accessible via stations in Scranton or Port Jervis, with taxi/ride-share to campus
By Air: Newark (EWR) and Philadelphia (PHL) are the closest major airports
Who We Are
Frequently asked questions
