Dearest Z,
I am finally able to sit and share my thoughts with you...
Now that I have had some time to reflect on all that you offered during my retreat and what I took away:
I found morning yoga to be extremely effective; I used to do 20 minutes of yoga a day in the late afternoon/early evening. But being able to devote 1-2 hours in the morning to a slower and more intentional practice (with breath work and chakra focus) was so helpful, set my day to start with more harmony and inner peace. I enjoyed this a lot, and have incorporated morning routine into my daily life now.
I also really appreciated the different poses you taught me and how they were connected to individual chakras - I had not previously known any of this. Your teaching showed me the significance of each move and thus helped me to better position myself to reach the maximum effect. And sometimes this means that I need to push myself less. You were quick to notice my constant desire to push beyond my limitations, but again, you taught me that this is not the purpose of yoga practice, that it is okay to be gentle with oneself. I have become more conscientious in my practice at home and now have a great understanding of the routines I follow. This is all thanks to you and I have been able to incorporate some inversions into my routines (not daily, but when it strikes me as doable).
The personalized meditation was a really nice touch, I liked how you gave me the option to embark on a more restful or more energized journey depending on my personal preference. I appreciated the morning yoga and alternating the afternoon activity/evening yoga which allowed me to have more time to reflect while on retreat as opposed to having very full days (or feeling obliged to try to do it all).
Thinking back on it we had some good, fun, long days but also my own time when I wanted to seek solitude or down time and mitigate any body aches as I am not accustomed to so much yoga in a single day.
I'm hoping that you have the utmost success with all you do and that you become the leading yoga lady in ALL OF EUROPE!
See you soon,
Amanda.
As somebody completely new to yoga and most definitely a beginner I had very little to no understanding of yoga and its benefits. Zdenka has helped me, shown me and educated me a great deal. Her passion and enthusiasm is real, and this comes across clearly when she is teaching. She is patient and explains everything and it really made me feel interested in it also.
Personally, it was more than just physical exercise. It was the physical approach and relaxation techniques also. It did bring out some emotion for me, but I feel this was a release and was necessary as it made me feel clearer, stronger and more determined. Zdenka was patient and listened the whole way through and this definitely made a difference in what I took from the sessions. Zdenka is a great teacher as she makes it personal yet enjoyable and I would recommend anybody to try yoga with her spiritual approach etc as it has helped me a great deal and I have benefitted greatly.
Thank you!
GT
I have been feeling very overwhelmed struggling with anxiety and needed time off work. I found Zdenka's site, the info struck a cord so I booked one session to see if I can get any help with relaxation.
I booked a block of follow ups after because I really liked her approach and energy, Zdenka is very patient, checks with me and puts me at ease, even when I feel I've gone backwards she is encouraging. I still suffer with some anxiety but manage it much better, techniques I learned from her help me through everyday life. I feel like a new me, stronger to face each day, adjust my energy and calm it or bring in more to face what is needed. On top of this I feel physically stronger and more flexible too and suffer much less pains and aches.
I continue to practice with Zdenka regularly and enjoy classes in person. Highly recommend her.
.
FK
I decided to take up yoga to help me rebuild lost muscle and ease pain after suffering with lower back and leg issues.
I find the classes are informative, relaxed and engaging. Zdenka is very knowledgeable and her years of experience clearly shows. The 1:1 help me understand how poses are best performed correctly; sometimes the body restricts certain movements, but Zdenka is extremely patient and provides adjustments for each pose to ensure that it is achievable with a view to progressing in time. The relaxation before and after each class is very well delivered, and even for someone like myself who has an overactive mind, I am able to relax into the meditation. One of the most important factors in that relaxation is that it never feels rushed and the durations are not limited to an exact time. This really is tailored to the individual. Studio space for 1:1 is fine, and I would rather be in a smaller environment than a large gym-like room. Prices are extremely good value for money in my opinion.
JP
Hi, I'm Zdenka's muther.
She will tell you I don't sugar coat my words and believe in tough love so I have always been her harshest critic to help her learn and grow.
At almost 70 years old I occasionally get some aches and stiffness despite being physically strong and active. I asked Zdenka what exercise she would recommend for lower pain tightness thinking I already knew but she surprised me with the directions and choices she suggested. I enjoyed online class and in person whenever I visit her. I have been very stubborn at first pushing my body but when I listen and let her set up props and adjustments I feel I can do more for longer. I also visited the retreat location with her and enjoyed yoga classes by the sea and liked it so much I am telling all my friends to join and book their place. I don't praise easily, especially my own children as I have a high expectations from them but I am very proud of Zdenka and know everyone will enjoy yoga with her.
ZV
I have not long returned from a yoga retreat to Greece with Zdenka she was so welcoming and patient she definitely went the extra mile to make sure that all my needs were catered for.
We did daily yoga and it was at my pace a lovely start to the day before going to the beach and having lunch or sightseeing.
It was such a beautiful place with a beautiful person. I would definitely recommend her retreats. I will be going again.
CS
I have known Zdenka for many years since she was a small child but not in her capacity of yoga teacher.
I have never done yoga, I just fancied a holiday with activities and walking to help me loose weight.
The Ayurveda was very good giving me lots of ideas for lifestyle and diet to correct bad habits but it is easier said than done. It was Zdenkas caring approach, support and reminders that helped me the most. She helped me to push myself where I am normally lazy and give up easily going back to emotional overeating. The meditations also helped me look at things in my life I normally ignore because it can be unpleasant. She helped me to release these without going over the past. We focused on the exercise and I actually started to lose weight within the week of the holiday. I feel I found the love for myself I always missed.
Yes at times I didn't want to follow but Zdenkas patience and consistency has inspired me so much that I now continue to lead healthier life beyond the retreat.
AD