ABOUT YAMA
ELISSA CHRISSON
The idea of YAMA was born in 2015 by founder Elissa Chrisson. A passion-driven love project and dream.
YAMA Community is about learning, sharing, connecting, playing and dancing with the natural world.
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The name YAMA was not without thought. YAMA is the first limb of the Ashtanga (yoga) eight-limb practice. The 5 YAMA's are ethical guides to living in avoidance of violence, lying, stealing, wasting energy and possessiveness. YAMA is also a Hindu deity of destruction and a metaphorical death of one's self into a new vibrant, self-loving, kind and caring person. In Japanese, YAMA directly translates as 'mountain', the high points of the earth that have magical, healing energy. We aim to deliver many mountain adventures so you can explore this for yourself. Finally, YAMA is an acronym for Yoga, Arts, Movement/Music/Mindfulness, and Adventure.
We want to take you on a journey to explore the wonder of your inner world and these abundant vast lands we call earth.
THE YAMA EXPERIENCE
Are you an open-minded, light-hearted lover of yoga, arts, movement, adventure, and travel? Do you want to live your best life? If your answer is YES! Then we warmly welcome you to the YAMA family, a gathering of abstract and arty souls who go wild in the wild. Immerse yourself in nature's magic, unleash your creativity, and embrace authenticity. Unforgettable adventures in some of the world's most exotic locations, inspiring workshops, and heartfelt connections await.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Welcome to YAMA Movement. We celebrate life in all its vibrant colours. It's your time to embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and meaningful connections.
Our boutique adventures redefine the traditional yoga retreat experience, allowing you to unleash your inner artist and fully embrace self-expression through what you love. Join us on educational, fabulous and fun globe-trotting experiences, where you can bring your own creative twist. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature and forge deep connections with like-minded individuals who will become lifelong friends.
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Our mission is to take you on a life-changing journey of self-discovery that soothes your soul and ignites your passion. Experience local cultures, arts, and learn techniques to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness that you can integrate into your everyday life. Embark on a transformative journey that will inspire, enlighten, and enrich you.
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In a world that often expects conformity, we are a unique travel company that stands out for all the circles who don't fit the square. We are the YAMA Movement— a gathering of abstract and arty souls who go wild in the wild. Our mission is to heal through light, joy, and happiness as we take travellers on extraordinary journeys to diverse locations worldwide. Join us as we explore the world, give back to nature, and celebrate life through art and adventure.
Our trips are LGBT & gender-inclusive. The theme we wish to encapsulate is a mini-festival vibe, a sense of freedom, openness and connectedness. If you are free-spirited, fun and fabulous, you are perfect for our trips!
Our groups typically consist of individuals ranging from 20 to 55 years old. However, we believe that age is just a number, and if you have a young and adventurous spirit, there are no boundaries. While some of our trips require a moderate fitness level and may involve physical challenges (depending on the specific trip), we welcome anyone who is open to the experience. We firmly believe that if you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Embodiment: At YAMA Movement, we embody the spirit of joy. We are a vibrant and dynamic community of individuals who celebrate life, creativity, and self-expression. Inspired by festivals around the world, we create a unique travel experience that combines adventure, art, music, and connection. With us, you can let go, be yourself, and embrace your inner misfit.
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Healing through Light, Joy, and Happiness: We believe in the transformative power of travel. We see travel as a means of healing, of finding light in the darkest corners and joy in the simplest moments. Every journey with us is designed to uplift your spirit, nourish your soul, and ignite a sense of wonder. It's about stepping out of the ordinary and immersing yourself in extraordinary experiences that spark joy and leave lasting memories.
Exploring Diverse Locations: Join us as we embark on a global adventure, exploring diverse locations across the world. From the majestic peaks of Nepal's Himalayas to the pristine shores of the Komodo Islands, we curate trips that showcase the beauty and cultural richness of each destination. Whether it's hiking through breathtaking landscapes, immersing in local traditions, or indulging in adrenaline-pumping activities, our trips offer you a unique perspective on the world.
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Giving Back to the Natural World: We are not just about exploring the world; we are also about giving back to it. We are committed to environmental stewardship and actively collaborate with non-profit organizations focused on replanting and reforesting efforts. Through initiatives like beach cleanups and mountain cleans, we ensure that our impact on the natural world is positive and sustainable. By participating in these activities, you become an advocate for the preservation of our planet, fostering a deeper connection to the environments we explore.
Join the Movement: To truly understand the essence of YAMA Movement, you must witness it firsthand. Visit our Instagram page, @yamamovement, and you'll catch a glimpse of our vibrant community and the unique experiences we offer. The photos and stories shared on our social media channels capture the energy, creativity, and joy that define YAMA Movement.
We are not just a travel company; we are a movement that celebrates diversity, self-expression, and the pursuit of happiness. Through our mini moving festivals, we create a space where you can break free from societal expectations and embrace your true self. With our commitment to healing, exploration, and giving back, we invite you to join our vibrant community and embark on a journey of light, joy, and unforgettable experiences.
So, are you ready to dance to the rhythm of YAMA Movement? Pack your bags, leave conformity behind, and step into a world where being different is celebrated and happiness knows no bounds. Let us travel together, create art together, and spread joy together. Join us and be a part of the YAMA Movement.
OUR ETHOS
1. INCLUSION
Anyone may be a part of our community. No prerequisites exist for participating as long as you act with integrity, care and respect.
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2. SHARING, GIFTING & PLAY
We encourage you to bring your unique gift and share it at this gathering. YAMA is a space to express yourself through what brings you joy. This could be everything and anything from a hugging workshop to music, games, play, arts, singing, creativity, culinary, performance and dance. Shine through sharing. It's great for the soul.
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3. SELF EXPRESSION
Radical self-expression is our thang - dressing up in exotic locations and taking epic misfit shots. Be outrageous. The more outrageous, the better. Everyone is free to be whoever they want, as long as it doesn’t harm others and the environment. We recommend (glitter-free) recycled or second-hand fashion.
4. SUSTAINABILITY
Leave no trace. Just make memories. We are passionate about the natural world, and as visitors, we have a responsibility to keep it clean. YAMA fam love a beach clean! It's SEXY! When our community gets involved. We are working with Climate Force and Reforest Now to give back to the earth and our feathered, furry and scaly friends.
5. LEARNING
Learning should be fun. There are many opportunities to learn on a YAMA experience, whether it be from the community gifting or through our professional, fun young facilitators. Some of our trips also offer intensive learning and certifications (trip dependent). All our retreats are unique and offer different opportunities for self-development and growth on a physical and mental level.
6. SELF-RELIANCE
Ensure you have all the items you'll need during the entire retreat. For guidance, we will provide a packing list for each experience. So that you dont forget your toothbrush or your passport ;)
We can't wait to create something beautiful with you.
MEET THE TEAM
Yoga teacher & Artist
GALLERY
A photograph is a language that can be understood anywhere in the world
Buy a YAMA gift voucher for someone you love
In the experience is the emotion, in the emotions is the gift. The best gifts are not... Things.
TESTIMONIALS
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
TEGAN CAPLE
Elissa’s teaching style and calming presence were an invaluable part of my Wild Women’s journey to Uluru. Our group had varying levels of experience and she provided an array of yoga experiences for all tastes and levels of practice. Her classes were considered & energising and she utilised the ever changing landscapes of the outback we practised in. I believe Elissa’s personal style of teaching is a testament to her years of experience, both on and off the mat, in helping all students reach their greatest potential. I can’t wait to practice with her again
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QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA
MELANIE GILL
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I had the pleasure of travelling to Outback Australia with Elissa on a Yoga and Hiking trip. I love practising yoga at home usually following Vinyasa styles on YouTube. Elissa has opened my eyes to many other styles of Yoga which I am really keen to explore more and she has also corrected my techniques. I am really grateful for this experience, for the yoga and also to have experienced this trip with such a beautiful soul. I look forward to planning another adventure with Elissa soon! I had the pleasure of travelling to Outback Australia with Elissa on a Yoga and Hiking trip. I love practising yoga at home usually following Vinyasa styles on YouTube. Elissa has opened my eyes to many other styles of Yoga which I am really keen to explore more and she has also corrected my techniques. I am really grateful for this experience, for the yoga and also to have experienced this trip with such a beautiful soul. I look forward to planning another adventure with Elissa soon!
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
JESSICA ROACH
Training with Elissa has completely changed my life. I had never practised yoga prior to attending Elissa's classes, and after just one class I was hooked. I came from barely being able to touch my toes to now practising yoga almost every day and being able to reach further than my toes, backbend comfortably and do handstands. Elissa has a really great and fun teaching style and places a lot of focus on technique. Over time, I have learnt a significant amount from Elissa about the philosophy of yoga and come to appreciate not only the physical side of yoga but also the mental, spiritual and emotional side.
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SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
LANA MICALLEF
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As a nutritionist, I have been trained to understand the link between the mind and body, however, Elissa has furthered my understanding through sharing with me her knowledge and passion for yoga. I have learned that breathing, muscular strength and specific and holistic treatment set up a sound foundation for healing the mind - which in turn, heals the body. Thanks to Elissa, I have now incorporated yoga into my treatment plans and find it to be a very effective and useful tool to treat disease. Elissa is a passionate, knowledgeable, strong and natural educator. Her selflessness and dedication to sharing the wisdom of yoga is something no-one will regret being apart of. It is a breath of fresh air to see someone investing all their time in something they truly love and believe in.
DUBLIN, ISLAND
PAUL MCGLADE
Elissa was my amazing motivational yoga teacher for 3 to 4 mornings per week for 2 months during my holidays in Goa India in 2019
She has the X factor personality and work ethos as a truly great professional, experienced yoga teacher and is deffo top of her game in teaching !!
I’m truly looking forward to my next yoga sessions in January 2020 with Elissa !!
I would recommend her 100 % to everyone in the the world !!
Paul Mc Glade From Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
GIGI TSANG
I have been learning under Elissa since February this year and in this time I’ve seen massive improvements in my practice. Elissa focuses not only on helping you into a pose but doing it correctly to prevent injuries.
Initially, I went to yoga to improve my flexibility, but with practice, I’ve realised that other areas have also improved such as my strength and breathing. Seeing these improvements has encouraged me to regularly work on my yoga practice with support from Elissa.
Thank you Elissa, this is the strongest and most flexible I have ever been!