A place full of love and inner peace “Time flies quickly when it is beautiful. Our week at the yoga retreat was the same. We were able to learn so much and find inner peace that we left with an incredible amount of energy and new thoughts. Jenn is an incredible teacher and brings much love, peace, and positivity with her natural spirit. Lee her husband is the perfect partner with his supportive, funny and relaxed nature. Both are great hosts from A to Z and spoil you with great food every day. The trips we take together and the evenings outside having dinner, almost felt like family. They are extremely well organized and committed to everyone around them. It just felt really good and we can definitely recommend a 7 day retreat to everyone. Inner peace is the greatest gift in the world and Jenn does everything she can to bring it out in you and gives you all the techniques you need to feel your need and energies! We are looking forward to practicing asan and continuing yoga nidra at home. Dear Jenn and Lee we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything you did with us within this week and hopefully we can come back one day. Take care of yourselves and look well after each other! With kind and loving thoughts..
Benno, Reto and Lorena PS Switzerland is waiting for you.
Absolutely phenominal!
“The instructor was professional and provided an incredible experience. My life has been changed for the better and I couldn’t be more grateful to Jen. It was everything I needed and more! I am so blessed to have been able to enjoy the experience with Jen an I learnt so much about myself. Thank you for the delicious food, the kindness and the to- class education. I would highly recommend this retreat to anyone! ”
Farren Els – South Africa
Deeply transformational experience in a serene setting
“Jennifer is an incredibly knowledgable, compassionate and humble yoga instructor who created an amazing retreat experience each and every day. She went our of her way to make us feel welcome and comfortable during the week and provided us with the most delicious homecooked meals. The venue itself is beautiful and tranquil with plenty of communal space and multiple options for some alone time; there are plenty of routes to take walks in the sugar cane fields, and the three dogs were lovely companions and cuddle buddies. Thank you Jen and Lee for opening your home to me, for your compassion and kindness, and for providing a deeply transformative experience. Namaste”
Julie Klein from Austria
“Thank you so much Jen for such an amazing retreat and teacher training program. I’ve come away feeling so healed and having learned so much and just want to share it with anyone who is keen to learn! Not really knowing what to expect, this YTT experience was more than anything I could have ever imagined. Ultimately, this YTT and retreat with Jen was really really life changing. 3 months later and I’m am still so grateful to have ISHTA/HATHA yoga and yoga NIDRA as part of my daily life.
Aside from the valuable learnings, the retreat with Jen, her husband Lee and 3 doggos; Zulu, Asia, Saiba was very special. The setting is extremely tranquil and beautiful, surrounded by rolling hills and water bodies. The food was delicious and healthy. The student group was so wonderful, a like-minded bunch with constant laughing, deep vulnerability and learning through one another.
Thank you again Jen for imparting your knowledge with so much love and for making this retreat such a safe healing space for so many.
Whether you want to become a yoga teacher or go on YTT for self development – “This is the time to heal your mind, your body and your soul”
Ashley Brook – South Africa
Amazing experience
“The location is surrounded by green vegetation which makes it peacefully and therapeutical, exactly what i came for. Jen and Lee very warm welcoming and the place felt so homely. I loved everything about the place and i wished i could have stayed longer. Yoga practice was fantastic. Fantastic variety of meals as per my choice. Wow !! Jen surprised me with a cake for my coming birthday. It was really beautiful”
Judith Matenje – Botswana
Lovely retreat
“Jennifer went out of her way to accommodate our needs , special attention was given to help with postures , it was never rushed. Learned the value of Yoga Nidra . Felt rested as well as revitalized after the retreat.”
Melinda Lombard – South Africa
This has been a Life Changing Experience I am so grateful to Jen she is so passionate about what she does she has a amazing gift you leave here transformed healed and inspired . Thank you Jen for guiding me to find my soul. From day 1 Jen and her hubby Lee make you feel at home. They both go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable. From the amazing Game Drive to the Local Shongweni Market and Beach Yoga you feel so blessed to have such caring loving hosts like Jen and Lee, you become part of the Pathways Family even their 3 precious lovely loving doggies adopt you. When you go for walks on the beautiful farm the doggies are by your side. The walks are peaceful and the views of the dams with the birdlife resident Fish Eagles are breathtaking real Food for your Soul. The food is beyond awesome made with love each meal is amazing the best you will ever taste. I can highly recommed Pathways Country Retreat. I arrived stressed anxious no selfconfidence I leave here confident healed motivated full of energy and love for myself. This is a journey you will treasure for the rest of your life. Jen shares her years of training with her students with much love and patience. You learn that Yoga is much more than you think.The yoga nidra is life changing. Thank you Thank you Jen I cant wait to start teaching
Chantelle Diedericks – South Africa
Gratitude.. the pervasive feeling as I rest in a hotel room prior to my onward flight tomorrow morning.
I marvel at the serendipitous chain of events that brought me to Pathways Country Yoga Retreat: a desire to experience the South African bush, a venue far from the hustle and bustle of the mainstream, but most importantly, the wish to learn about the true and ancient principles of the science of yoga.
My 21-day experience has been all that I hoped for – and so much more. Days of intense theory, lecture, and asana education and practice were woven into a concrete foundation of daily spiritual practice, including centering, chanting, breathwork, and Yoga Nidra. My education also incorporated assignments to reinforce theory presentations, films (with popcorn
), videos to take home of asana demonstrations, a course manual, and reading material sent with me on a flash drive! There were days when we were so (physically) sore that we laughed about our questionable ability to get out of bed the next morning; there were moments that we cried together as psychic scars were confronted and released.
Jen and Lee are “retreat facilitating machines”. I wanted for nothing. Jen spent hours shopping, reading labels, and cooking in sincere respect and honor of my gluten-free, dairy-free, and no-added-sugar diet. Lovingly prepared, healthy, beautiful, and delicious meals were placed in front of me at every meal. Lee’s knowledge and sense of humor made for enjoyable and entertaining nightly dinners. My own private room AND bathroom met my need for quiet time and “space” at the end of each day; the bath water was always hot and the linens were clean and soft..
But though the course material is extensive and Jen “runs a tight ship”, she is wise enough to provide for breaks and enjoyable outings. Trips into the city on Fridays allow for Red Cappuccinos at Manhattan Coffee (
), yoga on the beach, brunch at Circus Circus, and shopping! Visits to Shongweni Market, a game drive at Tala Game Reserve followed by a delicious lunch, and a quick trip to the nearby Coffee Shop for lunch were all welcome diversions. Daily walks with the dogs among the prolific bird life, water features, and sugar cane fields were a joy..
The whole experience culminated in a very special evening to celebrate graduation. Once again, I could not have asked for a more perfect venue, Teacher, and education regarding the gift of yoga. I am truly blessed to have met another human who perceives life in the way that Jennifer Fitzsimmons does.
Thank you, thank you, thank you Pathways Country Yoga Retreat, Jen, Lee, and staff, and Asia, Sabre, and Zulu for an incredible experience!
Kathy Reed – United States
I booked the retreat a year ago. I had the expectation that I would be taught the right yoga postures but it was much more. At home – in the Netherlands – I work as a family psychologist and as a behavioural scientist at the university. Just saying this to explain that in both jobs I totally depended on knowledge and all the learned conversational methods. I knew how to listen, I knew what to ask. And there was my yoga teacher, Jen. Not a trained psychologist to treat anxiety, traumas and damaged souls. But she does. And with great effect. Without all the talking, she teaches you to have contact with the real you. The undamaged version. From there the healing starts. Her compassion and empathy is authentic and real. Next to that she trusts her intuition and she trusts yours. She believes in herself as she believes in you. In the power in people to heal themselves, to believe in dreams again, to see a way out of the darkness. I could only wish that one of my clients would say such a thing about me as I just did about her..Do go if in any doubt: do go. I don’t rely totally on just knowledge and talking ever since. No one should. There is more to it.
Carina De Waardt
I felt so grateful the whole time
I arrived with warm welcoming greeting from Jennifer and Lee. It was great location, I felt safe and comfortable all those days. Jennifer is a superb knowledgeable teacher knowing about her course, I learned so much from her. 200 hours teacher training course is more than a course, but an inner journey to transform you to a better yourself🤩 I have a strong willing to share all my experiences and learning (in Pathways Country Yoga Retreat center) with everyone. I could not find a better hosts than Jennifer and Lee. Sweet cozy learning environment, healthy and delicious food, and so much more! She’s truly a great teacher and friend! If anyone willing to start yoga journey, I’ll highly recommend the Pathways Country Yoga Retreat center. Every journey has an end before you begins the next one… and mine is going to be a colourful one.
Anonymous.
What a wonderful place
This place feels like home far away from home. Couldn’t imagine to have a better time than I had there. Everything, really everything was absolutely perfect. It is in the middle of the nature. Very safe and the place has a beautiful energy. Jen has a wonderful soul. She loves what she’s doing. You can feel her purpose. The food and the accommodation are incredible. Can’t wait to go back one day. Thank you Jen ! Thank you for the light you bring on this planet. ♥️
Tatjana Heller – Switzerland
Six months ago I spent many weeks choosing a yoga teachers training. It seems that it was time well spent because I am happy now that I chose Pathways. Not only is it a comfortable house in a beautiful location, Jen and Lee do everything that they can to make it your house during the stay. My (difficult) dietary requirements were met without any hesitation. When I mentioned that I was not completely comfortable with the four dogs circling around me in the beginning Jen put them in another room immediately. Btw, those dogs have become my family as well as Jen and Lee have after three weeks. But the important part: the yoga training is very decent. In the beginning it is quite hard having that many hours of class (theory and practice) a day, but you get use to it soon. After all you need that many hours to master the exercises, learning the theory and also get accustomed to teaching yourself in only three weeks! Lucky Jen provides you with a well written course book. And since you work in small groups (first I was going to be there on my own, but Jen and I convinced a Namibian women to stay three weeks instead of one) everything is flexible and can be adapted to your needs and wishes. Jen really is an inspiring woman and works from the heart. She walks the talk. I feel truly grateful for this experience and hope to take Jen’s enthusiasm home so that I, in turn can inspire many other people. Last but not least, the trips you made to the beach on Friday and to the farmer’s market and the Game Reserves on Saturdays are really a plus.
Liesbet from Belgium
I am deeply grateful that the Universe lead me to Jen and Pathways Country Yoga Retreat. This experience has enabled me to tap into self awareness and spiritual consciousness that I have been seeking for years and was unable to get from my previous (asana focused) yoga practice. As I write this review from Australia, I miss Jen and the beautiful energy of the retreat and her home, with my whole heart.
Jess Elias from Australia
I initially signed up to do a week retreat, but loved it so much (especially the workshops and the knowledge that I gained about the science and philosophy of yoga) that I returned the following month for the Teachers Training Course. Now I can’t wait to begin my teaching.
Jen has a very gentle, holistic and traditional style and approach which suited me perfectly.
I felt so welcomed by both Jen and her husband Lee. The food they made me was absolutely delicious, healthy and full of love. The setting is stunning, the bed comfy and the bath is a delight.
I now actually understand the true essence of yoga, and cannot wait to incorporate it into my daily life – especially my morning Sadhana. Jen truly is an inspirational women who opens her heart and soul to her students. She is warm, patient, knowledgeable and enlightened. I am so blessed to have Jen as my teacher and guru. Thank you Jen and I can’t wait to return to Pathways.
The Pathways to Wellness program offered me a life changing experience and a new way of living. Jen’s extraordinary insight, her humility and the kindness she shares in all her teachings are beyond a gift. Having recently been struggling with anxiety and stress, my regular once a week yoga class didn’t seem enough to keep me in balance. Having practiced yoga and having dipped in and out of meditation for a few years now, I had struggled to maintain a daily practice and consistently feel the benefits. Jen’s program turned this around for me. I realized that I wasn’t fully committed to the discipline because I didn’t fully understand it. Jen taught me how the practice of yoga is so much more than the 20 or so poses constructed in the class but rather a tool to achieving physical, mental and emotional balance as well as overall wellness. The sessions varied from breathing, exercise, meditation, mantra and energy work to developing an understanding of the vibrations of the Universe. Each session helped me to understand the route to achieving wholeness and balance. My four days were jammed packed with knowledge, practical techniques, exercise and life coaching. Most important I found the teachings emphasized how I could achieve this balance by integrating the core techniques back into my fast pace lifestyle on my return from the retreat. The backdrop to all of this, a beautiful farm house set amongst wildlife and dams with a yoga studio which absorbs the sunrise, sunset and amazing views of the farm. Jen and her husband Lee, brought me into their home, cooked the most beautiful food and couldn’t have made me feel more comfortable. There was a lot of free leisure time to explore the farm, walk the dogs, go fishing and relax. What I liked most was how the amount of leisure versus practical time, was dictated by what I felt I wanted and needed – rather than the other way around. And this was central to my whole experience at the retreat as it was personalized for my specific needs – rather than generalized practice. The farm is set amongst a close farming community, in a beautiful and secure location. I felt very safe and well looked after and couldn’t recommend a more tranquil setting for such a wonderful, relaxing warm and energizing experience! In summary: Beautiful people, beautiful place with beautiful teachings that will stay with me for the rest of my journey. Thank you Jen and Lee for all your warm hospitality – will be back to stay with my fiancé in a couple of months. –
Sophie from Johannesburg, South Africa.
It is my supreme pleasure to recommend this yoga teacher training to anyone who maybe in search of it. I travelled quite a distance to come here and am convinced the Universe led me to this place. I know there are many places and programs where one can be trained to teach yoga, but Jen has no prerequisites for attending this one, and she is so supportive, honest and kind. It is hard to put into words how unique and special Pathways Country Yoga Retreat actually is – I thoroughly enjoyed each and every moment of every day that I was there. I cannot say what I enjoyed most – Jen and her personal teaching style; Lee and his love of food and making sure that I was having fun; Sadie, Asia, Sabre and Zulu (the warm, funny and friendly family dogs who led me on daily walks around the farm and always made sure I returned home safely 🙂 or Ntombekaya and Mzoe who lovingly care for the physical property and taught me a few words in isiZulu and isiXhosa – the entire experience was like a dream come true. This course was challenging, inspiring and life changing! Thank you one and all for filling my heart, mind and soul with so much love. –
Antonia from The Bronx, New York.
It has been a while since I have been in touch. I hope you remember me. I had a wonderful one – on – one couple of days with you earlier in March this year where I also spent time doing my vision board. I hope the family (including the dogs) are all well. Just wanted to follow up with a note regarding the practice and impact on my life. My work demands that I travel frequently and I have many really early starts and late evenings. Where I can, I do my practice and always feel centered and amazing afterwards. The gratitude affirmation I do daily – everywhere and at anytime. It lifts my spirit and my positivity has had an impact on my life significantly. I use my subconscious mind to tailor my life and it has worked! Everything on my vision board have materialized and I am geared towards living my true purpose in life. I have been accepted into an amazing school abroad that I am heading to in November – without a doubt it will help me make a positive impact in the world and leave a legacy some how. Your beautiful story of the universe of love always resonates with me and I remember it often, when dealing with people and situations and your handbook I refer to often. Any way enough of my ramblings : ) I just wanted to let you know that your teachings had the most incredible impact on me – and I will carry it forward for the rest of my life. Perhaps one day soon I will return for a refresher course 🙂 –
Trisha from Johannesburg, South Africa.
From the moment you step into Jen’s home you feel truly at home. I quickly forgot that I was at a Yoga Teachers Training Course, and not visiting a close relative. Jen and Lee truly go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and booking myself with them was one of the bet things I have ever done in my life. The teachings are in depth, and not only cover the traditional teachers training material, but also include teaching about meta-physics which I truly enjoyed. Jen is an incredible yoga teacher, patient and kind, and what I loved most that there were only two people on the course (limited to a max of 6-8, but Jen prefers to keep it very intimate where possible) and this is one of the reasons I booked with her. Having an intimate retreat meant feeling completely comfortable to transform in any way we needed to. The food was outstanding! I thought yoga courses would mean very bland food, but I was so surprised to see that we had totally delicious and nutritious meals every single day. There were tons of snacks when ever we wanted too. The accommodation was top notch with a stunning bedroom, pool area and the most gorgeous views, and of course a yoga studio filled with love and light. Not to forget the special doggies too. Another great aspect of Jen’s course is that it is all about balance. This means that the weekends are more relaxed, and we were taken on various outings around the area – to a local (awesome) farmers market, a near by game reserve, and every Friday to yoga on the beach. I can highly recommend this teachers training course for any one that would like a broad view of Hatha Yoga. Jen uses her life experience and in depth knowledge to equip all teachers to be with all they need to be wonderful teachers. Three weeks went by very quickly – a glass of wine at night after a long day was well appreciated too. Thanks again to Jen and Lee, and just in case I haven’t said it enough – I highly recommend this Yoga Teachers Training Course. –
Jacqui Sive from Hoedspruit, South Africa.
I arrived in Eston and just felt at home. Jen and Lee are the most generous hosts and really care for your well-being. The yoga classes were life enhancing and Jen makes it so individual. I think this yoga teachers training course is much more than a “normal” yoga teachers training course. Jen helped me take decisions, without telling me what to do. The food was unbelievably lekka. We also got to know some people from the area and we loved them. Talking about the area; the nature there is incredible, the house is really nicely located and you have dogs helping you to discover the surrounding cane fields. My favorite part of the training were trips to the beach – so beautiful. Conclusion: I loved it! Jen and Lee and my new friend Jacqui are amazing people and I am happy that I met them. Whatever you are searching for, a visit to this place, it’s worth it! –
Tanya Tschour from Switzerland.
It is with a big smile I write this review, just a few days after my yoga retreat. This was my first yoga retreat and I had no expectations other than doing some yoga every day and having loads of free time just to relax. I was pleasantly surprised with every aspect of it. This is a yoga camp for real people living and working among the rest of society who want to do so living the best life possible. Jen equips you with the techniques thoroughly researched and practiced over many years through difficult times that cover stress management techniques and balancing the physical body, energy body and emotions. You will leave with a heightened sense of spirituality no matter what your faith may be. As other reviews have mentioned the wonderful homemade food, the dogs that are the epitome of love, the peaceful surroundings and wonderful nature of the hosts make the experience unforgettable and without exaggeration – life changing. The community yoga classes held every now and then is wonderful as you get to meet the locals who are warm and down to earth. I was walking on air when I left and will maintain this as I continue the daily practice with her phenomenal CD’s. –
Trisha from Johannesburg, South Africa.
The retreat was a great way to de-stress. Jenny and her husband Lee are absolutely awesome. The food, setting and people all great. Lift the retreat feeling much more enriched. Thank you Jenny. –
Linda Grove from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Thanks again for this great adventure and experiences, it is a milestone in my life and a big step forward. I am safe at home, got again the last seat in the airplane and I am so happy to be at home with a great warm and fantastic feeling in my heart. –
Michael from Germany.
The entire experience was so much more than I had expected or more than I could ever have hoped for. Firstly I was expecting a week of “yoga” and in my mind this meant a lot of physical yoga classes, strict eating, drinking policy, and definitely a place where I could unwind and spend the balance of my day doing pretty nothing… to de-stress after a tough and challenging year. I was warmly welcomed at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat by Jennifer and her husband Lee. I hardly put my bags down after Lee kindly fetched me from the airport, and a yoga class was about to begin. I was eager to get started and get myself back into my yoga routine, so I jumped right in. Loved it! It was a little different to what I was accustomed to as Jen’s classes included so much more time and focus on breathing chanting and best of all meditation time. What blew me away was the workshops we had each and every day – the duration was a minimum of two hours each day and what I learnt about the real meaning of yoga philosophy as well as Jennifer’s own life journey and her experiences was powerful and exciting. My life has taken a new meaning and I have made it my life goal purpose to pursue this journey of a life of “yoga”. The accommodation was perfect and comfortable. Apart from the lovely bass dams practically in their back yard, the bird life is incredible. There wasn’t a day that passed when we didn’t hear the Fish Eagles cry. The meals were lovingly prepared by Lee who was ready to whip up my meal within minutes. From a welcoming prawn curry on the first night, to a healthy breakfast made up of fresh pawpaw boats made with yoghurt and muesli, to Jen’s special salmon salad for lunch, the food was delicious with healthy portions. While I had hoped to lose a little of my extra weight during my stay, this became the least of my worries as my focus changed to my learning and practice. I will be returning to Pathways in 2016 with an aim to complete my Yoga Teachers Training, this has been a dream of mine for many years. Thanks and best regards – Namaste. –
Theresa Szejwallo from Johannesburg South Africa.
Looking for an above and beyond experience for your first step to becoming a yoga teacher or just looking to rediscover your inner strength? I encourage anyone who feels like something is missing or is out of touch with their inner wisdom to take the first assertive step to remembering who you are, make time to look within. If you need some help learning how put your trust in Jen at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat. I cannot recommend this place and amazing empowering woman enough! The farm is so peaceful and beautiful. Jen and her husband Lee are such warm and loving people who make you feel like part of the family from the minute you meet them. You even feel “homesick” when you leave to return home to your new reality. They both go above and beyond what’s expected and what’s paid for and they really are two wonderful souls. I miss Pathways dearly and am so grateful for the tools and life changing attitude Jen has introduced me to. I am so excited for my yoga journey and I highly recommend Pathways. Namaste –
Kylee Gouwer from Seychelles.
Life changing experience. My decision to do my yoga teachers training, February this year, was very sudden. I strolled on the internet and was immediately drawn to the website of Pathways Country Yoga Retreat. The look, feel and content made me very interested. I contacted Book Yoga Retreats and within an hour I got a reply back from Jennifer, the owner and yoga teacher. This is where my life changing experience started. When I arrived at Durban airport, Jennifer and her husband Lee were there to pick me up. After about an hour drive we arrived at the beautiful farm house, hidden in the middle of sugar cane fields. I was blown away by the beauty and tranquility of the place. If you imagined a perfect place for a yoga retreat, this is it! I was there for a month and this month had everything necessary to develop myself into a yoga teacher. The theoretical teachings were informative, profound and set the fundament for the practical part. We were given enough time to read and ask questions. The enormous amount of personal attention made it possible to dive deep into your inner self. Jennifer gives you the time to experience your feelings as they come and go. In the meantime she is there to help you when you need her. My time at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat was amazing! Jennifer and Lee were the perfect hosts. The meals were amazing, the rooms very nice and the surroundings breath taking. My life has changed in so many good ways. I would very much recommend Pathways Country Yoga Retreat to everyone. Not just the teachers training but all other courses she gives as well. Take the chance and live your life!
Fleur from Breda, The Netherlands
I book this retreat with not much knowledge really of yoga. I had only been to a few yoga classes at the gym and thus knew very little about yoga. I thus expected to do what we did at the gym I can honestly say that it was so much more than expected. My eyes opened up to a whole new world! I learnt so much from Jen. She is one of the most knowledgeable, compassionate and kind person I have met in my life. The week was food for my soul! Lovely accommodation, gorgeous food, and beautiful scenery spent with lovely people, three beautiful gentle dogs was probably on of the best weeks I have ever had in my life. It truly was a life changing experience for me. –
Michelle from Boksburg, South Africa
Pathways Country Yoga Retreat is an incredibly unique experience. It is set in beautiful surroundings and is a special place to reconnect with your soul. I have attended several retreats and each one has left me with something special. Lee and Jen are truly amazing hosts. Their kind and accommodating ways make you feel at home and sincerely welcomed. They go out of their way to help and be of service. It’s very difficult to value your time and experience at Pathways because until you personally experience it – you cannot appreciate how inspiring and uplifting it is. It is such a personal journey and the more you invest the greater the reward. I highly recommend this special place. –
Phillipa Mitchell Innes from UK
I was lucky enough to book a week with my girlfriend and cousin at Pathway Country Yoga Retreat. We were given a guest cottage to stay in on the farm and found it to be a beautiful place in spectacular surroundings. Jen and Lee have done a superb job with the place and have created an environment that is tranquil and welcoming and a wonderful escape from the stress of the working life. Jen’s yoga sessions and meditations were something I found to be super rewarding and I looked forward to all the sessions, coming out feeling relaxed and refreshed. Lee always went the extra mile to make us all feel at home and was sure to treat us in the evening with a very South African braai (barbeque) and delicious selection of side salads. During the day we spent time fishing, relaxing and went on a game drive in the neighboring Tala game reserve which was superb. We all had a good time at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat and came home relaxed and feeling good. –
Roger from Fort Lauderdale
I spent a glorious month at the yoga teachers training during February with Jen and Lee. Both our hosts were extremely welcoming and generous with their time and space. Myself and my fellow student were welcomed with opened arms and made to feel at home straight away and treated to beautifully furnished rooms and bathroom. Jen prepared all our meals that were carefully thought out, nutritious and delicious! The course itself was a life changing experience for me and my fellow student and Jen is extremely knowledgeable in her field and very patient in her explanations of everything. Lee spoilt us often with sweet treats and we had very interesting conversations at dinner time – and even a glass of wine as well!! We especially loved being able to take the dogs for long walks every afternoon through the beautiful sugar cane fields 🙂 Overall I really enjoyed my time there and learnt a lot ! Both Jen and Lee are fantastic hosts and I will definitely stay with them again if ever I’m in the area. –
Chrisel from Austrailia
I did a retreat with Jennifer in November 2014 and it was just the best choice and the best thing I could have done. It took me a while to write a review as it is hard to describe the experience. Most importantly Jennifer is just the best, best teacher and an amazing strong and powerful person. I found her lessons amazing, truly inspiring and relaxing. The personal attention you get is very unique and special and Jennifer’s thorough knowledge and deep understanding of, and belief in, the yoga practice’s is really amazing. Even though I only did a small part of a month long teachers course, I felt there was enough space for me to relax, do my own thing and at the same time learn as much as I wanted and take in as much information as you can. The variety of classes – at the retreat, at the beach, outside – together with the workshops Jennifer was doing for the teachers course – were all very interesting with a good mix of activities. For me the best think was, and is, that after 5 months I can say it has definitely influenced me. Whilst it is hard keeping up with the amazing discipline that Jennifer has, she definitely inspired me to keep continuing with yoga (which I now do at least twice a week), to keep working on yourself and to stay positive and keep improving. This retreat has nestled in the back of my mind and will stay there forever! Thank you Jen and Lee –
Christina Sietsma from The Netherlands
‘Writing this review is so incredibly difficult for me, solely because I don’t think words can truly describe how fantastic Jen made this course for me. From the moment I arrived on the retreat I was embraced with love and kindness by Jen, her husband Lee and their three loving dogs whom I grew very fond of. I immediately felt welcome and at home. I was escorted to a section of the house where I had a very comfortable room, my own bathroom and complete privacy.
Marilise from Seychelles
I was fortunate enough to have Jen all to myself and received one on one attention which was exactly what I needed. Spending time with Jen from morning until evening, we covered so much information, but the depth of her knowledge, life experiences and insights was what truly made an impact on me. She is a wonderful teacher and a beautiful soul and just so passionate about yoga and its practices. That passion shows in every aspect of her life and I, or any student under her, could not help but be influenced by that blissful energy. Thank you, Jen for sharing so much of yourself with me. I will always hold you dear in my heart.
Being the only student at the time, I was not only showered with attention, but got spoiled all the time. Jen and Lee took me all over, showed me the area and shared some of their favorite places with me, namely the farmers market, the wild reserve and yoga sessions on the beach. Being a pescatarian, no meat, only fish, Jen and Lee catered for all my dietary requirements and made such a comfortable adjustment to their lifestyle. Awesome barbeques and the most delicious soups I have ever tasted! The meals were always so creative, so healthy and nutritious and such a treat.
The retreat is on a stunning piece of land, breath-taking beauty. The most peaceful surroundings filled with flourishing fauna and flora. The sunrise and sunset are the best and always made me stand in awe of the magnificent radiance it held at their place. The horses, the dams, the birds and just too many to mention created the perfect environment to truly connect and add to the yoga experience. –
The Pathways Country Yoga Retreat grounds are beautiful with views over 2 little trout dams and the greenery of the sugar cane fields. This peaceful atmosphere is the perfect setting for meditation and spiritual work. I signed up for the 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training and the 10 Days Meditation Facilitator course with Jennifer.
David and Karin Lamprecht from Abu Dhabi
The yoga teacher training course is very comprehensive and Jen covers not only the syllabus but any other points you as student might want to explore–like opening a yoga school, offering meditation workshops or energy healings. I found Jen to be a capable and patient teacher. Her books, CDs and DVDs are great aids that can help you strengthen your practice. She has a wealth of knowledge that she shares eagerly with her students.
Jen helped me gain the confidence to teach yoga and to lead meditation workshops but more importantly, she showed me how to integrate all my previous teaching with my yoga practice and to build a successful business utilizing all my skills, abilities and talents. In the end when I left Pathways Country Yoga Retreat, I left behind a great teacher, mentor and friend, I’m sure you will feel the same. –
Jennifer Fitzsimmons does an amazing thing: she teaches yoga deeply on every level, and this is what appealed to me most; the irrefutable scientific wisdom that creates the doorway to mental, physical and spiritual health. She confirmed my belief that what we refer to as ‘Supernatural’ is nothing more than the ‘Very Natural’ skills we have forgotten.
Sonya Culverwell from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Her understanding of the physiology / spirituality connection, combined with her no-nonsense practical application of yogic principles, is refreshing and highly effective.
I came to her looking not so much for enlightenment but for tools – and found both – in bucket loads. I now know that what my body needs is energetic nutrition as much as it needs food. And this is what creates the balance we all crave – often without realizing it.
Thank you, Jennifer. And thank you to your wonderfully generous husband, Lee, for the support and hospitality he provides in the very beautiful environment you have created together. –
Hello Jennifer, I have so enjoyed your book ‘Pathways to wellness’. When are your other books coming out as I need to buy them? Your writings and insights are so lucid and heartfelt. Thank you. All of the best.
Metta – Mel
Jen’s workshop teachings have had an amazing influence in my life. The yoga teachings has definitely helped me raise my level of conscious awareness about myself and the world around me. Her classes offer great insight and wisdom into yoga and the mind-body-spirit connection.Her workshops have indeed been a very inspiring experience. Ivana –
Demartini Method Facilitator
We have not officially met but I owe you an enormous thank you. You and your husband have taken Karin into your home for the last month, have taken excellent care of her, and treated her like royalty. She has learnt an extra ordinary amount from you. You have given her the tools and the confidence to succeed in whatever endeavor she plans to undertake. You have given her so much more than what she expected and for that, I will always be grateful. By just speaking to her, I have witnessed the amazing positive changes in her you have brought about.
David Lamprecht from Abu Dhabi.
As Henry David Thoreau said, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” You have taught her how to reach her dreams, that she can live the life she always wanted to. So thanks and thanks again for looking after her and for the beautiful, better, stress less and confident person you are sending back to me. Wishing you all the best going forward and hoping that one day we will get the opportunity to meet. Best regards, –
Dear Jennifer, Thank you so so much for the most amazing experience on Saturday, I am still floating. Katy and I went for a long walk on the beach on Sunday and came back to your yoga dvd which was amazing. We look forward to reconnecting soon. Kind regards –
Colleen
Jennifer, Thank you for the most incredible, inspiring and life-changing day! My mom and I left feeling like new people are so motivated to start incorporating your teachings into our lives. We actually started this morning with one of your Yoga DVDs and I have not been able to put your book down. I would really like to book a personal yoga class with you to improve my inversions and I’d also like to have a session of chakra-balancing. I will be in touch to book. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story and practice with us! Kind Regards, –
Katy Jennings.
Thank you so much Jen. I cannot thank you enough for the most beautiful day on Saturday, I really loved every moment and am so grateful to you! Hope you having a lovely day, –
Amy x
Hi Jennifer, Thank you so much for a wonderful day yesterday! X –
Sheena
In the face of difficulty, most of us do our best to cope with the situation, hold it together, and keep going, but we often end up carrying emotional pain that we don’t know how to heal or release. Yoga, and other mind-body practices are a starting point but it’s not enough to read or understand an idea and the Pathways to Success and Wellness Yoga Retreat turns this idea into a life changing experience. At this two day workshop, Jennifer lead educator in Hatha and Kundalini Yoga and Qualified Life Coach expert will introduce you to these timeless teachings in a comfortable group environment. Jennifer teaches that inter-connectedness of body, mind and spirit is the foundation of making our lives truly work for us and believe that healing and personal growth arises naturally from this recognition. The retreat has helped me to reach a deeper level of understanding of my own and other’s spirituality, it has promoted my self awareness and self esteem. I am now working towards recognizing and understanding the importance of my individual rights and responsibilities to myself. More so it has encouraged my social interaction with like minded individuals offering a support network and friendship. The workshop will help you create a lifestyle that supports your deepest intentions to become more vibrant, healthy, and alive – at any age.
Laura
I am 29 years old & have been suffering with a form of chronic pain since my early teens. I have been on chronic pain medication, been to regular physiotherapy appointments, exercised regularly, I have seen numerous doctors, specialists, homeopaths even psychiatrists in the hope of finding some cure or at least a ‘magic pill’ that would ease the pain & the associated stress, depression, anger and resentment at my own body. This condition was ruining my career, my family life & my romantic life…I had given up hope. My mom was parked somewhere one day when she noticed Jen’s car advertising Pathways to Wellness & stress management. That same week she forced me along & we attended Jen’s workshop. To say that Jen had inspired me is an understatement. Sitting in her workshop & listening to Jen’s teachings, I had had an epiphany. Something had lit up inside me and said “This is what you’re meant to be doing”, “This will make you whole again”. I have always been a firm believer in fate & I know without a doubt that my destiny had brought me to that point & placed me in front of Jen. I know now that Yoga is my calling. I have been attending Jen’s yoga classes for about 3 months now and I am so proud to say that I am completely off all my anti-depressants & pain medication. I haven’t had the need to go to physiotherapy or see a doctor for these 3 months. Furthermore, I am calmer, more relaxed, less agitated & with a general feeling of health, wholeness & well-being. For the first time, I feel am I healing – my body, mind and soul. There is a saying that goes: “If you search the world for happiness, you may find it in the end, for the world is round and will lead you back to your door.” I had searched for a long time, in every place possible, for a way to find my happiness. With Jen’s help, I have found it now – inside myself.My aim is no longer only to practice yoga asanas but to learn the profound teachings of yoga & someday teach the art of yoga to others in search of their happiness & inner peace. I pray you find yours. – Hari Om –
Ashmita Udith – Aspiring Yogini
Dear Jen, I couldn’t ever thank and repay you enough for your kind and giving nature. You have brought so much to my life. Even at a time when I thought everything was falling apart, your teaching and techniques came into my life just at the right time. You are truly a gift from God and being obedient and following your destiny has brought healing and meaning to so many peoples lives. Thank you for the skills you have taught me to enable me to find true purpose and meaning in life. Through your teaching and Yoga I have realized that nothing is impossible in life, as long a I believe in myself and my ability to create. Thank you again! –
Amanda Graphic Solutions
Thank you so much my friend the workshop was fabulous and will do me a lot of good, thanks again and well done you are going to make a huge difference in peoples live.
Tania x – Indigo Hair Design
For a long time I felt like I was a stranger to my own body & then I joined your yoga classes. From then onwards I learnt to appreciate my body & work with it to find the balance I so desperately needed in my life.When you launched your book & I read it, I just knew that another miracle was about to happen in my life. I have dealt with a lot of ups & downs recently and when I feel a little low I reach for your book & read it again. It has a special place next to my bed so its the 1st thing I see in the morning & the last at night.I no longer suffer as badly from migraines and have applied your guidelines & wealth of knowledge to help me through the stressful times. I cannot THANK YOU enough for transforming my life. Can’t wait for the new books, and more! Love & light –
Sandi
Your yoga classes certainly help me cope with each and every day, from week to week! *Namaste –
Liesl Dumke-Bertasso
Breathing exercises are awesome, thanks for all the tips and positive energy … *feeling fantastic* –
Liesl Dumke-Bertasso
Jennifer – what an amazing story you have to tell. You had me enthralled from beginning to end & your words create a sense of power, peace & direction. It has given me a boost to the beginning of my day – so thank you
To Jennifer, Hello there! I have read your book “Pathway to Wellness” and have related and gained a wealth of information from it.
Nontobeko Toba
I am interested in publishing my own book and was wondering if you could advise me accordingly. please assist.
Thanking you in advance –
“Practicing yoga on a regular basis has changed my life in ways I could never have anticipated. It has given me the tools I needed to gain control of the anxiety, insomnia, obsessive compulsive thoughts/ behaviours and depression etc that I experienced most days. It has given me the confidence to grab life by the horns and pursue my dreams teaching me to appreciate life and see the beauty around us we so often take for granted… Yoga invited me to STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES!!! Allowing yourself to relax to the point where you free yourself from judgments from your own mind and the world around you is truly transformational. It is a very liberating experience to discover your own inner strength and to realise that you have the power to live the life you want!” Love you lots! –
Mwah! Donna
An inspiring book that follows the authors process and journey from successful business woman to a victim of mental and physically abusive relationships to well respected and admired health, wellness and yoga instructor. Her path to peace is not simple or short or a quick fix solution. Jennifer takes you on a journey that needs to be appreciated every step of the way. Her lessons printed at the end of this book enable you to let go and accept your full spectrum of emotions, getting to know yourself again allowing you to make mistakes along the way. After all, the main focus of this book is to make you understand you are part of a much bigger picture. And most importantly, you have to realize that only you have control over your emotional responses and reactions and they can be changed for the better. So it’s also down to you to make sure you purchase this book and change your life just like I have. –
Laura van Niekerk – Freelance writer and yogi in training!
Dear Sadasat, I shall take this opportunity to officially thank you for all that I have learnt from you. Having attended other yoga classes now, I can see that your method of teaching is so thorough and inspiring. Not only myself, but lots of people have recognized the transformation in myself and that is testimony to your teaching. I am proud to have been your student!!! Take care Hari Om –
Caryl
Hi Jennifer, Thank you SO much for yesterdays class. It was AMAZING and I still feel so much lighter today. I also had such a peaceful nights sleep – it has been a while… I am a chronic asthmatic person and I suffer with terrible sinus and allergies. I know my body is terribly out of balance as I had the WORST year last year – ended up on anti-depressants and therapy. I am a strong minded person but last year I was at every point of weakness possible – my personal life was in shambles. I am hoping to find some balance and peace with myself through Yoga. So…that’s why I am there 🙂 I am also interested in coming along with or your workshops, please keep me on your mailing list for this – my hubby will attend as well. Thank you again. I admire you a lot for everything you have done with your life – to recover.
Alexander (Netherlands); Stayed at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat for 16 days.
Alexander
To go to Pathways was the best decision I have made in a long time!! I describe my experience in just two words: “simply amazing”.
In December 2018 I decided to go to South Africa and stay with Jen and Lee. Immediately after arriving in January it felt like coming home. Thanks to the atmosphere, conversations, yoga, meditation, laughing (!) and great food I felt my mind and body recovering and coming at ease. A feeling I still carry with me and for which I’m truly grateful. Jen and Lee thank you so much for the time we have spent. Hope to see you once again and say hello to the dogs 🙂
Big hug
“Thank you so much to Jen and Lee for such an amazing experience on my Yoga Teachers Training.
Tegan Young
Jen is a knowledgeable, kind and thoughtful teacher, with a great zest for life. The course has been extremely informative of the entire lifestyle that is yoga. I would highly recommend to anyone they partake in this experience, especially for personal growth.
Lee and Jen have created a beautiful, homely, comfortable and safe space for people to go through their own journey. They are extremely attentive and always ensure that you are happy and well fed. The smaller group sizes allow for much more individual attention, helping you to progress that much faster.
Everything from accommodation to training is done well. Jen caters to everyone without discrimination in any aspect.
All I can say is thank you for your care, lessons and good laughs around the table.” –
simply truly amazing and a life enlightening experience
“The 21 days YTT with Jen was an absolutely amazing experience. Jen is extremely thorough, dedicated, knowledgeable and understanding. She has certainly deepened and enlightened my understanding of yoga and made me aware of its limitless beauty and power. I would recommend Jen to anyone, from starting their journey to being very experienced with the practice of yoga. The location is also an absolut bliss for a retreat. Lee and the rest of the family (that one will have the chance the meet once going there) are just as great and lovely.” –
Maleke Fourati from Switzerland
Six months ago I spent many weeks choosing a yoga teachers training. It seems that it was time well spent because I am happy now that I chose Pathways. Not only is it a comfortable house in a beautiful location, Jen and Lee do everything that they can to make it your house during the stay. My (difficult) dietary requirements were met without any hesitation. When I mentioned that I was not completely comfortable with the four dogs circling around me in the beginning Jen put them in another room immediately. Btw, those dogs have become my family as well as Jen and Lee have after three weeks. But the important part: the yoga training is very decent. In the beginning it is quite hard having that many hours of class (theory and practice) a day, but you get use to it soon. After all you need that many hours to master the exercises, learning the theory and also get accustomed to teaching yourself in only three weeks! Lucky Jen provides you with a well written course book. And since you work in small groups (first I was going to be there on my own, but Jen and I convinced a Namibian women to stay three weeks instead of one) everything is flexible and can be adapted to your needs and wishes. Jen really is an inspiring woman and works from the heart. She walks the talk. I feel truly grateful for this experience and hope to take Jen’s enthusiasm home so that I, in turn can inspire many other people. Last but not least, the trips you made to the beach on Friday and to the farmer’s market and the Game Reserves on Saturdays are really a plus.
Liesbet from Belgium
The Pathways to Wellness program offered me a life changing experience and a new way of living. Jen’s extraordinary insight, her humility and the kindness she shares in all her teachings are beyond a gift. Having recently been struggling with anxiety and stress, my regular once a week yoga class didn’t seem enough to keep me in balance. Having practiced yoga and having dipped in and out of meditation for a few years now, I had struggled to maintain a daily practice and consistently feel the benefits. Jen’s program turned this around for me. I realized that I wasn’t fully committed to the discipline because I didn’t fully understand it. Jen taught me how the practice of yoga is so much more than the 20 or so poses constructed in the class but rather a tool to achieving physical, mental and emotional balance as well as overall wellness. The sessions varied from breathing, exercise, meditation, mantra and energy work to developing an understanding of the vibrations of the Universe. Each session helped me to understand the route to achieving wholeness and balance. My four days were jammed packed with knowledge, practical techniques, exercise and life coaching. Most important I found the teachings emphasized how I could achieve this balance by integrating the core techniques back into my fast pace lifestyle on my return from the retreat. The backdrop to all of this, a beautiful farm house set amongst wildlife and dams with a yoga studio which absorbs the sunrise, sunset and amazing views of the farm. Jen and her husband Lee, brought me into their home, cooked the most beautiful food and couldn’t have made me feel more comfortable. There was a lot of free leisure time to explore the farm, walk the dogs, go fishing and relax. What I liked most was how the amount of leisure versus practical time, was dictated by what I felt I wanted and needed – rather than the other way around. And this was central to my whole experience at the retreat as it was personalized for my specific needs – rather than generalized practice. The farm is set amongst a close farming community, in a beautiful and secure location. I felt very safe and well looked after and couldn’t recommend a more tranquil setting for such a wonderful, relaxing warm and energizing experience! In summary: Beautiful people, beautiful place with beautiful teachings that will stay with me for the rest of my journey. Thank you Jen and Lee for all your warm hospitality – will be back to stay with my fiancé in a couple of months.
Sophie from Johannesburg, South Africa.
It is my supreme pleasure to recommend this yoga teacher training to anyone who maybe in search of it. I travelled quite a distance to come here and am convinced the Universe led me to this place. I know there are many places and programs where one can be trained to teach yoga, but Jen has no prerequisites for attending this one, and she is so supportive, honest and kind. It is hard to put into words how unique and special Pathways Country Yoga Retreat actually is – I thoroughly enjoyed each and every moment of every day that I was there. I cannot say what I enjoyed most – Jen and her personal teaching style; Lee and his love of food and making sure that I was having fun; Sadie, Asia, Sabre and Zulu (the warm, funny and friendly family dogs who led me on daily walks around the farm and always made sure I returned home safely 🙂 or Ntombekaya and Mzoe who lovingly care for the physical property and taught me a few words in isiZulu and isiXhosa – the entire experience was like a dream come true. This course was challenging, inspiring and life changing! Thank you one and all for filling my heart, mind and soul with so much love.
Antonia from The Bronx, New York.
It has been a while since I have been in touch. I hope you remember me. I had a wonderful one – on – one couple of days with you earlier in March this year where I also spent time doing my vision board. I hope the family (including the dogs) are all well. Just wanted to follow up with a note regarding the practice and impact on my life. My work demands that I travel frequently and I have many really early starts and late evenings. Where I can, I do my practice and always feel centered and amazing afterwards. The gratitude affirmation I do daily – everywhere and at anytime. It lifts my spirit and my positivity has had an impact on my life significantly. I use my subconscious mind to tailor my life and it has worked! Everything on my vision board have materialized and I am geared towards living my true purpose in life. I have been accepted into an amazing school abroad that I am heading to in November – without a doubt it will help me make a positive impact in the world and leave a legacy some how. Your beautiful story of the universe of love always resonates with me and I remember it often, when dealing with people and situations and your handbook I refer to often. Any way enough of my ramblings : ) I just wanted to let you know that your teachings had the most incredible impact on me – and I will carry it forward for the rest of my life. Perhaps one day soon I will return for a refresher course 🙂
Trisha from Johannesburg, South Africa
From the moment you step into Jen’s home you feel truly at home. I quickly forgot that I was at a Yoga Teachers Training Course, and not visiting a close relative. Jen and Lee truly go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and booking myself with them was one of the bet things I have ever done in my life. The teachings are in depth, and not only cover the traditional teachers training material, but also include teaching about meta-physics which I truly enjoyed. Jen is an incredible yoga teacher, patient and kind, and what I loved most that there were only two people on the course (limited to a max of 6-8, but Jen prefers to keep it very intimate where possible) and this is one of the reasons I booked with her. Having an intimate retreat meant feeling completely comfortable to transform in any way we needed to. The food was outstanding! I thought yoga courses would mean very bland food, but I was so surprised to see that we had totally delicious and nutritious meals every single day. There were tons of snacks when ever we wanted too. The accommodation was top notch with a stunning bedroom, pool area and the most gorgeous views, and of course a yoga studio filled with love and light. Not to forget the special doggies too. Another great aspect of Jen’s course is that it is all about balance. This means that the weekends are more relaxed, and we were taken on various outings around the area – to a local (awesome) farmers market, a near by game reserve, and every Friday to yoga on the beach. I can highly recommend this teachers training course for any one that would like a broad view of Hatha Yoga. Jen uses her life experience and in depth knowledge to equip all teachers to be with all they need to be wonderful teachers. Three weeks went by very quickly – a glass of wine at night after a long day was well appreciated too. Thanks again to Jen and Lee, and just in case I haven’t said it enough – I highly recommend this Yoga Teachers Training Course.
Jacqui Sive from Hoedspruit, South Africa.
I arrived in Eston and just felt at home. Jen and Lee are the most generous hosts and really care for your well-being. The yoga classes were life enhancing and Jen makes it so individual. I think this yoga teachers training course is much more than a “normal” yoga teachers training course. Jen helped me take decisions, without telling me what to do. The food was unbelievably lekka. We also got to know some people from the area and we loved them. Talking about the area; the nature there is incredible, the house is really nicely located and you have dogs helping you to discover the surrounding cane fields. My favorite part of the training were trips to the beach – so beautiful. Conclusion: I loved it! Jen and Lee and my new friend Jacqui are amazing people and I am happy that I met them. Whatever you are searching for, a visit to this place, it’s worth it!
Tanya Tschour from Switzerland.
It is with a big smile I write this review, just a few days after my yoga retreat. This was my first yoga retreat and I had no expectations other than doing some yoga every day and having loads of free time just to relax. I was pleasantly surprised with every aspect of it. This is a yoga camp for real people living and working among the rest of society who want to do so living the best life possible. Jen equips you with the techniques thoroughly researched and practiced over many years through difficult times that cover stress management techniques and balancing the physical body, energy body and emotions. You will leave with a heightened sense of spirituality no matter what your faith may be. As other reviews have mentioned the wonderful homemade food, the dogs that are the epitome of love, the peaceful surroundings and wonderful nature of the hosts make the experience unforgettable and without exaggeration – life changing. The community yoga classes held every now and then is wonderful as you get to meet the locals who are warm and down to earth. I was walking on air when I left and will maintain this as I continue the daily practice with her phenomenal CD’s.
Trisha from Johannesburg, South Africa.
“The retreat was a great way to de-stress. Jenny and her husband Lee are absolutely awesome. The food, setting and people all great. Lift the retreat feeling much more enriched. Thank you Jenny.
Linda Grove from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Thanks again for this great adventure and experiences, it is a milestone in my life and a big step forward. I am safe at home, got again the last seat in the airplane and I am so happy to be at home with a great warm and fantastic feeling in my heart.
Michael from Germany.
“The entire experience was so much more than I had expected or more than I could ever have hoped for. Firstly I was expecting a week of “yoga” and in my mind this meant a lot of physical yoga classes, strict eating, drinking policy, and definitely a place where I could unwind and spend the balance of my day doing pretty nothing… to de-stress after a tough and challenging year. I was warmly welcomed at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat by Jennifer and her husband Lee. I hardly put my bags down after Lee kindly fetched me from the airport, and a yoga class was about to begin. I was eager to get started and get myself back into my yoga routine, so I jumped right in. Loved it! It was a little different to what I was accustomed to as Jen’s classes included so much more time and focus on breathing chanting and best of all meditation time. What blew me away was the workshops we had each and every day – the duration was a minimum of two hours each day and what I learnt about the real meaning of yoga philosophy as well as Jennifer’s own life journey and her experiences was powerful and exciting. My life has taken a new meaning and I have made it my life goal purpose to pursue this journey of a life of “yoga”. The accommodation was perfect and comfortable. Apart from the lovely bass dams practically in their back yard, the bird life is incredible. There wasn’t a day that passed when we didn’t hear the Fish Eagles cry. The meals were lovingly prepared by Lee who was ready to whip up my meal within minutes. From a welcoming prawn curry on the first night, to a healthy breakfast made up of fresh pawpaw boats made with yoghurt and muesli, to Jen’s special salmon salad for lunch, the food was delicious with healthy portions. While I had hoped to lose a little of my extra weight during my stay, this became the least of my worries as my focus changed to my learning and practice. I will be returning to Pathways in 2016 with an aim to complete my Yoga Teachers Training, this has been a dream of mine for many years. Thanks and best regards – Namaste.
Theresa Szejwallo from Johannesburg South Africa.
Looking for an above and beyond experience for your first step to becoming a yoga teacher or just looking to rediscover your inner strength? I encourage anyone who feels like something is missing or is out of touch with their inner wisdom to take the first assertive step to remembering who you are, make time to look within. If you need some help learning how put your trust in Jen at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat. I cannot recommend this place and amazing empowering woman enough! The farm is so peaceful and beautiful. Jen and her husband Lee are such warm and loving people who make you feel like part of the family from the minute you meet them. You even feel “homesick” when you leave to return home to your new reality. They both go above and beyond what’s expected and what’s paid for and they really are two wonderful souls. I miss Pathways dearly and am so grateful for the tools and life changing attitude Jen has introduced me to. I am so excited for my yoga journey and I highly recommend Pathways. Namaste
Kylee Gouwer from Seychelles.
An enlightening experience
Life changing experience. My decision to do my yoga teachers training, February this year, was very sudden. I strolled on the internet and was immediately drawn to the website of Pathways Country Yoga Retreat. The look, feel and content made me very interested. I contacted Book Yoga Retreats and within an hour I got a reply back from Jennifer, the owner and yoga teacher. This is where my life changing experience started. When I arrived at Durban airport, Jennifer and her husband Lee were there to pick me up. After about an hour drive we arrived at the beautiful farm house, hidden in the middle of sugar cane fields. I was blown away by the beauty and tranquility of the place. If you imagined a perfect place for a yoga retreat, this is it! I was there for a month and this month had everything necessary to develop myself into a yoga teacher. The theoretical teachings were informative, profound and set the fundament for the practical part. We were given enough time to read and ask questions. The enormous amount of personal attention made it possible to dive deep into your inner self. Jennifer gives you the time to experience your feelings as they come and go. In the meantime she is there to help you when you need her. My time at Pathways Country Yoga Retreat was amazing! Jennifer and Lee were the perfect hosts. The meals were amazing, the rooms very nice and the surroundings breath taking. My life has changed in so many good ways. I would very much recommend Pathways Country Yoga Retreat to everyone. Not just the teachers training but all other courses she gives as well. Take the chance and live your life!
Fleur from Breda, The Netherlands
Un lieu pour se ressourcer
“Un lieu magnifique perdu au milieu des champs de canne à sucre, idéal pour déconnecter. Jen et Lee nous accueillent comme des amis et on se sent à la maison. Jen prépare des plats délicieux et plein de saveurs. Le rythme des sessions de yoga et méditation est ok, le cours théorique de Jen ainsi que ses expériences personnelles donnent un éclairage global sur la pratique du yoga. Merci Jen, ton cours m’a permis de mettre ensemble ce que je connaissais en vrac du yoga.
Corinne Vuitel from United States
Plutôt recommandé pour des débutants, la pratique des postures reste basique.” –
“I book this retreat with not much knowledge really of yoga. I had only been to a few yoga classes at the gym and thus knew very little about yoga. I thus expected to do what we did at the gym I can honestly say that it was so much more than expected. My eyes opened up to a whole new world! I learnt so much from Jen. She is one of the most knowledgeable, compassionate and kind person I have met in my life. The week was food for my soul! Lovely accommodation, gorgeous food, and beautiful scenery spent with lovely people, three beautiful gentle dogs was probably on of the best weeks I have ever had in my life. It truly was a life changing experience for me.”
Michelle from Boksburg, South Africa
“I would rate Pathways Yoga as a 10/10 and it was certainly a highlight of our holiday. My Wife and I had a wonderful week and would happily return again. Jen and Lee were incredible hosts, very welcoming and the location was simply stunning. The classes were really well run and we both found the yoga nidra beneficial. In addition to this the food was delicious and there was plenty of it. By the end of week we didn’t want to leave but we have kept up our yoga classes so Jen would be proud 🙂 My Wife and I were total beginners when we turned up at Pathways and concerned that this might be an issue. It absolutely wasn’t, Jen was very patient throughout and everything felt very relaxed from the moment we arrived.”
Eric Woodward from United Kingdom
“I attended Jen’s Yoga Teachers Training Course. I arrived at the training not feeling great with all the stresses from home but after my first few days I started feeling an amazing sense of peace and joy. The course changed me completely and I left a new person with a new lease on life. Jen’s teaching is compassionate yet all the work gets done thoroughly. The food and hospitality from Jen and Lee was like no other, warm and welcoming and nothing was too much to ask. I am eternally grateful for the amazing transformation and experience I went through by doing Yoga Teachers Training with Jen!”
Georgy Geldenhuys from South Africa
“I am 29 years old & have been suffering with a form of chronic pain since my early teens. I have been on chronic pain medication, been to regular physiotherapy appointments, exercised regularly, I have seen numerous doctors, specialists, homeopaths even psychiatrists in the hope of finding some cure or at least a ‘magic pill’ that would ease the pain & the associated stress, depression, anger and resentment at my own body. This condition was ruining my career, my family life & my romantic life…I had given up hope. My mom was parked somewhere one day when she noticed Jen’s car advertising Pathways to Wellness & stress management. That same week she forced me along & we attended Jen’s workshop. To say that Jen had inspired me is an understatement. Sitting in her workshop & listening to Jen’s teachings, I had had an epiphany. Something had lit up inside me and said “This is what you’re meant to be doing”, “This will make you whole again”. I have always been a firm believer in fate & I know without a doubt that my destiny had brought me to that point & placed me in front of Jen. I know now that Yoga is my calling. I have been attending Jen’s yoga classes for about 3 months now and I am so proud to say that I am completely off all my anti-depressants & pain medication. I haven’t had the need to go to physiotherapy or see a doctor for these 3 months. Furthermore, I am calmer, more relaxed, less agitated & with a general feeling of health, wholeness & well-being. For the first time, I feel am I healing – my body, mind and soul. There is a saying that goes: “If you search the world for happiness, you may find it in the end, for the world is round and will lead you back to your door.” I had searched for a long time, in every place possible, for a way to find my happiness. With Jen’s help, I have found it now – inside myself.My aim is no longer only to practice yoga asanas but to learn the profound teachings of yoga & someday teach the art of yoga to others in search of their happiness & inner peace. I pray you find yours. – Hari Om –”
Ashmita Udith – South Africa