Nurturing Hope:
A Yoga Journey to Renewal and Inner Strength
Weekend Intensive with Gioconda Parker & Christina Sell
January 30-February 1, 2026
Join us for a transformative weekend intensive led by Christina Sell and Gioconda Parker, designed to cultivate hope and resilience in times of uncertainty. This immersive workshop combines the practices of yoga, journal writing, philosophical discourse, and deep listening (and maybe a dance party or two) to provide a nurturing space for renewal and inspiration.
Throughout the weekend, participants will engage in guided yoga sessions that explore the physical embodiment of hope, harnessing the power of breath and movement to uplift and sustain the spirit. In our listening circles, we will foster a compassionate environment where we can share our stories, witness one another's experiences, and cultivate a sense of connection.
Creative writing exercises will encourage participants to express and reframe their personal narratives, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and wisdom. Additionally, through philosophical discussions, we will delve into both ancient and contemporary teachings on hope, resilience, and the importance of holding light in times of darkness.
This heart-centered gathering is an invitation to reconnect with your inner strength, rediscover possibilities, and nurture hope from within.
Daily Schedule
Each day of the intensive includes a morning session and an afternoon session except for Sunday which will end at 1:00 pm with a closing circle.
Morning Sessions • 9:00 - 12:00
Friday’s session will begin with an opening circle.
Sunday session will end at 1:00 with a closing circle.
Afternoon Sessions • 2:00 - 5:00
We’ll conclude on Sunday with a closing ritual.
Meet Your TEachers
Christina Sell and Gioconda Parker are both known for their passionate teaching styles, their commitment to honest self-expression and to fostering loving, community-oriented gatherings for people of all ages and abilities.
About Gioconda Parker
Gioconda has been practicing and teaching for over twenty years, holds a Master Degree in Spiritual Psychology and is certified in Somatic Experiencing. Known for her creative and intelligent approach to vinyasa yoga, she leads trainings and retreats locally, nationally, and internationally.
Visit Gioconda’s Website
About Christina Sell
Christina Sell has been practicing asana since 1991 and teaching since 1998. Known for her passion, clarity and creativity, Christina’s teaching style is a dynamic and challenging blend of inspiration, humor and hard work. Masterful at synthesis, her ability to harvest and transmit the unique contributions of various yoga methods is unparalleled. Christina believes that yoga practice can help anyone access their inner wisdom, authentic spirituality and clarify their highest personal expression.
Learn more about Christina
Join Gioconda & Christina in Austin, TX for a weekend of asana, conversation, community, and renewal.
Early Bird Pricing Until November 15 $450
After November 15 $500
includes daily lunch
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Fly into Austin, TX.
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You can find out more about the Ancient Yoga Center here.
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You can stay on the property (which we recommend to have the full, immersice experience) or come and go from a local housing option in the area.
To find out more about staying onsite, click here.
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In general, full attendance is required. The complete 3-day experience is the hallmark of an intensive and is an essential difference between the intensive format and a weekend workshop, where sessions may be taken individually. The intensive is structured progressively and sequentially with each session building on previous lessons. By attending the full workshop, participants will have the most thorough experience possible. Special arrangements can be made on an individual basis to accommodate individual circumstances. Email Christina directly.
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The studio has a variety of props available for use. If you want to bring your own mat, please do.
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Yes. Please plan to travel in the day before the intensive and travel home the day following.