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Zen Den Yoga School
Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
Comments
Tr
Review №1

I came to Zen Den to learn yoga and kick my sugar addiction. I left addicted to yoga and healthy eating!While it’s not a fancy place, yet, if you come and are committed to following Val’s and Ira”s teachings, you too will leave with even more than you ever thought possible.. and most importantly: 1.the knowledge and 2.the how to ..to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Ca
Review №2

I went for the Yin Yoga and restorative Retreat. From the moment I arrived I knew I needed to be there. Val and Ira were so welcoming. All of the other guests were beautiful people. And I am blessed to have met them all. I was at peace there. The experience is very zen and go with the flow. You have a few scheduled things but plenty of you time to do as you please. I loved the Tia Chi and meditation especially. Val made learning it easy. Ira helped me through a panic attack due to recent health reasons. There are really no words, no review I could ever write that would properly describe my spiritual awakening from this retreat. If you want to find yourself, book the retreat. Go with an open mind and heart. You won’t be disappointed.

Br
Review №3

Had a lovely time at the disconnect to reconnect yoga retreat. Valerie and Ira are very welcoming and accommodating. The retreat is conveniently located within walking or biking distance of the beach and wonderful restaurants (great recommendations)! The space is very relaxing, we really enjoyed the pool and hot tub. Smoothies were delicious with fresh ingredients supplied. I enjoyed all the yoga classes and the difference in the different styles. The massage at Aloha spa was just amazing and was included with the retreat. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway this is it!

Ke
Review №4

Wow, wow, wow!This is my first yoga retreat experience, but Valerie and Ira set the bar really high! I will definitely be back and tell more people about Zen Den Yoga Retreats!I’ve been doing yoga on and off for a few years now, but just got serious about my practice three months ago. When searching for a yoga retreat, I was looking for a place where I could strengthen my knowledge about yoga, improve my practice, and RELAX. Not only did I get all three of those desires met, but I also received great guidance on eating healthier while I was there. Plus, the other guest were amazing too.Whether we were hanging by the fire, in the pool/hot tub or making smoothies in the kitchen the conversations with fellow guests we always uplifting. Zen Den does a great job attracting incredible people.As far as I can tell, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced Yogi, Valerie and Ira will offer you an amazing retreat experience. 👏🏾😊🎉Thank you so much!

Ga
Review №5

I want to thank Valerie and Ira for holding this space for an unforgettable month. Spending the past four weeks here has been more than I ever could have imagined or asked for, and I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity. Each day at Zen Den is a new adventure filled with learning experiences and great energy. Beyond the physical yoga practice, you dive deep into discovering your Self and how that reflects on the world around. It is a beautiful place for people to come together from all over and have a sense of family to learn from & connect with. The things you learn here (whether they be from Val and Ira, other guests, the plants/animals, or yourself) are lessons/habits that will follow you home and have the power to make real change. To be able to learn in such a way that 100% can be absorbed is an uncommon characteristic that creates influential conversations and real teachers. They want to see you succeed and will do whatever they can to help you get there.It can be hard to go somewhere alone for days/weeks without knowing anybody, but I can tell you that Zen Den is a total family dynamic. I can’t imagine having felt so at home and so comfortable anywhere else.Thank you again to everyone I have met while being here and to Val & Ira for making this all possible.

Ch
Review №6

I had an amazing retreat experience at Zen Den Yoga School. Val and Ira were very accommodating. Theyve created a really beautiful space here. I love how they make it open and tailored to each persons own experience. I was able to get exactly what I needed from my retreat, and I appreciate that. They also did a great job pairing us up for roommate options and had great recommendations for dinner spots and afternoon activities. I enjoyed Iras fireside chats and morning meditations as well as Vals afternoon yoga classes. There was a bit of miscommunication on one small event, but understandable when coordinating so many people. I actually extended my stay another day because I loved it so much, and Val and Ira were very accommodating for this, which I appreciated. Overall, I highly recommend this place if youre looking for a laid-back, safe and beautiful place to re-connect and get highly qualified yoga and meditation instruction. You truly can get whatever you need out of this retreat. Thanks Val and Ira! I hope to see you again. :)

An
Review №7

I had the most wonderful experience here. Val and Ira are very accommodating and welcoming. People here are very friendly and nice, I can strongly feel the sense of community. The place is truly zen, giving me a slice of peace and balance. The location is great - close to the beach, several nice restaurants, and grocery shops. The classes were high quality, I especially love the shamanic breathwork session. Room was clean, neat, spacious, and very comfortable. The juices and protein shakes were very delicious! Highly recommended and I cant wait to go back!

D-
Review №8

I had a great time... Ira and Val are awesome. I learned a lot. I was extremely nervous sand I was way out of my comfort zone but they made me feel at ease. They treat you like family and I had a all around great time and I learned so much. So many things that I didn’t know about the Yoga lifestyle and philosophy. I definitely recommend checking them out of your thinking about become a Yoga instructor or if you want a yoga retreat.

Ro
Review №9

I am just back from the 1 week juice cleanse retreat at Zen Den Yoga and have only good things to say. I went to break the cycle of unhealthy eating and non exercise during this stressful year of Covid. Zen Den is located in a quiet residential neighborhood, with a pretty and relaxing back yard, pool, hot tub and beautiful outdoor yoga and meditation deck. The yoga instruction is outstanding. Val and Ira really watch your form and give insightful cues, I definitely improved during my week there. I was there during yoga teacher training so had the additional benefit of learning from the training that they received. I was at a lower level than the rest of the class which I was initially worried about, but Val & Ira made me feel comfortable and catered their cues to me at my level.The detox juicing was very detailed and very well thought out. Val teaches you to juice on your own so you can take these skills home with you, unlike places where the juices are made for you. She is a wealth of nutritional information and there is a customized coaching session so that you leave with all the skills you need to integrate a more healthy lifestyle when you return home.One of the things I liked best was the proximity to the beach. After morning yoga and juice, I packed my lunch juice and went off to the beach for the day. Walking the beach is an excellent way to get exercise in while juicing. I left Zen Den yoga rejuvenated, with more energy and best of all 5 pounds lighter. The personalized care here is very different than other yoga and juice retreats I have attended where you are just a number. Val and Ira are really dedicated to your personal development on all levels. I’m home now and am eating healthier, have more energy and a brighter outlook than 1 week ago. Thanks Val and Ira!

Sh
Review №10

Its difficult to put into words how amazing this place is. Its not just a top notch yoga training and retreat center, its a game changer. You will learn how to eat healthier, live more positively, feel what its like to be part of a positive energy community and most likely lose a few pounds! If these attributes dont get your attention, than you arent really woke, lol. So do your mind and body a huge favor, and check out ZEN DEN, you wont be disappointed!!

Hr
Review №11

Amazing experience, Val and Ira were excellent hosts always helpful, caring and full of guidance and support. The nutritional health benefits that accrued were life changing. Me and my friend totally loved it and would absolutely recommend to everyone.

Ol
Review №12

I immediately felt welcome in this relaxed and peaceful environment. Its an urban oasis with paths here and there to open and inviting spaces to practice, meditate, read, talk, paint, whatever you care to do. Two zen chickens will come out to quietly watch you. I fell in love with the Lychee tree with branches twisting in all directions, absolutely magical. Every corner of Zen Den is thoughtfully and creatively tended. The property has a soul, so if youre looking for a sterile, corporate, polished atmosphere, go there. Not here.Ira and Val are generous in all they do. Val explains the schedule, any changes, how to prepare juices, smoothies, etc. as if its the first time. Each of them guides meditation and yoga classes with their whole heart, with complete focus and devotion. Adjustments in posture are freely offered FOR you, not for themselves. Their depth of knowledge is truly a gift there for the taking.You will be free to structure your time as you like. If youre someone who needs constant entertainment with everything scheduled, go on a cruise. I met incredibly interesting, sweet people. Along with beautiful yoga and meditation, it was fun to be here. I wouldnt want to change a single thing.

Mi
Review №13

Valerie is awesome - what a great yoga instructor. Learned so much. Ira was also terrific - I liked him leading our morning meditation and his thoughts on healthy living. I enjoyed the simple and comfortable accommodations. They provide the veggies and fruit for smoothies for breakfast/lunch and then (having eaten especially healthy in the first half of the day) you can choose from their list of favorite restaurants in the area - and there are many. I also liked the firepit the first night where everyone at the retreat got to know each other. I recommend you check out ZDY - it was a great reset retreat.

Co
Review №14

Completed my 200 HR YTT at Zen Den... what a whirlwind of an experience. Appreciate Ira and Vals attention and knowledge that they brought into the program as well as their ability to create a safe and happy space for us students. This is a very intense experience all around so really appreciate the support!This YTT is an experience that I wouldnt have ever asked for (and wouldnt have known all that goes into it) but would definitely recommend to anyone that is hoping to get a quality and robust training but also open minded to exploring new things and having some fun! (Located in Boca is also a nice touch!)Learning how to teach yoga is beyond teaching a workout class and Ira/Val do a great job of providing a comprehensive training, def add Zen Den to your consideration list if you have not.Thanks for the love, support and attention during my YTT, hope to come visit Zen Den sometime soon now that I have graduated!

Te
Review №15

I really loved this retreat! It was exactly what I needed. I came after a year of lock down in cold New York, and experiencing post covid weakness. The beautiful sunny warm weather, the relaxed atmosphere, the excellent yoga and meditation classes, walks on the beach, salt water pool and hot tub, nutritious shakes and having roommates to talk to was exactly what I needed. The owners are practicing loving and peaceful yogis who provide enough structure to feel supported, but give you enough freedom to rest and have an actual vacation experience. Besides excellent yoga and meditation classes which are different every day, I experienced the following: - beautiful sunrise mediation on the beach - amazing Qigong on the beach - one of the best massages I every had - amazing acupuncture and Chinese medicine consultation (extra payment for that) - guided Shamanic journey which brought up and cleared past emotions ready to release - biking around nice residential area around the yoga retreat - super healthy and nutrition packed shakes - nice conversation with the owners who are caring and loving Yogis - fire ceremony upon arrival (with yoga teacher training students) - bonding and hanging out with fellow yoga retreat roommates - just about the best Thai food dinners at the beach - walking 13-15000 steps each day - free access to 2 lounge chairs and an umbrella on the beach - reading life changing books from the library at the retreat Very happy and will do it again!

Ro
Review №16

Ira didnt teach much when I was there and Val did most of the work (teaching, cleaning, taking care of guests, etc) but the one class Ira did teach that I attended (he only taught the beginning) he stopped the class just to demand we were not listening, we were ALL doing it wrong, that we needed to listen to him, and restarted the sequence. They didnt ask about injuries/conditions when I arrived in person or ask first if they could offer hands-on assists. The amenities and the program were quite disappointing. The yoga house desperatly needs renovations. Neither of the houses have a state-of-the-art kitchen as advertised. I didn’t find the space to be very clean, they do not let you use the dishwasher they do not change the dish sponge when new guests arrive (super unsanitary during COVID times). The light in our bedroom in the yoga house didn’t work, so we asked to be moved to the other house. They moved us, but the process was a hassle and inconsistent. My mom and I only made 3 smoothies out of the 7 days we were there, we mostly ate out and bought our own food. On one of our last days there, we were accussed of taking more food than we were “allotted.” This was extremely unprofessional and frustrating considering we did not eat their food and we spent $167 on our own groceries.

Wa
Review №17

I want to thank Val & Ira for the wonderful retreat I had. I did the 2 weeks of juicing for my birthday in May. I didnt know what to expect and I was feeling very anxious especially after 2 years of traumas back to back, my anxiety and health were at a different level.Learning how to juice, the knowledge I learned from Val about nutrition, the colonic prior to the beginning of my juicing, the massage therapy, Vals energy work, the daily yoga practice and meditation, the 20,000 steps every day to the beach and back, the friendships of likeminded full of light humans, Iras wisdom and beautiful voice, the knowledge, care, and authenticity Ira and Val gave everyone on a daily basis, the lessons learned from Yin Yoga (shout out to the wonderful Rose Bruce), the lessons learned about our own energy and the energy of everything else surrounding us, the magical shamanic breathwork, the sun-rise meditation, and on and on, was just priceless!!! I went to the retreat and anxious and depressed overweight person, came back home 10 pounds less, calmer, wiser, happier, full of energy, and radiating love!! So yes, I recommend this retreat to everyone, just keep your mind and heart open, and you shall receive the love the universe has in store for you

Ja
Review №18

After completing my 28 day intensive 200hr YTT training, I will say it was transformational. The exposure was much deeper than the physical practice of yoga. We also learned and experienced energy healing & breath work, various meditation practices, plant medicine, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Ayurveda and more. Before signing up, keep in mind this is an intensive course. Self discipline & work ethic is imperative. There won’t be time for personal/business obligations so make sure you’ve handled things ahead of time (including the Yoganatomy course). They actually have you teaching 5 full 90 minute classes before graduation. This was the most challenging, and liberating piece of the program for me personally and I am grateful for the exposure. The smoothies are delicious, and plenty of nutrition to get you through the day, or you can easily add some healthy snacks along with them. There are plenty of smart choices for dinner within walking distance, plus Ira and Val know all of the best local places to eat, shop, etc.

Ni
Review №19

This is an honest review for those looking into the retreat. What Zen Den advertises on their website is inaccurate including the pictures. Acupuncture is not included and they only tell you this after you pay for the retreat. Their organic garden is not curretnly up and running. Pictures of their yoga studio are not accurate. The space is extremely small for the amount of guests they are trying to accommodate. You are basically rolling on the other yogis practicing. They are ashtanga-inspired, but be prepared their classes are extremely controlling and demanding - never have I ever been SO anxious in a yoga class before. (I have been practicing for over 5 years, have been through a 200-hour YTT and 200-hour yoga therapy YTT). They literally call students out from the front of the class and tell them they are doing it wrong (you better be at the very very top of your mat with your feet exactly parallel or expect them to directly say something to you until you listen to them and do it exactly their way).Ira didnt teach much when I was there and Val did most of the work (teaching, cleaning, taking care of guests, etc) but the one class Ira did teach that I attended (he only taught the beginning) he stopped the class just to demand we were not listening, we were ALL doing it wrong, that we needed to listen to him, and restarted the sequence. They didnt ask about injuries/conditions when I arrived in person or ask first if they could offer hands-on assists. The amenities and the program were quite disappointing. The yoga house desperatly needs renovations. Neither of the houses have a state-of-the-art kitchen as advertised. I didn’t find the space to be very clean, they do not let you use the dishwasher & they do not change the dish sponge when new guests arrive (super unsanitary during COVID times).  The light in our bedroom in the yoga house didn’t work, so we asked to be moved to the other house. They moved us, but the process was a hassle and inconsistent.  My mom and I only made 3 smoothies out of the 7 days we were there, we mostly ate out and bought our own food. On one of our last days there, we were accused of taking more food than we were “allotted.” This was extremely unprofessional and frustrating considering we did not eat their food and we spent $167 on our own groceries.

Ja
Review №20

Ira and Val are special people and they operate a special place. They operate Zen Den Retreats in Boca Raton with love and compassion for everyone who visits. The time and personal attention they gave me during my visit was amazing. They helped me move my yoga and meditation practices beyond my expectations. Ira and Val also scheduled me amazing treatments from talented healers practicing a variety modalities.They also provided a list of great food and recreation options. I plan to visit again. I hope to see you there.

Al
Review №21

My yin and restorative yoga retreat at Zen Den was a relaxing and a very opening experience. Everyone there is super nice and friendly. It was nice to be around like-minded people and just what I needed. The daily meditations were all different types of meditation which was perfect. I learned a few new guided meditations that I have incorporated into my own practice. I’ve never done yin yoga before and I loved it! It was more of an emotional release journey for me, which was what I needed. I was able to let go of some stuck emotions through the yin yoga practice. I also practiced Hatha yoga while I was there. It was more of an advanced class, which was ideal for me. I liked the challenge of some poses and Ira was there to help adjust people, if needed. In general, it was so refreshing to physically be in a class with other people, not just on a Zoom meeting.Val was super helpful and friendly. She had an orientation for anyone who arrived and she went over how everything worked there and told us all about the local restaurants, shops, beaches, ice cream places, and more. She was very enthusiastic about her business and where she lives. I ate at a place she recommended called Living Green, which is within walking distance of Zen Den. Very fresh and tasty food! She also mentioned going downtown to Cielito Artisan Pops for ice cream. A must visit if you like ice cream! I took one of their bikes out a couple times to go to the beach and into downtown Boca Raton. The beach, of course, is amazing, but I love any beach!I connected to one of my roommates. We did a lot together while we were there. Again, it was nice to be around a like-minded person. We went to the spa together and got massages and hydro-therapy treatment. After we did that, we found an authentic Italian bakery called Cosa Duci and stopped for lunch. Super tasty pizza and cookies. She and I also biked to the beach together, soaked in the sun, swam, and chatted. It was enjoyable to connect and hang out with someone new.There are no TVs at the Zen Den and that was also wonderful. I got focus on reading some of the books they had all around the house. I tried to be as technology free as I could be. I did have use my phone to navigate to the different places we went. But that was ok.Overall, this was a wonderful and enjoyable experience and just what I needed on an emotional and spiritual level. I would definitely go back for another retreat!

An
Review №22

I came to Zen Den Yoga school for a 200 hr training and left with lifelong friends and connections. At first the environment was different than I had expected, but after the adjustment period it felt like home. Val and Ira are both so kind and knowledgeable and truly care about each student and guest that comes to learn or stay with them. Val will always lend an ear and her heart to help support you in every way possible. Ira will make you laugh with jokes. It is an intensive program, but it is worth it and if you put in the work you will learn not only about yoga, but about yourself. What I liked best is you begin teaching the first week and continue to build upon this to teaching full classes the last two weeks. Also they added a yin yoga weekend in our graduating class with extra certification hours! It was taught by Ginger and she is highly intelligent in yin and has a huge heart. It was amazing, you will fall in love with yin and restorative yoga. As for the retreat guests, interacting with them was awesome and hearing stories from people all over the world was heartwarming. If you come to Zen den Yoga school, you might be uncomfortable at first and you might not fully agree with everything you learn, but that is the most amazing part of growing your spiritual practice, it’s yours and you get to share it and heal others.

Sa
Review №23

Disconnect and reconnect! I had the pleasure of staying and practicing with Valerie and Ira in June of 2020 for 4 days, and it was exactly what I needed! I had a cozy accommodation in one of their Boca homes and participated in 2.5 hours of meditation, breathing, and yoga practice each morning. I enjoyed a couple of healthy smoothies for breakfast and lunch, and explored some of Bocas top eateries each evening. By committing myself to detox from coffee, wine, and screens, coupled with the daily practice, I can honestly say I have never felt better in my mind since being an adult. The reset helped me re-evaluate some business and relationship hurdles with clear thinking. I would recommend a retreat with them, even as short as my stay.

Re
Review №24

This company refuses to refund my fees after I had to cancel due to Covid. Their response below is absolutely ridiculous.

Su
Review №25

Zen Den Yoga School is an amazing school! I am so grateful that I went there for my 200 HR teacher training (and definitely going back for my 300 hr!). Val and Ira are wonderful, kind and knowledgeable teachers. The 28 days flew by and my group graduated with confidence to teach and solid background of yoga lifestyle. Starting from the day 2 we were already teaching flows! and from that day on, we did not stop. Teaching everyday has given me confidence to be a great yoga teacher with many hours of practice and the ability to conduct a safe class. Living at the school was a great experience as the dwellings are clean, zen and our smoothies were delicious! Val and Ira took time to get to know me; facilitating beautiful experience while sharing their wast amount of knowledge. Me and my yoga sisters, ladies that were there with me, bonded so well that I am sure our friendship will last a lifetime. If you are considering this school, go on their website or social media pages and give them a call - Val and Ira will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Thank you Zen Den Yoga School for creating such a wonderful environment supportive of personal growth! I cant wait to go back!

me
Review №26

What an amazing time! I needed a disconnect from everything and thats exactly what I got. I did a disconnect to reconnect retreat for 5 days in April. I had no expectations and didnt need to have any. There was a wonderful welcoming house Guru Katrina, who gave me such a nice tour which calmed my exciting nerves and answered any questions I had the whole retreat. I met such amazing roommates of all ages, diversity and different backgrounds, who till this day I stay in contact with. I completely made mindfulness a lifestyle and Ira and Val helped confirmed this was the path i wanted to take in my life.Between acupuncture, massages, healing therapy, shamanic breath journey, yoga and meditation, I was in complete awe of everything. I went to places I never thought existed, I felt things I never felt before and released a lot that needed to be released. As a first timer of yoga and meditation, their amazing aura made it very easy for me to follow and push myself.I loved the freedom of coming and going as pleased, I loved that the beaches were close by, I loved they taught us how to make our green smoothies and made us aware of what to eat and what not to eat, I loved the energy in the houses and loved they had plenty of areas you can journal, I lived everything!!I want to thank Ira and Val for such an amazing retreat. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, teaching me new routines, and sharing with me such intense amazing energy.I truly do hope to see you guys again.

Jo
Review №27

I attended a Restorative Workshop at the Zen Den - Valerie and Ira were very responsive to my needs as I was only taking part of the offering (it was a Yin/Restorative Weekend). The energy of the teaching was steady, comfortable and very zen. I was impressed with the morning meditations and sharing of the students. The curriculum was informative and the classes were instructive and well developed. Both Valerie and Ira are very warm beings with a lot of knowledge to offer. I would def return!

Br
Review №28

I went to Zen Den for a weekend long Yin and Restorative workshop and has an AMAZING time. It has been a few years since I did a training and was awesome to be discussing and learning more about the practice with such knowledgable teachers again. Val has GREAT recommendations for dinner... and as foodie I really appreciated that. I would definitely recommend this workshop to anybody looking to deepen their practice and slow down for a few days.

Gr
Review №29

I did the 7 day juicing fast at Zen Den with the goal of loosing weight and creating momentum to live healthy lifestyle and it worked great. I lost 12 Lbs during the cleanse and never felt hungry. Doing yoga and meditation are now a part of my regular ritual at home after doing them everyday during the cleanse at Zen Den. It is now 30 days later and I have lost another 10 lbs and carried forward my momentum. I highly recommend Val and Ira with Zen Den!

Mi
Review №30

I recently did a 4-day retreat with Zen Den, seeking a yoga and meditation retreat to help my body heal physically, and for some much-needed rest after a lot of chaos and pain in my recent life.What I got was so much love, understanding, and opportunities to feel and deal with my own trauma alongside others on this strange journey we call life, and of course a lot of yoga and relief from physical pain. The relief was more than noticeable—it was much needed and more than what I thought I could get in only 4 days.My physical injuries happened over months, and the emotional trauma over years. In late 2018, I divorced my abusive ex, and within a few days of returning home, my mom suddenly passed. After months of stress, moving, emotional pain, and gardening (I now care for my mothers beautiful plants and garden) I had inflammation, tension, and pain in my upper back, shoulders, neck, and jaw. This resulted in frequent migraines. The realities and necessities of life often took priority above my own ability to heal, both physically and emotionally, and I knew I needed to take time solely for myself.I love yoga and meditation (even new to it, I started a home practice a few months before the retreat) because their core philosophy treats the physical body and mental state as intertwined. Because I had no real injuries (nothing that would require surgery, bracing, or medication) I found the flows, meditations, and talks to be wonderful for both. I do think almost everyone can name one physical way their body expresses stress, and how it can become a vicious cycle, and this retreat allowed me to break that cycle.I found what I needed here, and I would recommend this really to anyone (the yoga is also a surprising workout, they offer both healing and strength building flows, but as always no good yoga instructor encourages you to overexert and hurt yourself) and I certainly would recommend this to anyone needing to heal their mind, body and soul.

Je
Review №31

We had a wonderful time ! Great place to take a break and unplug for a bit . Highly recommended!

Ch
Review №32

I recently graduated from Zen Den’s 200hr teacher training and I had a wonderful experience. I enjoyed every aspect of my time there. Val, Ira & Katrina make a fabulous team! Highly recommend for anyone looking to become certified or attend a retreat.

Ga
Review №33

The word intensive isnt misleading in the slightest. Val and Ira expect the best out of everyone they train as well as help you become the best version of yourself. Since graduating my frame of mind when tackling things has changed for the better, whether that be in my practice of in my everyday life. I am forever grateful things happened as they did and that I was trained by such compassionate and sincere people.

Ke
Review №34

My yoga retreat at Zen Den Yoga was really fabulous and I wholeheartedly recommend it!! I enjoyed every part of it and would love to make it a yearly adventure.Ira is a topnotch teacher- fun and funny! He is extremely experienced and skilled and is both challenging and encouraging. I still think of his helpful instruction during my current yoga practice.Valerie is wonderfully helpful and supportive and sweet. I have had several energy healing sessions in the past here in Michigan, but Valerie is far and away the BEST!! I wish I lived closer, so that I could see her on a regular basis.The shamanic breath work was a powerful experience as was the sunrise meditation at the beach (as was so much more really).The yoga students were wonderful and I enjoyed their company very much. My experience would not have been the same without them.If you’re looking for lots of yoga, I’d suggest that you go during the week and not on the weekend as there are more classes going on.Lastly, the beach was close by and very beautiful and the daily schedule allowed me to get there every day of my visit. In short, I loved, loved, loved my getaway!

Pa
Review №35

I finally made it to Zen Den Yoga School and I also spent 4 days in their yoga retreat. Val and Ira are so helpful and the classes are unlike any other yoga classes Ive been to because they make sure you get so much out of it rather than focusing on themselves. This was the most important part of my journey, to be able to be supported rather than seeing people growing and feeling left behind.I also spent 4 days in their yoga retreat and I love that you are away but at the same time within walking distance to shops and good restaurants. I had a much needed healing and deep tissue session with Val and I was impressed how strong she is.I am so glad I did this,you showed me I was ready for this journey. Thank you Val and Ira

Je
Review №36

My experience at Zen Den yoga was everything I hoped it would be. Ira and Valerie were exceptionally welcome, informative and generous with their time. I left my workshop feeling a blissful mix of relaxed, centered and motivated to share my learnings with others. It was fantastic!

Ca
Review №37

I did the Yin Restorative 4 day retreat 10/18-21/2018. Elias was our shining star. He made the retreat extra special from assisting us in the kitchen to his amazing meditation and yoga sessions. There are not enough words to say how special he really is. Ginger is a spectacular yoga instructor. I have never had anybody as inspirational as Ginger. Doctor Dave, our acupuncturist was also super amazing as was my massage therapist at Hand and Stone. The beach is not in walking distance,just sayin.

Sh
Review №38

I had a wonderful experience at the three-night Yin and Restorative Yoga Retreat. Two yoga classes per day, breakfast and lunch smoothies, bicycle rides, beach access, pool, hot tub, acupuncture, massage, all included. The instructors were amazing and the facility was clean and comfortable. I also met some very nice people. I highly recommend Zen Den Yoga School and Retreat Center!

Na
Review №39

Zen Den was just what I needed to come home ready and focused on the things that really matter. Health is so important but often ignored. If you need a place to get you on track and help you restart your health journey, then Zen Den is exactly where to go. I did the short detox retreat and I left feeling renewed in spirit and body. Valerie and Ira will give you the tools you need to focus your intent and energy on the areas that need attention and healing, and if that isnt enough they will give you support, encouragement, and love to empower you to take control of your health. Do the detox, it is worth so much! You will be in a comfortable, safe, and terrific place! The Shamanic breath-work class was so amazing and such a spiritual experience; you must time your trip to be able to participate in this class. For those of you nervous or afraid to do a detox, put your worries aside because you will be in good hands. Valerie, is such a kind and special soul and Ira is a very wise person- these two are the perfect individuals to help you recharge and renew your efforts. Thank you Zen Den for giving me a home away from home and a beautiful stop along my own journey to health, healing, and wellness. I feel confident that I can continue this journey and I have learned so much.

Ni
Review №40

Zen Den is much more than just a yoga training studio, it is a family! Don’t hesitate to enroll in this training, it is so much more than just postures or sutras. Ira and Val are amazing trainers and even better people. I miss them much and miss the atmosphere of unconditional love and friendship as well.My personal practice has deepened greatly from taking the course and I recommend it to anyone who has the time and availability for an intensive training!

Ro
Review №41

This is the first time my wife and I have done yoga. We found both Ira and Valerie to be outstanding teachers and individuals who walk their talk. The yoga instruction and explanations were excellent. We loved the variety of health-oriented activities: Paddle-boarding, acupuncture and massage to calm the nervous-system, colonic and juices / smoothies for internal cleansing, energy-healing sessions with Valerie are available. I personally benefited from this. Successfully meeting the needs of all levels from beginner to teacher training. Our week was transformative, eye-opening, restorative and fun. Cant remember having felt so good physically and mentally after a weeks break.

Le
Review №42

I loved my experience with Zen Den Yoga School and would go back any time. They teachers were very warm, welcoming and truly caring. I also loved the yoga classes, healthy juices in the morning! They were very knowledgeable and supportive with anything needed.

me
Review №43

A few weeks ago I was fortunate enough to stay at Zen Den Yoga School - a wonderful place with wonderful people. Ira and Valerie were fantastic hosts, helping me with everything to make my stay special for my personal needs. The yoga and meditation classes were of high quality, very enjoyable and taught to individual levels of the students. I had a fantastic massage and the most relaxing acupuncture at Zen Den Yoga School and loved waking up to harvest some veggies from their organic garden for my smoothie. Valeries diet and nutrition tips were of great value to me. I especially loved that they offered bicycles, so I could easily get around and enjoy the nearby beaches and immerse myself in the magnificent nature and culture of south Florida. I hope I will one day be able to come back to this peaceful, non-judgmental and non-competitive place.

Br
Review №44

What a week! Between the morning meditation, daily yoga, the massage, acupuncture and incredible green drinks and amazing energy at the facility I’m extremely grateful and happy to attract such an incredible experience and people into my life. Ira and Valerie’s knowledge and incredible vibes made this amazing retreat in Boca Raton well worth it! I highly recommend if you want to disconnect to reconnect or around other high vibrational beings.

co
Review №45

Zen Den Yoga was an amazing retreat. Upon arrival, Val and Ira give you a tour of the beautiful home. There is a pool and hot tub in the backyard (hot tup a definite plus, especially due to the soreness from all the yoga!). They also taught us how to make our breakfast and lunch shake, which were flavorful and made me feel great! There are multiple yoga classes offered each and every day.Val and Ira were amazing hosts. They made sure all of their guests were happy during their stay. They were able to recommend fantastic restaurants around the area. They also offered use of their bikes to get to the yoga studio, beach, restaurants, etc. Ira runs most of the meditation and yoga classes - which are all awesome! Val gave a wonderful massage. They set up the most relaxing acupuncture appointments for us.This stay was the best way to spend a vacation. Both mind opening and relaxing. Thanks Ira and Val!

Mi
Review №46

A trip to the Zen Den was just what I needed to recharge myself. I found a great balance between the many offerings at the studio and free time in a beautiful location, and the energy work I received from Valerie was insightful. I came back refreshed and inspired to move towards the next part of my yoga journey. With gratitude, Misha

Mi
Review №47

My experience here was a mixed bag of good and very poor hence the two star rating. The positives of the seven night retreat were: the other guests and yoga students with whom I greatly enjoyed living. The yoga and mediation in the mornings was effective and calming and Valeries bodywork certainly helped me to relax into my holiday (this was offered after I complained about the lack of interest in us, the yoga retreat guests). However, it is very disorganised and there was not enough staff to look after the retreat guests and a yoga school. As such, I was left to my own devices for four days until I asked to speak to Valerie. Following this was a somewhat fraught conversation which finally resulted in her apology and an acknowledgement of my comments. What was very disappointing was the $850 holiday tax that I had to pay for being at the retreat over Christmas which no one else paid. A further concern that this holiday tax for the yoga retreat did not include yoga on Christmas day! I actually left a day early on Christmas Day and management were not even aware. So, in all there were some nice experiences but it was way too expensive for the service level I and my fellow retreat guests received. My advice to anyone thinking of going to this place for a retreat is to read the small print! A poor business model in my opinion. I am sure there will be a response to this missive as I have read the other less positive reviews.

Va
Review №48

Going to Zen Den was a peaceful experience. I wont go into too much detail and spoil the adventure for anyone who hasnt been there before, but I will say that the various flavors of things we did helped me to get in better shape overall. I recommend Zen Den to anyone who wants to disconnect to reconnect.

A
Review №49

Zen Den has been like a second home since I moved to Florida. Between the innovative teachers, exciting workshops and classes there is little to do but enjoy yourself in this beautiful space. As a newly certified 200 hour teacher and practitioner of Ira Ohms for almost 2 years I can say with gratitude and confidence that Zen Den has changed my life.

Br
Review №50

This has been a absolute amazing and life changing experience. Im so glad I chose this school!! they have so much to offer and so many different experiences I was absolutely mind blown. I thought yoga school was going to be all about teaching but there was so much more. Im able to teach and feel totally awesome about it which is huge for me. I was introduced to living the life of a true yogi. I learned so much and met some of the most beautiful people in the world. Ira and Val are absolutely amazing. If you want to really deepen your yoga life definitely come here and you will also have the tools to become a great teacher. This is a very safe place and super supportive. I look forward to coming back. I also learned how to market out this world and zen den offers something very special to its students at the end that Ill definitely leave as a surprise. LOVED IT!

Me
Review №51

Zen Den is a lovely and peaceful place to whoever is looking for balance between body and mind.I had a great time, strengthening my body, gaining confidence and taking care of myself.

ad
Review №52

I was more than ready for a disconnection and Zen Den yoga school was able to do just that during my 5 night retreat stay. I felt comfortable and relaxed on the first day. The yoga and meditation were beyond what i expected. I used my time to the max while engaging in all what was offered, this was the key elimate to my success in disconnecting. The staff, retreat guest and teacher training students were amazing people and also were a huge part of my program. I was so full of peace and love and personal centerness that i had to figure out how to reconnect without loosing it all on my return home. I will for sure be back either for a retreat or 200hr course for personal benefits. I loved it there. ThanksAdam Long

Me
Review №53

This past month at Zen Den Yoga School for YTT 200 has been incredible. This is more than a yoga school, it is a journey and an experience that helps you grow in so many different ways. Ira and Val have created a program that encompasses all of the aspects of the yogi life and make it comfortable to explore your true self. The yoga flows are broken down in a way that really helps you retain the information and understand the reasoning behind the structure of the different flows. You get to explore a variety of meditation techniques, breathing exercises, and the historical information which helps you become a well-rounded teacher. I cant thank them enough for the program they have set up. I met so many fellow teachers that also made an impact on my journey in such a positive way. Living together allowed you to share laughs, hugs, stories, and different ideas, you become a little family. This was such an unforgettable and meaningful experience. Ira and Val also incorporate so many different unique and fun activities throughout the training so you can experience Boca! At Zen Den you will learn, grow, change, and become the best yogi and teacher you can be. Thank you for everything Ira & Val ~Namaste~

Je
Review №54

My trip to Florida didnt have a yoga retreat planned for it, this was a last minute decision when I got to Florida. I googled Yoga retreats and found Zen Den Yoga School they had a awesome deal for the 5 night zen den retreat. I knew nothing about them but about 5 mins after arrival Val and Ira were already family, I made friends for life during this retreat! I had an amazing life changing stay. A major highlight of my experience was the mind blowing breath work journey class. I highly recommend this yoga retreat for all! Everything was neat,clean and organized.

Sa
Review №55

I just completed my 200 hr YTT at Zen Den and I miss it already. I had no idea what to expect when I started back in July, but the month I spent there was beyond anything I could have imagined. Val and Ira immediately made me feel comfortable and welcome, allaying all my anxiety about the communal living situation. My fellow teachers in training quickly formed a family and were more supportive and positive than any group Ive ever been a part of. The area we stayed was not only beautiful and serene, but conveniently close to beaches, restaurants, grocery stores, and anything else you could need. There was a perfect balance of group activities and free time, and Val and Ira were extremely helpful with suggestions of local events and activities (like a super chill drum circle on one of our last nights). These two people are so passionate and knowledgeable about what they do, its truly inspiring. Im so glad I chose Zen Den for the connections Ive made, the experiences Ive had, and the tremendous confidence Ive gained in my personal practice and my ability to teach. I cannot express enough gratitude for my time there and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a truly deep and personalized training or retreat!

mi
Review №56

Ira and his incredible group are amazing. There are so many wonderful reasons to come here. The environment, the people, the philosophy, the asana practice all are heart opening and wonderful!Thank you!!!!!❤🕉❤

Bi
Review №57

I have been practicing with Ira and his teachers for the past 4 years. Ira is an amazing teacher. its has been a great pleasure to practice along with many of his students during teach trainings. I have seen incredible changes in many of his students.

Al
Review №58

Such an amazing and life changing experience! 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking to deepen their yoga practice both physically and spiritually, or anyone looking to become a teacher!

He
Review №59

There is a saying telling that healers dont heal, but they provide the space for others to heal. Well, Ira and Valerie did provide us the space and tools we needed to learn and heal, and I did learn a lot! I did a lot of personal growth during that month, and I dont regret any second of it.I loved that there were many activities proposed to us, including meditation on the beach, cacao ceremony and shamanic breath work. Even if I am a perfectionist and would have liked to learn more, I know that there is only so much we can do in a month! But I now have all the tools I need (books, friends, teachers, websites, etc.) to keep on learning and practicing by myself. Our teachers also shared their heart and parts of their personal journey with us, and that alone helped me learn so much! I also learned that, even if you are a teacher and have studied a lot and have many certificates and the best intentions in the world, there will always be more to learn. It was beautiful to see people who wanted to learn and grow and wanted to get better and improve themselves even if it wasnt easy sometimes. I could see that our teachers were doing a lot of work to keep the place running, and that also is a good thing to learn when you want to become a yoga teacher and consider opening a studio. It was great to see all the projects they had in mind for their yoga school and it was great to be a part of their journey.We had theory and practice every day from Monday to Saturday, and we were grateful for our Sundays off. But even if we were working a lot, we still had time off to get to know each other, go to the restaurant, to the beach, etc. My sore muscles were specially happy about the hot tub and pool! And my soul was very happy with all the friends I made. I love you all, and you are forever in my heart!Let go all your expectations, accept what you receive, be grateful for what you have, and come back home a different person. Of course there were things I didnt like in the training, but there are always things we dont like because nothing is perfect and we are all different. If you want to know why I gave 4 and not 5, you will have to register to their training! But then again, thats only my point of view... :)Love, Peace, Unity, Harmony

Ka
Review №60

I was blessed to attend the 200TT and it was an amazing experience! The knowledge I gained about all aspects of yoga and about myself is amazing! Ira and Valerie are wonderful people who create a place of love for all of their students to grow within! I am leaving here with the confidence and tools to help change peoples lives for the better and fulfill my dharma!

Ma
Review №61

How blessed I am to have had Zen Den Yoga in my life.This came to me because I was standing, surrounded by strangers, in a new studio where I didnt know anything about their typical practice.What I did know, as I stood at the front of the class right next to the teacher, is that I would be able to hold my own.That despite my injuries and the compensation it would take to get through it, I would do just fine.I stood there thinking how grateful I was that I was taught the proper structure, the proper etiquette, and everything else necessary to hold my own in any class, anywhere, no matter what.That confidence doesnt just come from my practice, it came from good instruction.That good instruction came from Zen Den Yoga.Thank you

Ha
Review №62

I paid for a private bedroom and val tried to put me in one with roommates (unorganized.) I told her I paid for a private room and she put me in one with no AC. I laid awake sweating all night. The class felt more like a business convention as Ira just tried selling all of his various products In Class. I came for yoga, not to have products pushed on me. The vibes were very unsettling as are all of these incredibly passive aggressive replies that I am reading under other peoples complaint comments (unprofessional.) Makes you kind of nervous to share your opinion unless its 100% positive.

Sa
Review №63

Such a wonderful experience here at Zen Den! Couldnt have asked for a better 1 month intensive teacher training or to have it in a more beautiful place :-) Thanks Ira and Val!!

Na
Review №64

We truly enjoyed our 7 day mother/daughter yoga retreat. We took advantage of the variety of different yoga flows that they offered twice daily. Val taught most of the classes and was amazing, Ira and Elias were great teachers as well. They even offered a SUP yoga class with Jen & Erin which was an awesome experience. We learned to make healthy, nutritional smoothies and enjoyed plenty of restaurants nearby. We can highly recommend this beautiful retreat in Boca Raton and would love to come back some day!Shanti E & N

An
Review №65

Zen Den yoga retreat was a life changing experience for me.I stayed there for six days and every day I learned something new which helped me to look at life, world, problematic situations differently. I felt up with new light energy. All this thanks to the amazing couple Valerie and Ira and their retreat program which includes Yoga practice, sunrise meditation, healthy smoothie twice in a day , breathing exercise, balancing acupuncture, energy treatment, life coaching, Tai chi practice and many more. Welcoming and warm atmosphere made me feel comfortable and relaxed there. So if You open to receive, to learn and to feel , this Disconnect to Re-connect Retreat is for You!

Ch
Review №66

I just returned from a 7 day retreat at Zen Den, and had both good and bad experiences there, going to focus mostly on the good. First of all, know that you have to Uber everywhere. I was there to unwind, and wanted a lot of time at the beach; it is not within walking distance, just saying. So bring money for Ubers unless you just want to stay at the house. This is a smaller organization than I anticipated, my fault for not researching first. But if you like quiet time to yourself with some meditation and yoga daily, it may be perfect for you.Ira and Val are lovely people, both. Ira is a fantastic yoga instructor but have to say the classes are not meant for beginners, they are more geared to intermediate +. They are challenging, they may be a little more relaxed when YYT is not in session, which it was when I was there so cant say for sure. We had to mention that it would be most helpful if he would help people with postures, etc., which he did but only upon prompting.Val is the food police, if you eat more than half a banana in your smoothie, you will hear about it. For the price we paid for our rooms, I think the bananas should have been covered, but oh well. We bought our own fruit to make up the difference.They are foodies, and I have to say their recommendations on restaurant choices were exemplary. Every. Single. One. We ate like queens, and enjoyed the daily smoothies which were filling and satisfying.The massage was superb, best ever! Thanks Tamara! And Dr. Dave at the acupuncture place was so knowledgeable, it was a real treat and a new experience for me.All in all, I met some amazing people at the retreat who became friends and I will remember the whole experience fondly. And I hope to take the healthy eating forward into my daily life.

Av
Review №67

Ira and Val lead with integrity and love, they are keen to giuide you towards more fulfilled moments. They are people who leave you better just for knowing them and they always do their best and care about your experience.

Ze
Review №68

This is the first time I write a review about an experience I had, I am going to tell the story from my point of view, the good and the bad as I am sure that everyone experienced it in a different way.Lets start with the location and the accommodation:the area was very beautiful close to everything you need such as the beach, restaurants, groceries stores, dry clean, coffee shops and more.The accommodation house was big yet with only 1 bathroom to share with 6 people, the swimming pool was always dirty.I have paid for a private room in the house which coast extra than the other room and I was not informed that there was a laundry room inside my room, I didnt have much privacy when everyone in the house kept knocking on my door to use it. The sound of the washing machine and the dryer was loud.The studio were we practice was very small and decorated poorly. Always full of their dogs hair. If you are allergic to dogs this is not the place for you and I am including this because its not mentioned on the website or the emails that there is a dog always around which I didnt mind because I love dogs and it was very pleasant to have her around us.The instructors:hospitable, when ever all of us went out to dine they wont leave anyone behind and would pay for their dinner so we would all be together. It happened with me 3 times when I didnt have the money for it. I will always be grateful to them for that cause it was a blast and they are fun to go out with.During the training and teaching they are very short tempered and self centered , always get annoyed when someone keeps asking questions or participate in the topic, it was ok as long as it was about them and their story but if one of the student start talking about their stories they would ask them to stop.I felt like more time should have been spent on actually teaching the body parts and adjustments ( as they said its not important ) and less time reading stories from the book, gardening their house or watching movies. for the whole month I felt like it was a juice Plus sales pitch. It was odd for a nutritious to promote taking pills over eating real food.The group was not very nice, Every time I pass them they are talking bad about who is not around and lie too much. Instructors knew there was a problem and didnt pay it much attention and the result was one of the girls dropped out the training after 2 and half weeks!I didnt like the way they handled the situation. I was very sad she dropped out.The over all experience was ok, they didnt meet my expectations as yogi, you can tell it is just a business to them.

Th
Review №69

Great classes and teachers. I learned a lot from Ira. Valerie is super nice and she is an expert in massage. Great yoga school!

Ka
Review №70

I cant believe that Im coming up on my TWO year YTT anniversary! Over the course of teaching yoga the past 2 years following my certification at Zen Den Yoga School, I can say that I am continuously grateful that I chose Zen Den over any other training. This school not only gave me some life long friends, but a strong foundation in teaching that I have been able to strongly build on since then. It was INTENSIVE just like it sounds, so dont expect it to be a walk in the park- but bottom line Ira knows his stuff. He taught me how to be thorough and most importantly how to teach beginners - something that I find lacks in most teachers and trainings today. Ira will teach you a solid foundation in Shivananda, Vinyasa AND Restorative (which is probably my most popular class). The variety of different styles was my favorite part of the training and over the past 2 years Ive found myself pulling from all 3 styles when making my flows. Ira will make you into a good quality yoga instructor (something that lacks in todays world) and will give you all the tools you need to expand on his teachings. I am forever grateful that I chose Zen Den Yoga School for my YTT. It will always be one of my favorite experiences.

Ni
Review №71

I took a yoga teacher training here back in April and it was amazing! I really enjoyed how well rounded it was. Not only did I learn the physical practice of teaching but I also learned more about nutrition, my spirituality, and taking yoga off the mat. There is meditation every morning, asana practice daily, and special breathwork classes (My favorite).Living in the house with the other students gives the opportunity to practice kindness, compassion, and patience. Something I think all of us grew from. Also, after the first week students teach everyday and it really helps everyone develop their teaching style.Ira and Val care deeply about what they do and it really shows. This training helped me grow a lot not only as a teacher but as a person.So much gratitude!

Sa
Review №72

Zen Den Yoga School and Retreat Center in Boca Raton, FL exceeded my expectations during my (200 Hr) Yoga Teacher Training. I learned exactly what I needed and gained more knowledge than I thought possible over 28 days. Valerie and Ira allow the opportunity for true personal growth to occur for every individual, allowing everyone to be exactly who they are, witch is perfect and ok. The environment they have nurtured flows from their hearts and holds consistent space for compassion. There is a transformation process from the inside out available at Zen Den. My life was enhanced more than words can convey. Space was held for our hearts and abundant love was deliver for real enlightenment.Zen Den is a home for anyone no matter, age, gender, or skill level. Regardless of what part in the journey of life you are at, I believe there are beautiful truths within us all, and Zen Den is a sacred space to dive deep into discovery. Personally I experienced learning at Zen Den that has assisted me in every moment since. Yoga is now, and I now understand parts of myself, aspects of life, and how to love even better. I experienced invaluable tools to clear anxiety and allow energy to flow freely. I would recommend visiting Zen Den to any of my family members, because I know they will be taken care of like family by Ira and Valerie.The space is beautiful, holding a mango tree, two gorgeous houses, tropical backyards, a saltwater pool and beach proximity. The unique location is unbeatable. Although this welcoming space is beautiful, it would be raw without the glowing hearts that resided there.Instructors Ira and Valerie have ambition that will inspire and their dedication shines into every individuals experience. They provide love and knowledge rooted in patience, and they fosters room for growth. Valerie is a highly trained nutritionist and the meal plan she taught has made my body happier and healthier than ever. I was grateful to learn how food is medicine and understand how to best treat my body for quality health. Each aspect of the body, mind and soul were taken into consideration for a true holistic wellness experience. I must mention their fellow helping hand, guru Elias, he is an pivotal part of the atmosphere at Zen Den. His grounding energy paired with kind listening holds space for anyone in need of a true friend.Every detail Ira and Valerie have crafted into this unique utopia is irreplaceable. “If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” ~ Buddha. Please do yourself a service in compassion and make the time to love your mind, body and soul with a visit to Zen Den Yoga School and Retreat Center in Boca Raton, FL. Regardless with a Yoga Teacher Training or a Retreat visit your life will be enhanced for the better. Its important to know the beneficial results available at Zen Den far outweigh any expense in time or money. Dont hesitate to reward yourself with time at Zen Den.Take the opportunity to realize the infinite powerful being existing inside you and able to co-create with the universe. You will not be dissapointed choosing Zen Den, but I suggest letting go of any expectation, of life in general. Life is better than we can ever imagine, so dont restrict the universe with limited thinking. Stay in the present and be in allowance of what is, and dont forget to ask, how can this day get any better?~Namaste.

Ab
Review №73

This was a great YTT 200 experience, particularly for the price. This is an intensive training, no doubt!! DONT expect to pass just because you attended, its not a yoga vacation. We had 2 people out of 10 not pass certification (after endless chances) because of bad attitude and excuses. Then 2 more quit (but continued the program) because it was too hard to remember the cues. That being said, made some great memories, friendships, and I also learned a lot along the way. Valerie and Ira open up their home to do this, so for that, I am really thankful and happy to be a graduate of theirs. Namaste :)

Lu
Review №74

My friend and I recently stayed at Zen Den Yoga to enjoy a Friday-Monday Disconnect to Re-Connect retreat package. We shared the house with two amazing ladies which if it wasnt for them, I dont think we would have enjoyed ourselves as much as we did. My review may be a bit on the lengthy side however I want to make sure I provide my full perspective of my experience.To begin, I feel the information provided to us at time of booking is more tailored to the students of the yoga teacher certification program vs to a retreat guest. This was a small weekend getaway where I expected to have a variety of retreat events at my disposal should I want to sign up for them. This was not the case. We were told we would have massages scheduled for Friday afternoon, however we did not know what time. We knew we had acupuncture on Saturday, however - again, we did not know what time. Take away from this feedback - provide retreat guests with a document tailored specifically for the retreat experience. We were not able to piggyback off the classes offered to students so some of the information provided to us was not relevant.On Saturday we joined our housemates and the owners in the yoga studio for morning meditation where we then went to a park to participate in a community yoga class offered by a local studio (which was fantastic). After the class in the park, we were all basically free to do whatever we wanted. So we walked around a local mall, went to our respective acupuncture sessions (which was also fantastic) and spent a quiet evening at home. Id like to mention that after the yoga class in the park, we basically didnt hear from the owners for the rest of the day. They didnt stop by the house to check on us but they sent us a text message later that afternoon letting us know about an event in town that they suggested we check out. Other than that, we didnt hear from them. Take away from this feedback - check in a bit more with your guests.Sunday morning we (along with our two housemates) decided to go to a nearby beach to watch the sunrise. We did our own meditation and then headed back to the retreat house to participate in our morning meditation and yoga session. I was a bit surprised that during our yoga session, the instructor did not do any hands on adjustments - especially since it was only 4 of us in the class. All corrections were noted as he was going through the poses but he did not take the time to actually adjust/correct anyone. As part of the yoga flow, a headstand was included - a pose I have been practicing at home. It would have been nice to have had the instructor there to help those of us who wanted to attempt the headstand; but that wasnt the case. All four of us decided to spend the day at the beach and check out some nearby nature centers. By Sunday evening, additional retreat guests and yoga students had arrived so the house was quite busy with excitement. Take away from this feedback - ask your students if hands on adjustments are ok. If youre going to include challenging poses such as a headstand, ask your students if theyd like to attempt the move and help them do it.All in all I can say that I enjoyed my retreat but I do not think I would have enjoyed it as much had my friend and I not shared the experience with the two ladies in the house. We essentially became a group of four and found ways to spend our time. I am quite certain that a retreat guest staying during the time that yoga students are there would have a completely different experience than I did as they would be able to take advantage of the additional classes offered to the students.

Li
Review №75

I had an amazing 4 nights at Zen Den. This was my fifth yoga retreat I attended. I learned so much about wellness and yoga from both Ira and Val. The facilities were very clean and the atmosphere very peaceful and zen. I loved the veggie shakes in the morning as well as the lunch fruit and protein shakes. I have continued the healthy habits I took away from the retreat. The yoga classes, the breath work & the energy healing were all fantastic as well as the Acupunture session. Sunrise yoga on the beach was one of the highlights of the retreat. Ira and Val recommended the best restaurants in the area. I would highly recommend Zen Den to anyone interested in relaxing and meeting new people.Much love to Val and Ira! Namaste 🙏🏻

Sa
Review №76

I would leave 10 stars here if I could!! Zen Den Yoga School is a wonderful, magical place. Its one of those little gems that sometimes you get lucky to find in your life journey, and you just have to open up your heart and receive the love and count your blessings.I came to Zen Den Yoga school to take the 200YTT and I found a world of opportunities, 6 new yogini friends and 2 amazing mentors. Ira and Valerie are phenomenal people who devote themselves entirely to the development of their students and retreat guests. They both have amazing background and never hesitate to share their wealth of knowledge and experience. The education I received in 4 weeks spans from 5000 years of yoga history to being able to teach a whole 90 minutes yoga class! From wellness, diet and nutrition, to how to launch a business. From learning more about other people from different backgrounds and origins, to knowing myself better. Overall, it was one of the best learning experience of my life!The teacher training is an intense 4-week program that requires physical and mental strength. Being able to do it in a safe environment and with a solid curriculum, not only made it easier, it also made it awesome! Tonight is the last of my 28 nights here and while I am happy to go home, I am sad that it’s almost coming to an end! I will miss this place! This school was able to create an amazing support system with proper and easy-to-prepare nutrition, the convenience of living and practicing in the same complex, the accessibility to the teachers for questions, support and help at any time, and, my favorite, the beautiful integration of the retreat guests with the students. While the 6 students of the 200YTT are here for 4 weeks, the retreat guests usually come for 3 to 7 days, so during our stay, there were always new guests and new experiences. And then of course, the support that I received from the other students with whom I shared the house, the room, my life, my joy and my sorrows, was the best and will last forever!Thank you Zen Den School for offering such a great platform where people can come to practice and grow and prosper! Namaste!

P
Review №77

Going to Zen Den is always a great experience whether it is for a class or an event. The atmosphere and people in the den are very welcoming and knowledgeable.

Ka
Review №78

My experience at Zen Den Yoga School for my 200hr YTT Feb 2018 was amazing. I feel so lucky to have been able to attend this school. The education was extremely thorough, instructors expectations high yet very approachable as long as you are willing to do the work and an overall wonderful experience. My goal for my YTT experience was to learn about spiritual growth and inner healing, build a stronger body after recent injuries, gain more mental health and clarity, and come away with enough education and knowledge to be a safe and educational yoga instructor. I feel so lucky and honored to have reached all of my goals with this program! Zen Den is run by 2 wonderful and loving individuals: Val and Ira. Their wealth of knowledge in yoga: spirituality, asanas, teaching all 8 limbs, safe and effective teaching practices, energy healing, effective and safe communication, nutrition and so much more is empowering and humbling at the same time. You can feel their passion and care for what they are teaching. Thank you for creating Zen Den and holding space for me to learn this amazing practice and grow immensely during my 28 days at Zen Den. The future has infinite possibilities and I am so excited to explore all it has to offer. I cannot wait to come back!!!My review from Dec 2017 for a 3 day retreat:I attended the Zen Den Yoga Retreat for 3 days. It was only 3 days, but seriously life-altering. Val and Ira are so welcoming and kind. I instantly felt at ease. Because of the environment they create, all who were in the retreat house with me were equally as kind and supportive. I met some amazing people that I felt really blessed to be in company. I was able to experience multiple yoga classes/day, being healing my body through nutrition and education about nutrition, and even sit in on some YTT classes which solidified my desire to obtain my YTT at Zen Den Yoga School. I also loved being able to experience yoga outside of the school. Val and Ira brought the guests to 2 outside workshops that were wonderful. All around amazing experience for the body, mind and soul. Thank you for sharing your gifts with me! Cant wait for my YTT in February!

Tr
Review №79

Went into my YTT with no expectations, and came out absolutely blown away. I could go on for days about how great this teacher training and retreat center is but here are a few high notes:Ira and Val are two of the most genuinely great people I have ever met, and words cant describe the gratitide I have for them, and the teachings the offer. They both share a passion for what they do, and it was evident every step of the way.It is an extremely intimate setting where you get more hands on training than you would anywhere else. Literally, anywhere else.Great accommodations with incredibly peaceful energy in both of their houses.They go far past just yoga flows and poses. Teaching and mentoring the students in meditation, breathwork, diet, and successful business practices.In no way do they force any ideas or ways of life on you. It is the most accepting environment I have ever been apart of, they offer suggestions, and leave it up to you on how you would like to act on them.I love this program and love both Ira and Val for offering and affordable YTT that went far and above in every aspect they could.10/10

El
Review №80

Zen Den Yoga School was an intensive 26 days of training. The facilitator and owner Ira is very well informed and experienced in his craft. Personally, I found the Astanga sequence to be very taxing on my body (I have a vata Dosha) however many of the other students that are more athletic did very well with the style. In site of this, I learned a lot and grew leaps and bounds in my own personal practice. I have more direction as a result of this experience. The Florida weather and close proximity to the beach adds a nice addition to it all.

Ch
Review №81

Zen Den Yoga School was an absolutely incredible & eye opening experience for me. The people I met & practiced with/lived with there, are my soul sisters and brothers. We became best friends/family & still keep in touch, visit one another, & encourage each other. I would not be where I am now without Zen Den and the amazing teachers there -Ira & Val. They opened me up to a whole new world. With Endless possibilities they were my mentors. When I was in pain and could hardly move my neck (due to health issues), they encouraged me. They believed in me. They pushed me & they also let me Be when needed. Today - 6 months later - I am off of ALL medication. With Fibromyalgia & RA/AS, I am on NO meds after 6 years! I am 11 days sober. The experience was one that helped me on my journey and changed me. The meditation techniques, guidance, green smoothies, shamanic breathing, and yoga have truly molded my revived spirit. I am so thankful to Ira and Val at Zen Den School for their love, mentorship, and hospitality! It is one of a kind & you will not regret it. Open your heart & your mind. I am now a certified yoga teacher after a beautiful month to Boca Raton. Namaste from Texas.

jo
Review №82

We had such an amazing time at Zen Den Yoga Retreat. From booking online and asking questions over the phone with Val to arriving and being welcomed and shown around and seeing the beautiful fresh roses in the kitchen, I could tell immediately that these are people who care about the experience they offer, and care about the individuals who come to their retreat.We were visiting at a time when there was no yoga teacher training so we were alone in the house for our Disconnect to reconnect retreat and enjoyed intimate yoga classes with a selection of instructors; Billiam, a superstar graduate of the yoga school a year before, Val and Ira both lead some classes and we went out of the school for a couple of open air classes too, so we had a good variety of teaching styles and personalities as well in our vinyasa and restorative classes (also Angel the cutest little dachsiehuahua dog would pad along sometimes!)We also had mediation and pranayama in the mornings, and Yoga sutras and Tai Chi was offered on certain evenings while we were there. I also enjoyed the hot tub and chilling on the comfy sofa reading from the selection of yoga magazines and spiritual books on the bookshelf!The juices which are provided Val showed us how to make in the first day and were lovely to fuel us for our days activities and help with the positive change that two yoga sessions a day did for our bodies! I felt great after 5 days of that, and we have taken that habit home with us along with Vals recipe!As well as the yoga and nutrition having a transformational effect there was also included in the package an acupuncture session (neither of us had had it before but the relaxation was amazing and I felt so rested and well afterwards) the shamanic breathwork led by Ira (has to be experienced to understand what a profound spiritual journey this was, I felt like I met part of myself I needed to encounter and I know my husband shed some energy he needed to let go too) and we had a session of energy healing or massage with Val included. We opted to pay a small fee of $40 each for the extra time to be able to enjoy both on her table and Wow! Im so glad we did as she is both a talented masseuse (she has I think 20 years experience which shows) and a very intuitive energy worker.We had such a beautiful experience there and so grateful that we chose Zen Den Retreat. Ira and Val are very special people, their personalities of Vals gentle yin and Iras vibrant yang are so lovely to be around. If you feel guided to go to this yoga retreat I would say you will be in safe hands for whatever journey your soul is calling.

Sa
Review №83

I did the 200 YTT in October 2016. I have to say that it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life, not only for the things that I learnt but also for sharing the journey with amazing people that were in the training with me.About the teachers: Ira and Val are very knowledgeable and passionate about what they do and they treated me very well.About the curriculum: you learn how to teach 2 flows (1 hatha and 1 vinyasa), from day 1, and practice them every day until you eventually know how to teach them. You also learn about meditation, pranayama, yoga history and sutras, and sometimes you watch movies related to what you have lectured. You are quite busy, since in the afternoons (after class) you practice the flows and how to teach them, study anatomy and do lots of reading. It is intense for the body as well. Sometimes you go to the beach for lectures, or to have breakfast together, which gives you a nice little break.About the place: the house is amazing. Clean, comfortable and with a swimming pool and a hot tub. You can walk to grocery shopping / some bars. They have bikes that I used to go shopping or to the beach (15 min by bike). The atmosphere in Boca Raton is nice and safe. The studio is in their house, which is across the back yard. They have the cutest dog in the world, Angel, that comes to say hi to everyone, but is full of hair dog sometimes. I didn’t care that much but someone might.About the food: before going there I was worried that I would be hungry eating only the smoothies for lunch and breakfast, but they are filling (and the one at noon is super yummy). Of course you can snack whatever you want, and I did, but I think that it was more because I was craving something to chew than because I was hungry.There is a lot of sharing and healing. After every meditation, practice, breathwork, etc, everyone gets to share and listen. And you learn a lot about yourself too. During the training I also realized that yoga is a whole world, and the more you learn, the more you realize that there is so much more to learn, but this was a good start for me.Thank you Ira, Val, and to my girls Shelby, Veronica, Ena, Kelly and Celeste.

Ni
Review №84

Today was my first time going, and I cannot wait to come back!

Al
Review №85

Shame they closed.

Information
85 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:Boca Raton, FL 33431, United States
  • Site:http://www.zendenyogaschool.com/
  • Phone:+1 954-461-4367
Categories
  • School
  • Yoga retreat center
Working hours
  • Monday:8AM–5PM
  • Tuesday:8AM–8PM
  • Wednesday:8AM–5PM
  • Thursday:8AM–5PM
  • Friday:8AM–5PM
  • Saturday:9AM–5PM
  • Sunday:8AM–5PM
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