Embodied Massage Myofascial Release
25-hr Teacher Training & Retreat
Four Days / Three Nights at the Source Retreat in the Douro Valley, Portugal
Thurs - Sun, May 15 - 18th, 2025 with Eva Maxine Hamilton
Get to know the deeper textures and sensations alive within your body by weaving myofascial release techniques into your yoga practice. Myofascial release (MFR) is a method of self-massage techniques which use compression and active movement in order to unpack and untangle fascial adhesions throughout the fabric of your body.
Join us at the Source in the Douro Valley for this four-day in-depth training. Using embodiment tools, including yoga blocks, massage balls, and our own touch, this practice will support you and your yoga students in reducing tension, improving movement, relieving stress, and enhancing your yoga practice.
Join us in this new yoga teacher training to share these benefits and deepen the conversation between mind and body through the direct experience of breath, movement, and massage.
Your embodiment journey starts here...
About Myofascial Release
Beneath the walls of your skin, fascia forms a fabric that weaves around and throughout every structure of the body, forming a tissue matrix which supports movement, stability, hydration and awareness. Inevitably through our daily postural patterns, dehydration, immobility, and the natural processes of aging, this material can become tangled with adhesions (a process called fibrosis), molding a tense internal encasing surrounding our muscles and joints.
Myofascial release (MFR) is a remedial technique that utilizes tissue manipulation (like massage, pressure and movement) to reduce this constriction. MFR is often performed as a manual therapy by a trained practitioner (like a physical therapist), but can also be explored as a guided self-practice using simple tools and mindful movement to initiate release and restore balance to the body.
Unlike yoga, which originates in the sacred heritage of South Asian traditions, MFR is anchored in modern physical therapy, but makes a wonderful partner to your yoga practice. Whether your classes are gentle or dynamic, MFR can support you and your students by improving range of motion and neuromuscular communication, reducing tension and accumulated stress, and establishing a deeper relationship with your own body.
For us and our students, our yoga practice often reveals areas of our bodies that remain stiff and tight despite continual stretching. We all encounter tensions, aches, and pains and reflect that self-care is too expensive or time-consuming. The immediate release, awareness and autonomy of MFR be transformative, allowing us to untangle our own tensions.
In this training, you'll learn how to share methodology through focused or full-body massage sequences which empower your students in their knowledge of their bodies and their ability to care for their own being.
Benefits of MFR Embodied Massage
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Improves Mobility | Releases tension and restrictions in fascia, enhancing range of motion and flexibility.
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Enhances Tissue Hydration & Resilience | Stimulates fluid flow in fascia, supporting elasticity and recovery, and improving strength and reducing injury risk.
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Reduces Pain | Eases chronic pain caused by tightness, stiffness, or postural imbalances.
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Supports Nervous System Regulation | Encourages relaxation, reduces stress, and balances the body’s response to tension.
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Boosts Circulation | Increases blood flow and lymphatic drainage, aiding recovery and reducing inflammation.
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Promotes Self-Awareness | Builds a deeper connection to your body through mindful movement and self-care practices.
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Encourages Sustainable Self-Care | Provides accessible, long-term tools for maintaining physical and emotional well-being.
About The MFR Teacher Training
In this 25-hr Embodied Massage YTT hosted at The Source, you'll learn how to integrate precise and powerful myofascial release techniques into your yoga teaching and practice.
Often our yoga practice reveals our most tight and tender places which can often remain contracted despite dedicated stretching. By skillfully applying a MFR technique, you may happily discover that the range of motion vastly improves. Despite the instant gratification, there is so much more to this practice and it is imperative that we understand the deeper structures of the body that we are influencing.
You'll learn about the method, benefits, contraindications, and contemporary research into MFR to inform your teaching. We'll discuss different rolling techniques which can be adapted to supply more or less pressure and different MFR tools we can utilize in practice (many of which are already present in a yoga studio setting). Uncover how to structure and sequence MFR practices including appropriate integration and aftercare.
Our curriculum is centered around safety and therefore will include the application of anatomical principles and awareness. As we visit different zones of the body, we will deep dive into the components which construct, support, and move each joint in order to understand the intended impact of each technique. Whether you’re an anatomy nerd or just stepping into this study, our learning approach will blend the intellectual with the embodied. You'll learn about the deeper layers of your own body and feel more confident in your understanding of movement.
Upon completion of the course, you will feel confident in your understanding and application of these practices, allowing you to bring myofascial moments into your current teaching or to design in-depth full-length MFR inspired yoga classes or workshops.
Our Course Curriculum Includes:
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Receive our original MFR manual, along with two MFR balls and a carrying bag
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Experience two daily MFR-inspired yoga sessions
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Engage in two daily lectures that dive deep into theory, science, and teaching methodology
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Learn MFR techniques for all major muscles and joints through step-by-step tutorials
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Expand your understanding and appreciation of fascia
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Build anatomical confidence with an embodied approach
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Discover sequencing and theming frameworks, and master language and creating safe spaces in your classes
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Integrate breath, sound, and movement to aid in the release of tension
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Learn to adapt techniques for gentle practices or recovery, or intensify them for more dynamic classes
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Guide your students in understanding anatomy and movement through personal, internal experience
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Focus on teacher self-care to prevent physical and emotional burnout through embodied practice
Who is this Training / Retreat for?
Whether you’re looking to integrate myofascial release (MFR) into yoga classes, group fitness, private sessions, or seeking greater mobility and self-care, our MFR Immersion is for you.
For Certified Yoga Teachers | Expand your skill set by confidently incorporating MFR into your classes or creating dedicated MFR workshops. You’ll receive comprehensive materials, adaptable class structures, and strategies for different settings, enhancing your expertise across Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative styles. Complete all course hours to receive your Embodied Massage MFR Yoga certificate registered with the Yoga Alliance.
For New Teachers | This course offers a strong foundation in anatomy and myofascial release, perfect for those starting their teaching journey. Learn a skillset that can be integrated with any style of future yoga training, in a supportive environment - and earn your first certificate!
For Personal Trainers/Athletes | This immersion helps you enhance mobility, improve recovery, and apply MFR techniques to boost athletic performance and prevent injury. Some experience of yoga is helpful for our course, but the techniques will complement all movement practices.
For Bodyworkers/Massage Therapists/Wellness Coaches | Integrate MFR into your wellness work for deeper tissue release and guide clients through stress relief and tension release with hands-on techniques.
For Self-Practice Students | If you’re passionate about MFR yoga, this immersive experience provides a chance to deepen your practice and recover in a retreat-like setting. You’ll gain tools to incorporate MFR into your daily life. Certification is available with full attendance, but teaching is optional.
Why Take This Immersion?
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Pause the pressures and pace of life to indulge in the practice of MFR yoga in a retreat setting in a historical home in the Douro Valley.
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Learn the science and benefits of MFR, including improved mobility, pain reduction, better tissue hydration, and nervous system regulation.
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Expand your anatomical awareness and deepen your understanding of fascia to improve teaching and practice.
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Master rolling techniques, safe use of props, sequencing, and how to design MFR workshops with a focus on safety and contraindications.Gain practical tools, class structures, and resources to lead transformative MFR experiences for students.
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Grow your teaching repertoire, versatility, and confidence as a Yoga Teacher or integrate myofascial release into yoga, fitness, and therapeutic settings to enhance mobility, recovery, and overall well-being.
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Enhance your self-care routine, promoting teacher well-being, resilience, mobility, and relaxation in your own body.
Training Dates + Travel Details
Training Dates | The course runs Thursday, May 15th - Sunday, May 18th, 2025
Location | The Source Retreat is located in a small town in the Douro Valley, centered between the larger towns of Mesao Frio and Peso Da Regua. In advance of the immersion, we will be in touch to help you to plan your journey here.
Check-in | Please plan your travel to arrive between 10:00 - 12:00am on Thursday, May 15th, 2025
Check-out | Please plan to depart between 4:00 - 5:00pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025
Traveling to the Retreat | Flights and travel to the retreat are not included in your retreat package. The closest international airport to the retreat is in Porto. Guests may choose to take a train from Porto to our closest train station called Rede where we can collect you. Otherwise we can also help connect you with shuttle services to arrange a drive from Porto to the retreat.
About Your Guide
Eva Maxine Hamilton
Eva Maxine Hamilton
Director of Source Yoga
+ Lead Yoga Teacher Trainer
Eva Hamilton is a Canadian Yoga Educator, specializing in the slow, supported and soulful practices of yin yoga and restorative yoga. She completed her first of many yoga trainings when she was just 17, teaching full time since 2008. She owned a studio in Canada for many years before she began to travel and teach around the world.
Her gentle approach is combined with an in-depth understanding of anatomy and functional movement as well as the mindbody connection and intricate workings of the human nervous system. Before becoming a yoga teacher, Eva studied religious studies at university and has a thorough understanding of philosophy and mysticism.
Eva specializes in educating on applied anatomy, yoga philosophy, teaching methodology, posture clinics & alignment, preventing yoga injuries, myofascial release, and more. Eva has completed over 1000-hrs of yoga studies and is registered as a Yoga Alliance YACEP (Continuing Education Provider).
Eva's intention in teaching is to craft a supportive & nourishing energy for her student's self-exploration. She places an emphasis on the internal experience and encourages self-empathy, kindness and curiosity both on and off the mat.
As a Teacher Trainer, her objective is to elevate the standard of yoga teacher trainings and train knowledgable, confident and compassionate teachers who embody their teachings, hold safe space, and pass along the wisdom of yoga in their communities.
Welcome to the Source
Housed in a beautifully restored 400-year-old Quinta (vineyard estate), our retreat offers guests a unique blend of history, nature, and modern comfort. Also known as Quinta do Outeiro, our home is nestled in the small village of Cidadelhe, overlooking the rolling hills and surrounded by grape vines and olive trees.
Take in the endless landscapes while wandering through the vineyards or get back to our simple roots by picking lemons or oranges in the gardens. Enjoy meals by the fire in our medieval dining room and practice under the starry constellations painted across the yoga room ceiling. Slow down. Rest in the hammocks or lounge by the plunge pool before withdrawing to your shared or private room.
We have poured seven years of love and labour into creating this space for you. Join us to rest and reconnect with your inner self in a truly unique and special place.
Swipe to See our Retreat Rooms
Roma | Pomegranate Quad Room (4 guests)
Shared room with two bunk beds and an en-suite bathroom
Training Investment
Your training/retreat package includes:
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Course Tuition | Comprehensive instruction and guidance from our experienced teachers.
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Seven Nights of Accommodations | Thoughtfully designed, cozy guest rooms with private en-suite bathrooms, offering a relaxing retreat atmosphere.
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Three Delicious Daily Meals | Nutritious and satisfying meals prepared fresh, with seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.
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Fruit, Tea, Coffee, and Water | Available throughout the day to keep you refreshed and energized.
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Source Retreat Amenities | Enjoy access to our serene amenities, including a refreshing plunge pool and peaceful outdoor spaces.
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Fully Equipped Yoga Space | A dedicated, fully-kitted yoga studio with all the props you’ll need for practice.
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Full-Color Printed Manual & Course Materials | High-quality printed materials to support your learning and practice during and beyond the retreat.
YTT packages and prices reflect our accommodation options:
Roma | Pomegranate Quad Room (4 guests)
Shared room with two bunk beds and an en-suite bathroom | €850 per guest
Figo | Fig Triple Room (3 guests)
Shared room with three single beds and an en-suite bathroom | €900 per guest
Limao/Laranga | Double Rooms (2 guests)
Shared room with two single beds or one king bed and en-suite bathroom | €1000 per guest
Azetona/Uva | Private Room (1 guest)
Private room with double bed and en-suite bathroom | €1100 per guest
Protea Suite | Deluxe Room (1-2 guests)
Private room with four-poster double bed and bespoke en-suite bathroom | €1200 per guest
Casa Verde | Deluxe Rooms (1-2 guests)
Private studio in the garden including a vintage double bed, en-suite bathroom, and kitchenette| €1200 per guest
Girassol | Private Room (shared bathroom) (1 guest)
Private room with access to a shared hallway bathroom | €1200 per guest
Prices increase March 1st, 2025 | Save your space with a €500 deposit. See our full booking policies below.
Sign Up + Step In
Train & Retreat at the Source in Portugal
Your first step is filling our our YTT Application form (below). Then we will be in touch with a course information package and more info or options regarding room availability. If accepted into the training, you will then receive an invoice to pay your booking deposit. Once paid, your space is officially reserved in the program.
The Fine Print
Booking Process |To place your booking for one of our trainings or retreats you must fill out the relevant booking form. Once we receive the booking we will get back to you with availability and an invoice to pay a deposit of 500€. The deposit is non-refundable. To pay your remaining balance, there are two options:
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(1) Payment in Full | Must be paid within 60-days of your original booking or at the latest 60-days before the start of the retreat/training.
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(2) Payment Plan | We understand that our retreats and trainings are meaningful investments. If you’re booking in advance we’re happy to discuss a payment plan to support you. Please note that failure to comply with a payment plan may lead to losing your deposit and place and that all payments must be received prior to 60-days before the retreat/training. Please feel free to reach out to explore options.
Payment Methods | Payment may be made by bank transfer in EURO, GBP, USD or CAD. We may also offer the option to pay via debit or credit card through a secure invoice link. Please note that in this case, a 2.9% surcharge will apply to cover processing fees.
Cancellation more than 60-days before the Retreat/Training | No deposit refund. However, if we (or you) manage to find someone to fill your spot, the €500 deposit may be transferable towards a future retreat or training within 2 years subject to availability.
Cancellation less than 60-days before the Retreat/Training | No refund of either the deposit or any other of the amounts paid (whether by payment plan or paid in full). However, if we (or you) manage to find someone to fill your spot you can choose either (A) a refund, minus the deposit, or (B) the full value as credit towards a future retreat or training within 2 years subject to availability.
Other Cancellation | Please see our full terms and conditions and cancellation policies here.
Travel | Transportation and transfer to the retreat are not included in your training/retreat package. In advance of the retreat, we will provide more information on options including train routes and private shuttles. We also advise that you take out travel insurance and please do not book your flights or travel arrangements until we confirm sufficient attendance for the training/retreat to proceed. We will update you by: Notified to book travel by March 1st, 2025
Certification | Our training has been approved and registered for 50 hours of accredited continuing education with the Yoga Alliance. To graduate from the course and receive certification, students are required to attend all training hours and submit all mandatory assignments. This will include passing a practical teaching assessment, submitting a class plan, and passing a final written exam.
Animals | Please read about our retreat center and understand that while animals are not allowed in guest rooms, our dog and cats may be present inside the house and on the retreat grounds.
Application Questions? |
Please reach out to us directly at sourceytt@gmail.com
FAQ's
I'm not the most flexible or I have an injury. Can I attend the course?
Absolutely! Our training is designed to accommodate practitioners of all experiences and physical conditions. Our experienced instructors will provide modifications and adaptations to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment.
I want to deepen my personal connection with yoga, but I'm not interested in teaching yoga professionally. Can I still join the 25-hour training?
Certainly! Our program is open to individuals seeking personal growth and a deeper understanding of yoga, even if teaching professionally isn't your goal. Our immersion modules are offered as a blend between a yoga retreat and a teacher training, offering a transformative journey that caters to both aspiring teachers and those on a personal exploration of yoga.
I love yoga and want to teach, but I'm nervous...
It's natural to feel a bit nervous, and our supportive environment is precisely designed to help you overcome those feelings. Our experienced instructors provide mentorship and guidance to boost your confidence and ensure a positive learning experience.
I want to join the course, but I'm currently facing financial constraints.
We understand financial considerations, and we offer various payment plans to make the training accessible. Reach out to us, and we'll explore options to support your journey.
Is accommodation and/or food included in my training package?
Yes, at the Source our teacher trainings include accommodation and meals during your stay. This training includes three nights of room and board. Each of our guest rooms has been kindly considered, with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and thoughtful storage for a relaxing stay. Within the historic walls of our 400-year old Quinta, you'll feel at home in both its rustic charm and modern comforts. You'll also feel nourished by our menu, including locally sourced ingredients (as much as possible from our own garden and orchards). Our cooking is primarily plant-based and carefully crafted to support your energy levels throughout the training and we are happy to accommodate specific requirements. With room and board included, you can fully immerse yourself in the learning experience without worrying about any extra arrangements.
What is not included in my training package?
Your travel and transfer to the retreat are not included. Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel, but we are happy to help you plan your journey. Despite being surrounded by vineyards, wine and alcohol are also not included or served during the training period to support a clear and focused experience. Additionally, any personal expenses, such as souvenirs or extra snacks off-retreat, are not covered by the package. While we provide all necessary yoga props and course materials, please bring any specific items you may need for your personal practice. If you have any questions about what to pack or need guidance on travel arrangements, we will provide a packing list and our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
What certification will I receive from this program?
Upon completion, you'll receive an accredited Yoga Alliance certificate for 25 hours. This is the most internationally recognized certificate for yoga teachers. You can also choose to register this certificate with the Yoga Alliance for continuing education requirements.
Will I be confident to teach after this program?
Absolutely! You will have all the tools and techniques to teach, plus the practical experience of guiding your peers and practicum teaching.