Yoga with... Sandra Winkens
16. - 30. November 2025
Sandra is a yoga teacher based in Berlin. Her practice is especially characterized by the integration of Ayurvedic teachings into her classes, creating a truly holistic experience.
For Sandra, Ayurveda and yoga go hand in hand, complementing each other in an ideal way. Seasonal conditions and the individual needs of her students guide her in selecting specific asanas and breathing techniques. The combination of slow, relaxing movements and nourishing breathwork with dynamic flows can provide stimulation or grounding, depending on the time of year and one's emotional state. Her balanced and harmonizing practice supports the holistic well-being of body, mind, and soul.
What role does yoga play in your life?
Yoga is an essential part of my daily life - on the mat and beyond. I don’t follow strict rules, but rather tune into myself: What is my physical and mental state? What do I need right now? What brings me back into balance? Ayurvedic principles are a natural part of my practice and daily rituals. Beyond the mat, I also strive to integrate yogic philosophy into my everyday life. The times we live in are intense on many levels, and especially in challenging moments, I find yoga to be a nourishing and empowering practice.
What do you hope to share with your students through your yoga classes?
Whether in private sessions or during our retreats, I’ve often noticed how many people are very harsh on themselves. I want to show my students that yoga doesn’t have to be just another item on their to-do list - it can be a source of joy and pleasure, especially when they find a personal practice that suits them.
Another important aspect for me is focusing on the essentials. In a world full of distractions, we often lose touch with our own aliveness. Through yoga practice, we can go back to the basics: breathing, standing, flowing, walking, sitting. In doing so, we can experience a deeper connection with ourselves and our surroundings.
What would you describe as the core of your philosophy?
The foundation of my philosophy lies in the concept of the Kleshas - the mental obstacles that cloud our awareness and block the path to inner peace. One Klesha that’s especially important to me is Avidya, often translated as “ignorance” or “not seeing clearly.” In yoga, there are many ways to overcome this ignorance - through self-inquiry, mindful practice, studying spiritual teachings, and acting selflessly in life.
This process isn’t just about ourselves, but also about our relationships with others and the world. Especially in times of political tension and the ongoing climate crisis, I believe it is essential to expand our awareness and overcome ignorance. When we let go of the illusion of being separate from others and nature, we can treat one another with more respect and inspire meaningful, sustainable change. Removing ignorance is both a personal and collective responsibility - one that can help shape a more just and compassionate future.
Sandra is a yoga teacher based in Berlin. Her practice is especially characterized by the integration of Ayurvedic teachings into her classes, creating a truly holistic experience.
For Sandra, Ayurveda and yoga go hand in hand, complementing each other in an ideal way. Seasonal conditions and the individual needs of her students guide her in selecting specific asanas and breathing techniques. The combination of slow, relaxing movements and nourishing breathwork with dynamic flows can provide stimulation or grounding, depending on the time of year and one's emotional state. Her balanced and harmonizing practice supports the holistic well-being of body, mind, and soul.
What role does yoga play in your life?
Yoga is an essential part of my daily life - on the mat and beyond. I don’t follow strict rules, but rather tune into myself: What is my physical and mental state? What do I need right now? What brings me back into balance? Ayurvedic principles are a natural part of my practice and daily rituals. Beyond the mat, I also strive to integrate yogic philosophy into my everyday life. The times we live in are intense on many levels, and especially in challenging moments, I find yoga to be a nourishing and empowering practice.
What do you hope to share with your students through your yoga classes?
Whether in private sessions or during our retreats, I’ve often noticed how many people are very harsh on themselves. I want to show my students that yoga doesn’t have to be just another item on their to-do list - it can be a source of joy and pleasure, especially when they find a personal practice that suits them.
Another important aspect for me is focusing on the essentials. In a world full of distractions, we often lose touch with our own aliveness. Through yoga practice, we can go back to the basics: breathing, standing, flowing, walking, sitting. In doing so, we can experience a deeper connection with ourselves and our surroundings.
What would you describe as the core of your philosophy?
The foundation of my philosophy lies in the concept of the Kleshas - the mental obstacles that cloud our awareness and block the path to inner peace. One Klesha that’s especially important to me is Avidya, often translated as “ignorance” or “not seeing clearly.” In yoga, there are many ways to overcome this ignorance - through self-inquiry, mindful practice, studying spiritual teachings, and acting selflessly in life.
This process isn’t just about ourselves, but also about our relationships with others and the world. Especially in times of political tension and the ongoing climate crisis, I believe it is essential to expand our awareness and overcome ignorance. When we let go of the illusion of being separate from others and nature, we can treat one another with more respect and inspire meaningful, sustainable change. Removing ignorance is both a personal and collective responsibility - one that can help shape a more just and compassionate future.
About Sandra Winkens
Sandra lives in Berlin and brings over 10 years of teaching experience as well as more than 20 years of personal practice in yoga and meditation. Her training includes Vinyasa/Hatha, Kundalini, and Yin Yoga, complemented by numerous further trainings, including her qualification as an Ayurveda Lifestyle Coach. In addition to open classes and one-on-one sessions, Sandra specializes in hosting Holistic Yoga Retreats, focusing on holistic experiences in unique and special locations.
Sandra lives in Berlin and brings over 10 years of teaching experience as well as more than 20 years of personal practice in yoga and meditation. Her training includes Vinyasa/Hatha, Kundalini, and Yin Yoga, complemented by numerous further trainings, including her qualification as an Ayurveda Lifestyle Coach. In addition to open classes and one-on-one sessions, Sandra specializes in hosting Holistic Yoga Retreats, focusing on holistic experiences in unique and special locations.
Yoga Teacher in Residence
We are always expecting a variety of talented yoga teachers to create our open classes at Schwarzschmied and stay here as resident yoga teachers. Each of them brings their unique style and expertise to offer our guests an enriching yoga experience. You can look forward to varied offerings for your wellbeing and relaxation.
Read more
We are always expecting a variety of talented yoga teachers to create our open classes at Schwarzschmied and stay here as resident yoga teachers. Each of them brings their unique style and expertise to offer our guests an enriching yoga experience. You can look forward to varied offerings for your wellbeing and relaxation.
Read more
Our next Retreats
This winter, we invite you to a retreat that goes far beyond a simple break – it is a return to yourself. We begin each day gently with functional movement, somatics, meditation, and breathwork – yoga practices that energise without overwhelming, and ground without weighing down. After a nourishing breakfast, we invite you to explore the surroundings on quiet snow walks and meditative hikes. We go together or alone, in silence, letting ourselves be guided by the rhythm of nature.
Afternoons offer time to rest, enjoy the spa and sauna, curl up with a book, write, or simply do nothing. Those who wish can take part in optional afternoon workshops – from restorative yoga and intention setting to guided body-based meditations and reflection practices.
When the sun sinks behind the mountains, we gather for evening sessions: slower, more tranquil practices such as yin yoga, candlelit meditations, or gentle breathwork that soothes the nervous system and prepares the body for sleep.
Meals at Schwarzschmied are an essential part of the experience – lovingly prepared, thoughtful, seasonal dishes that nourish both body and soul. The kitchen values mindful, local ingredients, with vegetarian options.
This retreat is not about escaping your life, but about remembering who you are within it. It is an invitation to soften, to breathe, to feel, and to reconnect not only with your own inner rhythm but also with the beauty of nature. No prior experience is needed. We look forward to sharing this time with you.
PROGRAM
Thursday
17:00 – 18:30 Evening Practice
Friday
08:00 – 09:30 Morning Practice
17:00 – 18:30 Evening Practice
Saturday
08:00 – 09:30 Morning Practice
17:00 – 18:30 Evening Practice
Sunday
08:00 – 09:30 Morning Practice
*Program subject to change
– All levels –
– Mindfulness, journaling, reflective yoga, meditation –
- 3 nights at Hotel Schwarzschmied
- Breakfast at “La Fucina”
- Lunch or dinner in our Slow Food restaurants “La Fucina” or Bistro “Luce” (for an extra charge)
- Yoga equipment (mat, meditation cushion, yoga blocks) provided free of charge
- Grander water available throughout the hotel
- Mobility card for unlimited use of all public transport
Original Feelings is known for creating spaces filled with depth, warmth, and presence. Our retreats are carefully curated and offer more than just yoga – they give you the opportunity to remember what it feels like to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with what truly matters.
The retreat is led by Brooklyn Reardon, Senior Teacher and long-standing member of the Original Feelings team. With her grounded presence, intuitive way of teaching, and her ability to fill a room with depth and softness, Brooklyn guides you on a journey that supports both your body and your heart.
12. - 15. February 2026
Spring Cleaning for Body & Soul: When nature blossoms again in spring, it’s your time to shine as well. Leave behind the darkness and heaviness of winter, and start the new season feeling fit and free. February is the perfect time for a reset and retreat. Re-Treat yourself!
This retreat detoxes, relaxes, and nourishes you on a physical, emotional, and mental level. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and an extra dose of Dolce Vita, we’ll leave behind the worries and rush of everyday life for four days. Instead, we’ll let our souls unwind, release what weighs us down, and enjoy being pampered at La Fucina with healthy, freshly prepared delights.
Programm
Sunday
16:30 – Yoga
17:30 – Welcome Circle
Monday
08:00 – Good Morning Yoga & Intention Setting
17:00 – Coaching Circle
17:30 – Yoga & Meditation
Tuesday
08:00 – Good Morning Yoga & Intention Setting
17:00 – Coaching Circle
17:30 – Yoga & Meditation
20:30 – Fire Ritual – burning what no longer serves you
Wednesday
08:00 – Good Morning Yoga & Intention Setting
17:00 – Coaching Circle
17:30 – Yoga & Meditation
Thursday
08:00 – Good Morning Yoga & Closing Ceremony
10:00 – Shared Breakfast, official end of the retreat
- 4 nights at Hotel Schwarzschmied
- Breakfast at “La Fucina”
- Lunch or dinner at our Slow Food restaurants “La Fucina” or Bistro “Luce” (at an extra charge)
- Yoga equipment (mat, meditation cushion, yoga blocks) provided free of charge
- Grander water throughout the hotel
- Mobility Card for unlimited use of all public transport
Charlotte is a 700h+ certified yoga teacher, offering classes in Munich, Vienna, and through her online studio the bufler way. For her, yoga is not just a workout – it is a philosophy and a movement towards a healthier, happier, and more authentic life. Charlotte fuses traditional and innovative yoga techniques with science, ease, and humor. Because life is too short for dogmas and doctrines. For her, the right inner attitude is just as important as the correct physical posture.
15. - 19. February 2026
Three days just for you, Mama. No childcare, no to-do lists, no “having to function.” Just time for yourself, your body, and your mind – to recharge, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. Whether your child is still a baby or already at school, this retreat is for you if you long for a pause to return full of energy.
Perhaps you want to come with your best friend or treat yourself to this special break alone. For everything we mothers do every day, we deserve to consciously put ourselves first for once.
In our movement sessions, you can adjust the level and intensity at any time – no Pilates experience is necessary. We work the entire body, strengthen the pelvic floor and core, improve mobility and posture. You’ll break a sweat while sinking into a focused, relaxed atmosphere. Of course, there’s plenty of space for relaxation: time at the pool, on a sun lounger, in the spa, or simply with a good book.
In our Women Circle, we discuss topics that matter to you as a mother, exchange experiences, and offer insights that help you return to everyday life feeling strong. In the Coaching Circle, we focus individually on your needs: we address discomfort, show you targeted exercises to reach your goals or relieve tension. On request, diastasis recti can be addressed, or pelvic floor questions clarified.
Our goal: You return home with fully charged mama-batteries, more ease, and inner calm.
Program
Thursday
16:00 – 17:15 Women Circle
17:15 – 18:00 Mobility & Stretch
Friday
08:30 – 09:30 Morning Pilates
15:00 – 16:00 Women Circle
16:00 – 17:00 Evening Pilates Flow
Saturday
09:00 – 10:00 Morning Pilates
16:00 – 17:00 Evening Pilates Flow
Sunday
09:00 – 10:00 Morning Pilates
- for mothers, all levels -
- pilates, mobility, pelvic floor strengthening, coaching & women circle -
- 3 nights at Hotel Schwarzschmied
- Breakfast at “La Fucina”
- Lunch or dinner in our Slow Food restaurants “La Fucina” or Bistro “Luce” (for an extra charge)
- Yoga equipment (mat, meditation cushion, yoga blocks) provided free of charge
- Grander water available throughout the hotel
- Mobility card for unlimited use of all public transport
Little by Little is a Movement & Lifestyle studio in Munich, founded in 2021 by Amalie Obitz Mogensen and Juliane Doyle. Both are mothers of two and know the mental and physical challenges of everyday motherhood from personal experience – and from their daily work with mothers in the studio’s classes, workshops, and retreats. The two lead the retreat with understanding, expertise, and plenty of empathy.
