Spinning Yarn in the Peace Valley: Yarn and Yoga with Kate Larson

While Kate Larson takes a writing break to make hay for her flock, we’re taking the opportunity to learn about her Yarn and Yoga at the Hot Springs retreat coming up this October in Montana’s Peace Valley. “For me,” Kate says, “spinning yarn and fiber work has always been a path toward mindfulness, healing, and calm. I’m excited to craft an event that specifically shares that part of my teaching and personal fiber journey.”

Q: How did you decide to create a spinning/yoga retreat? A: My friend Mary Schroeder and I began scheming about hosting a fiber gathering at the Boulder Hot Springs (BHS) last winter. Mary has traveled to Boulder many times in recent years and suggested that it would be a wonderful venue for a fiber retreat. We began scheming about a relaxing and creative weekend that made the best use of this historic site and the beauty of the valley in which it sits.

An inn was established at the hot springs in Boulder as early as 1863, grew and changed over the years, and was purchased by author Anne Wilson Schaef in 1990. BHS is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been fully renovated with a focus on health and wellness.

Join Kate for Yarn and Yoga at the Hot Springs, October 13–15, 2017, Boulder Hot Springs Inn.

Q: What activities are planned for the retreat? A: The yarn and fiber classes are all structured to accommodate a wide range of skill levels. We will fine-tune our spinning, learn about color and creativity in our fiber work, and spend a day looking at a wide variety of wool types and the textiles they make. Although I design my classes for spinners of all levels, there will also be offerings for knitters, embroiderers, and weavers.

The yoga classes, taught by instructor Kelly Baraby, will have a focus on restoration and can accommodate those who have never done yoga before as well as those who are more experienced. All are welcome.

Q: Do you plan for this to become an annual retreat? A: We hope so! I love returning to a place year after year with a group that grows and evolves. Fall is a great time to be in Montana.

Yarn and Yoga at the Hot Springs, October 13–15, 2017, Boulder Hot Springs Inn and Spa, Boulder, Montana. For more information, visit www.mindfulspin.com.

Featured Image: The Boulder Hot Springs Inn and Spa, Boulder, Montana, is located in beautiful Peace Valley. Photo by Joyce Marshall.