Arctic Reflections: Adventures in Yoga & Wildlife

Depart Ottawa at this morning and head north to Qikiqtarjuaq which is on the southeastern coastline of Baffin Island and formerly known as Broughton Island. From Qikiqtarjuaq board your waiting boat and travel through the many islands and stunning coastline of Baffin Island towards our summer base camp set outside one of Canada’s most stunning areas - Auyuittuq National Park. It is here, in the comfort of Arctic Kingdom’s safari-style base camp – complete with a spa tub, that you will enjoy the long days of the Arctic Summer and seemingly “all night sunsets”.

From the pebble beach base camp you will experience the true essence of the Arctic summer. The sun’s magnificence is a powerful force for nature as well as humans. The timeless teachings of yoga reflect upon this power and you will be invited each morning and evening to spend time with Elizabeth Clarke, a yoga teacher, saluting the sun through a yoga practice. A relaxed and comfortable environment ensues for beginners, as well as those experienced with yoga. The sanctuary of the summertime Arctic may bring your body and mind to a stillness of consciousness, a retreat from the constant pressures of western living.

The remainder of the day will be at nature’s discretion. Experienced and professional Inuit guides will lead you on breathtaking hikes of vast and daunting landscapes. It is in these calm and serene vistas where one hopes to encounter arctic hares, fox and perhaps even a polar bear. Birds of immense beauty soar above both land and water waiting to be captured in your imagination. Marvel at ancient Thule and Dorset tent rings used hundreds or perhaps thousands of years ago while you picnic and listen to the cultural stories of the Inuit people.

The speckled icebergs and waters of the Arctic Ocean also beckon to be explored by kayak or dry-suit snorkeling. Gentle Bowhead whales may chance by for a brief connection. Arctic Char teams in the sparkling river alongside the camp for those who wish to test their fishing skills.

Spiritually these sights will nourish your personal connection between nature and your being. To help nourish the physical body, natural whole foods will be thoughtfully prepared. All the menus have been planned with the expert guidance of a holistic nutritionist and executed through the skills of a professional chef. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the natural whole food meals shall be presented as a tool for health, a chance to rejuvenate your bodily systems. For those who wish to broaden their knowledge on the role nutrition plays in building, cleansing and maintaining a strong and healthy body, casual and educational seminars on healthy eating will be offered each day by the nutritionist. Let Elizabeth explain the history and natural goodness found in the blueberries you picked that very day. (Yes! There is fresh fruit in the Arctic!)

Impromptu pilates and stability ball exercise classes will be offered at various times during the week - develop your core while being energized by nature’s offerings. In the evening, before retiring to your down-filled mattress, enjoy the purity of the Arctic air while relaxing in the Spa. In the hot tub reflect upon the day’s events in the warm and mineral-rich ocean water and gaze upon the midnight sun.

An expanded awareness awaits those who wish to embrace it. Escape what has become normal in your life and embrace the sanctuary of Canada’s north and see what you find out about yourself. Life should be experienced, not just lived. Come and experience the Arctic.

Return to Qikiqtarjuaq and board your flight back to Iqaluit and onwards to Ottawa.