At Ritual Union, there is something for everyone and we're honored to be part of so many journeys. Read stories from our community.
From day one, Melissa became my absolute favorite yoga teacher and retreat leader! I met Melissa about 10 years ago when she began leading small yoga excursions in Mexico and I raised my hand to join a retreat after only a few classes with her. She immediately stood apart from everyone else as the best combination of approachable, grounded and talented. I have since been lucky to join her on five retreats across Europe and other parts of the globe. Each retreat and class is a journey of mindfulness and positive growth, as she skillfully blends her passion for honoring the mind-body connection with elements of joy. Her contemporary insights woven throughout her deep wisdom of the ancient practice, always leaves me feeling balanced and rejuvenated. In short, Melissa is a gem. She is dedicated to guiding all who take her classes to become the best version of themselves with a sense of humor and genuine enthusiasm for the practice.
Kathy, Minneapolis, MN
I had the pleasure of attending Melissa Schoeller's yoga retreat in Costa Rica in January 2024, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! The location created a peaceful, rejuvenating atmosphere that was a perfect way to kick off the new year. This was my first retreat so I was thankful for the great organization; the pace was just right, allowing ample options for classes, time for relaxation, and exploration of the surroundings. If you’re looking for a transformative experience in a beautiful setting with a well-organized, community-driven focus, I would definitely recommend a treat with Melissa!
Kelly P., Delano, MN
Spending a week in October 2024 with Melissa and Chelsea on the France Yoga Retreat was incredible! I had a wonderful time on my first yoga retreat! The ladies crafted every detail of our weeklong itinerary to make our stay at Domaine De Mournac unforgettable. Daily morning and evening yoga sessions, nature walks and hikes, natural hot springs, wine tastings, and farm-to-table meals a chef prepares daily!
Southern France, near the Pyrenees mountains and the border with Spain, lent the perfect backdrop to practice yoga surrounded by the countryside's natural beauty. Lovely and unforgettable memories! I look forward to participating in another retreat led by Melissa, an exceptional yogi and wellness enthusiast!
Bernice T., LA, California
Five retreats. Four countries. Solo traveler. What I love most is how each retreat with Melissa is unique—energizing and restorative yoga, unique venues and experiences, inspiring people, amazing food, and having time to simply relax and unwind. Melissa's thoughtful curation creates an environment where everyone—especially those traveling alone—feels instantly at home and each retreat has exceeded expectations. Melissa’s gift lies in effortlessly creating welcoming spaces where you can show up as your authentic self. Over the years, I have been surrounded by a welcoming community of kindred spirits that I look forward to connecting with on every journey. I (reluctantly) leave each retreat looking forward to the next --they've become my sanctuary for growth and renewal!
Denise N., LA, California
I’ve been on four retreats with Melissa. She’s an excellent teacher. She does an awesome job of coordinating and organizing all the retreats in every aspect of that. I’ve been on three winter retreats. One in Ely, Minnesota, the other two were in Detroit Lakes at Maplelag. All of them were a wonderful experience. I also attended a retreat in Montana at the Dancing Spirit Ranch, where I was enthralled with all the spiritual sites and intentional grounding areas at that Venue. Melissa does a wonderful job of seeking out really special places to have a retreat and to practice yoga with all her Yogi friends and clients. I find her to be a very kind, caring and loving person, and now she’s added a sound bath to her retreats -which really enhances the Yogi vibe of the whole experience! I can’t recommend her highly enough to anyone that is interested in going on a retreat. Namaste.
Jeff S., Plymouth, MN
I have been on several retreats with Ritual Union Yoga Retreats, including Tulum, Ely, Italy, and Morocco. The most recent retreat in Morocco was nothing short of magical. It was a beautifully curated experience that combined relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. The yoga sessions were held in serene, breathtaking locations. Each session felt purposeful, with amazing instructors guiding us through practices tailored to balance and rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you were a seasoned yogi or a beginner, there was something for everyone. One of the standout highlights was the hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Floating above Morocco’s vast landscapes as the sun painted the horizon was an experience I will never forget. Equally mesmerizing was the camel ride through the golden dunes of the Sahara. The food was exceptional—an authentic celebration of Moroccan cuisine. Each meal was a feast of vibrant flavors, from fresh tagines to delicate pastries and refreshing mint tea. Our trips to the souks were both exciting and educational. With local guides helping us navigate the labyrinth of colorful stalls, we discovered everything from intricate handwoven rugs to beautifully crafted ceramics and fragrant spices. This retreat was an incredible balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, ensuring that each participant felt cared for and inspired. It was more than a yoga retreat—it was a journey for the soul, offering moments of peace, wonder, and connection. If you’re looking for an unforgettable escape that feeds both the body and the spirit, you need to go on a Ritual Union Yoga Retreat with Melissa Schoeller and the rest of the teachers at Hola Yoga.
Jonathan F., Minneapolis, MN
I’ve been on a handful of retreats - thanks to Melissa - and they have truly been experiences I will remember for the rest of my life. My first trip was Cambutal, Panama which is a favorite for me because of the amazing surf. Going to Nosara, Costa Rica was my second favorite trip because of the amazing five star jungle resort with breath taking views in the yoga rooms. I also attended more local destinations (Joshua tree and Santa Margarita). And the third favorite trip was either Iceland or Bocas del Toro. I took my 80 year old mom for her birthday to Bocas and it was unforgettable. Everyone loved her and she was amazed by the wonderful meals that were prepared. I made her a book about it :) These trips are incredible and I was feel safe and taken care of. Thank you, Melissa, being such an amazing yoga/barre/spin/yin teacher and for being a lovely person I can call a friend.
Sloan L., Santa Cruz, CA
I’ve known Melissa for almost 20 years. We met when she owned a spin studio in S Minneapolis. I took one class with her and I was hooked. It wasn’t just the great class she taught but it was who she was. Who she is. She’s genuine and enthusiastic and inspiring. I’ve been on nine yoga retreats with her, all over Europe, and every one has been incredible. Her love of travel and adventure is evident in every venue she chooses and every excursion she plans. The yoga Melissa teaches on retreat prepares you for the adventures ahead that day and relaxes you at the end of them. Whether you’re doing a local class or a retreat thousands of miles away, Melissa is the person you want guiding you.
Jen M., New Hampshire, MA
There are many things I love about Melissa and her approach to yoga and fitness, and I’ll highlight a few. First, Melissa has an endless stream of physical and relational energy that she pours not only into every class but also into every interpersonal connection with every individual in her studio. This energy makes her classes more rewarding, physically challenging, and more inspiring. And it makes coming to her studio feel like home, and place of being seen and belonging. Secondly, Melissa creates community… strong, loving community. She finds common interests across her clients and seamlessly connects people to each other and new friendships are formed. In addition to lots of sweat, her classes are filled with laughter, hugs, and motivating cheers. Further, Melissa possesses deep knowledge across many fitness & health disciplines and the human body, and she generously shares her expertise during and after classes to ensure her clients maximize their potential and experience. My flexibility, strength, and agility have grown significantly as a result of Melissa’s guidance. Finally, Melissa finds a way to perfectly blend pushing your physical edges, tapping into your inner emotions and gratitude, and having fun to the best playlists. I am grateful to be Melissa’s student and she is bar-none the best fitness and yoga instructor there is!
Sarah Y., Minnetonka, MN
The only thing better than yoga with Melissa at the lake or in the studio is yoga on retreat with Melissa. There is nothing quite like being guided through Nidra under the stars in Belize while listening to the waves softly meet the sand. I can safely say I’ve found my fitness community and look forward to many more yogi adventures!
Emily C., Plymouth, MN
When I first learned about Melissa's yoga retreat in Tulum of course I thought it sounded and looked amazing but I wasn't sure if I could justify the indulgence. Well I know now it is worth every penny! In the one week I felt stronger, relaxed and more in balance that I had in years. The yoga is amazing - it doesn't get better than working out surrounded by jewel toned water, powder soft sand, and blue skies. The food is unbelievable - healthy, delicious, fresh, and beautifully presented. And fresh juices with every meal! When I wasn't working out I was reading a book in a hammock, exploring the ruins or the cute shops that were right outside our resort, or walking along the beach. There's something about spending a week surrounded by beauty and by lovely, regular, down to earth people, with zero demands or distractions. I can't wait to to do it again - now I just have to decide which retreat to go on next year - this will definitely be an annual tradition!
Kelly H., California
I’ve been to four yoga retreats in Mexico led by Melissa. She is a skilled yoga instructor and goes out of her way to ensure her yogis have an excellent experience. Her warm and inviting attitude creates a real sense of community among retreat goers. I’ve met some wonderful people on these retreats. I plan to continue as many of her retreats as I can in the future. Highly recommend!!
Nicole B., Wisconsin
I had a wonderful time in Tulum thanks to Melissa's excellent teaching skills and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. The beach was beautiful but it was the yoga classes that brought the group together. Melissa provided individual attention to each class member and modified the class to include all skill levels. The food was fantastic. Who knew gluten and dairy free could taste so good? Overall the week in Tulum was amazing. My only regret is that I live in Arizona and am unable to take weekly classes from Melissa.
Joyce R., Arizona