“Here comes the sun” Yoga Retreat in Guatemala with Aliya

Welcome, kindred spirits, to the start of your transformative journey. The moment your feet touch the sacred soil of Guatemala, you can feel the energy of the land welcoming you, its rich history and vibrant culture pulsating beneath your feet. You'll be picked up from the airport and whisked through the picturesque landscapes of this splendid country to Panajachel, a quaint and lively lakeside town. Here, board one of the public water taxis and prepare for a serene glide across the azure waters of Lake Atitlán to San Marcos La Laguna. Your destination is The Yoga Forest, a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation dedicated to wellness, nestled in the heart of Guatemala's enchanting Lake Atitlán region.

Upon check-in, feel free to unwind after a day of travel — take a gentle stroll around the property, acquainting yourself with the pockets of peace that you'll call home. Feel the energy of the place seeping into your being, grounding you in the present moment, and sparking that divine connection within.

As the sun begins to lower its gaze, we'll gather for our first community dinner. As we relish in a hearty meal this evening, you'll start to feel the bonds of this sacred community forming, a sense of shared purpose and connection that will only deepen as your journey unfolds. Celebrate the start of a transformative experience like no other, where sacred ceremonies, and the divine energy of our surroundings will heal and empower mind, body, and spirit.

As the first rays of sunlight paint the morning sky with hues of warmth and promise, your second day of transformation begins. Rise with the dawn and join Aliya for a sacred yoga and meditation session. In the cool embrace of the morning air, allow the day's first light to illuminate your practice. Sync your breath with the rhythm of the awakening world around you, creating harmony within and without.

Following this serene morning practice, we'll gather for a nourishing brunch. Let each bite fuel your body and spirit for the day ahead, while you enjoy the companionship of your fellow seekers. After brunch, you'll be able to enjoy some free time at leisure. Allow yourself to wander and wonder in the blissful surroundings of our wellness retreat. Connect with nature, with your companions, with your inner self.

As the afternoon sun starts to wane, prepare yourself for the immersive experience of a Temazcal ceremony. This ancient Mesoamerican ritual, conducted in a traditional sweat lodge, is a purifying journey that cleanses your body, mind, and spirit, releasing any blockages and paving the way for renewal.

After dinner, participate in a releasing ceremony, whereby we invite you to consciously let go of what no longer serves you, opening space for new energies, experiences, and wisdom to enter.

As the new day unfurls its golden splendor, your transformative journey continues. Begin your day in the sacred communion of body and mind with morning meditation, movement and yoga. Feel the day's first light infuse your heart with a vibrant energy, while the serene backdrop lends a touch of the divine to your practice.

After a day free of responsibility, share stories over dinner as dusk begins to drape its gentle veil over the day. Finally, we'll come together for a sharing circle to close the day.

Greet the dawn of your fourth day with a serene morning meditation and movement session. As the gentle light of dawn graces the sky, let it illuminate your inner landscape, guiding you into a state of deep peace and connection. Following this tranquil morning practice, we'll enjoy a delicious brunch. Then, the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure.

As the afternoon sun gives way to the softer hues of evening, we'll gather once again for a shared meal. Let the simple act of enjoying nourishing food together deepen the bonds of our shared journey! We'll then close the night with a sacred cacao ceremony. Cacao has been revered by ancient cultures for its heart-opening properties, serving as a bridge to the divine and guiding users into a space of deep introspection and connection.

On the final full day of your transformative journey, rise with the sun once more and embrace the divine energy of a morning meditation and movement session. Awaken your body, focus your mind, and ignite your spirit as you move through each pose. After brunch, indulge in some free time — explore the grounds, work on your own practice, or forge stronger bonds your fellow retreat companions.

As the day unfolds, gather for a sound healing ceremony. This practice uses the power of sound and vibration to restore harmony to your body, mind, and spirit. Be guided into a state of deep relaxation and healing. And finally, after one last dinner together, we'll partake in a sharing circle. We'll then initiate our closing ceremony to celebrate your journey and honor the transformations, realizations, and connections that have unfolded over the past days.

We've come to the last day of our retreat — we hope you have had a wonderful journey connecting with yourself and with the sacred energies of Guatemala. After one last breakfast this morning, it’s time to leave the hotel behind and depart for the airport. We hope to see you again — travel safe!