Join us on the sacred shores of Lake Atitlán and be immersed in the healing practices of yoga, meditation and Mayan ritual + ceremony for a week of deep rejuvenation and profound transformation! Lake Atitlán is believed by the Maya to be the center of the universe; the place where God’s seeds of mankind evolved. They also believed that this majestic lake represents the belly button or manipura chakra of the Earth. In human beings the manipura chakra is located at the solar plexus. In both cases, the location on the earth and the place in the body are characterized by the element of fire which governs all processes of transformation.

Cradled in the embrace of 3 majestic volcanoes, Lake Atitlán holds the potential for profound metamorphosis of mind, body and spirit. Here, you’ll be supported in finding a deeper connection to the heart of the Earth, and therefore, your own heart, which will allow the song of your soul to be clearly heard and wholeheartedly celebrated.

We invite you to sink in, relax and reconnect in a sacred and inspiring setting that fosters complete rejuvenation and a genuine sense of inner peace.

Our flow for the week: We'll begin our journey together by diving into spiritual alchemy as we move and breathe to create an interrelationship between mind and matter, between self and world. Spiritual alchemy is concerned with freeing your spiritual self which is trapped within you by the unrefined parts of yourself (e.g. your fears, personal beliefs, etc.). We will be guided by and aligned with the pace of nature and inspired by Mayan healing traditions as we seek to achieve a state of balance, renewal, and freedom. In between gathering for yoga, meals or ceremony, there will be ample opportunities to take a dip in the lake or pool, soak in the hot tub, detox in the sauna, rejuvenate with a massage, lounge in a hammock or unwind in the many beautiful spaces dedicated to reflection and relaxation. One need never leave the property unless an optional excursion suits your fancy. If you wish to explore outside the retreat grounds, many choices abound, from visiting a local village, to kayaking and bird-watching, hiking volcanoes, ziplining or taking Spanish lessons. Our Concierge will be happy to assist you in scheduling tours and activities. * All classes and activities are optional. Our program is designed to meet you where you’re at. We encourage you to participate in a way that best suits your body, mind and spirit.

Location: In the Sanskrit language, the word Sumaya means “long awaited dream come true,” and indeed, Villa Sumaya is the stuff dreams are made of. Nestled into a secluded lakefront cove on the stunningly beautiful shores of Lake Atitlán, Villa Sumaya rests upon 18 acres of sacred Mayan highlands and boasts panoramic views of a trio of spectacular volcanoes. The semi-tropical climate, lush and exotic vegetation and azure waters combine with the grandeur of the volcanoes to set the stage for what visitors describe as a true paradise. It’s an inspiring atmosphere in which the primordial power of nature allows you to let go of your cares, take a deep breath, and embrace the possibility of personal evolution. To add even more interest to this already dramatic landscape, there are twelve villages surrounding the lake, each with it’s own distinctive style, culture and traditions just waiting to be discovered. The beauty and magic of this very special place has sparked the imagination of many, so it comes as no surprise that it’s been featured in Yoga Journal magazine and Taschen’s quintessential book “Great Yoga Retreats.”

Within the grounds of Villa Sumaya, you’ll find everything you need for a supremely comfortable, convenient and relaxing stay, including well-appointed guest rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and gorgeous lake views. The views from the the glassed-in dining room and open-air terrace are just as dazzling and take the retreat dining experience to new heights. A well curated, on-site boutique features an eclectic array of fair-trade handicrafts, apparel, accessories and other treasures made by Guatemalan artisans- perfect for finding just the right mementos and gifts for yourself and your loved ones. If you wish to pamper yourself, Villa Sumaya offers wide variety of world class spa services, including massage (Swedish, Thai, Ayurvedic, Esalen and deep tissue), reiki, reflexology, facials, nail services and ionic foot baths. For a detoxifying sweat, the wood-burning sauna can be reserved for a small charge.

Yoga & Meditation:

We’ll gather for classes in the gorgeous Tara Temple which is located on the top of the Lotus House. The yoga sanctuary’s eclectic décor, breathtaking views, thatched roof, elegant altar and a state-of-the-art sound system combine to create a beautiful space in which to explore and expand mind, body and spirit. All props needed to support your practice are supplied.

Ritual & Ceremony:

Cacao Ceremony Xicoy: The Cacao Spirit, is one of the most playful spiritual guides in ancient Mayan cosmology. A traditional Mayan plant medicine, cacao induces an expansive, mood enhancing quality. It is used to uplift the spirit, open the heart, deepen focus, remove blockages and enhance awareness. Gathering in a sacred circle of celebration, we’ll partake in the ritual sharing of a cacao elixir- an experience that promotes a meditative, reflective state and inspires a profound sense of joy and heartfelt gratitude.

Mayan Day-Count Fire Ceremony:In the traditional Mayan day-count fire ceremony, beautiful offerings are created and consumed, invoking connectivity with source consciousness while prompting us to leave behind our conditioned concept of self and fueling the fire of our sacred life purpose. Resting in the stillness of the fire’s glow, we’re invited to lighten our load and soothe the scars resultant of life’s challenges, cultivating awareness and acceptance of the role we’ve played in the grand scheme of things.

Dining & Cuisine:

Meals at Villa Sumaya are lovingly prepared at Café Sumaya Sol and offer a culinary-conscious menu for slow food aficionados and eco-epicureans. A vegetarian-based, eclectic blend of local and international cuisine is created fresh daily from Guatemala’s cornucopia of fruit and vegetables. Breakfast includes a main dish, granola, yogurt, fruit and daily specials. Lunch features a hearty vegetarian main course, organic greens, homemade bread and a local fruit platter. Dinners consist of soup, a vegetarian entrée, seasonal side dishes, organic greens and a scrumptious dessert. Chicken and fish are also available at a small additional cost. All meals are enjoyed while taking in stunning views of the lake. The Café Sumaya Sol kitchen specializes in raw homemade treats, including cacao bliss balls, fruit rolls, granola bars and savory sprouted flax crackers. Try the delicious, homemade cranberry biscotti or selection of hand-crafted chocolate confections. Baked goods are produced daily and the juice bar features exotic smoothies as well as a refreshing, home-brewed strawberry ginger kombucha. There’s also an extensive self-service hot beverage bar that offers over 30 varieties of tea along with a coffee bar featuring organic, artisan coffee from a local cooperative.

Included In Your Package:

– 7 nights / 8 days en suite accommodation with lake views and patio seating

– 3 vibrant, prana-packed, vegetarian meals per day + unlimited coffee/tea/filtered water service

– Daily yoga and meditation

– 2 Sacred Mayan ceremonies

– Full use of retreat grounds and complimentary amenities 

– All taxes

*Additional Cost for Spa Services, Wifi ($3/day - $20/week), and Meat with Meals ($7 per meal)
Travel to Site is NOT Included (e.g., flight, transportation on mainland, food during travel)

Rooms + Pricing & Registration: All rooms are beautifully appointed with warm, inviting décor, Guatemalan antiques, private baths, outdoor patios, amazing views of the lake and volcanoes, orthopedic beds and high-quality linens. Lotus House hosts six rooms with two rooms on each of the three floors, all gracefully appointed rooms with private baths and stone showers that offer stunning lake view balconies or glorious garden patios. Tara Temple is on the top floor. Lotus House is easily accessible to all of Villa Sumaya’s amenities.

Single Occupancy: $2395

Double Occupancy: $1795 per person

Triple Occupancy: $1595 per person

To secure your room on retreat, please register with a $250 non refundable deposit by emailing binduyogastudio@gmail.com

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AGAPe Mou (my love) GREECE Yoga Retreat

August 31 - Sept. 7, 2019

Join Angel and Jimmy (greek hubby) for another yoga adventure to the beautiful islands of Greece!

Our retreat is aptly named "Agape Mou" translated to "my love", which is exactly how we feel about this land, culture, and people. We are thrilled to return for our 4th exploration with friends, yogis, and wanderlusting adventurist. Our destination this time round will be the island of Amorgos. Where we will enjoy fully equipped yoga shalas overlooking the Aegean Sea, on site spa, and locally garden-sourced organic meals! Our practices will be a spontaneous play between movement and stillness while enjoying a little guidance from our surroundings and culture.

Our greek retreats have been hands down some of our favorite! We'd love you for you to join us!

YOUR RE-TREATMENT INCLUDES:

• 8 Days, 7 nights accommodations in a Superior room with private balcony and sea view
• Transportation to resort from the Amorgos port on arrival and departure
• Daily yoga & meditation (including use of all mats and props)
• Breakfast buffet daily (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options are provided in case needed)
• Dinner daily  (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options are provided in case needed)
• Accommodations right on the water with beach access
• Use of Lalon Idor Spa facilities (sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, indoor heated seawater swimming pool, fitness center)

• One 30 minute Swedish massage – 10% discount on additional treatments

• Use of wireless internet

• Vat, City Tax and Government Tax

Does not include: flights or ferry to get to the Amorgos port, additional spa sessions, drinks or excursions.

Island excursions and guided tour options:

hiking, cooking classes, wine tasting, snorkeling, diving, herbal/essential oil distillery, greek dancing lesson

Room & Price:

Superior room with private balcony and sea view:
Double Occupancy – $1,595 per person
Single Occupancy – $2,595

Payment Schedule:

• In order to secure your reservation, a deposit of $500 is required (non-refundable). Reservations are first-come, first-serve basis
• 50% of the total amount owed is due by January 15th, 2019
• The remaining balance for your adventure with us is due by June 15th, 2019

Retreat Cancellation Policy:

$500 Deposit and subsequent retreat payments are non-refundable.

Machu Picchu, Peru

July 29 - August 5, 2017

BREATHE SPIRIT YOGA RETREAT

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Every year I lead one or more destination yoga and mindfulness retreats to unplug and reset. The retreats are held all over the world and are a way for each participant to enjoy a deeper connection to their yoga practice, to restore and renew the body mind spirit, and to allow space to gain a new perspective while exploring a new land and culture. 

When you change your day to day routine and your surroundings, you see things in a different light. 

Going to a new and different place creates an opportunity to see the world, and yourself, in a new perspective. This type of experience is an excellent way to grow and learn while meeting new people.

Being on a retreat is all about you time, your yoga, eating healthy foods, slowing down, and taking it all in without filters. Enjoying life in the purest and rawest form. 

Past Retreats:

Montezuma, Costa Rica * Santa Teresa, Costa Rica * North Carolina * Galapagos, Ecuador 

Santorini, Greece * Tuscany, Italy * Provence, France * Machu Picchu, Peru * Lucca, Italy