Disconnect to Reconnect at Riviera Nayarit’s Yoga Retreats
In Riviera Nayarit, the practice of balancing mind, body and soul is considered a way of life. The bohemian-chic beach town of Sayulita has not only attracted professional surf to its shores, but avid yogis’ flock to the region drawn by the renowned yoga retreats that dot the coastline. Coupled with the destination’s peaceful natural setting, travelers seeking a higher state of meditation consider Riviera Nayarit a must in their journey to finding inner balance.
For those seeking a fully immersive yoga experience, the following retreats in Sayulita and elsewhere, are considered some of the region’s best:
Haramara Retreat
For morning or afternoon practice, Haramara offers two magnificent 360-degree view yoga pavilions, with high thatched roofs and handcrafted hardwood floors, both positioned to take advantage of the panoramic views of the lush mountains and soothing ocean breezes. Yoga, both private and group classes, are offered – upon check-in, guests may choose to meet their instructor to determine level of expertise and customize the practice to meet guest needs.
Mindful of the mind-body experience and overall health, the property restaurant serves set gourmet meals, three times a day, which are determined daily by the chef based on available local ingredients. All meals are vegetarian based, but may also include fish and seafood. To further establish a deeper peace, Haramara runs with no electricity, both in the restaurant and rooms. For more information on Haramara Retreat, please visit: http://www.haramararetreat.com/
From now through October 25, 2013 Haramara is offering a 2-Night Sampler Package for single/double occupancy and includes yoga classes, a massage or excursion and an onsite credit voucher. The package starts at US$989/US$1,270 (single/double). For more information, please click here.
In 2007, the Jacobi family heard their calling and built their dream. The Trailwind Jungle Lodge is located on the spectacular coastline, just north of the charming town of San Pancho. The lodge’s creatively designed, tree-house like bungalows, palapas and casitas are nestled amidst five acres of truly stunning jungle ridges descending to white sand beaches and vast Pacific Ocean. In March 2009, the Jacobi family fulfilled another dream when Tailwind became the first certified sustainable eco-lodge in Mexico. Owners and parents, Tiger (El Tigre) and Judi (Jungle Judi) Jacobi are from the United States and have since relocated with their two children, Tamara and Rhett. All four are hands-on with the building and maintenance of the property.
Yogis will be able to meet the Jacobi ladies during practice – Judi is the on-site yoga teacher while Tamara is the holistic nutrition coach. Both work in tandem to offer Natural Nourishment, a week long retreat that includes yoga sessions, holistic and natural nutrition workshops and outdoor activities. For more information on the retreat or the property, please visit: http://www.tailwindoutdoor.com/about.html
Mar de Jade
Mar de Jade was created in 1983 in the spirit of active community service, of gratitude for the natural environment and of the cultivation of genuine friendships. It was born from the dream of Dr. Laura del Valle to practice rural medicine by the ocean while running a Yoga Retreat & Wellness Center for visitors. Mar de Jade is located in Chacala, a peaceful fishing village about 90 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. The main house of Mar de Jade sits on the Chacala beach, its graceful contours and Mediterranean style serves as a gathering place for a variety of events and happenings. There are 17 Garden Suites and 11 Guest Rooms in addition to yoga and meditation studios, dining rooms, bar, guest lounge and reception.
Guests can participate in yoga, meditation or the temazcal ceremony (Aztec sweat lodge) or any of the scheduled on-property retreats. All food served at Mar de Jade is prepared with healthy, organic products from the property’s Organic Farm; free range eggs, organic milk, corn, beans, leafy greens, carrots, mangoes, passion fruit, hibiscus, peanuts and many other fruits and vegetables.
From November 17 – 24, 2013, the property is offering the Rest, Reconnect & Renew retreat which includes: seven nights’ accommodation; three meals per day; two yoga sessions; morning meditation; 60 minute massage; Temazcal ceremony; one half-day jungle excursion; and, more. The package starts at US$1,290/US$1,080 (single/double). For more information, please click here.
Paraiso Yoga
For travelers looking to be closer to the beach, ideal for the “zen surfer,” Paraiso Yoga is located right in Sayulita and a short two-block walk to the beach. Owner, Narayani, has been practicing yoga for more than 15 years and has been guided by some of the most advanced spiritual leaders including Duncan Wong, Baptiste Marceau and Peggy Orr, to name a few. The property offers three bungalows, perfect for a group of friends or making new friends. Each bungalow is bright, with furnishings that enhance a cozy, friendly living space. Gatherings can be held in the shared open-air kitchen or outdoor hangout space. On the premise, several yoga variations are offered – vinyasa, hatha, ashtanga – in order to identify the ideal practice for each student. For more information, please visit: http://paraisoyoga.com/
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