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O ccasionally there will be an opportunity that could awaken for you a true connection and appreciation for the beauty and joy of life. Many who have participated in our “Yoga in Paradise” retreat at Maya Tulum (Mexico) have had such an experience…some changing their lives in ways they never could have imagined.

Maya Tulum is a magnificent retreat center bathed by the magical warm waters of the Caribbean Sea in the Yucatan Peninsula. This is the country of the Maya and is alive with physical beauty and spiritual energy. The center is located one and one half hours south of Cancun and lies at the entrance of the Sian Ka’an National Park, an intact nature reserve.

The resort is run by Mayan Indians. They are light-hearted, gentle people that delight in serving their guests. The facilities include cabanas for lodging, a large meditation/yoga hall and a large dining area, all beautifully constructed in the Mayan tradition. The cabanas are round, rustic and charming. They are surrounded by windows for striking views of the sea and jungle and are covered with high thatched roof ceilings that give a wonderful sense of openness.

Check it out on >>>> www.mayatulum.com

The retreat will be guided by KATHY KACENA (Yoga Samadhi Columbia Gorge) and DOUG EIFRID (Yoga Samadhi Atlanta). They have led many retreats at Maya Tulum and consider this peaceful, sacred haven their spiritual home. The atmosphere that Kathy and Doug create is one of a light-hearted nature for students of all levels who want to deepen their connection to yoga and celebrate life.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS A typical day will include: 7:30-9:30 : Yoga and meditation 9:30 : Breakfast; buffet of fabulous Mayan inspired vegetarian cuisine, including ample quantities of fresh fruits, vegetables and grains of southern Mexico; dairy products, coffee, tea, juice and purified water is provided for no extra fee; soft drinks are available for extra charge. 1:30-3:00 : Buffet lunch 4:00-5:00 : Chanting 5:00-6:30 : Yoga and meditation 7:00 : Vegetarian dinner buffet; fish available; bar (added charge) >> Dynamic and still meditation will be offered at various times throughout the week. >> Relaxing and walking on the miles of beautiful, empty, white sand beaches or swimming in the marvelous blue-green Caribbean. The following activities are available but optional. * indicates an extra charge. >> *Tour of the Sian Ka’an nature reserve and world famous bird sanctuary. >> *Tour of the Mayan ruins at Tulum & Coba. >> Exploring and swimming in the cenotes. (fresh water pools) >> *Massage, facial or other spa treatments >> Snorkeling >> *Scuba diving

The morning yoga class will be energizing vinyasa flow, a dynamic sequence of traditional poses linked by breath. It integrates awareness, alignment, balance, strength, flexibility and grace. The flow will be followed by traditional hatha yoga floor poses such as backbends, seated forward bends, twists and inversions. The last 20 minutes of the class will be devoted to pranayama (breath practices)

The afternoon class is softer with Yin yoga and gentle vinyasa. Yin yoga features seated and reclining poses passively held 3-5 minutes and focuses on releasing deep connective tissue; this approach marries asana and meditation to create a very deep, quiet practice.

Kathy and Doug have a light hearted style of teaching which gives each student permission to meet themselves where they are in the practice while also providing them opportunity for growth.

For rates and availability contact Kathy at 509-637-4293 or Kacena@gorge.net.