Recharge and Renew Your Energy in San Marcos, Guatemala: A Winter Retreat Above Lake Atitlan
As the winter season sets in, many of us find ourselves getting stagnant during the winter and especially after the holiday season. That is why the Renew You Retreat is the place to be if you are ready to escape the cold and embark on a transformative journey to reset and recharge your energy. Whether you want a meditation retreat, yoga retreat or spiritutal retreat that is exactly what we bring to you. I chose the Yoga Forest because it is nestled above the breathtaking Lake Atitlan in Guatemala and the serene town of San Marcos. San Marcos offers a haven for seekers of inner peace, self-discovery, and holistic healing. I traveled here in 2019 and spent 3 weeks soul searching. I not only discovered many things within me but I truly transformed, becoming the woman I am today. I left this town for a Soulwork Ambassadors Training where I met our facilitator Jess. Her movement meditations bring layers of healing and awareness within. When I arrived back to the states I met facilitator Cynthia. Her knowledge is profound and life changing. I did not know then that they would be the first teachers I invite to my retreat but years later watching them work, I knew it was their teachings I needed to bring to the masses. January 21-28 2024 is the ideal time for us to renew our energy and partake in ceremonies that will integrate not only the teachings but our energy to be brand new even while we leave the retreat. January 25 is a full moon ceremony you wont want to miss!!
Here’s a list of why I chose the Yoga Forest as our sanctuary.
1. A Scenic Sanctuary:
The Yoga Forest is located in the highlands of Guatemala, surrounded by lush forests and overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlán. The peaceful and tranquil setting provides an ideal atmosphere for relaxation, meditation, and self-reflection. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the beauty of nature awaken your senses, allowing you to reconnect with your inner self.
2. Community and Connection:
The Yoga Forest fosters a sense of community and connection among retreat participants. Shared meals, group activities, and communal spaces provide opportunities for individuals to connect with like-minded people from around the world, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
3. A Haven for Yoga and Meditation:
As experienced yoga teachers, energy workers and leaders we understand the importance of finding the perfect space for your practice.The Yoga Forest is that sanctuary you are looking for whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, you'll find this sacred place will allow you to delve into the transformative power of these ancient practices.
4. Healing Waters and Mayan Traditions:
Lake Atitlan, often referred to as the "sacred lake," is believed to possess powerful healing properties. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are said to cleanse and purify the body, mind, and spirit. We will engage in a temazcal (sweat lodge) ceremony, experience a traditional Mayan fire ceremony, & your choice to simply immerse yourself in the healing energy of the lake, allowing it to wash away any stagnant energy and revitalize your being.
5. Winter Bliss:
Escape the winter blues and embrace the blissful climate of San Marcos during your retreat. While the northern hemisphere experiences colder temperatures, San Marcos enjoys mild, pleasant weather year-round.Even during their rain season, locals call it the green season. This combination of the favorable climate and the transformative energy of San Marcos will create the perfect environment for your winter retreat.
6. Sustainable and Eco-friendly Practices:
The Yoga Forest is committed to sustainable living and eco-friendly practices. The retreat center operates off-grid, utilizing solar power, composting toilets, and rainwater harvesting systems. Retreat participants can learn about sustainable living practices and reconnect with nature.
7. Cultural Immersion:
San Marcos is a vibrant and culturally rich town in Guatemala. Retreat participants have the opportunity to explore the local Mayan culture, visit nearby villages, and engage in community projects. This cultural immersion adds a unique dimension to the retreat experience.
8. Safety:
This is last but most important. The Yoga Forest is retreat center that allowed me to curate the retreat with their help. Meaning I make the program, hire staff and handle money but they are able to handle everything else. Transportation from the airport/antigua to San Marcos and porters to meet us in San Marcos to walk up to the retreat center are provided. All attendees must provide us with your flight details. If you are looking for places to stay before or after the retreat they even gave us recommendations.
Overall, retreating at The Yoga Forest in San Marcos offers a chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, reconnect with oneself, and embrace a holistic approach to well-being in a beautiful and nurturing environment.San Marcos, Guatemala, offers a sanctuary for those seeking to reset and renew their energy. The Renew You Retreat was carefully curated to not only renew your energy but to teach you how to integrate this into your daily life back home, wherever that may be.
