Yoga and Meditation Retreat
in Puerto Morelos, Mexico
- New Year's 2002

Mayan ruins in Tulum, near the retreat

General Remarks, Testimonials and Photos

The first AYA Christmas/New Year`s Yoga retreat took place in Puerto Morelos, Mexico and was a resounding success. There were 25 guests, many of them familiar to yoga and similar retreats and a few newcomers as well. You can read their testimonials below as well as viewing the retreat photos.

The weather was outstanding for the most part contributing to the general feeling of relaxation, cheerfulness and friendliness among all. The highs varied from the high 70s to low 80s except for one day which was a bit cooler. A few short rainstorms came sporadically not disrupting our activities at all.

Group

Most of the attendees did not know each other before but all mixed very well, sharing freely their yoga experience and getting to know each other better. Everyone came with the expectation of deepening their practice and knowledge of yoga and acted accordingly. Some said they appreciated the option of not attending classes and satsangs and yet the attendance was remarkably high including at the 6 AM morning satsangs.

All kids - ages 6 to 13 - brought a refreshing energy of playfulness and purity.

At the time of leaving the homogeneity of the group was obvious.

Group photo Mexico Jan. 2002

Classes & Teachings

There was no theme to the retreat which of course adhered strictly to the teachings of Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnu-devananda. There was an emphasis on both introducing the fundamentals to the newer practitioners and presenting the deeper aspects of the teachings to the more expert yogis and yoginis. Some even took advantage of the 5 AM swadhyaya class during which we studied the ¨Bhaja Govindam¨ scripture.

On the last morning two attendees took mantra initiation, thereby strengthening their connection to Master Sivananda, Swami Vishnu-devananda and all the masters of our illustrious Guruparampara.

One night we had a talent show. Most participated in one or several perfomances, showcasing their skills, talents, and above all, sense of humor.

Two silent meditation walks were taken on the beach. At the end of the second one we were treated to a poscard-like sunrise.

Accommodations

Since it was our first retreat hosted at Villas Shanti, we were very happy to see that all apartments were luxurious and very spacious. Just minutes off the beach, Villas Shanti is the perfect setting for such retreats and we are hoping to go back soon. Part of the charm comes from the friendliness of the owners, Jack and Jean, who did all they could to make our stay pleasant and comfortable.

Meals

All brunches and most dinners were catered for the retreat by local chef Johnny, owner of one of the town´s main restaurants. The food was extremely fresh, full of prana and savor. The cooks did a wonderful job at accommodating our yogic dietary requirements and serving wholesome, delicious Mexican meals.

Area

Not far from Cancun, Puerto Morelos is a small, quiet village which has not (yet?) been invaded by tourists and big time hotels. Right off the beach - which is just a few minutes walk from the ashram - lies a great reef. Spectacular snorkeling can be done as well as scubadiving in a nearby town. Incidentally the reef is the only earth´s feature visible from the moon. Or so we were told. We all went on an excursion to the ruins of the ancient Mayan city located in Tulum. That day was followed by a swim in the local ¨Cenote¨ (salted water/river/pond in a jungle setting). Amazingly across the street from the jungle-Cenote was the beach so most of us took a bath in the Caribbean sea as well. All this was capped by yet another excellent meal at the close by Mexican restaurant.

Conclusion

We all had a very good time and came back home relaxed, refreshed, energized and inspired to intensify our spiritual discipline. This is so important in these difficult and tense times.