Medicine for the Soul— A yoga retreat into the 5 Universal Elements

Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico

HY
Hanuman Yoga Retreat & Holistic Living
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10 reviews
Feb 13 - 20, 2021
Group size: 1 - 14
Medicine for the Soul— A yoga retreat into the 5 Universal Elements
Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico

Hanuman Yoga Retreat & Holistic Living
  • Email address verified
  • LinkedIn verified
10 reviews

Feb 13 - 20, 2021
Group size: 1 - 14

About this trip

One week.  No electricity. Full digital detox. 360 degrees of nature. A sanctuary for the senses. An immersion into the five universal elements. Fire. Water. Earth. Air. Energy.  A journey into the fullness of your being. 


In the tropical hills of Sayulita, we warmly welcome you to Haramara Retreat. A sacred and intimate seaside Mexican hideaway set in the Riviera Nayarit. A nourishing space for your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual body. This is MEDICINE FOR THE SOUL. 

The Five Universal Elements

AIR

Gentle ocean breezes will bless you each day at Haramara. The element of air teaches us about expansion, circulation, and lightness.  In yoga, the breath allows for spaciousness to open up in our body. This helps us gain strength, flexibility, and balance in the pose. In everyday situations, the quality of your breath informs whether we are feeling stressed or relaxed; focused or overwhelmed. When we practice awareness of the breath, we can deepen into any experience with more presence. 


WATER

Water is a purifying, rejuvenating element reminding us to be in the flow of life. Drinking plenty of water is also an essential part of the body's cleansing and re-hydration process. It is often the final part of a self-care practice, especially when there has been a physical or energetic shift. On the outer level, letting the body submerge in water is naturally refreshing and calming to the nervous system. Your retreat will offer plenty of time to relax in the saltwater infinity pool or swim in the ocean from Haramara's private beach. 


EARTH

The earth element creates our foundation and keeps us grounded. Our roots are a reflection of who we are and how we grow.  Being rooted in self-care and self-love helps us stay on track. When we feel a lack of balance, it's a gentle reminder to reconnect to what gives us stability. This week is designed to slow your pace in life and disconnect from the outside world of news, social media, and doing— and hold more meaning in just being. We'll explore many ways to connect to our sense of safety and security, while increasing our full potential.


FIRE

Fire is the most stimulating of the elements. It has the power to transform, illuminate what needs to be seen, and release. We will engage in two special Mayan traditions to ignite the fire within us: a cacao ceremony and a Temazcal ritual. The cacao ceremony will activate the heart and allow energy to flow through. An open and present heart frees us from emotional blockages and past trauma. The Temazcal ritual will be led by a local healer who will guide us into the four directions. It'll be an experience of chanting, drumming, heat, steam, sweat, purification, and detox. 


ENERGY

The symbol of the fifth element is a combination of the four triangles. In Tibetan Buddhism, it is identified as space, sky, or ether. Other traditions name it as spirit. It occupies the area around the other elements, and it's where mystery and magic resides.  When we attune to the elements within and outside ourselves, we become more conscious beings living in balance, harmony, and fulfillment. 

Your Retreat Team

TAMMY HAYANO
Originally from California, Tammy has been living and traveling worldwide for over two decades. Tammy took her love of travel, teaching background, and interest in transformational experiences to start Hanuman Yoga Retreat. Since its launch in 2013, Tammy has led retreats in Bali, Thailand, Mexico, Hawaii, Vietnam, and California. Tammy brings a gentle, calm, and reflective approach and aims to work where people are at, instead of where they "should" be.   Tammy offers several modalities for self-care, healing, and connection— Hatha Yoga,QiGong,  JourneyDance™, Innerdance Energy Work, TRE®/tension-trauma release, Laughter Yoga, Family Constellations, and Craniosacral Therapy. Tammy's classes, workshops, and retreats consistently receive excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, BookYogaRetreats, and WeTravel. Tammy is a nomad currently based in Santa Cruz, California. Follow Hanuman Yoga Retreat on Instagram and Facebook.

IS THIS RETREAT RIGHT FOR ME?

Our past retreat participants have ranged in ages 20-60, men, women, various nationalities, single travelers, mother/adult daughters, couples, lawyers, artists, doctors, teachers, and everything else in between. :) The more diverse, the merrier! This is not a yoga or meditation boot camp! This is a retreat-- you have chosen to take a break, rest, restore, and care for yourself. If you do have yoga experience...the classes will still be gentle and/or moderate. This is the intention of the retreat. 


There will be no electricity and no WiFi, and you're going to be okay! :D If necessary, plan ahead by notifying your loved ones and taking care of any tasks. You'll be surprised what benefits you'll receive from a digital detox. 


The hillside property of Haramara has been designed like a nature trail with elevation. It'll feel like you are on a short hike walking from the restaurant to your room, going from the beach to the yoga shala. These are dirt paths, slightly narrow, with the occasional roots sticking up or a branch to duck under. It makes for a mindful experience— slowing down, taking in the nature, and keeping your cardio working! 


We ask that you refrain from drugs, alcohol, or smoking during this retreat. Since we'll be detoxing A LOT physically, mentally, emotionally, and energetically, it's not advised to replenish all that clear and cleansed space in your body with substances. :) 

HOW SAFE IS IT TO TRAVEL TO MEXICO?

I have held retreats in Mexico every year for the past seven years, and I always look forward to being back. Mexicans are some of the most genuinely warm, good-hearted, and kind people you'll ever meet. I feel very comfortable traveling solo in Mexico, taking local transport, and eating at street stalls-- and that's without knowing any Spanish! Please don't believe any negative press about Mexico or Mexicans. I can assure you that you will be charmed by this country!


Currently, there is no COVID testing or quarantine required to enter Mexico. On your flight, you will be given a brief health form to fill out before landing at Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). Your temperature will be taken upon arrival at the airport. You will be picked up at the airport by Haramara's shuttle and taken directly to the hotel. We will group you according to arrival time, and you’ll be asked to wear masks and travel with windows open.


Haramara is located in Sayulita, in the state of Nayarit. Puerto Vallarta Airport is located in the state of Jalisco. Both regions have very low cases of COVID per 100,000 residents.


In early Sept. 2020, I personally visited Haramara and spent two weeks in Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta. My time there was wonderful, and it was the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Also, please check if your country, city, workplace, etc. will suggest quarantine after your trip. 


In light of COVID, Haramara has put forth new procedures for sanitation and cleanliness. The property is fortunate to be almost entirely open-air. This means that fresh ocean air is constantly circulating (good!) instead of staying trapped in closed indoor spaces (bad!). February is a wonderful time of year to visit Sayulita. It is hot and sunny during the day, with cool mornings and evenings. Read here for Haramara's updated COVID procedures to ensure cleanliness and safety.

DEPOSITS AND CANCELLATION POLICY

To book your spot, we ask for an initial $200 deposit. The final balance will be due on Jan. 28, 2021 (2.5 weeks before the retreat).  These payments are fully refundable (minus $15 processing fee) under these conditions:


In the event that the retreat is cancelled by Hanuman Yoga Retreat or Haramara, you will receive a $1000 refund and the remaining paid amount can be used as credit for a future retreat. This credit will be valid for 3 years from Feb. 13, 2021. This credit can be used for any Hanuman Yoga Retreat at Haramara. 

Once you purchase your flight and this retreat, you are responsible for purchasing travel insurance that will cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical/dental, and emergency evacuation/repatriation. Some of the most popular travel insurance providers are Allianz, GeoBlue, World Nomads, American Express, and Travel Guard. Your credit card or employer may also provide certain coverage. Check that the insurance has coverage in the event that:​

  • there are new travel restrictions to/from Mexico and to/from your place of departure that would prevent you from attending the retreat. 
  • You have been tested positive for COVID-19.

You are responsible for the following:

  • Checking that your passport is valid
  • Purchasing travel insurance
  • Checking about any quarantine policy upon return to your home residence and workplace
  • We recommend booking flights that are fully refundable or can be flexibly re-booked. Most airlines offer this already.

Neither Hanuman Yoga Retreat nor Haramara are liable for any loss of personal property; your health condition during or after the retreat; or any matters in the event of a cancellation (ie. how it may impact your plans. )

What’s included

  • 7 nights stay
    Haramara was recently named one of the Top 10 Eco Resorts by Yoga Journal! Enjoy rustic luxury with gorgeous ocean views and jungle surroundings
  • Gastronomic delights
    Three fresh, organic, gourmet meals per day by top-rated Mexican chefs. Meals can be catered to special dietary needs.
  • Daily yoga & meditation
    Each morning will begin with Hatha yoga and guided meditation in beautiful open-air shala
  • Unique classes
    Each afternoon will feature a different self-care modality: laughter yoga, QiGong, TRE® (tension-trauma release), etc.
  • Nightly programs
    Inspiring evening gatherings: innerdance energy work, family constellation exercises, open mic night, beach gallery
  • Conscious retreat team
    Full support from highly experienced, trauma-informed, multi-disciplinary facilitators who bring joy to their work
  • Swimming pool
    Relax and refresh in the saltwater infinity pool
  • On-site private beach
    A secluded and pristine paradise
  • Temazcal ceremony
    An ancient Mexican ritual to cleanse and clear your energy
  • Cacao cermony
    A Mayan tradition to awaken the heart
  • 19% Mexico hotel tax
    We'll take care of this!
  • COVID testing
    Available on-site with a certified doctor

What’s not included

  • Airfare
  • Spa treatments
    Go ahead and splurge yourself!
  • Extra food/drinks
    Available for purchase at the juice bar by the pool
  • Staff gratuity
    $15/day or $100 for the entire week. Cash only please.
  • Airport transfer
    Approximately USD $30-$45 roundtrip from PVR (Puerto Vallarta International Airport) to the hotel. Cash payment upon arrival please.

Available Packages

Female dorm

The female dorm is spacious and has two shared bathrooms. Although it typically holds 8 beds, only 4 beds will be available to ensure more comfort. This is a great option for solo female travelers. 

$1,915
Triple room casita

Triple room occupancy is 3 adults per cabana and one shared bathroom.  This is a great options for solo travelers, a trio of friends, or family members. This is a room for men only. 


Our all-inclusive package rates are per person, include tax and are priced below in USD. All casitas have Pacific Ocean views and are set on a hill.  They have been designed to blend in with nature, combining simple elegance, seclusion, and comfort. Each cabana features ensuite bathrooms with hot water shower. Rooms do not have electricity, but come equipped with oil lamps to create an intimate evening setting. 



$2,185
Double room casita

Double room occupancy is 2 adults per cabana and one shared bathroom. Choose two twin beds or one king size bed. If you are a solo traveler, you will be placed with a roommate of the same gender. Please indicate the bed set-up in your booking.  If you are booking for 2 people, please change the 'number of participants' to 2 in the option given. 


Our all-inclusive package rates are per person, include tax and are priced below in USD. All casitas have Pacific Ocean views and are set on a hill.  They have been designed to blend in with nature, combining simple elegance, seclusion, and comfort. Each cabana features ensuite bathrooms with hot water shower. Rooms do not have electricity, but come equipped with oil lamps to create an intimate evening setting. 



$2,355
Single room casita

The single room occupancy is one adult per cabana and ensuite bathroom.  Treat yourself to your own exclusive sanctuary!


Our all-inclusive package rates are per person, include tax and are priced below in USD. All casitas have Pacific Ocean views and are set on a hill.  They have been designed to blend in with nature, combining simple elegance, seclusion, and comfort. Each cabana features ensuite bathrooms with hot water shower. Rooms do not have electricity, but come equipped with oil lamps to create an intimate evening setting. 


$3,055


Itinerary

Sample itinerary
Feb. 13—20, 2021

Please be sure to arrive at PVR (Puerto Vallarta International Airport) by 5 pm. It takes about 15 to 45 minutes to go through immigration. The drive from PVR to Haramara, Sayulita takes about an hour. If you will be arriving before the check-in time, no problem! You can leave your bags at reception and head down to the pool, beach, town, or relax in the lounge.

SAT., FEB. 13, 2021
3—7 pm: Check-in open
6:30 pm: Dinner
8:00 pm: Welcome ceremony

FEB. 14~19, 2021
7:30 am—9:00 am: Gentle/moderate Hatha yoga
9:00 am: Breakfast
11:00—11:45 am: Meditation
12:00 pm: Lunch 
4:00 pm: Unique wellness modalities (1.5 hrs)
*Feb. 14: Cacao ceremony. Feb. 17: Temazcal
6:00 pm: Dinner
7:30 pm: Evening gathering (1.5 hrs)

FEB. 20, 2021
8:30 am: Breakfast

9:30 am: Closure
11:00 am: Check-out


Please book your flight to depart PVR after 2:30 pm. That will allow for an 11:30 am departure from Haramara; arriving in Puerto Vallarta at 12:30 pm. This will give you 2 hours to check-in at the airport. It is not a big or busy airport. However, it will allow time for you to get lunch or do some last minute shopping without feeling rushed.

Your Organizer


HY
Hanuman Yoga Retreat & Holistic Living
10 reviews
Tammy Hayano is the creator of Hanuman Yoga Retreat & Holistic Living. For her, teaching is both an inner and outer journey of interconnectedness and transformation. She loves bringing people together to offer meaningful experiences— building a conscious relationship to the self, others, nature, and the spirit world. Tammy is trained in: Hatha Yoga, Qigong, Innerdance Energy Work, TRE/tension-trauma release, Laughter Yoga, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, Breathwork, and Family Constellations. She is also a medium and psychic.

Reviews

I absolutely loved this retreat with Tammy & Alessia!! Everything flowed really well and I felt there was a really good balance between scheduled sessions & free time to just relax, swim and connect with the wonderful group of people. The venue at OM Waters was really a special experience. I had been there before, but the surroundings were even more beautiful than I'd remembered. I especially loved the "Family Constellations" session with Tammy ~ it was really an expansive and profound experience for me (and definitely stretched my comfort zone as well). The food was also overall really great and they made special accommodations for vegan and gluten-free. After the retreat, since the resort is floating on the lake, I did experience a sense of "still moving" for 1 day after the retreat, haha, but totally worth it ;) I'd absolutely recommend Tammy's retreats and would love to join again in the future!
By Heidi W for Awakening the Soul~ THAILAND Yoga & Wellness Retreat on Dec 06, 2023
I had a fabulous time. Om Lake was spectacularly beautiful. Tammy and Alicia were wonderfully warm facilitators. I would highly recommend this retreat if you are looking for beauty, solitude, and a deeper meaning for yourself. Francine
By Francine R for Awakening the Soul~ THAILAND Yoga & Wellness Retreat on Dec 01, 2023
I enjoyed engaging in so many activities, including yoga, chi kong, and breathwork, and swimming which were my favorites with competent and attentive hosts and lovely folks who chose to enjoy our retreat. Tammy and Alessia performed well with their presentations. The sleeping quarters were challenging as my room was abutting the wall of the dining area where folks liked to gather and gab. I had a long noisy walk to the toilet at night which was difficult and someone was snoring above or behind me and unfortunately my ear plugs did work so I slept very little the first night. The food was cooked and prepared with good intention but I question the quality of some of the ingredients of some dishes and I thought there was not a lot of nutritional benefit knowing what I know about food. I did suggest to staff that they ditch the soymilk as it. has a poor reputation if not organic. I am on a Keto diet so the food was not so. appealing to me.
By John Michael S for Awakening the Soul~ THAILAND Yoga & Wellness Retreat on Nov 24, 2023
The retreat at Haramara was simply amazing. Tammy is an extraordinary facilitator and a wonderful soul. I was able to strengthen my yoga practice thanks to Tammy's most professional teachings. Besides that we were able to enjoy a number of astonishing modalities, in particular in the field of energy work, which were indeed fascinating. Haramara is a heavenly place perfect to get away from everything, find peace and quiet and connect with nature.
By Marco F for Medicine for the Soul— A yoga retreat into the 5 Universal Elements on Mar 03, 2021
DM
I had a fantastic time. There were a variety of activities and all were nourishing. The accommodations were great and the food was tasty. I loved being by the ocean, hearing the waves and watching the sunset or the moon. This is my second retreat with Tammy and I just love what she put together for the New Year. I'm so grateful for this opportunity and for the connections made!
By Denise M for New Year's Yoga, Meditation, Wellness Retreat on Jan 10, 2021
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