Have you ever felt drawn to a place without really knowing why? For years, I’d heard stories about the beauty and serenity of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, from a friend who had visited and lived there for a short while. Her vivid tales of this ✨ magical ✨ spot in Central America always lingered in the back of my mind with me, and yet, life kept me from making the trip—until I realized time is always passing. If I wanted to visit, I had to act.
A little research led me to Eagle’s Nest, an eco-lodge perched high above the lake in the charming town of San Marcos. Between the breathtaking views and my growing need to unplug and reset after a particularly busy stretch at my corporate job, I knew I had found the perfect retreat. As a yoga teacher myself, sometimes we need to put ourselves in our student's shoes and be a student again.
Eagle’s Nest: A Haven for Yoga and Connection
Eagle’s Nest is truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. The retreat center features a yoga shala with stunning panoramic views of the lake, which made every practice feel like a sacred ritual. A cozy common area—complete with treehouse vibes, a swing, and friendly cats—was the perfect spot to relax between activities.
The eco-lodge offers delicious meals three times a day at its café, with plenty of options to refuel if you’re hungry for more (I treated myself to an Affogato - yum!). Unique features like a temezcal sauna (open daily in the evenings), additional yoga and meditation classes, workshops, and even other classes like aerial silks made it easy to find moments of personal growth while balancing relaxation. On a personal note, I was able to get much further along in the Ashtanga Primary Series than I ever was able to at home thanks to the great teachers and their hands-on-adjustments. There's nothing like twisting yourself like a pretzel before breakfast.
Guatemala: A Destination Like No Other
Lake Atitlán is a gem of natural beauty surrounded by lush volcanoes and steeped in vibrant culture. As a solo traveler, I felt safe and welcomed by the local community, whose warmth and kindness made my journey even more special. The combination of Mayan traditions and Spanish colonial influences created a rich cultural tapestry that left a lasting impression.
Highlights of My Retreat Experience
My days at Eagle’s Nest were filled with yoga and meditation, offering the perfect balance of movement and stillness. One of the most memorable moments was participating in a Mayan Cacao Fire Ceremony, which felt both grounding and transformative. The ceremony which uses fresh flowers, candles, and is visually, very beautiful. We honored our ancestors, learned about Mayan traditions, and at the end we all enjoyed a delicious hot cup of cacao (hot chocolate) – yum!
The healthy, nourishing meals fueled my body and spirit, and I savored the downtime to soak in the views, read a book, or simply be present. Outside of yoga, I explored the Reserva Natural Cerro Tzankujil, kayaked across the shimmering lake, and even witnessed some brave people diving off a high platform into the water below! I was in a kayak, so enjoyed the dives from the safety of the water, but next time I'm around, I definitely want to conqueror my fear and try.
Why I’m Hosting a Yoga Retreat Here
As I took in the magic of Lake Atitlán, I couldn’t help but imagine sharing this experience with others. Eagle’s Nest exceeded my expectations, and I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be hosting a yoga retreat there next October!
This retreat will be a unique opportunity to:
Deepen your yoga and meditation practice through daily classes and workshops.
Explore the beauty of Lake Atitlán with guided excursions to nearby lakeside towns and a sunrise hike to a spectacular vista.
Reflect and connect through journaling prompts, opening and closing ceremonies, and shared experiences with like-minded individuals.
Don’t Miss Out—Join Me in Guatemala
This retreat will be a one-time experience, and I’d love for you to be part of it. Imagine disconnecting from your busy life, immersing yourself in nature, and rediscovering your sense of adventure and calm.
Visit Relax & Reignite Retreat to learn more, view the itinerary, and secure your spot. Let’s create memories together in this incredible place.
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