Pairing Luxury & Eco-Retreats
The contemporary life: Hectic schedules in heavily polluted environments, noise, visual pollution… it’s become the norm. Our minds are in a constant state of alertness, which manifests itself into many modern maladies like depression, high-blood pressure and heart disease. Is this what life was intended to be?
All this can be so depressing and makes us question, “Is there more to life than this? Is there anything better I can do?” Simply put, the answer is “Yes.” Halt where you are! Take a deep breath and close your eyes for a moment. Open your mind and spirit to transformation, peace, acceptance and love, by devoting time to yourself and your wellness.
So how do you start? One way to connect is by stepping away from the mundane and focus on what makes this planet beautiful! Take time enjoying the serenity our world gives us a gift with Eco-retreats. Relax and breathe in the energy that flows from the environment into your body and mind. By finding the equilibrium between you and the planet, you find balance within yourself. “La humanidad sana es igual a una tierra sana.” Translated, “A healthy humanity equals a healthy Earth.”
Visit the Ancient Mayans in Tulum
Away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, lie the ruins of an ancient Mayan settlement, Tulum. Known as the “City of Dawn,” it’s the third most visited site in Mexico. Nestled between the Yucatan rainforest and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, you will find inner peace swimming in the coral reef among exotic fish, while basking in the warmth of the sun. Looking for a retreat? Connect with your Zen vibe at the full-luxury beachfront resort, Jashita, or join Maya Tulum resort in their yoga retreat. While staying in Tulum, be sure to visit Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the world. Marvel at the mathematical precision of the ancient Mayans during the Spring Equinox, when the energy flow is optimal.
Welcome to Red Rock Country, Arizona
You don’t have to go very far for great eco-retreat. One of the most highly rated global power spots is Sedona, in Arizona. It invites a soul-invigorating journey where your mind, body and spirit can commune with nature. Embark in personal enrichment while surrounded by sycamore trees, guided by renowned healers and spiritual guides. You can stay at L’Auberge de Sedona, a luxury resort that features yoga and trail activities, as well as partaking in energy healing and hypnotherapy. Rejoice in the majestic views of red-rock temples and don’t miss the mystical vortex sites. These enhanced energy centers foster meditation, prayer and self-healing. While they might be described as electromagnetic sites, the reality is their power lies beyond the borders of science.
Dome-shaped tents in the Swiss Alps
If you prefer a faraway trek and a European flare, then why not try the Swiss Alps? You’ll feel you’re in Hoth when you first lay eyes on the Whitepod Resort‘s domes. However, don’t be mistaken; if you’re less inclined to find your inner peace on the beach, these high-tech, dome-shaped tents in the Swiss Alps are your best option for a peaceful retreat. Whitepod uses only renewable-energy sources and recycled materials for constructing their tents, and even lowers their visual pollution by camouflaging their tents – white in the winter; green in the summer. This resort won the World Prize for Sustainable Tourism and the Responsible Tourism Award for Innovation.
Cottages in Kenya
Many imagine camping as a backpacking experience, with rough sleeping and battling bugs. If this is you, then think again. Luxury camping in Kenya is the new way of giving back to the environment, without giving up sleeping on a king-sized feather mattress. Through eco-tourism, the Maasai Mara preserves wildlife and cultural heritages, while giving you the experience of a lifetime. State-of-the-art green technologies are used in Campi ya Kanzi. You’ll be showering in rain-water tanks and your nights will be lit, thanks to 120 watt solar panels. Your food will have the smoky taste of eco-friendly charcoal, while immersed in the Massai culture. A unique opportunity to open your mind to other lifestyles, while in the midst of wilderness.
Carbon-Neutral Country, Costa Rica
By 2021, Costa Rica will become the first 100% carbon-neutral country in the world. Sitting on a prime location, next to Corcovado National Park, Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge makes a point of blending into its environment. Our recommendation is to bask in the silence, greenery and sun. With rooms spread among the rainforest and overlooking the blue ocean, it uses micro-hydropower and solar-panel systems to generate all of its electricity, and is one of the top waste-management leaders of the Osa Peninsula. If the time of year is right, you’ll be able to see dolphins and whales during one of their snorkeling tours. Ever dreamed of being in an Herbal Essences commercial? Well, this is the next best thing – open-air showers. It doesn’t get more natural than this!
The world has so much to offer and often we let what we call progress blind us to the very beauty around us. Don’t let the rush of life prevent you from living! Open your eyes, mind and heart to the majestic gift that is our world. Take the plunge in 2014! Go on an eco-retreat and see why taking care of our home is not only smart, but allows it to also take care of us. Your heart, mind, spirit and planet will thank you!
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I’m intrigued by how Lynda’s passions mix with my own. Can’t wait to read her book and continue seeing her insights on the listserv!