Favorite Places; YOGA edition -

Keeping up with your Yoga Practice isn’t always the easiest thing to do while traveling, especially if you prefer going to a studio. However, as Yoga is becoming more popular through out the world, there are studios popping up in various areas. I’ve found that normally areas that are generally touristy, have a large expat population, or are in health- conscious areas are more likely to have a studio, or offer classes somewhere.

While in San Juan del Sur, I found a lovely little studio called Zen Yoga. Located in the back of their garden center, where you can buy fresh herbs and plants, the studio has a grounding, earthy vibe.

 I never had the chance to meet the owner, but all of the instructors are very friendly and helpful. Each teacher has her own unique style, in English or Spanish, with classes ranging from a very relaxing Hatha class with lots of meditation, to a class working on twists and detoxing.

The studio itself is on the second floor, overlooking the surrounding tropical landscape and the ocean. Sunset candle-lit classes are a must if you have the chance to come by the studio.

 

Downstairs they have clothes and jewelry from local designers, as well as straps mats, etc. The only downside to this tropical Zen studio from the Gods, is that it is a little pricey- nearly the same prices at Yoga classes in the states.  However, still probably cheaper than the private lessons your hotel may offer.

Don't forget to say hello to this little yogini when you go!

xx SLW

An adventure soon begins...

     A much anticipated week has begun in my life. As of this Thursday, I will be flying into Costa Rica, and then onto Nicaragua where I will be spending the next two months traveling around a bit in the Southern beaches of Nica, and finally to Pochomil for a Yoga Teacher Training 200 hours with Its Yoga Nica at Los Cardones Surf Lodge. 

     As soon as my feet sank into U.S Soil last May, I had a longing feeling for being free again, walking along the road of life, going with the flow like the wind. It's been a long year of working hard, and focusing on what I want to get out of life. I have definitely had some memorable times being back here in Jacksonville Beach, and have met some of the most amazing people- something that I never envisioned being possible. Honestly, growing up here all I wanted to do was get out, but the last year has taught me that it is true, life is what you make out of it. A year filled with a summer in New York, festivals shows, a road trip with my family, birthday in Miami, and many, many beach parties under luna's radiating light. 

    Time living at home with my family, saving money, has given me a great opportunity I am so thankful for- being able to slow down and concentrate on things that will better me as a person, and help to fulfill my goals in life. Such as, getting my Teaching English as a Second Language certificate, soon to be my YTT 200 hours, and I have also decided to go back to school (online) studying Early Childhood Development. Spending time with my mom and brother has been so much fun and comforting- having not lived with them for almost four years prior. Although I am only scheduled to be gone about two months, you never know where life can take you, which path may lead you to foreign lands and new souls. My gut feelings just keep telling me that Nicaragua is just the beginning, a stepping stone, of the amazing year ahead of me for 2014. As enjoyable as it has been recapping my adventures from last year in South America, those will be put on hold for the moment, while I am keeping up to date in Nicaragua. So keep reading for many new stories and tips ahead !! 

    And now, the hardest thing I will do all week, begin packing. My friend gave me her greatest advice for traveling today, "Always bring half as much stuff, and twice as much money." I will have to keep that in mind as my packing list is reaching a good two pages. Any good packing advice out there ??

xx SLW

The Belly Button of the World

Cusco is known as the Belly Button of the World, and for good reason. There is a gravitation pull that exists here, centering it in every way. Originally it referred to being the center of the Incan Empire- but I think it could apply for our world today as well. My favorite part about the trip, was the really positive feeling that engulfed me! I think that this came from the constant reminder of the Spirituality here. Walking the streets and seeing stores filled with raw stones and crystals, sage, herbs, natural medicine, ancient statues, and so much more was amazing. The woman here are so strong and so wise, I would trust them for anything. A few times when I was sick, I went to a tienda, and they gave me a special tea or herb to help. Just remember, to go a little outside of the main squares to find the real locals that aren't trying to just make money. I found that Peruvians are very honest people and love to help when they can. There are also Yoga Studios and Meditation Centers everywhere- most of them even offer Retreats into more rural, nature areas a little outside of the city. 

But be careful, because since there are so many tourist- the locals have learned that they can make money easily off of native soul searchers. Shops with signs claiming to have Ayahuasca and Peyote Ceremonies line the streets as well! I went in one just to check it out - as soon as the guides started speaking english, and the prices were in U.S dollar I knew it was sketchy. Those are two definite giveaways for anything fake in another country I'd say. Brining yourself into another dimension withs something as strong as Ayahuasca, should be taken very seriously and I wouldn't trust doing this sacred ceremony if I didn't seem right- you never know what could happen! I never found any real Shaman that I felt like it would be right with, so I was never able to try it. This reminds me of my post about the "Bricheros" here in Peru ;) 

http://sweettalesofagypsy.blogspot.com/2012/11/view-from-my-eyes.html

You just always have to trust your instinct, because your heart always knows more than the head! 

xx SLW