Yogi-cation

How Belize has become a top destination for yoga enthusiasts

Ayogi's sun salutation mirrors the rising sun over the Belize City harbor. The seagulls call to each other as the fishing boats pass by and the day begins to warm as you think your first thought after meditating on your mat.

Whether you’re a newcomer to Yoga or an experienced Yogi, Belize has become a mecca for the wellness oriented. It's now a common luxury to practice Ashtanga overlooking the Belize City Harbor, in the lush rainforest among spectacular waterfalls, on the grounds of sacred Maya sites, or on solitary beaches at sunset.

At establishments like Om Shanti Belize, that have pioneered the yoga and wellness community in Belize, you can enjoy a myriad of yoga and meditation classes. Attend workshops and trainings like Traditional Hatha, Ashtanga and Strong Core Flow to Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga and even Pool Yoga, as well as mindfulness sessions and other meditation techniques.

Belize now boasts year round yoga and wellness activities in the most beautiful natural settings. From Empowering Women’s Health Yoga Retreats that are all about embracing the feminine and connecting women to their bodies, to Detox Yoga Escapes that take place in some of Belize’s remote locations, such as private islands or rainforest getaways, the opportunities to rest, rejuvenate and find your balance are plentiful.

The Belizean yoga community is vibrant and flourishing. A yoga studio or class can be found in towns of every district. Belizean yoga teachers often offer free monthly classes to their community in order to spread the benefits of yoga to as many people as possible. There is even a Belizean nonprofit organization called Rhythm of Change Belize (ROC) which shares the healing benefits of yoga and mindfulness throughout Belize to the most vulnerable and needy.

Meet interesting people and share travel stories at the annual Belize International Yoga Festival. The festival is a family event designed to bring together the general public from Belize and around the world to enjoy soulful moments of wellness, healing, relaxation and reflection. International presenters from Italy, the Azores, the United States and Mexico travel to donate their time and share their passion with festival goers.

Retreat to serenity in Belize. Take a deep breath and spend your time tuning in to the flow of nature. No matter the surroundings you choose; whether it be the grounding energy of the jungle or the cleansing properties of the Caribbean Sea, you’ll quickly feel the vibrant healing process of this free land.

For more information on events and the yoga scene in Belize visit: www.omshantibelize.com

Written by: Michelle Ashanti Williams

Photos: Leonardo Melendez