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Find Your Adventure

On a recent retreat, for Summer Solstice, my friend Cathy Ingham and I set the intention to Find Adventure, to have fun and do things that brought us joy.  We had both just finished big projects and so we were ready to re-imagine success and heal from stress. We decided to start our adventure with a wonderful and ancient treatment known as temazcal.

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A temazcal is a treatment done in a type of sweat lodge, usually a circular dome, but it’s usually a permanent structure, unlike sweat lodges in other regions. The word “temazcal” means house of heat. It is used to purify the body, heal the sick, stimulate lymphatic function and cleanse the mind, body and spirit.

To produce the heat, volcanic stones are heated. Volcanic stones are safe because they do not explode from the temperature. They are then placed in a pit located in the center or near a wall of the temazcal. Fragrant and healing herbs are burned on the rocks to produce a thick smoke entering your body through open pores and deep breathing.

The experience unfolded like a ritual. As we walked into the verdant grounds we saw the circular lodge, smelled an intriguing incense and heard the stirring of drum music mixed with magical wind chimes. My soul was transported to another time and place and I realized the journey had begun. My mind disengaged and my body responded to the call of an ancient culture.

The staff was lovely, and had us into the lodge quickly. They built up the fire and as the herbed smoke started to permeate my lungs I realized why this is so healing. I was beginning to breathe deeply, and the sweat was pouring. I wondered if it would make me sick to release toxins so quickly but after about 10 minutes I knew this was to be a gentle cleanse.

My body released stress, toxins and tension from every muscle. After about 30 minutes, we came out and were rubbed down with soothing river clay. As it dried, tightening our pores, we were served an herbed tea. The moment was so delicious we knew we had to commemorate Elegant Clay Faces!

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We were invited to a shower in the beautiful outdoor air surrounded by tropical plants.  I was feeling so alive! Next came a full body massage. Luxury, but so natural, simple, basic and real. I can’t wait to go back.

There is a huge take away when you Find Your Adventure and get completely stress free. As I was getting my massage, feeling so relaxed, I started to visualize my next steps on my dream journey. I saw a huge barrier disappearing. The visions and inspiration continued and more creativity was inspired by having someone on the same journey to share it with. Cathy and I came home alive with solid action steps towards our dreams of serving others as we continue our journey to heal ourselves.

Next month I will be sharing an interview with Cathy on her new adventure, called Glamping, and her huge take away from the retreat on Summer Solstice. It was truly a Joyful Journey!

 

 

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