IXCHEL
HEALING ARTS
by Cinzia Sarigu
Palenque & Yucatan
Join One or Two weeks
Palenque-Chiapas, 12-19 February
Sian Ka'an Biosphere- Yucatan, 21-27 February
Mexican Retreats 2026
Mexico, the land of curanderos—a realm of magic where time stands still, and the whispers of the ancestors awaken ancient memories. Here, amidst sacred pyramids, untamed jungle, and powerful rituals, we walk the ancestral path, remembering the universal codes of creation woven into the very fabric of existence. In 2026 we gather in Mexico for the Days Out of Time, the festival for Mayan New Year, a time of pause, a liminal place between dimensions that facilitates rebirth. A unique and unforgettable experience to deeply nourish body, mind and spirit. A mystical journey into Mexican shamanism and the ancient cosmology of the Mayan culture.
Sign up for one or two weeks. During the first week, we will immerse ourselves in the ancient mystery of Palenque for the Days Out of Time, a transformative experience deeply rooted in Mayan tradition. In the second week, we will journey to the serene Sian Ka'an Biosphere, nestled along the Caribbean Sea in the Yucatán Peninsula, where the beauty of nature will guide our continued exploration. Below you'll find details for both retreats—choose to join one or immerse yourself in both for a truly transformative experience.
The retreat is gentle, mystical, inclusive, and accessible to all, fostering authentic connections—not only among participants but also with the local people, with nature and with the spirit of the land, the pyramids, the water, the birds, and the trees.
There are no dress codes, no expectations—just an open invitation to come as you are. Here, you’ll find a relaxed and welcoming space to be yourself, unwind, heal, laugh, and learn from the wisdom of both ancient and modern Mayan traditions.
Week 1
7-Day Shamanic Retreat in Palenque
Mayan Days Out of Time
12-19 February 2026
Welcome to a journey beyond the ordinary—an invitation to step into the sacred rhythms of the Earth and align with the timeless wisdom of the ancient Mayan calendar.
In Palenque, where the veil between worlds is thin, the connection between heaven and earth becomes almost tangible. Here, the energies are so pure that they naturally open the heart, inviting deep transformation and remembrance.
During the Days Out of Time, we enter a mystical space beyond the linear flow of existence—a liminal realm where past, present, and future dissolve into one. This is a time for renewal, a cosmic pause that allows us to release, realign, and prepare for the cycle ahead. Rooted in ancient tradition, these days are a portal for deep spiritual connection, healing, and profound shifts in consciousness.
As we walk among the sacred temples and immerse ourselves in the untamed beauty of the jungle, we will listen to the whispers of the ancestors and the wisdom encoded in the land.
This retreat is not just about learning—it is about experiencing Mayan spirituality as a living force, woven into the cycles of life, death, and rebirth.
Together, we will enter sacred spaces, make offerings, walk in silence, and open ourselves to the unseen. Whether you are seeking healing, awakening, or simply presence in this extraordinary moment beyond time, know that you are part of a circle—standing at the threshold of ancient wisdom, ready to embrace the teachings of the Mayan Days Out of Time.
Welcome to this sacred journey.
“In Palenque the rooms are alcoves where dreams are awake and nobody notices” - Carlos Pellicer
Program
Day 1: The Journey begins
Afternoon
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Arrival and Welcome Circle
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Solo Time in Nature
Evening
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Mayan Fire Ceremony – Honouring the Four Directions & Cosmic Forces
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Shamanic Journey to Meet the Spirit of the Jungle
Day 2: Closing cycles
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Morning
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Breathwork & Meditation – Awakening to the Jungle’s Rhythm
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Jungle Walk & Nature Connection Ritual – Listening to the Earth’s Wisdom
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Afternoon
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Gratitude Ceremony – Releasing the past cycle with the Element of Air
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Shamanic Journey to meet the spirit of the Wind
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Evening
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Dreamwork & Preparing for the Days Out of Time
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Day 3: Entering the Days Out of Time
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Morning
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Visit to Palenque Pyramids – Tuning into the Energies of the Temples
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Intuitive Channelling at the Temple of the Inscriptions
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Stepping into Timelessness & Cosmic Alignment
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Afternoon
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Mayan Calendar & Cosmic Time Workshop – Understanding Your Soul’s Blueprint in 2026
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Evening
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Star Gazing & Connection to the Pleiades
Day 4: Journeying Through Your Own Story
Morning
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Guided Meditation: The Story of Your Soul
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Children of the Sun, visit to the Mayan children project
Afternoon
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Exploring personal mythology
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Shamanic Journey to Retrieve Lost Wisdom
Evening
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Circle Sharing – Weaving the Threads of Our Lives
Day 5: Water Blessing & Heart Purification
Morning
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Journey to Misol-Ha Waterfalls – Sacred Water Blessing Ceremony
Afternoon
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Free time
Evening
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New Moon Circle & Storytelling – Mayan Prophecies & the Return of the Star People
Day 6: The Path of the Ancient Seer
A Day of Silence, Inner Stillness & Deep Visioning
Morning
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Deep Reflection, Honoring the Past & Receiving Future Visions
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Solo Jungle Walk – Receiving Messages from the Spirits of the Land
Afternoon
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Visioning & Dream Journey
Evening
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Messages from the Ancestors – Divination
Day 7: Departure with a Transformed Spirit
Morning
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Mayan New Year – Welcoming the Spirit of the new guardian
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Gratitude Circle – Sharing Insights & Blessings for the New Cycle
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Closing Ceremony – Sealing the Portal and Departure
Please note: the order of activities may vary due to weather conditions and factors out of our control.
In Palenque we stay at Mayabel, a beautiful and historic family run retreat nestling in the jungle, next to the Palenque archaeological site. Mayabel features a traditional restaurant, a swimming pool surrounded by wildlife, and peaceful nights. Accommodation options range from rustic huts to A/C ensuite rooms, offering comfort and accessibility for every preference. Meals are not included at Mayabel, we can have our meals in the traditional, outdoors restaurant that serves an extensive menu of Mexican and some international food with many healthy options, fresh tropical fruit, hearty meals and even homemade ice cream!
The food is freshly prepared, mostly from scratch and prices are very accessible.
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Week 2
7-Day Shamanic Retreat in Sian Ka'an biosphere, Yucatan
"Spirit of the Ocean"
21-27 February 2026
Limited numbers, book soon!
During the second week of the retreat, we will gather at Xo Ki'in, off-grid retreat centre nestled within the breathtaking Sian Ka'an Biosphere, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This peaceful sanctuary, surrounded only by the unspoiled beauty of nature and access to a private beach, offers the perfect setting to connect deeply with the spirit of Mother Ocean. Here, we will embrace the stillness of the environment to rest, relax, and dream, allowing the tranquil energy of the water and wilderness to nourish our bodies and souls.
We will have entered Mayan New Year and the program is designed to guide you into the new cycle with clarity and purpose. We will slowly create our vision boards throughout the week, to help manifest our aspirations deep into the future, using the powerful tools of art and shamanic practices to bring our dreams to life. Through immersive activities such as creative workshops, shamanic journey, dreamwork, and automatic writing sessions, we will explore the messages of the ocean, our spirit guides and our inner muse, unlocking insights for personal transformation. There will also be ample free time for leisure and relaxation and to enjoy the beauty of nature in your own time.
This week is a time for deep nourishment, joyful exploration, creative inspiration, and a profound connection with the spirit of the ocean.
Week 2 of the retreat includes a one-on-one shamanic healing session with Cinzia and mayan teachings and ceremonies with Floridelma, mayan priestess from the Yucatan.
Program
Day 1: Arrival & Opening to the Ocean’s Wisdom
Afternoon
Arrival, settling into the retreat space, connecting with the land and sea
Sunset
Welcome Circle & Ocean Blessing Ceremony
Evening
Guided Meditation: Listening to the Ocean’s Song
Day 2: Surrendering to Stillness & Deep Rest
Morning
Silent Walking Meditation on the Beach
Breathwork & Dream Journaling – Opening to Inner Messages
Afternoon
Siesta! Free time
Evening
Shamanic Sound Healing Journey – Harmonizing with the Ocean’s Frequency
Day 3: Nurturing Creativity & Personal Vision
Morning
Shamanic Drumming & Movement – Awakening Creativity
Let's play! Vision Board Workshop
Using art, symbols, and natural materials to express your vision
Afternoon
Siesta! Free time
Evening
Bonfire & Storytelling Circle – Sharing dreams and inspirations
Day 4: Dreamwork & Automatic Writing
Morning
Dream Sharing & Symbol Interpretation
Automatic Writing Session – Channeling messages from your spirit guides with your eyes open
Guided Journey to Meet Your Future Self
Afternoon
Siesta! Free time
Evening
Sacred Silence Under the Stars – Connecting with cosmic energies
Day 5: Play, Exploration & Inner Child Healing
Morning
Play & Laughter Ritual – Awakening Joy and Lightness
Shamanic Journey into the Inner Child – Reclaiming Innocence & Wonder
Afternoon
Siesta! Free time
Evening
Shamanic practices for conscious night dreams
Day 6: Integration & Visioning for the New Cycle
Sunrise
Traditional Mayan Fire Ceremony
Morning
Mayan teachings
Final Vision Board Refinement & Intention-Setting Ritual
Afternoon
Ocean Offering Ceremony – Giving gratitude and sealing our visions
Evening
Full Moon Ceremony on the beach – Celebration !
Day 7: Departure & Embodying the New Path
Morning
Circle time & Group Sharing
Blessing Ritual & Farewell to the Ocean
Departure, carrying the energy of renewal into the world
Please note: the order of activities may vary due to weather conditions and factors out of our control
Week 2 of the retreat in Sian Ka'an is residential and all inclusive. Meals are freshly prepared every day and we can cater for vegetarian/vegan/gluten free and other dietary requirements.
Accommodation is shared in twin rooms with limited options for private occupancy on a first come-first served basis. Camping is also available with your own tent or hiring the available bell tents.
Xo Ki'in is an off grid retreat centre where we take care of the land and the land takes care of us, where we use natural resources wisely and remember how to live lightly on our sacred earth. Xo Ki'in is a wonderful place to unplug from the craze of the world and immerse yourself in the wild energies of nature, to feel close to the wind, the birds, the ocean and have a break from your life routine. Xo Ki'in is a real treat for your senses, with limited access to the internet and unlimited access to the " Innernet".
Xo Ki'in can accommodate a limited number of guests so early booking is recommended.
We will travel to Sian Ka'an from Cancun, via Tulum and we will return to Cancun after the retreat.
If you needed to leave earlier or arrive later we would help you organise your journey to/from Xo Ki'in.
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Testimonials
" This is a space that offers authentic connection to an ancient wisdom tradition; if you are looking for depth and healing from a beautiful lineage, Cinzia is a clear and wonderful vessel that I have had the privilege of experiencing many times." Karin, Canada
"If you are reading this and wondering whether you should go on that retreat. The answer is 'yes'. You will not find a better guide than Cinzia.... Your personal guides probably know this and have led you to this review to quell your questioning or doubt. Cinzia's knowledge of the terrain, both geographical and spiritual is a gift that you should accept. She held space for our group to share a journey and also walk our own internal paths to meet with whatever was waiting for us. Personally, I met aspects of myself that were old, yet unfamiliar...and also made space for the new and unknown. I was able to completely relax into the experience and let myself be whoever I needed to be, rather than who was needed for awhile. I met a group of wonderful people who provided additional dimensions to the trip. None of us had the same experience, but all of us shared and could drink from the security and deep knowledge that was offered by Cinzia. Do it. The terrain is vaster than you think, the resources more abundant than you can imagine and it is a pilgrimage that you may need to make. Choose well, you will thank yourself later." - Michel, UK
Read more testimonials here
An Unforgettable Experience
Days Out of Time
Shamanic journey
Mayan calendar
Sacred sites
Writing circles
Waterfalls
Jungle
Dreaming
Caribbean sea
Ancestral Ceremonies
Initiations
Mayan cosmology
Logistics
I will accompany the group throughout the journey as teacher, guide, and interpreter, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Our journey begins in Cancún, where we gather before traveling onward to Chiapas. After an immersive first week, we return to Cancún before setting off for the Sian Ka’an Biosphere for the second half of the retreat. We will have two days in between retreats to allow for travelling between states without stress and having some free time.
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If you are joining for Week 1 only, we will say our goodbyes in Cancún after the retreat.
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If you are joining for Week 2 only, we will meet you in Cancún before continuing to the biosphere.
I am here to help you plan your trip, navigate safely, and fully enjoy your Mexican adventure in the mystical land of the Maya.
Accommodation
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Palenque (Week 1): We stay at Mayabel, a beautiful and historic retreat nestled in the jungle, next to the Palenque archaeological site. Mayabel features a traditional restaurant, a swimming pool surrounded by jungle, wildlife sightings and peaceful nights. Accommodation options range from rustic huts to A/C ensuite rooms, offering comfort and accessibility for every preference.
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Sian Ka’an Biosphere (Week 2): We stay at Xo Ki’in, an off-grid retreat center on the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by unspoiled nature. This secluded sanctuary features a private beach, and accommodation is shared, with a few ensuite options available on a first-come, first-served basis. Accommodation at Xo Ki'in is all inclusive with freshly prepared meals. Xo Ki'in is strategically positioned to enjoy sunrises over the ocean, sunsets over the lagoon and starry nights.
Suitability & Experience
This journey is suitable for most levels of fitness, with walking as the primary physical activity while exploring pyramids, nature sites, and sacred places.
In alignment with Mayan traditions, this retreat offers a holistic experience, balancing body, mind, and spirit—blending the transcendental with the earthly, the sacred with the everyday.
Additional Experiences
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the retreat, I offer personalized experiences, including initiations at sacred sites, private workshops, and guided visits to places of historical significance. These tailored sessions provide an opportunity for deeper exploration, spiritual connection, and personal transformation.
The retreat is an immersion into the Mayan cosmovision, guiding you to awaken your own inner cosmology. It is an opportunity to rediscover the thread of your personal history, connect with an indigenous culture that fosters spiritual awakening, and experience a profound reunion with your inner guidance through ancient wisdom and sacred traditions.
Our Team.
During the retreat you will learn from the main team : Cinzia, Fidencio and Floridelma
and from other incredible teachers that we will meet along the way for an hour or a day.
Retreat pricing
Join Week 1, Week 2, or Both!
🌿 Week 1: Palenque – "Days Out of Time" Retreat (7 Days)
A transformative retreat in the heart of the jungle, exploring Mayan wisdom and sacred sites.
Includes:
✅ Land transportation throughout the week
✅ Accommodation (A/C available at an extra cost)
✅ Entry to archaeological sites & natural parks
✅ Jungle walks & guided archaeological tours
✅ Days Out of Time retreat & workshops
✅ Mayan ceremonies & initiations
✅ Visit to the Children of the Sun project
🌊 Week 2: Sian Ka’an – "Spirit of the Ocean" Retreat (7 Days)
A deep, immersive retreat by the ocean, blending spiritual connection and creative expression.
Includes:
✅ Land transportation throughout the week
✅ Accommodation & all meals included
✅ Entry to the Sian Ka’an biosphere
✅ Spirit of the Ocean retreat & workshops
✅ One-on-one shamanic healing session
✅ Ceremonies & vision board creation
✅ Art sessions & all materials provided
✨ Choose your journey—immerse yourself in Week 1, Week 2, or experience both! ✨
Reserve Your Place – Secure Your Spot with a Deposit
Deposit (Non-Refundable):
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1-week retreat: £300
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2-week retreat: £500
Retreat Pricing
🌿 Super Early Bird (Book by April 20th)
Week 1: £1500
Week 2: £1300
Week 1 & 2: £2700 (Save £100!)
🐦 Early Bird (Book by June 1st)
Week 1: £1700
Week 2: £1500
Week 1 & 2: £3000 (Save £200!)
💫 Full Price (After June 1st)
Week 1: £1800
Week 2: £1600
Week 1 & 2: £3200 (Save £200!)
🔹 To reserve your place, pay the deposit now! 🔹
* deposit non refundable
Giving back
The Retreat is also an opportunity to contribute to the culture and well-being of the contemporary Mayan people. Ixchel Healing Arts supports the Children of the Sun, an educational project for the children of a Mayan village, direct descendants of the Palenque dynasty. The project offers a curriculum through art, drama, ancestral music, storytelling, ecology, cosmology and more. By remembering the history of their ancestors, children learn to safeguard the ecosystem and express their creativity by recovering ancient arts. During the retreat in Palenque we will spend time with the children to get to know them and participate in the workshops with them.
Read more about the project here
Gallery
Some images from previous Mexican retreats.
