Who doesn’t love a massage? It is not only a way to treat yourself to feel good, but it is also a powerful tool to heal the body and mind.
Studies suggest that massages can increase the activity of white blood cells, strengthening the immune system.
They reduce cortisol levels while increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine, promoting relaxation and happy thoughts.
In addition, they calm the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Common and widely available massages include deep tissue, Swedish, shiatsu, and lymphatic drainage.
As a self-care enthusiast, I’ve enjoyed all of this, but it was a recent trip to Tulum, Mexico, where I experienced a massage that revolutionized my self-care routine.
The Sobada Maya Massage is a sacred tradition that is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the ancient Mayan civilization. Its objective is to release energy blockages, both physical and emotional.
It takes place at the Yäan Healing Sanctuary located in the BeTulum hotel.
As a self-care enthusiast I have received many massages, but it was on a recent trip to Tulum, Mexico where I experienced one that has revolutionized my self-care routine, the Sobada Maya Massage.
The first 20 minutes of this 80 minute service focus solely on the stomach and the realignment of the internal abdominal organs. Yes, you read that right!
As I lay there, I realized that the stomach is the only part of the body that is normally avoided during a massage.
But this ancient practice has been passed down from generation to generation of Mayan healers and midwives.
It is used to improve fertility, relieve uterine problems, loosen tight muscles that control bowel movements, and guide the internal reproductive organs into their proper position.
After energy circulation and organ realignment, the practitioner proceeded to the rest of my body, stretching tendons and unblocking passageways while expanding energy channels.
It is said that abdominal massage can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body and mind.
Turns out, I needed to relieve some physical and emotional congestion I had been storing in my gut.
Upon getting up from the table I felt lighter and with an overwhelming sense of calm, and a new interest in gut health.
The peaceful and solid atmosphere of the Hotel Nômade Tulum contributed to my sense of transformation.
Combining luxury, wellness and eco-friendly designs, every detail of the hotel is designed to provoke emotions and guide you on a path of discovery.
The rooms are designed to preserve the integrity of the natural world while offering a combination of luxury and bohemian simplicity.
Tulum is known around the world as the ideal destination for those looking to relax, but it is also a place that prioritizes emotional well-being.
The Hotel Nômade Tulum contributed to my feelings of transformation.
Combining luxury, wellness and sustainability, every detail of this tranquil property is designed to provoke emotions and guide you on a path of discovery.
Located at the southern end of the Riviera Maya, on an expanse of white sand and turquoise water that borders the dense jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is a tropical paradise.
Located at the southern tip of the Riviera Maya, on a stretch of white sand and turquoise water bordering the dense jungle of the Yucatan Peninsula, this shabby chic hotel is a tropical paradise.
The rooms are designed to preserve the integrity of the natural world while offering a combination of luxury and bohemian simplicity.
My room was rustic but refined, with hardwood floors, handcrafted details reflecting Mayan culture, and a private pool.
The property emphasizes physical and spiritual well-being with activities such as yoga, meditation, sound healing and breathing sessions.
Chief Travel Designer Pablo Porta and Wellness Director Lucrecia (Lula) Millán are available to create a personalized itinerary for each guest.
I participated in a temazcal ceremony, a traditional Mexican sweat lodge ritual that involves sitting in a dome-shaped space filled with hot stones, herbs, and steam.
The property emphasizes physical and spiritual well-being with activities such as yoga, meditation, sound healing and breathing sessions.
I participated in a Temazcal ceremony, a traditional Mexican sweat lodge ritual that involves sitting in a dome-shaped space filled with hot stones, herbs, and steam.
Inside, the dome was dark and looked like a makeshift pizza oven.
Sitting next to a circle with some amazing women, I vocalized what I was grateful for as new hot stones were added to the center of the pit.
There’s something about sweating and expressing gratitude that makes you feel relaxed, refreshed, and with a new sense of purpose and clarity.
Dining experiences at Nômade Tulum take place in a community atmosphere that invites you to connect with others while enjoying delicious and healthy food options.
Entering the Moroccan-themed Macondo restaurant, decorated with colorful cushions and beanbag rugs, dream catchers and raffia lanterns, you feel a wave of calm.
Dining experiences at Nômade Tulum take place within a community atmosphere that invites you to connect with others while enjoying delicious and healthy food options.
La Popular is an open-air beachfront restaurant serving fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen.
Also on the property is Kuu Tulum, a Japanese Omakase culinary experience led by chef Hirokazu Sato. Guests sit together at a large sushi bar watching the master work
The plant-based menu offers holistic, Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine made with fresh, organic and locally sourced ingredients.
During my stay, I enjoyed lots of green juices, fresh fruits, meat tacos, and passion fruit margaritas.
Also on the property is Kuu Tulum, a Japanese Omakase culinary experience led by chef Hirokazu Sato.
Guests sit together at a large sushi bar and watch the master work.
For lunch with a view, La Popular is an open-air beachfront restaurant serving fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen.
Two weeks later, I still feel refreshed and am actively paying attention to my dietary choices, drinking habits, and thoughts that can negatively impact my gut microbiome.