Vancouver, BC | Posted: September 7th, 2017
Healing Ceremonies
All over the world, travelers are looking for opportunities to disconnect from their everyday lives and reconnect with themselves. For some, it’s an all-inclusive vacation, a few margaritas on the beach, reading a good book from start to finish without interruption. For others, regardless of spiritual belief, it’s taking the time to look inward, through yoga practice, healing ceremonies, and spiritual journeys.
Here are some of the best places, trips, and tours to fill your soul.
Photo credit: Epik Adventure Guides
The Sapara people of Ecuador are an ancient people with ties to the Amazon Jungle for thousands of years. Experience traditional healing in Ecuador, an experience unlike any other. You will take part in healing ceremonies and cleansing with local medicinal plants, participate in dream sharing and interpretation, river bathing and much more.
Photo credit: Etnikas
Located in the Sacred Valley of Peru, Etnikas operates Ayahuasca retreats that take authenticity very seriously. They work with the Shipibo shamen who are specialists in ayahuasca, along with Q’ero priests who are direct descendants of the Incas. With a large team of medical professionals and more than 30 years of running retreats, Etnikas puts the safety and health of their guests at the forefront of each spiritual journey retreat.
Photo credit: Sunrise Springs
Sunrise Springs is a stunning 70-acre resort in Santa Fe. The resort is home to a number of facilities, including an integrative spa, yoga studio and a Spirit Lodge. At the spirit lodge, guests can be lead through different ceremonies, including a Sweat Lodge and a Four Directions Ceremony. The Four Directions Ceremony is deeply rooted in the dances of Mexico’s Native Indians. The Sweat Lodge symbolizes going into the “womb of Mother Earth” allowing one to renew and interact with the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. This is the perfect place to have a wellness vacation, without having to travel too far.
If you’re feeling stuck in a day-to-day rut, are going through a tough time, or are simply looking for a change, consider a retreat or spiritual journey. Breaking out of your routine and trying something new is a great way to gain inspiration, refresh yourself and set yourself onto a new path. You never know what’s out there until you try!
Sarah is an independent contractor with specialization in content writing and social media management for the travel industry. After many years as a travel agent, she switched gears to focus on promoting responsible travel through Holidays for Humanity. Sarah currently writes content for and manages social media for all Holidays for Humanity brands including SEEtheWILD, Trek Union and GoVoluntouring. When not working, Sarah can be found searching for her next travel destination or exploring Vancouver’s dog-friendly parks and trails with her dog, Otto.