Elemental Wisdom - Kea Retreat

Elemental Wisdom

MY RETREAT

Guided by the serene teachings of the elements, this retreat invites us on a journey to reconnect with ancient wisdom and the depths of our inner world. Through a blend of yogic teachings, meditative rituals, and artistic practices, attendees will explore the profound connections between their presence, ancestral lineage, and the elemental forces.
This retreat emphasizes the revitalization of the Root and Throat Chakras, empowering individuals to authentically express their deepest truths and insights. Each session is designed to deepen reverence for our personal path and the natural world, fostering a harmonious alignment with the rhythms of life, nature, and spirit.

In the morning we'll awaken our senses with a Hatha kriya yoga and dhyana practice, Bija mantra, movement, and/or sound relaxation offering

Our evenings will be dedicated diverse worldy offerings, such as ancestral voice and tribal movement to awaken dormant energies, or Yin/restorative yoga to connect with your heart and shed old unwanted layers.

Special offerings

A Shamanic Drum Journey, drawn from Gisel's lineage as a Zapotec woman from the Oaxacan region, that connects you with guides, ancestors, or spirit animals. This profound experience weaves ancient rhythms into a pathway for wisdom and guidance.

The Painting Visionary Circle, developed from Gissel's studies as a fine art painter in the blue watercolor technique. This method stimulates brain activation, enhancing attention, intuition, visualization, and manifestation, fostering a harmonious blend of creativity and cerebral engagement.

A unique session to activate your Ajna center, combining yoga for the eyes and Trataka meditation. This eye therapy includes the traditional Mexican use of melipona honey, renowned for its medicinal benefits

  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama
  • Paula Gissel Yama

Paula Gissel Yama

Your teacher

Gissel is a painter, sound therapist, yoga instructor, and massage therapist, whose artistic and spiritual journey is deeply rooted in her Oaxacan heritage. From an early age, she was drawn to the healing arts, which led her to explore and integrate ancestral practices through her connections with her grandmothers, healers, and temazcaleras. Her passion for water is expressed through her expertise in aquatic dance, including Janzu and Aguahara techniques, providing both healing and liberation to those who join her sessions.

 

Traveling extensively across Mexico, India, Nepal, the United States, and South America, Gissel has immersed herself in a variety of disciplines including art, yoga, massage, sound healing, and shamanic practices. Today, she shares this rich tapestry of experiences by facilitating workshops, retreats, and sessions that not only reflect her deep connection to ancestral wisdom but also her commitment to bringing about a transformative experience for all participants.

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WHAT YOU WILL TAKE HOME

  • A Smile on Your Heart: Leave with a lasting sense of joy and fulfillment.
  • Rooted Wisdom: Gain insights into the importance of connecting with your roots and ancestors.
  • Tools for Meditation: Learn practices such as Kriya and Bandhas to enhance your meditative experience.
  • Ujayi Breathing: Master the 'ocean sound' breathing technique for deeper relaxation and awareness.
  • Connection with Water: Deepen your bond with water, embracing its life-giving force and ancient memories.
  • Environmental and Self-Care: Reflect on the ways to nurture both the world's waters and your own well-being, including emotional, mental, and physical health.
  • Ethical Living: Understand and incorporate the ethical and moral principles of Yamas and Niyamas in your daily life.
  • Vibrational Power: Recognize and harness the power of your own vibration and your inherent wild nature.
  • Holistic Harmony: Achieve a harmonious balance of mind, body, and spirit, enhancing your overall wellness.

Retreating with us

  • 5 days/nights long, from Sunday to Friday
  • Full board in an upscale traditionally designed cottage with private balcony
  • Two yoga classes per day
  • One meditation or celebration/ceremony per day 
  • 3 abundant and delicious meals each day (cooked using our fresh farm and sea produce)
  • One group dinner at Kea Retreat’s family’s taverna
  • Yoga equipment and accessories (mats, blocks, bolsters, straps, and blankets)
  • Pickup and drop off at ferry station
  • Swimming pool with in water lounging section
  • Vegetable garden
  • A private bay
  • Spontaneous dancing every night

Additional Activities:

Kayaks – venture into the sea with our kayaks, double or single, to discover caves and more isolated beaches.

Snorkeling – for those looking to discover what’s lurking under the surface and meet our local fish, or do some shell diving, snorkels and goggles are available.

Illoulida – walk down to the ancient capital, Ioulida, during sunset hours to explore the beautiful architecture and small shops (clothing, ceramics, local produce).

Island boat trip – set sail around the island on a calm ocean bed to uncover hidden corners of the island that can only be experienced by boat.

Hikes – the island is full of ancient trails that cross through farmlands and forests, up greeny hills, or down to secret shores with ruins from the 12th century BC.

Kastriani monastery – drive up the windy cliffs of the northern peak of the island to the breathtakingly beautiful blue and white Greek orthodox monastery that overlooks the Aegean sea.

Winery – have a picnic between the grape leaves of Kea Retreat’s vineyard while sipping on their locally grown wine.

Arts and crafts – feel free to use the art supplies situated on the shelf and let your creativity flow.

Music and Instruments – strum away at the guitar or play the tibetan bowls to the intoxicating sounds of nature.

Relax – unwind by picking a book off of the shelf and laying down on one of the outdoor beanbags, hammocks, or couches, or take a few more steps down to the beach and soak up some sun.

TEACHER’S NOTE

‘Lina’s professionalism, authenticity and talent is rare to find elsewhere. Her wealth of knowledge, pulling from many yoga lineages, makes her teachings unique and wholerounded experiences. There’s a personal touch during every practice, as she ensures to provide meaningful feedback and corrections. And, the genuinity in her ability to connect with all guests leaves you feeling like you made a meaningful friend.’

 

 

EXTRA PRIVATE SERVICES: 1:1 Reiki Sessions