It was a long travel day to Casa Coco B on Isla Mujeres, off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. On April 6th, at 4:30 am, I was transported in a car, a plane, a van, a ferry, and a taxi, finally arriving at 7:00pm! But truly, I would have doubled that for a weeklong yoga retreat with Coral and Jill, owners of the Island Heron in Jamestown. In fact, this retreat was a long time, 20 years, in coming as these auspicious events had always been scheduled during the schoolyear.
Casa Coco B was a lovely all-inclusive boutique hotel on the water that felt more like a sorority house. Being a young mom, I missed out on living on campus. Fortunately, I bunk with two truly loving bright lights and lived in the house with 26 females. First thing in the morning, we’d go down for coffee in our pajamas. We ate three amazing meals a day at two long dining room tables, doors wide open to the ocean breezes.
A typical day started with coffee, fruit, yogurt and granola at 6 am, followed by yoga at 8:00 am. You might choose to take an excursion, rent a golf cart to tour the island, or stay back at the house to enjoy pools, paddleboards, kayaks and hammocks. Lunch was served at 1:30 and we’d yoga again at 5:45. Post 7:00 dinner, I’d blissfully hit the hay. Old or wise?
Yoga class took place on the rooftop under a palapa, a traditional Mexican shelter with a roof of thatched palm leaves. The room was wide open to the elements, except for the sun. Waves stirred, boats sailed, and the frigatebirds soared effortlessly overhead.
On the morning of April 7, 2024, we awoke at 5:30 am to pile into 7 taxis. Arriving in the dark, we made our way to the easternmost point in Mexico, tentatively walking through a maze of gorgeous, larger than life statues depicting the Mayans who once lived on this sacred ground. Their beautiful dark skin, muscular bodies, and black gleaming hair was enthralling.
Once perched on the rock ledge, mesmerized by the waves crashing over jagged rocks, forming dark, swirling pools and tiny waterfalls, we anxiously awaited the sun’s appearance.
I am embarrassed to admit it was my first sunset. And it was so incredibly spectacular, it will most likely be my last. Truly once in a lifetime!
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Toward the end of our time together, Coral offered up a few writing prompts along with ample time to privately respond. The first question was, how do you feel? My answer poured forth. I feel amazing on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level. At almost 61 years, I couldn’t ask for more. My body is virtually pain free. My life’s work, the aspiring and manifesting is finally starting to land, translating to my ability to deeply connect, feel, and love myself and others.
Another question was posed: what are you leaving here and what are you taking with you?
I felt I’d finally and firmly stepped into my authentic self. I feel content and sure of my place in the world. Am I boring? Maybe. But I no longer give a damn. I’m leaving FOMO behind as well as the need to be liked. I like myself and my own company. I’ve become very comfortable (lots of practice) at going it alone, whether it be traveling or relishing a lovely dining experience, solo. This is freedom.
On the plane down, I watched Amy Poehler’s Masterclass and one of the biggest take-a-ways was this concept of not bailing out. Amy teaches that when you’re on an improv stage and things get gritty, you don’t abandon your partner. You stay all in with the person you’re creating with. It was a huge eye opener!
In the past, I’d be in conversation and there’d come a lull in our exchange. I’d get anxious and bail. This new learning allowed me to be cognizant of my intention to stay and create with any one of the terrific women I found myself across from, focused with the ears of my heart and eyes of my soul as if we were in a glittery snow globe. I am embracing this newfound power of connection, this energy of constancy and safety that I found drew others to me. I’m taking this beautiful and cherished gift home!
I am all at once in the best part of my life to date. My 60th year of life has been an epic adventure, a gigantic learning experiment, and truly an all-around dance of delight.
My new love, Paul, has helped me to unearth my buried childlike silliness and lighthearted joyfulness. He is the man I didn’t believe existed. It’s funny I took the year to travel the world only to find my person back in South Kingstown, RI!
The power of Retreat: REst, REstore, REalign, REassess, REignite, REnew, REMEMBER.
I wish these things for you.
Patty
