Guatemala: A Trip of a Lifetime

There are trips you take that shift something deep inside you—your perspective, your priorities, your presence. My journey to Guatemala with Unite Us Yoga was exactly that: a trip of a lifetime.

Led by the incredible Cathy Yonaitis, our retreat brought us to the breathtaking shores of Lake Atitlán, where we stayed at Casa Paloma Retreat Center—an oasis tucked into the hillside with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. It felt like paradise from the moment we arrived.

Day 1: Travel and Arrival in Antigua, Guatemala

We were thrilled to get out just ahead of the incoming snow and ice storm! The Greensboro crew set their alarms early and headed to the airport around 6 a.m., trading freezing temperatures for much warmer adventures. By noon, we had safely landed in Guatemala City — tired from the early start but full of excitement. A picture of Katja and I on the plane.

After landing, we made the two-hour drive to Antigua — and that’s when the adventure truly began!

This trip started teaching me lessons right away, beginning with the famously bumpy cobblestone streets. Every jolt in the road pulled me into the present moment. It’s funny how quickly you realize how much you take smooth pavement for granted back home. Riding over those stones, I couldn’t help but think about the craftsmanship and history beneath us — each road bump a reminder of the work and time woven into this beautiful city. (Also note at how the motorcycles are parked. I would knock them over like dominos if I had to get on one!)

Antigua is vibrant and colorful, but what struck me most was what lay beyond the doors. From the outside, many buildings seemed simple and meek. Step inside, however, and you’d find beautifully manicured courtyards, lush plants, and carefully tended spaces. It reminded me of the yoga niyamas: Saucha (purity and cleanliness) and Santosha (contentment). There was pride, care, and joy in what people had. A powerful reminder: never judge a book by its cover.

Later, we visited Iglesia de la Merced and took in sweeping views of the city. Everything looked beautiful from above. How many times do you get to walk on the roof of a church?

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Day 2: Sunrise & Travel to Lake Atitlán

If you know me, you know I love greeting the day early. My new friend Heather and I ventured out at 6:00 a.m. to Arco de Santa Catalina, just as our driver the day before had recommended. The streets were nearly empty, the sky clear, and the volcano visible in the distance. It was peaceful and surreal.

After our morning stroll, we enjoyed breakfast at Hotel Ojalá. Later, from our hotel balcony, we sipped coffee while watching Volcán de Fuego erupt every 15–20 minutes. I quickly grew fond of the steady plumes of smoke and affectionately nicknamed him “Puff the Magic Dragon.” Before we set off on our travels again we took a quick walk through town. We found an outdoor library and mini ice cream trucks. It felt like one of those simple, unexpected moments that make exploring a new place so special — just wandering, noticing, and letting the charm of the town unfold around us.

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That afternoon, we began our journey to Lake Atitlán — a three-hour bus ride to Panajachel, followed by a 30-minute boat ride to Casa Paloma near San Marcos La Laguna.

We squeezed 20 people into the van with our luggage strapped to the roof — and then repeated the process on the boat, bags piled high once again. The ride was a bit rough, but the excitement outweighed every bump and wave. Each jolt brought us closer to the lake and the next chapter of our adventure.

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Casa Paloma was a welcomed sight! Our home away from home for the next week!

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When we arrived, we were immediately swept up in the vibrant sounds of a marimba group playing traditional instruments — from the marimba itself to a jaguar drum made from squash, clay bird water whistles, and even a drum crafted from a turtle shell. It was a family performing together, each member weaving their own rhythm and melody with infectious joy and pride.

They shared stories about their culture and how nature inspires the creation of their instruments. Then, to our delight, they invited us to try them ourselves. I couldn’t resist picking up one of the clay bird whistles for my sound healing classes — a small but meaningful keepsake of the music and spirit that welcomed us so warmly.

After, we gathered for dinner and a welcome message from Cathy - Between Volcano and Sky. I think this was the ONLY time during the week the table listened to instructions! Haha. IYKYK. Chef Rosa fed us all week. Her first meal was wood-fired pizzas. They were delicious!

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Following dinner, we settled into our rooms, our room was named the Tuk Tuk — and don’t worry, you’ll find out what a Tuk Tuk is soon! My roommate for the week was Liz, and she was absolutely amazing. She felt like the sister I never had, and I loved every moment of our conversations — from lighthearted laughs to deep, meaningful talks.

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Day 3: Presence & Peace

Waking up surrounded by mountains and shimmering water felt absolutely surreal. That morning, our meditation focused on simple awareness:

Inhale: I know I am inhaling in. In.
Exhale: I know I am exhaling out. Out.

A gentle yet powerful reminder to stay present and embrace gratitude in the moment.

The rest of the day was pure restorative—relaxing, receiving a massage, splashing in the water, basking in the sun, and getting lost in a good book. (I was reading Theo of Golden during the retreat. If you haven't read it yet, I would recommend. 5 star read!)

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Day 4: Exploring San Marcos

After breakfast, we set out into town in a tuk-tuk. A tuk tuk is a three wheeled, open-air motorized vehicle. It is their taxis. — For 20 quetzale (roughly $3), we zipped through town like locals.

At first, they tried to cram 3–4 people into each tuk-tuk, but when the hill got steep, we had to jump out, run alongside, and hop back in. They quickly adjusted, limiting rides to 2–3 people, making it much safer. It was an unforgettable way to explore the town!

We toured Shangri-La Atitlán Coffee and got an inside look at the coffee-growing process—from seeds all the way to the cup of Joe we know and love. Tim walked us through it: cherry, to white bean, to drying, to green bean, and finally roasting. Watching the process unfold gave me a whole new appreciation for my morning coffee ritual.

We also visited the famous “Eagle’s Nest” viewpoint and yoga deck. Honestly, I might have spent the whole time just sitting there, mesmerized by the view, rather than rolling out a yoga mat. The scenery was breathtaking.

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After our tour, we decided to skip the tuk tuk and walk through town and back along the water to home.

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Day 5: A Reset Day

While some of the group headed out for a bird-watching tour, I chose to listen to my body and rest. Sometimes the most powerful choice you can make is simply to slow down. These were my favorite places to read or have my morning coffee.

Although I didn’t do the bird tour, I loved seeing the photos my friends captured — especially of the resplendent quetzal (on the right), the most famous bird in Guatemala. Its name means “large brilliant tail feather,” which feels fitting once you see it. The bird is absolutely stunning. In fact, Guatemala’s currency, the quetzal, is named in its honor — a beautiful tribute to such a magnificent creature.

Day 6: San Juan Cultural Immersion

This day was filled with learning and connection. We took a short boat ride to San Juan. We were greeted by our tour guide who showed us the town and all that it has to offer. We visited:

• Xocolatl San Juan La Laguna – Learning traditional chocolate-making methods (a fun contrast to growing up near Hershey, PA!).

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• Xunah Kaab – Discovering stingless bees (yes, they exist—and they bite not sting!). We sampled different types of medicinal honey.

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• Casa del Tejido y Tours - We had an incredibly educational and hands-on experience learning about the traditional cotton dyeing and weaving process. We even got to help with spinning and preparing the cotton ourselves, which gave me a whole new appreciation for the time and care behind each piece.

  Our teacher showed us how they dye the yarn using natural herbs and foods — we dipped the yarn in rosemary mixture to create a beautiful green color. It smelled incredible. She then demonstrated the art of weaving on a backstrap loom, a technique passed down through generations.

  Casa del Tejido y Tours is a collective of 13 families who handcraft these textiles, preserving both their artistry and cultural heritage. It was inspiring to witness such skill, tradition, and community woven together.

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• Plantas Medicinales Mayab - Medicinal plant gardens – Learning about arnica, yarrow, rue, moringa, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and many more herbs and their healing properties.

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• Local art galleries – We visited a local art gallery where the artist shared something fascinating about Mayan artistic perspective. In their tradition, paintings are often created from two distinct viewpoints: from an ant’s view looking up — where you see the faces of the people — or from a bird’s-eye view looking down, where you see their backs. It was such a powerful reminder that perspective shapes everything we see. I didn’t take any photos out of respect for the artist’s work, but the pieces were incredible and deeply meaningful.

  Another popular art form in the area is coffee art — intricate images created using coffee as the medium. See the dancer picture below.

  

Our tour guide then led us through town, sharing fascinating insights that brought even more depth to what we were experiencing.

We learned about the four sacred colors of corn — white, yellow, red, and black — each representing a direction (North, South, East, West) and reflecting the Mayan identity as the “people of the corn.” Corn is far more than food; it is central to culture.

We also noticed kites strung across the streets and learned they serve as spiritual bridges to ancestors — beautiful symbols connecting the earthly and the divine.

Every detail in this town seemed to carry meaning far beyond what first meets the eye. It was a day rich in culture, symbolism, and appreciation.

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Here are a few more pictures of traveling: Boat ride, The entire group in front of the Mayan Nose (Mountain), and Pam and I at lunch.

Day 7: Hiking the Mayan Nose

A 3:00 a.m. wake-up call. Headlamps. Countless steep steps in the dark led to a breathtaking beautiful sunrise.

Hiking the Mayan Nose (the mountain from the group picture) was challenging—but reaching the summit before sunrise, surrounded by lake, volcanoes, stars, and silence, was unforgettable.

As the sun rose, warmth returned to our bodies and light to the landscape. Each sunrise is a reminder: the day is fresh, clean, and unused. What came before doesn’t define what’s ahead. Be here ... now.

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"The light in me sees, honors, and cherishes the light in you."

After returning to Casa Paloma, we took some time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Later in the day, Chef Rosa led a hands-on cooking class for those of us eager to learn.

We prepared Pepián de Pollo — Guatemala’s national dish — and learned the art of tamale-making from scratch. She even shared some cooking tips! Amanda said, "If only photos could capture scent," because her kitchen smelled absolutely incredible. Every bite was rich with flavor and tradition. Her food was truly unforgettable not just this meal but all of her meals.

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After cooking, we moved into another restorative practice, and nature gifted us a stunning show — a lightning storm flickering across the sky, followed by the softest pastel purple sunset. The photo doesn’t even come close to doing it justice.

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Day 8: Closing Ceremony

Our final full day at Casa Paloma included a mobility-focused yoga practice and a sacred Mayan fire ceremony led by a shaman.

The ceremony centered on purification, healing, gratitude, and spiritual connection. We offered materials into the fire as symbolic bridges between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Some experiences are too sacred and personal to fully capture in words. What I will say is this: seeds were planted. Seeds of awareness, intention, and purpose. May they continue to grow and blossom.

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Dinner with this rowdy bunch was the perfect way to close our time together. As we shared our final meal as a group, we laughed, reflected on our favorite moments from the trip, and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff who cared for us all week.

It was the kind of evening filled with full hearts, loud stories, and the bittersweet feeling of an adventure coming to an end.

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Day 9–10: Returning Home

People truly make the trip. I’m so grateful for the new friendships formed and for how open and vulnerable everyone was throughout the experience. Having led my own yoga retreats, I know that when people show up with a willingness to learn and an open heart, the experience becomes deeply meaningful and impactful.

I feel so thankful for the connections made on this trip — even though I didn’t get a picture with everyone. After saying our goodbyes on the docks, we all went our separate ways, carrying memories, laughter, and the spirit of this journey with us

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I headed back to Antigua, and the city felt completely different this time — alive and buzzing with wedding season. Everywhere we turned, there were couples in their wedding outfits; I counted at least four weddings walking through town. You could really feel the joy and celebration in the air.

Later, four of us had dinner at a rooftop bar. In the first photo, you can spot the church we visited on our first day, and in the second, Volcano Fuego — aka “Puff the Magic Dragon” — in the background. Right after we snapped the picture, it erupted! Bright red flames shot into the night sky — absolutely breathtaking.

At dinner, we ended up chatting with the table next to us — a guy from Texas and a couple from Colorado. The Texan had just hiked the volcano and said it was one of the most grueling hikes he’d ever done and freezing cold at the top. He even shared photos of the eruption. Apparently, Fuego’s been extra active this week — and after his picture ...it sure looks like it!

Last Airport picture. Home Bound.

We were blessed with smooth travels, arriving home just after another snowstorm. There’s something special about getting away, but nothing beats coming home and hugging my boys!

Yoga

Not only did we explore the area, but one of the main reasons for going was the yoga. Each day, Cathy guided us through meditation, led thoughtful yoga practices, and in the evenings offered restorative sessions. The themes of the classes built gently throughout the week, layering insight upon experience.

One of my favorite teachings was “mobility before stability.” Cathy shared that she learned this series from Eddy Marks and Mary Obendorfer, senior Iyengar teachers who studied with Mr. Iyengar. The philosophy centers on returning to the basics and embracing repetition—the idea that as mobility improves, stability naturally follows.

I especially loved the foot series (so simple to weave into daily life) and a new approach to hip openers that created more spaciousness in the back body. Cathy’s creativity and depth of knowledge truly stood out. I learned so much from her and fully embraced the gift of being a student again.

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Reflections & Lessons

Throughout the week, being still in nature taught—or at least reminded me of—some valuable lessons. The first is that you need both light and darkness to truly see the light. There is always balance. The image of the moon shining through the clouds made me pause and reflect on this notion.

Second lessons I took from being in nature came from watching the birds: nothing is permanent — embrace change.

During our morning meditations, the birds were most active, landing on a tree near the yoga platform. They’d stay for a while and then fly off, moving freely as they pleased. Watching them come and go brought me a deep sense of peace — a gentle reminder that everything in life is adaptable, and that change can bring fresh perspectives and new opportunities.

And just as I was snapping a photo, these birds flew right through the frame — a spontaneous, magical moment that perfectly captured the beauty and unpredictability of nature.

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The last lesson and maybe my favorite came from someone I never talked to but just observed from afar. Consistency is key. Practice. Practice. Practice. Never give up.

Every morning, as we stepped out for coffee or meditation, we’d see a man fishing on what looked like a boat he had carved himself. Day after day, before we were even awake, he was out there, fully immersed in his work. He seemed to genuinely enjoy it, often waving to us as we passed and noticed him.

His dedication and perseverance were remarkable — a quiet reminder that growth and change come through consistent effort. One evening, we were treated to a meal of fish, freshly caught that very day by his hands. It was humbling and inspiring to witness the fruits of his labor, and to realize how consistency, patience, and love for what you do can sustain both yourself and others.

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Gratitude

As I reflect, my heart is overflowing. My cup is full.

To Cathy, for curating such a meaningful retreat and bringing together a group of diverse yet like-minded souls. Your guidance made every moment memorable. Thank you!

To every participant—thank you for sharing your light, your vulnerability, and your presence. You made this experience unforgettable. The company you keep truly shapes the journey, and I feel honored to have shared it with you.

To the Casa Paloma staff and Chef Rosa and her team —thank you for nourishing us both internally and externally. Your care and attention made every moment even more special.

To my husband, Steve—thank you for holding down the fort, especially during snow and ice days, and for supporting me wholeheartedly. You are an incredible partner and father.

To my clients and students—your support allows me to live my dharma. Because of you, I get to teach, explore, grow, and bring more into our shared practice.

If there’s a trip calling your heart—answer it. Book it. Trust that it will unfold exactly as it should. Be open to every moment.

Life is an adventure. Embrace it, trust the process, and let it guide you.

With a full and grateful heart,
Sarah