Returning to Self
Open the Sacred Mysteries to Your Heart
Retreat
October 12 to 19, 2024
Embark on an exhilarating voyage to explore the depths of
your essence, uncovering our innate brilliance and
embracing our entirety with boundless passion.
Join us in San Miguel de Allende, The Heart of Mexico,
for an enriching Self-Discovery under the expert guidance of
Vera Lopez, an integrative coach certified by
Debbie Ford and the Ford Institute.
Our retreat unfolds amidst the captivating backdrop of
San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and vibrant cultural mosaic.
|
Open the Sacred Mysteries to Your Heart
"Until you make the unconscious couscous, it will direct our life and we will call it fate.” Carl Jung
|
Learn how to live from your sacred heart wisdom in your everyday life. Humanity is in a crisis in every aspect of our world. We are at a crossroads unlike anything we have experienced in history. What is unlike previous historical crisis is humanity now has the consciousness to be aware of the crisis, the uncertainties, and the fears of our world today. This is truly an amazing gift. The gift of choice, the power to choose, to be different. The only way to transform our world is to evoke our own inner revolution of our heart. The sacred wisdom of the heart. To bring focus to the heart intelligence and be able to live that in our everyday lives. This then becomes the place, the consciousness you create and live your life from. A place of wisdom, joy, peace beyond understanding, freedom, self-empowerment, and love. Now is the time we have come to this lifetime for... a transformation of consciousness. In the words of Gandhi decades ago, "We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a [person] changes their own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards [them]. This is the divine mystery supreme. A wonderful thing is it and the source of our happiness. We need not wait to see what others do". |
Imagines of the amazing diversity of art, beauty, colors, and magic of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful and historic city in central Mexico that has become a popular destination for tourists, artists, and spiritual seekers. Here are some spiritual reasons why a you will love a retreat in San Miguel de Allende...
* Sacred sites: San Miguel de Allende is home to several beautiful churches and cathedrals, including the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. These sacred sites offer a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere where visitors can connect with their spirituality.
* Energy vortex: Some people believe that San Miguel de Allende is located on a powerful energy vortex, which can enhance meditation and spiritual practices. The energy of the city is said to be particularly strong at sunrise and sunset.
* Artistic community: San Miguel de Allende has long been a hub for artists and creatives, many of whom are drawn to the city's vibrant culture and colorful architecture. The artistic community can be a source of inspiration and creativity for visitors who are looking to explore their own creative potential.
* Healing traditions: Mexico has a rich tradition of herbal medicine and natural healing practices, many of which can be found in San Miguel de Allende. Visitors can explore local markets and shops to learn more about these traditions and incorporate them into their own spiritual practices.
Our Return to Self Retreat offers:
- Holistic Healing: A comprehensive approach to healing the mind, body, and spirit.
- Self-Reflection: Opportunities for deep introspection and self-discovery.
- Personal Growth: Tools and guidance for personal growth and transformation.
- Community Connection: Connection with like-minded individuals in a supportive environment.
- Cultural Enrichment: Immersion in the rich culture and history of San Miguel de Allende.
- Relaxation and Renewal: Time to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with oneself.
- Empowerment: Strategies for empowerment and reclaiming personal agency.
- Mindfulness Practices: Techniques for cultivating mindfulness and inner peace.
- Inspiration: Inspiration to live authentically and pursue one's passions and purpose.
- Memorable Experiences: Unforgettable experiences that nourish the soul and leave a lasting impact.
Day 1 Saturday, October 12: Welcome to San Miguel de Allende
Today all participants will be arriving in SMA, please plan to be at hotel no later than 5 pm. Our first circle is schedule for 6 pm - introductions, logistics and setting intentions.
Welcome Dinner (included)
Sweet Dreams!
Day 1 Saturday, October 12: Welcome to San Miguel de Allende
Today all participants will be arriving in SMA, please plan to be at hotel no later than 5 pm. Our first circle is schedule for 6 pm - introductions, logistics and setting intentions.
Welcome Dinner (included)
Sweet Dreams!
Day 2 Sunday, October 13: Healing Day
After breakfast, we journey to our San Miguel Retreat Home, Portal de Luz, for a day of conversation and ceremony. Prior to embracing transformation, we cleanse ourselves of burdens, making space for new visions and intentions to flourish. In the afternoon, we engage in reflective dialogue, identifying and releasing limiting beliefs and old patterns.
Return to hotel for resting, journaling & integrating. We truly suggest to rest tonight.
From 5 to 7 Jim Hostler will be available for Higher Ground Pendulum Sessions (included in the retreat), please schedule in advance through this link: https://heal.me/practitioner/james-a-hostler, so we can organize his calendar in order to offer at least one session to each participant.
Sweet Dreams!
Day 3 Monday, October 14: Fun and Discovery
This morning our walking tour will show us the colors of Mexico, the magic of the people and the charm of the town. We will have a wonderful walk learning about the city, the history and the architecture.
After lunch we return to our Portal de Luz retreat home for an afternoon of self-discovery as we peel back the layers of conditioning and societal expectations to reveal your authentic essence. Through gentle exploration and reflective practices, you'll reconnect with your true self and shine brightly from within.
Return to hotel for resting, journaling & integrating.
From 5 to 7 Jim Hostler will be available for Higher Ground Pendulum Sessions (included in the retreat), please schedule in advance through this link: https://heal.me/practitioner/james-a-hostler, so we can organize his calendar in order to offer at least one session to each participant.
Sweet Dreams!
Return to hotel for resting, journaling & integrating.
From 5 to 7 Jim Hostler will be available for Higher Ground Pendulum Sessions (included in the retreat), please schedule in advance through this link: https://heal.me/practitioner/james-a-hostler, so we can organize his calendar in order to offer at least one session to each participant.
Sweet Dreams!
Day 4 Tuesday, October 15: Refreshing, renewing and restoring
Day 4 Tuesday, October 15: Refreshing, renewing and restoring
Early morning (7:30 am) we travel few miles away from San Miguel to one of the most enchanting mineral baths of San Miguel. Spending time to immerse and meditate in the sacred waters.
Water: the element of receptivity and psychic abilities
The reflective qualities of connecting the element of water bring gifts of empathy, healing and clairvoyance. As we look at the element of water, we can gain insight into how we function on emotional and intuitive levels.
The reflective qualities of connecting the element of water bring gifts of empathy, healing and clairvoyance. As we look at the element of water, we can gain insight into how we function on emotional and intuitive levels.
|
|
After a refreshing, renewing and restoring morning, and a delicious brunch, will return to our Retreat Home.
This afternoon of self-discovery as we peel back the layers of conditioning and societal expectations to reveal your authentic essence. Through gentle exploration and reflective practices, you'll reconnect with your true self and shine brightly from within.
Our afternoon process concludes around 6 pm. We suggest taking an enchanting stroll to San Miguel de Allende Centro, immersing yourself in local music, wandering the magical cobblestone streets, and basking in the glow of our Paroquia. Suggestions for lovely roof top dinner Quince, ATRIO or La Azotea. It's important to reserve at least couple days in advance.
Sweet Dreams!
This afternoon of self-discovery as we peel back the layers of conditioning and societal expectations to reveal your authentic essence. Through gentle exploration and reflective practices, you'll reconnect with your true self and shine brightly from within.
Our afternoon process concludes around 6 pm. We suggest taking an enchanting stroll to San Miguel de Allende Centro, immersing yourself in local music, wandering the magical cobblestone streets, and basking in the glow of our Paroquia. Suggestions for lovely roof top dinner Quince, ATRIO or La Azotea. It's important to reserve at least couple days in advance.
Sweet Dreams!
Day 5 Wednesday, October 16: Activating the Temple of Intuition. Remembering the Sacred Space of the Heart and
Entering the Tiny Space of the Heart.
In today’s world, having a high level of intuition has clearly become a key to a happy and successful life. The awakening of the Intuitive Mind provides a fascinating glimpse behind the science of intuition and explains how you can help ourself to unlock our true potential.
In today’s world, having a high level of intuition has clearly become a key to a happy and successful life. The awakening of the Intuitive Mind provides a fascinating glimpse behind the science of intuition and explains how you can help ourself to unlock our true potential.
After our vegetarian lunch (included) we will spend the afternoon, connecting to the creative process, and learning how to create from the Tiny Space of the Heart.
Suggestions for lovely roof top dinner Quince, ATRIO or La Azotea. It's important to reserve at least couple days in advance.
Sweet Dreams!
Sweet Dreams!
Day 6 Thursday, October 17: As Within So Without, As Above So Below - Cañada De La Virgen
Today we will be leaving the hotel by 8:00 am to take the bus to Canada De La Virgen. Once we arrive at the tourist center, we will be walking/hiking to the actual area where the ancient temples are located. The road we walk/hike is wide as the picture below shows, but going consistently uphill. This walk/hike of approx. 30 minutes will require a physical strength, therefore if you are not feeling your optimum self, this might not be an activity for you. Notice that San Miguel is at 6,300 ft and Canada is at 7,000 ft. so to adjust to the elevation and listen to our tour guide, we will be making few stops along the way.
Once we get at the top, in the temples complex, its actually very easy to walk around as it's flat all around (see pictures below), then the steps to get to the top of the pyramid is note as easy so you might chose to stay below the pyramid and meditate.
|
|
MORE on this beautiful and ancient complex: Surrounded by gorges and located on a plateau at 7,000 ft. elevation, the site chosen by the architects of the pyramids of Cañada de la Virgen was surrounded by an ancient forest, in a time when the climate was much wetter and cooler. There was a gallery of hardwoods as well as other plant and animals species which don’t exist today. The people who settled here, in 540 A.D., found the perfect location; it offered water, fertile black soil, building materials, flora and fauna.
The main pyramid/patio complex at Cañada de la Virgen is referred to as the Relox Cosmico, the Cosmic Clock. It has also been termed the ‘House of the Thirteen Heavens.’ There is evidence of an orientation toward the movements of the moon. The possibility exists that this was a matriarchal society.
The pyramid was first reported to the government in 1985 by a cowboy. It had previously been thought of as “just another mound.” In their ascent, the horses easily found footing, as if they were climbing stairs, and so they were! In 1999, the 16 hectares surrounding the pyramid were bought by a German woman, a descendant of steel producers during WWII.
Pyramid de la Virgen was a religious center in which gods and ancestors were worshiped, and the movement of celestial bodies and their relationship to points on the earth, studied. The people had a vivid pantheon of gods whom they believed incarnated as their ruling class. The Pyramid was opened to the public in 2011.
The dormant volcano, Volcan Palo Huerfano, is referred to by locals as Los Picachos because of the jagged edges of the rim of the crater. The peaks and other topographical features were deeply significant to the architects of the pyramids. The astronomer priests understood that the celestial bodies and land forms were the Gods interacting. This was not metaphorical to them. They viewed it as their job to keep the celestial clock progressing and ensuring the sun would continue to rise.
The main pyramid/patio complex at Cañada de la Virgen is referred to as the Relox Cosmico, the Cosmic Clock. It has also been termed the ‘House of the Thirteen Heavens.’ There is evidence of an orientation toward the movements of the moon. The possibility exists that this was a matriarchal society.
The pyramid was first reported to the government in 1985 by a cowboy. It had previously been thought of as “just another mound.” In their ascent, the horses easily found footing, as if they were climbing stairs, and so they were! In 1999, the 16 hectares surrounding the pyramid were bought by a German woman, a descendant of steel producers during WWII.
Pyramid de la Virgen was a religious center in which gods and ancestors were worshiped, and the movement of celestial bodies and their relationship to points on the earth, studied. The people had a vivid pantheon of gods whom they believed incarnated as their ruling class. The Pyramid was opened to the public in 2011.
The dormant volcano, Volcan Palo Huerfano, is referred to by locals as Los Picachos because of the jagged edges of the rim of the crater. The peaks and other topographical features were deeply significant to the architects of the pyramids. The astronomer priests understood that the celestial bodies and land forms were the Gods interacting. This was not metaphorical to them. They viewed it as their job to keep the celestial clock progressing and ensuring the sun would continue to rise.
Our local tour guide will introduce our group to Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca, who both collaborated in creation. They were the yin and yang of life. Their images were painted on pottery and bark paper books called codices. Their duality is crucial to understanding this culture.
Under the luminous embrace of the full moon, join us for a sacred and enchanting journey at the FULL MOON Cacao Ceremony with Misti Hill. Following a rejuvenating afternoon of restoration, we converge in a circle, drawn together by the sacred cacao. Here, amidst the flickering glow of candlelight, we unite in a ceremony of profound connection and heartfelt sharing, guided by the wisdom and energy of the moon above.
Sweet Dreams!
Sweet Dreams!
Day 7 Friday, October 18: Embracing the Light
After a leisurely morning exploring the vibrant Local Market and the enchanting art galleries scattered throughout town, we return to our sanctuary at the San Miguel Retreat Home for our final circle—a celebration of our profound transformation.
October, a sacred month in Mexico, invites reflection on the intertwined dance of life and death. In homage to this tradition, we adorn ourselves with painted faces and attire, honoring loved ones and our own journey.
This afternoon, we engage in a unique ritual, wearing our ceremonial attire and having our faces painted by one of San Miguel de Allende's most renown artists. Then, amidst the picturesque backdrop of our surroundings, we embark on a journey of self-expression and celebration.
October, a sacred month in Mexico, invites reflection on the intertwined dance of life and death. In homage to this tradition, we adorn ourselves with painted faces and attire, honoring loved ones and our own journey.
This afternoon, we engage in a unique ritual, wearing our ceremonial attire and having our faces painted by one of San Miguel de Allende's most renown artists. Then, amidst the picturesque backdrop of our surroundings, we embark on a journey of self-expression and celebration.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After a lovely Dinner (included) will be time to say farewell.
Sweet Dreams!
Sweet Dreams!
Day 8, Saturday, October 19: Farewell - Welcome Home!
After a transformation week in the Heart of Mexico we wish you a safe journey back home. We look forward to see you again soon, in another Adventure of the Soul.
Thank You for your participations... Blessings, Spirits of the Earth.
Thank You for your participations... Blessings, Spirits of the Earth.
|
|
|
San Miguel de Allende offers a rich and diverse spiritual landscape that can be a source of inspiration, and our retreat will provide a structured and supportive environment for like minded looking to deepen their spiritual practice and explore new areas of personal growth.
Whether you are new to shamanism or an experienced practitioner, our retreat is designed to deepen your understanding and connection to this ancient wisdom tradition.
Join us for an unforgettable journey to the heart of shamanic mysteries.
Whether you are new to shamanism or an experienced practitioner, our retreat is designed to deepen your understanding and connection to this ancient wisdom tradition.
Join us for an unforgettable journey to the heart of shamanic mysteries.
Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today.
To confirm we have space available, and request enrollment,
please email Vera Lopez : [email protected]
We can't wait to welcome you
in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
To confirm we have space available, and request enrollment,
please email Vera Lopez : [email protected]
We can't wait to welcome you
in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Highlights of what is included:
☽☾ All 8 days and 7 nights lodging.
☽☾ 3 meals mentioned and snacks in the itinerary.
☽☾ All Ceremonies and Teachings.
☽☾ One Higher Ground Pendulum session with Jim Hostler.
☽☾ All Transfers in and out the sites we visit during retreat.
☽☾ Sites visited: Walking Tour, La Gruta, Cañada de la Virgen.
☽☾ All 8 days and 7 nights lodging.
☽☾ 3 meals mentioned and snacks in the itinerary.
☽☾ All Ceremonies and Teachings.
☽☾ One Higher Ground Pendulum session with Jim Hostler.
☽☾ All Transfers in and out the sites we visit during retreat.
☽☾ Sites visited: Walking Tour, La Gruta, Cañada de la Virgen.
What past participants have to say...
I’ve been blessed and honored, to have met Vera Lopez in 1993 when she led a group of us on a spiritual journey to Machu Picchu. This was the most memorable and enriching trip of my life; until, I arrived in San Miguel Allende , 🇲🇽 Mexico in March, 2023
to participate in the “Shamanic Mysteries of the Sacred Heart Retreat”. Both trips are number one for me and my book Read Vera‘s impressive bio and you will be amazed of her Professional expertise In leading mystical, spiritual tours throughout Europe, Africa/Egypt and now spectacular Mexico. Research the itinerary in October, and you will be impressed as to how well everything is organized, (but be flexible) and the best of everything Mexico has to offer regarding hotels, food, transportation, etc. Assimilating with the locals daily was a favorite for me. I’m 76 years old, a retired schoolteacher of 25 years and I give Vera/Jim an A+++ ❤️🇲🇽 My trip to San Miguel Allende was the most exciting, informational, spiritual retreat I’ve ever engaged in. Life-changing. So much so for me, I am moving to San Miguel de Allende soon. San Miguel is very safe, clean (no dogs or wild animals running around), awe-inspiring small city with many things to explore. I had quite a fondness for the cobblestone, narrow streets. I brought several pairs a good, comfortable safe shoes for walking/hiking. “ A must”. I cherished the days and nights visiting the center where people congregate close to the cathedral. Mariachis singing, playing instruments and onlookers were dancing 🕺.💃 I enjoyed visiting the boutiques, specialty stores, coffee shops, pastry shops, and particularly enjoyed the warmth I experienced mingling with the locals. (Vera stays away from the tourist traps, which I appreciate). I experienced astonishing surprises every day. I have beautiful videos/pictures to enjoy. *** *** San Miguel de Allende here I come. 🇲🇽 ❤️🥰💃 Sandi Powell 
I love traveling with Vera Lopez and fellow travelers, drawn to “Spirits of the Earth’s” adventures.
My life long desire to explore Machu Pichu, Peru, was fulfilled when I learned a girlfriend and her new friends on the West Coast had hired Vera Lopez and “Spirits of the Earth” to guide them there. I JUST HAD TO GO on the already full trip, even though I only knew my friend and we lived in different cities. . . . . I did! It changed what was possible for me and brought “magic” into my life. The sacred sites we visit are beautiful and located in the most incredible natural environments. I feel awe. (Sedona, Arizona red rocks; Glastonbury, England and Avalon; Canadian forest and lakes; Cusco, Peru and Machu Pichu). Myths and legends cloak these places of powerful energy and as I learn of them, my knowledge expands. ( Stone Henge, Egyptian Pyramids, Hopi Indian Reservation, Arizona; Ste. Marie de la Mer, France). We may participate in rituals and ceremonies which transport me and give me my own experience of the power of these sites. I connect to a higher vibration and state of consciousness. (Full moon ceremony on Solstice, Machu Pichu; Awakening the Heart, San Miguel de Allende, México). Whether in Peru, Brazil, Sedona, Arizona, England, France, Egypt, Spain, Canada, or Mexico, I learn and grow in the safe company of like-minded women. I make new friends, have a lot of fun and laughter, sight see, hike, and in between levitations (Gotcha! HaHa) enjoy shopping and of course fabulous food. What’s not to love? These soulful adventures are FUN and connect me both to ancient wisdom, which my life takes on as I go home and then shows up as greater kindness or compassion to myself and others. Thank You Vera Lopez and to my fellow travelers. Linda Pasts |
“I followed the divine golden thread to SMA for Vera’s retreat with an intention to heal my heart. All the pieces fell into place to create a soul healing that exceeded my expectations. It’s with deepest gratitude that I thank you for the journey of a lifetime.”
Helen Marie 
I have had the honor and pleasure to have Vera as a guide on several trips. When traveling to Peru and to England, Vera immersed us in the experience on many levels. She works with people to provide both historical information and spiritual occurrences. These are not guided tours - they are transformative experiences. Vera holds space for each person in the group with no expectations, allowing healing and transformation for every individual. There are many “A-ha moments” felt deep in your being, at a soul level. Although in a group, each person has their own experience unique to them.
San Miguel de Allende provided a different experience for me. I trusted that Vera would magically combine her gifts with the loving skills of others to provide, again, something that changed my life. Working with Vera, Jim Hostler, and Ann Webb was incredible. Each of them brought something different to the week, and the result was a synergistic masterpiece. Areas of my life and different aspects of myself came together like a puzzle. I also know that the finished product, “me”, is ever-changing. I have new tools to trust and enhance this evolutionary process called life. I step in with an open heart. No matter the place or the focus, Vera loves to provide a full and rich experience, allowing time for fun, relaxation and integration of the body, mind and spirit. Shawna Neal creator of Thank You, Body cards www.givingbackwellness.com 
Exploring the earth and your inner self with Vera Lopez is an amazing experience. The Shamanic Mysteries of the Sacred Heart Retreat in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico was the third journey I have taken with Vera and Spirits of the Earth. We also journeyed to Machu Picchu and sacred places in Peru in 2019 and then to Stonehenge and other sacred places in southwest United Kingdom in 2022. All of these trips are amazing as Vera blends exploring yourself and sacred places with learning ancient traditions and growing spiritually. She is a master at creating the perfect mix into a trip of a lifetime by incorporating spiritual development, self-growth, and energetic healing along with experiencing magical places up close, exploring new cultures, fine dining, shopping, and wonderful accommodations. Vera’s own spirituality, love, and positive energy makes her a fabulous teacher and a wonderful person to explore the universe with.
John Neal Giving Back Wellness 
Will you be the next? I look forward to welcome you!
|
Our Retreat Leader: Vera Lopez
|
Vera Lopez is the founder of Spirits of the Earth. She is an international teacher, coach, healer, medium and spiritual counselor. Vera is dedicated to supporting seekers in discovering and experiencing the mysteries of the ancient worlds and of their own hearts.
Since the age of 18, Vera has been studying the spiritual arts. While living within Brazil, Vera studied directly under Luiz Gasparetto, a well-know spiritual teacher, psychic and medium. Through these direct studies, spanning over a total of 14 years, Vera awakened to her life’s mission and followed her soul’s calling; resulting in the creation of Spirits of the Earth. Through Spirits of the Earth, she has been able to touch the lives of hundreds of individuals by guiding them on spiritual journeys to Peru, Brazil, England, France, Spain, Egypt and Mexico. Drawing upon her extensive and rich experiences with ancient cultures, and with sacred lands around the world, Vera is able to channel the timeless and ancient mysteries to spiritual seekers. In 2020 Vera's book Shamanic Mysteries of Peru, was publish by Inner Traditions * Bear & Company Books. To support her readers Vera founded the Andean Mystical School. Through her online platform, she teaches the Shamanic Mysteries of Peru. Vera lived 12 years in Sedona, AZ and worked with Drunvalo Melchizedek for years, assisting him during his Awakening the Illuminated Heart workshops. Living a life guided by the wisdom of her heart, Vera is passionated to teach others the path of awakening and living from their hearts. Now living in Mexico, Vera also facilitates regularly retreats on the Shamanic Mysteries of the Sacred Heart while continuing creating and leading spiritual journeys to sacred sites around the world. |
Special Participantion: Jim Hostler
|
Jim is the founder of the O,M. Spiritual Center, (omscglobal.com), where he combines the philosophies of "O"ntology and "M"etaphysics, to offer services to help people transform their lives. He holds a masters degree in metaphysics, and has studied ontology and metaphysics for over two decades. With his wealth of experience and diverse background, Jim meets you wherever you are in your life to help and support you to breakthrough any struggles you are experiencing to be able to transform - and sustain - a richer, more fulfilling life.
|