according to roOdles

by Rudy Gonzales

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For the undisciplined, Yoga can be quite intimidating. The elegant and precise movements achieved by a trained practitioner can both inspire and crush ones efforts all in single pose. A common challenge confronted by many, I recently tapped into the skilled trainings of Alessandra Montana, Sanara Tulum’s Yoga Studio Manager to delve into the different types of yoga and more importantly choosing the best style suited for you.

Originated by a yogi named Sri Tirulma Kirshnamachayra, Vinyasa (vin-YA-sa) Yoga is a practice dedicated to movement carefully synchronized with breathing. Yoga is comprised of a series of asanas (poses & postures) that will advance a trainee through multiple forms of inhaling and exhaling. Each class is designed to coincide with the skill level performed by its attendees. Led by Sanara’s Alessandra Montana, and the always beautiful Luna Limon & Richelle Morgan, Vinyasa yoga is a perfect introduction for a beginner or a trained student in transition.

Presented in a unique series of poses, Ashtanga Yoga instills a moral and ethical approach to postures, breath work, and most importantly meditation. A workout designed to ultimately produce a purifying sweat that detoxifies the muscles and organs. Available in beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, Ashtanga is a style of yoga best suited for those with a little more experience.

A more vigorous and fitness-based approach to Ashtanga and Vinyasa yoga styles, Power Yoga does not align with the typical set of poses. With its emphasis on strength and flexibility, Power yoga is considered by many to be the “gym yoga”. Both Ashtanga & Power Yoga classes are taught by Adriana Mangino, all levels are welcome to these power focused exercises.

Celebrated as the ‘mother of all yoga’ styles, Hatha Yoga by it’s Sanskrit definition means willful or forceful. A representation of the masculineHa is of the sun, and Tha represents the moon and femininity within all of us. The ultimate formulated yoga focuses on asanas (postures), dhauti or shodana (cleansing technique), pranayama (breathing exercise), bandha (locks) and mudra (hand gestures). Taught by the handsomely talented Flavio Lopez, Hatha Yoga is ideal for the intrepid yoga going enthusiast.

Another form of Hatha Yoga, Iyengar Yoga puts the emphasis on detail, precision and alignment within the performance of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control). Commonly performed with the use of various accessories such as; belts, blocks, and blankets to aid in the ultimate pose execution. Be sure to pick up your selected items before class starts. Instructed by Eugenia Russian, all levels are welcome.

Last but not least, Pilates the highly coveted physical fitness program improves flexibility, strength, and is a key skill to refining muscle control and endurance. Taught by the highly trained Beatriz Aleman, and once again all levels are welcome.

On a more personal note… If you’re anything like me you determinedly skimmed the page and felt completely lost. The biggest challenge is waking up early enough, and getting yourself there. Here are a few additional insider tips.

1. A male who practices yoga is called a Yogi, and a female practitioner, Yogini.

2. You’re not the only one confused, so don’t be afraid of making mistakes.

3. The word Yoga, from the Sanskrit word yuj means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted as ‘union’ or a method of discipline.

4. Hydrate yourself beforehand, think ‘road trip hydrate’ just enough to get to the end without all the pit stops.

5. Remember yoga poses are designed to re-direct the mind to a calmer place, meditation is the highest form of yoga, and breathing is the most important.

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One of the greater pleasures in life are the small yet beautiful encounters had with the world around us. The connection that human beings have with Mother Nature is a powerful one indeed. Every year from May through October it is Turtle Nesting Season in the Caribbean. Here is what you need to know!

Almost every night, upon sundown, a mother turtle arises from the deep blue sea that is the Riviera Maya, she then makes her way to the location she herself originally hatched and carefully digs a nest to lay her eggs. For those lucky enough to catch her "in the act", this beautiful and sacred encounter is certain to be ingrained in your memory.

For over a 100 Million years sea turtles have flourished among the pristine beaches of Tulum, yet today they are an endangered species. Only one in a thousand baby turtles reach adulthood. Of the seven species of sea turtles living worldwide, six reside within the Mexican beaches, four within Quintana Roo; The Green Turtle, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and the Leatherback. Together alongside the highly respected non-profit work of the Riviera Maya-Tulum Sea Turtle Conservation by Flora & Fauna, Sanara Tulum invites you to experience in the preservation of these beautiful creatures.

It is of the utmost importance that we share these precautions in the aiding of the sacred ritual. Keep an eye out for marked-off nesting areas throughout the Tulum beach.

1. However tempting it may be, try to avoid approaching the turtles and we must NEVER touch them. Allowing the turtles plenty of space to nest, and feel secure. We highly advise against swimming at night, and avoiding the use of any beach beds or other accessories.

2. Tidy up after any & all beach play. A turtle can easily confuse litter especially plastics with their own food. Which could severely harm them or even be fatal.

3. Be aware of your untethered pets. Loose animals may unknowingly damage an existing nest or consume the offspring. It’s best to keep unsupervised pets off the beach during nesting season.

4. Sea turtles approach the beach in darkness as it a signal of safety. Avoid strong lighting, flash photography, and bonfires as these will result in frightening the turtles away.  Please note, Red colored lighting is safe and does not distract the turtles.  

5. Careful where you step especially during the dark and or walking at night, ball games can also destroy a nest.

6. Once they have hatched, sea turtles are guided by the natural light.  Should you find a nesting of baby turtles hatching, please advise a member of staff or security to assist.

7. The hunting of Sea Turtles is against the law and most importantly cruel. Do not purchase or consume any sea turtle-derived products.

The Riviera Maya-Tulum Sea Turtle Conservation has aided in the protection in turtle wildlife for almost three decades. In the past 13 years alone, the program has protected more than 67,000 Green & Loggerhead turtle nests. As well as released over 4 million hatchlings to the sea. Budgets are tight, and the peso is stretched in lengths to provide personnel with the correct tools. To find out how you can donate please email [email protected] or inquire at our Front Desk.

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Once merely a sleepy fisherman's village on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum has since grown into an epicenter of counter culture eco-tourism. Now a place where high style and down to earth eco-living can co-exist. Our Rudy Gonzales recently spoke with Studio Arquitectos, the highly innovative and sought after architects of Tulum’s most populated spaces to delve into the majestic architecture that is Sanara Tulum.

Constructed of unparalleled craftsmanship, Sanara Tulum was designed with one intention in mind: to create a tangible place in the world, a space to unite like minded individuals with the common purpose of self-transformation, for greater understanding of ourselves and the world around us... objective achieved!

Your Sanara Tulum hotel is positioned on the highly coveted beach of the Riviera Maya, the hotel’s foundations and structures have been built with the utmost respect and awareness of the sanctity of the land of Tulum. In an effort to incur minimal displacement or damage to the beach, the hotel’s stand alone properties are strategically placed without walkways ultimately allowing Mother Nature to grow harmoniously throughout and with inhabitants of its birthplace.  Each structure is developed and supported on ground-level pilotis, elevating the building from the earth ultimately allowing the continuity of living organisms below. Above, pristine white sands, coco palms, and Mayan chit trees flourish naturally throughout the Sanara Tulum landscape.

RG: How does Sanara Tulum  differ from other hotels in the area?

Studio Arquitectos: ‘The design is based on the respect of the site's original vegetation. The modules were always intended to be elevated from the ground so that firstly it does not impact the ground by it’s column foundations, then, so that turtles and other fauna have the ability to make use of the sites space. Creating a proper ventilation that tropical context requires, allowing hurricanes and strong winds or water to pass through.’  says Paulina Villa CFO of Studio Arquitectos.

Utilizing indigenous materials such as; clay, stone and local Mexican wood the hotel’s design is made for sustainable living. Showcasing details of traditional Mexican architecture, the recognizable and carefully sourced bajareque and tzalam lumber stands strong and tall throughout the hotel’s grounds.

RG: The wood at Sanara is absolutely beautiful, can you tell me more about how and where it comes from?

Studio Arquitectos: Most of the wood comes from the town of Noh-Bec which is an important supplier of the región and is regulated by authorities, the people who are in charge of this place take pride in care and calculating their consumption. It's worth noting, that they sell the wood seasonally in an effort to reforest the woods annually. After 20-25 years of each cycle they cut and analyze the logs to begin the supply again.  Explains Pablo Garcia Figueroa Designer of Studio Architects and Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico City alumni.

A more personal touch, is the hand-selected Sanara Tulum tiles comprised of natural materials, the muted colors and geometric composition make for the perfect addition to the  hotel’s minimal esthetic and offer nice balance of  traditional Mexican style.  

RG: There are a lot of details in the design, can you tell me more about the pop tiles showcased throughout the hotel?

Studio Arquitectos:  “The Mosaicos Artesanales are a typical addition to the historical buildings in our country, specifically the región of Yucatán. You can find these tiles in the local haciendas, this type of colorful finishing that gives each space a warm feel. These pieces are very eco-friendly because they are all handmade one by one. First,  they make the mold of each shape. Then, they fill in a mix of cement and at the very top, the artisan will color a finish depending on the design. The materials and pigments originate from nature and the labor is 100% handmade”. - Sayas Pablo Garcia Figueroa.

By necessity, Sanara Tulum takes in consideration the use of local resources. In an effort to conserve energy, Sanara’s floor to ceiling polished concrete walls are beautifully constructed to decrease the usage of electricity, organically cooling the rooms, and most importantly diminishing the cost of waste and repairs. Each wall showcases a beautiful blend of textured of monotone greys that are strategically finished and take several hours to complete. With plans in the near future to implement solar panels on the main roofs of the hotel, Sanara aims to maximize on the energy of solar radiation and the use of sustainable materials.

RG: From your Architectural point of view, how would you say Sanara has enhanced the town of Tulum?

Studio Arquitectos: The architecture and the owner’s concept introduce the perfect example of how health and nature can coincide. Says Lalo Garcia Figueroa, Head Architect at Studio Arquitectos.

The sophisticated design, has without a doubt turned a few heads and raised the bar in the business of holistic living. “A modern look for the new Tulum” says Pablo Garcia. As Tulum continues to develop so does its community. To deny change would be denying the inevitability of Tulum’s growth. “The idea was intended to uplift ourselves, our guests, and our world, as we walk our own paths to healing and ultimately leading lives of wellness and harmony." says Sanara’s Creative Director Daniella Hunter.

Dedicated to 'building dreams', Studio Arquitectos is highly celebrated for producing contemporary designs in the most natural environments. Creators of the Tulum’s most recognizable locations such as; Hartwood, Gitano, and now your Sanara Tulum. 'It's with the highest acknowledgement and gratitude to call the team of Studio Arquitectos family.

Conceived on the affinity for social good and sustainable living, Sanara is built on the firm belief for both the care of our ourselves and for our environment. Together alongside the creative minds of Studio Arquitectos, Sanara Tulum opened it’s doors December of 2014.

It’s true what they say, “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone”, however, you don’t know what you’ve been missing until it arrives. Sanara Tulum, heal with us.

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Draped in rich stratum yarns of cashmere, cotton and silk, the Lars Andersson S/S 2015 collection makes its Caribbean debut. Now available for purchase inside the Sanara Tulum hotel, the beautifully un-constructed hand knitted capsule is pulled from the finest spun-yarn mills and produced overseas in Nepal.

Founded by Sweden native Lars Andersson, a pure artisan at heart, the S/S collection was made for the beach chic and city dwelling individual. Dedicated to only the finest in craftsmanship, the insouciant style is not designed for everyone. The basic and ensembly challengedneed NOT apply.

Dark colors and breezy cool knits touch softly on the skin. Featuring genderless pieces that are unique in style, as they are to the individual. A sleek wrap hoodie for him or her is adorned with a simple all-over pin. While oversized T-shirt dresses can be worn to and from, any and everywhere. The Lars Andersson collection is the perfect item for traveling, no matter who or where the destination. Just wait until you get your hands on one!

Please see a few select images below alongside the very beautiful Amber Valetta shot by Peter Lindbergh, styled by Michael Philouze for Zeit Magazine.

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Restaurant Guide 

Center to some of the tastiest Mexican and International cuisine in Quintanna Roo, Tulum’s restaurant and night life is filled with a variety of options from hearty to healthy selects. Artisans of individuality each restaurateur has created a venue unique in their own right. In no particular order please see a list of my favorites located directly on Tulum’s beach road.

Gitano- The renowned Tapas Restaurant and Mezcal bar opened just last year. By it’s Spanish definition, Gitano means gypsy, and the space embodies just that. Featuring s a wild esthetic of nature, a romantically light lounge, and complete with a Mayan inscented aroma. The chillingly infused Mezcal cocktails are dressed to perfection and the best on the beach. Attracting both locals and tourist alike, Gitano is the place to be when the clock strikes midnight. 

Restaurare- Inspired by the philosophy of restoring the spirit. Restaurare is a Vegan oasis tucked away off the beach road adjacent the bar Tábano. The meatless menu, offers a delectable taste of traditional Mexican dishes. While the no-frills yet charming esthetic compliments the dedicated whole-hearted staff.

Villa Pescadores- Freshly opened early last year, Villa Pescadores is positioned just before the road that leads to the Tulum Ruins. The youthful and relaxed environment sits in view of Tulum’s finest fisherman. The large offering of small plates and cocktails, is the ideal location  for casual play. More often than not, live music and dancing is had at sunset. On a more personal note, Villas Pescadores is a place where I spend most of my time. 

The Real Coconut- This quiet yet quintessentially cool beachfront eatery is located inside the Sanara Tulum hotel. Offering comforting classics with an all-natural twist, plates are prepared from the freshest locally grown produce. Every dish is designed to nourish and support both the body and soul down to a cellular level without dismissing the importance of flavor. The Real Coconut prides itself on developing plates for the curative conscience.

La Zebra- Positioned directly to the right of Sanara, La Zebra is the perfect mix of Mexican infused dining. Providing live DJs and Salsa dance class on Sundays the La Zebra restaurant offers a selection of traditional Mexican breakfast, lunch, and dinner plates.

Mezzanine- Located on the public side of the beach road of Tulum, Mezzanine hotel & restaurant is home to one of the best views in town. Offering a unique mix of Mexican infused dishes alongside delicious plates of Tai. The restaurant offers a happy hour from 1-4 PM and their fish tacos are not to be missed. 

Posada Margarita- The intimate open-walled Italian restaurant, serves a classic selection of pastas alongside a daily catch. Creating a fresh menu daily, each meal is served with an anti pasta platter that includes; bruschetta, focaccia, and cauliflower. The wine list includes a selection of chianti and South American offerings. Please note, Posada Margarita does not accept reservations, walkins only.

Ahau- A destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Ahau restaurant is a place where rustic living meets high style. The Latin American cuisine is favorited by tourist and locals alike. Showcasing a seaside grill, fresh salads, and hearty sandwiches. Favorited by both local and tourist alike, Ahou is known for great music and a beautiful crowd.

Hartwood- The highly celebrated Heartwood is favored internationally. Tourist flock from all over the world to taste the unique dishes prepared by Chef Eric Weiner. Inspired by the savory fruit and and protein options found only in the Yucatan. Heartwood’s specialty is good food, and the flavor in every last bite. Run completely on solar energy power, the no-frills kitchen prepares most of its plates over a wooded fire. Heartwood does not accept reservations in advance, in-order to score yourself a table one must physically schedule a table between the hours of 3-6PM.

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The accoutrements of my life in New York had distracted me from really knowing myself, and as I plucked them away one by one- the job, the money, the clothes, and even my wigs- I didn't know I was being prepared by a force greater than myself for a major spiritual awakening.

If you have to cry go outside- Kelly Cutrone

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One of the less boasted about yet incredibly enchanting experiences had throughout Mexico is the migration of the butterflies. If you’re lucky enough to step outside in the very sunny streets of Tulum, look up, and you will find a swarm of butterflies have filled the air with absolute beauty.

Fluttering about in all shapes and sizes, the long travelled insects have reached their final stretch of a 5,000 mile long journey that began in North America. The final destination of the year long feet is complete with the well deserved mission of hibernation. Thousands of tiny caterpillar eggs will be laid upon selected milkweed leaves for the next generation to complete the life cycle.

Sometimes one simply needs to look up, and the inspiration finds us! Starting now and throughout the month of July enjoy the beautiful migration of one of Mother Nature's most beautiful creatures.

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Imagine yourself deep in massage, somewhere in paradise if you will; a quick shift in the chest releases a gasp of oxygen, as if you were breathing for the very first time. You calmly collect yourself as the soft yet earthy voice tells you ‘You’re going to experience life differently after this’. No kiddies you don’t have to sell your soul to get here. The life-enhancing Crystal Healing Treatment is tucked away somewhere in Mexico. Sanara Tulum that is.

Meet Mauricio Terrazas, a Peruvian born healer with a passion for giving life. At first glance Mauricio's cool beach-surf style embodies all that is holy caribbean chic. His lengthy grey dreadlocks, authentic Mayan threads, and most importantly eight years of practice assure us that his Crystal Healing experience is without a doubt “legit”.

Set in a light filled room, over-looking the Riviera Maya Mauricio’s forty-four beautifully hand crafted stones & crystals were purposefully placed alongside uniquely designed pendulums that sparkled in undeniable importance. Strategically placing black obsidian stones along my torso, chest, and head. Mauricio gently dangled a pendulum above, spiritually lighting his way through my eclipsed soul.

As my physical body lay supine, I felt my spirit stand in an erect position. Leaving nothing left unturned, the energy in the room quickly began shift as he peeled away each stone from my being. Removing what he calls the ‘shaded areas’ or blockage from my chakras. Then victoriously tossing each of the infected rocks into a bowl brimming with fresh saltwater, leaving the impurities to drown at the very bottom.

Next, colorful amethyst crystals are placed along the chakras; knowledge, strength, and heart points. With the softest touch, a deep tissue massage takes place. Utilizing his skills in Shiatsu, Mauricio performs the kind of massage that awakens one's bones. As the serenading sounds of crashing waves beckoned me outside the spa window. I surrendered to the divine of my own well being.

Once the massage was over, Mauricio looked out-onto the sea. He spoke of my childhood, my challenged heart, my many struggles. Everything he said made perfect sense, as if I had known him all my life. He gave me a hearty hug and thanked me for sharing this experience with him. My life has indeed altered for the greater, Mauricio's Crystal Healing treatment is one to cherish and to hold sacred.

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Located just a stone’s throw away from the Mayan town of Sisbichen, El Jardines del Colibrí Dorado is a non-profit destination ranch dedicated to the cultivation of self-sustainable living & the care of animal wildlife. Sanará's Creative & Health team took to the roads of Coba to delve into the highly respected ancient Mayan teachings of Abuelo Antonio Oxté León.

Upon arrival our hearts melted immediately as a peep of chicks freely greeted us with opened wings and selfless love. It was clear in this moment that we had arrived to a special place, a sanctuary for many living things. The whole-hearted Abuelo Antonio greeted each of us with a warm hug and and a cheeky smile.  

We quickly set off for our adventure, smartly accessorized with notebooks, and cameras ready. The beautiful garden illuminated with color and heaps of greenery. Wildly sprouting flowers blossomed, while vinery spiraled throughout and on top of trees. Cows mooed, dogs barked, and a stunningly beautiful mother deer protected her fawn the way god and nature had intended. Two very large Cenote sink-holes offered a look inside the busy traffic of a typical day in nature’s life. While Abuelo Antonio carefully explained each of the plants and their various uses.

Commonly referred to in Mexico as the Consuelda plant, a beautiful herb that is used to aid in healing broken bones, bruises and warts is both beautiful and medicinal. The very popular Ruda-plants are utilized to warn off insects. While ubiquitous plants such as yucca, vanilla vines, and cotton bushes stood tall and grand. The Garden housed several breathtaking yet life giving organisms. However there was a larger lesson to be learned.

It is a place like El Jardines del Colibrî Dorado, that one should acknowledge our Mother Earth and all it’s beauty. More importantly the need to care and nurture our planet for a better way of living. Since 2005, Don Abuelo Antonio began building upon his vision of a biodiversity garden, respecting native flora and fauna; beautifying with flowers fruits and curative plants. Inviting people from all walks of life to heal and be a part of his. Restoring and caring for the local Mayan and Mexican community.  It is with large hearts that we thank Abuelo Antonio and all of the beautiful souls of El Jardines del Colibri for doing what they do and so well.

Insider Note: The special dish of Quinoa-Mole served with roasted tomatoes & courgette, alongside a delicious salad covered in ginger and tahini dressing was handsomely prepared by Sanara's very own talented Eric Fischer and needless to say can not go unmentioned. Take a look in the images below.

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Of the saturated plethora of decorative table top reads, magazines and online publications alike, Drift Magazine is the seed and soul.

Making their printed debut earlier this year, Sanará Tulum recently had the pleasure of hosting the seasoned talents of Editor In Chief Adam Goldberg, and Creative Director Daniela Velasco of Drift Magazine. The freshly percolated publication is dedicated to coffee, it’s creators, and more importantly black gold lovers all-around.

A memento imbued manifestation of Goldberg & Velasco’s urban obsession with coffee and it’s existence, Drift Magazine is created for the city chic and street dwelling individual. Simultaneously drawing attention to each unique and personalized experience, Goldberg & Velasco’s trained eye beautifully captures every last vital sip.

With it’s current publication on stands now, take a glimpse into Drift’s undeniably captivating photographs below.

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Health and wellness maverick Daniella Hunter, the co-visionary behind Sanará Tulum, introduces The Real Coconut Cafe. The quiet yet quintessentially cool beachfront eatery is located on the pristine beaches of Tulum, Mexico. Offering comforting classics with an all-natural twist, plates are prepared from the freshest locally grown produce.

‘'Every dish is designed to nourish and support both the body and soul down to a cellular level without dismissing the importance of flavor” says Daniella. The Real Coconut prides itself on developing plates for the curative conscience.

Inspired by the versatile sustenance of the coconut, The Real Coconut's philosophy of eating is a regimen for sustainable living, both personally and for the planet. The breakfast menu is comprised of energy-boosting plates that help you optimize performance throughout your day. Gluten free bread is baked fresh daily and offered with their signature coconut cheese spread. Chocolate Chia Pudding, probiotic Coconut Yogurt, and plantain-based Macho pancakes are all made from scratch. Each ingredient is hand-selected and sourced both locally, and globally without compromising taste.

Keeping with their eye-opening perspective, The Real Coconut's lunch/dinner menu is over 70% vegan and offers locally harvested produce with sustainable and consciously sourced protein options such as; local fish, grass fed beef, organic chicken and eggs. The gluten and dairy-free Real Coconut Quesadilla is only one of the mouth-watering delicacies created by Daniella herself. The Real Coconut aims to serve food that is free from dairy, gluten, most grains, legumes and refined sugar. The life and body changing menu is created to provide tasty edibles and refreshments that are truly a remarkable basis for vital living.

The newly opened restaurant features a chillingly delightful cold-pressed juice and raw smoothie bar. The highly skilled staff create a number of delectable drinks that are nutrient dense, formulated with all natural and highly coveted superfoods. Signature dairy-free ice cream smoothies are made to supplement a nutrient intake in-between meals or purely for a decadent indulgence.

The freshly opened Restaurant is open from 8AM - 11PM. For more information please visit www.sanaratulum.com

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For what it’s worth: it’s never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There’s no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again.

F. Scott Fitzgerald

(via thestevenrojas)

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In what is the perfect mingling of classic menswear and dreamlike destination, Sanará Tulum housed the dapper stylings of MR Magazine’s Fashion Director William Buckley. The outcome... is flawless.

The always plugged-in New York based Men's Retailer Magazine is renowned for both it's handsome editorials and international men's trade showMarket Place. Connecting the ever-innovative fashion elite, while setting today's trends for the modern gentlemen. It's no surprise that MR Magazine would choose Sanará Tulum for it's Spring 2016 editorial spread.

Take a look at male model Andres Matiz’s beautiful escape to the Rivera Maya captured by the wonderfully talented Benjamin Stelly. Alongside a few cheeky behind the scenes photos with your Rudy Gonzales.

As Seen on MR Magazine

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Away from the sandy shores of the Caribbean and nestled deep within the roads leading to the Mayan ruins of Coba lies a small village. It is here that local resident artisan Javier Balam recently met with Sanara’s Rudy Gonzales to delve into his one of kind, hand crafted dream catchers specially made for Sanara.  

Designed to protect, the dream catchers originated as a guard to keep dark thoughts away from you as you slept. The traditional dream catcher was intended to protect the sleeping individual from nightmares, while letting positive dreams through. The constructive dreams would slip through the hole in the center of the dream catcher, and glide down the feathers to the sleeping person below. The negative dreams would get caught within the web, and expire when the first rays of the sun struck upon them. The hand woven goods were first represented in an all black weave and placed over loved ones heads while sleeping, to warn off evil spirits and dark energy.

The Mayans believe that the night air is filled with dreams both good and bad. The dream catcher when hung over or near your bed swinging freely in the air, catches the dreams as they flow by. The good dreams know how to pass through the dream catcher, slipping through the outer holes and slide down the soft feathers so gently that many times the sleeper does not know that he/she is dreaming. The bad dreams not knowing ‘the way’ get tangled within the dream catcher and perish with the first light of the new day.

Constructed of a locally grown Beahuco tree wood, each dream catcher is carefully hand woven with nylon thread, and can take up to a day and a half to complete. Adorned with beautiful Sweet Water Shells, the dream catchers also features Mountain Turkey feathers that are collected from a bird reserve located within the Yucatan. Javier assures us and explains passionately that the birds are well kept and shed their feathers naturally.

Producing approximately over 3,000  dream catchers a year, Javier takes great pride in his trade and has since passed on the unique craft onto his son and nephews.  Available in the signature colors of Sanara (navy, natural, & white) the beautiful hand crafted artisan goods are available for special and personalized order. To place your order please email [email protected]

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In what is NOT your typical run-of-the-mill spa, our newly opened Wellness Center is positioned directly within the heart of Sanara Tulum. Specializing in treatments designed to nurture and heal the mind, body, & soul, the Sanara Wellness center is a destination for both physical and energetic transformation.

Embarrassingly enough I am not qualified to consider this a proper review, as much as it is a perception from a fresh pair of eyes : a guide for like-minded intrepid spa goers.

At first glance, Harumi Barrios is all that is poised, gentle, and kind. Little did I know that her magical touch would send my spine spiraling into a sleep like daze with the simple motion of her fingertips. Everything began smoothly enough as she gently rested my thought-filled mind onto a softly scented headrest comprised of 100% all natural aroma therapy.

Just as quickly as my to-do list flashed before my eyes, the serenading sounds of crashing waves swiftly carried off all distractions deep into the Caribbean sea, beckoning me outside the room’s window. Harumi’s gentle yet tenacious attention to core pressure points, both soothed and revealed hidden muscle tension. Her dedication to providing patients with love and compassion epitomizes the hotel’s wellness philosophy for a better way of living.

The 60 or 90 minute Sanara Relieve therapy is devoted to ease and relieve stress, strategically soothing deep muscle tissue and sore aches. The Sanara Wellness menu boasts additional a la cart remedies such Mayan Healing Treatments, Acupuncture, Podal Reflexology, among others. For more information, please visit Sanara Tulum

Wellness Photos by Oscar Luna 

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It's just another beautiful sunrise in paradise, as the cool winds of the beautiful sea carefully sway throughout Tulum on this steamy hot day in Mexico. The soothing sounds of the caribbean crash upon the beach in rhythm with the rustling of the palm trees lining the shore. As the sounds resonate and beckon me outside to the beach, I pack my current read The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov and remember today we celebrate World Book Day. 

On April 23rd, 1616  a symbolic date for world literature that Cervantes, Shakespeare, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. We are reminded to celebrate and encourage others, particularly young people, to discover the pleasure of reading. Paying homage to the irreplaceable legacy of those, who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity. 

One of the greatest pleasures in reading is knowing that you have shared in a wonderful story, someones creativity, and more importantly a beautiful contribution forever marked in the world. In no particular order, please see some of my favorites. 

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Cynthia Conran for Sanara Tulum was conceived with one intention in mind. To get women from all walks of life, appropriately attired, to any & everywhere. Mission accomplished. 

Former fashion model Cynthia Conran has unveiled her first collection at Sanara Tulum. Located on the pristine beaches of Tulum, Mexico,  Sanara is a luxury boutique hotel dedicated to health and wellness. Combined with the hotel’s philosophy for sustainable living, Conran has developed a universal collection of dresses set to transform into the realm of functional womenswear with undeniable sparkle.    

Hecho en Mexico, the Cynthia Conran for Sanara designs are inspired by and created for the chic and inimitable inhabitants of it’s birthplace. The multi functional ‘flow dresses’ are simultaneously contemporary  and elegant . A palette of breezy natural colors and indigo blues are showcased on luxury sand washed and jersey silks imported from all over the world.

Comprised of clean and refined outlines, the premiere collection features an array of delicate cashmere knit kimonchos and bamboo silk fluid dresses. Ethereal, floor sweeping hems are fused with immaculately hand beaded stones sourced locally throughout North America. Providing a unanimously wearable collection, Cynthia Conran’s unique design talents have also been tapped to produce the hotels luxury bamboo terry bathrobes & hand woven throw blankets.

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By: Rudy Gonzales