Tour Leaders: Raúl Heredia is the founder and director of the Adya Agni School of Chi Kung, Psychotherapy and Meditation and is the cofounder of the International School of Chi Kung “7 Lotus”. He has trained in several healing modalities and spiritual practices and offers instruction and therapeutic work in several disciplines.
Our guest teacher, Carlos de León is a Doctor in Clinical Psychology and Holistic Medicine, and a leading authority in transformational studies, consciousness development, and spiritual practices from all over the world. Read more about Raúl and Carlos on our About Your Tour Leaders page.
Arrive in the historical Port of Veracruz, Mexico’s largest and oldest port city, and be transferred to your hotel. Spend your time independently settling in, visiting some of the historical sites, strolling along the boardwalk, or relaxing in a city square. (Overnight in Veracruz at Grand Hotel Diligencias)
Enjoy an introductory breakfast with the group this morning and then travel by coach to charming Xico to arrive at the Agua Bendita Hotel & Spa. Once checked in, we will gather for our Introductory Meeting and Talk with Carlos De León, a doctor in clinical psychology and holistic medicine and renowned spiritual teacher. Together, we will review the theme and intention of our journey and be introduced to Carlos de León’s teachings and the 5 Elements of Chi Kung which we will be learning and practicing throughout the journey. We will also be introduced to the Odiyana Intentional Community.
We then enjoy lunch followed by a discussion and Chi Kung demonstration and practice with Raúl. The discussion will include an introduction to the 5 main sources of chi kung, as well as a talk on cosmic energy, creative process, and loss of balance and harmony and how this brings illness and imbalance with the elements. We will also learn exercises for stabilizing the chi, or cosmic energy, and observe a presentation of the first sequence of chi kung which includes all the elements we will be working with. As a sacred tool to be carried with you throughout the journey, each participant will be gifted with a special and unique Talisman today with an explanation from Raúl on how we can empower these talismans and “bring them to life”. Enjoy dinner independently or gather with your new found friends to learn more about each other. (Overnight in Xico at Agua Bendita Hotel de Campo & Spa)
Today we explore the water element. After breakfast, we enjoy a visit of the Odiyana property where we take part in a 5 Element Chi Kung practice which will continue to be our morning practice throughout the journey. We will be offered a tour of the beautiful property and discuss the Odiyana Master Plan with Carlos De León.
Odiyana will be a private one of a kind ecological, humanistic and transpersonal community near Xico. The community will include individuals, couples and families of practitioners living together, working together and learning together for the purpose of co-creating personal and social change. Their programs will be designed with you in mind whether you are a new or an experienced practitioner - all that is required is a sincere desire to learn and master disciplines from a number of spiritual traditions. The vision is to create an intentional way of living, minimizing impact on the land, nature and the surroundings by pioneering an ecologically and economically sustainable way of life. We will learn about their exciting vision and plans for development!
We then make a stop in charming Xico, known for its delicious traditional cuisine, where you can enjoy lunch or browse the markets before heading off to visit the spectacular Cascada de Texolo waterfall with the group. Here, in this stunning area of waterfalls and rivers filled with the drumming sounds of cascading water, we will discuss and explore the water element. We will also hike the surrounding trails and participate in a special meditation ceremony at the edge of the river. We then return to Xico for a group dinner and a chance to share the day’s experiences. (Overnight in Xico at Agua Bendita Hotel de Campo & Spa)
Today we explore the ether (akash) element, the most subtle of all elements. We begin the day with our chi kung practice followed by an exercise which will allow us to feel the energy of all the elements from the chi kung and shamanic point of view. After breakfast, we visit the Anthropology Museum of Xalapa which guards the most important collection of pre-Columbian works and houses the largest collection of artifacts from cultures such as the Olmec, Huastec and Totonac. The most prominent exhibitions are that of the giant Olmec heads and the smaller Totonac heads, also known as the “caritas sonrientes” or “little smiling faces”. After lunch, enjoy some free time to independently explore Xalapa, which means “spring in the sand” in native Nahuatl, before returning to Coatepec. Once settled, we gather together for an informative session and discussion with Raúl. He will introduce us to Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent deity of the Aztecs, and discuss his role in Mexican spirituality and priesthood. Together we will also explore the ether element through chi kung and meditation. The evening is yours to reflect on all you have learned thus far in quiet meditation or join with friends for dinner. (Overnight in Xico at Agua Bendita Hotel de Campo & Spa)
Today we explore the earth element. We begin the day with our chi kung practice, followed by breakfast, and then depart for a full day excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage site of El Tajin. This amazing archaeological site was once the largest and most important cities of the Classic and Mesoamerican era. Its most prominent feature is the majestic Pyramid of Niches, but the complex also contains a ballcourt, palaces, and numerous temples. Here, in the splendour of the ancients, we will gather for a special ceremony where we will connect with the Great Spiritual Mother and ask permission of the guardians to enter this sacred place. During this ceremony, we will learn how to approach the sacred sites in a safe and respectful way and how to work with the ancient energies that live at these special places. We will then carry this mood of honour and reverence at each sacred site that we visit. We will ask to be cleansed with a protective and healing energy and request the Great Mother’s blessings. You may then explore the site freely and sit in private meditation before heading off for lunch nearby. After lunch we board our bus and return to Veracruz for the evening. (Overnight in Veracruz at Grand Hotel Diligencias)
Today we explore both the water and earth elements. We begin the day as usual with our chi kung practice followed by breakfast. We then spend the morning visiting the historical Mesoamerican city of Cempoala, also known as Zempoala meaning “20 waters”, and its impressive archaeological site. At the time of the conquest, Cempoala was the Totanac capital and largest city on the Gulf of Mexico. We then make our way to Chapala Beach for some fun in the sun. Spend your time swimming, exploring the huge sand dunes, or just lounging on the beach. In the afternoon we gather together for a Shamanic Ceremony at Quiahuiztlan, meaning “place of rain” in Nahuatl, an archaeological site and fortified settlement on the slopes of a volcanic mountain. This beautiful Toltec site offers a harmonic marriage of both earth and water elements with its unusual rock formations and breathtaking views of the ocean. We then make our way to Catemaco and our lovely hotel for the evening. (Overnight in Catemaco at La Finca Resort Hotel & Spa)
Today we explore the fire element. After our morning chi kung practice and breakfast, we return to the Eyipantla Falls for a powerful connection ceremony with the water element. With the sounds of the roaring falls reverberating throughout, we can also sense the commanding fiery energy that envelops the area. Here, you may spend some time independently for private meditation, have lunch, or purchase gifts and souvenirs. We will make a stop at the Santiago Tuxtla Market to pick up some herbs for our limpia (cleansing ceremony). Afterwards we make our way to the Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve where will have our cleansing ceremony with the local shaman. During the ceremony, the element of fire is incorporated through the use of smudging, herbal cleansing, and smoke as a vehicle for meditation. After dinner, cleansed and rejuvenated after our limpia, we gather around the fire pit for a bonfire and cleansing ceremony with fire. Stirred by the rhythm of the drums, we will join in a Fire Dance and for those more daring, a Fire Walk. Retire for the evening with the music of nature resounding in the night and drift off to sleep with the pulsating sounds of the drums beating along with your heart. Expect some powerful and revealing dreams on this night. (Overnight at the Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve)
Today we explore the air element. Awaken to the vibrant sounds of nature and allow this vibrating energy to flow through you during our morning chi-kung practice. After our practice we enjoy an invigorating rainforest walk through the reserve with a local guide. We will also have the opportunity to indulge in some therapeutic treatments such as mud facials and mud baths. After lunch, we participate in a powerful Temazcal Ceremony. Here, in the belly of Mother Earth, surrendering to the powerful energies in the sweat lodge, we release all negativity which will evaporate into the heavens leaving us purified and rejuvenated. After dinner, enjoy some free time at the lodge to experience the abundance of nature and commune with our Great Mother. (Overnight at the Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve)
This morning we participate in our final elemental chi kung practice which will incorporate all the elements we have worked with throughout the journey. This will allow us to fully integrate all we have learned and experienced and will act as a recapitulation of our entire time in Mexico.
After breakfast, we enjoy a fun and leisurely boat tour on Catemaco Lake followed by our farewell lunch. We then close our journey with a powerful Talisman Ceremony, acting as a significant reminder of the wisdom we have attained and allowing us to carry our personal journeys with us for all time. We then return to Veracruz for a final evening to enjoy the city independently. (Overnight in Veracruz at Grand Hotel Diligencias)
Depart Veracruz to return home with inspiration, strength and wisdom, or continue your learning with Carlos De León at his retreat starting March 5th (more details coming soon).
(B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
All tips and gratuities to drivers, guides, waiters, bellboys, housekeeping etc.
Added Features:
Travel with Chi Kung and Meditation Instructor Raúl Herdia
Discussion and Teachings with special guest teacher, Dr. Carlos de León
Special Talisman for each participant with closing Talisman Ceremony
Daily Chi Kung Practice
Informative Lectures and Insightful Discussions
Sacred Ceremonies and Meditations
Limpia Ceremony with local Shaman
Fire Dance and Fire Walk
Rainforest Walk
Mud Facials and Mud Baths
Temazcal Ceremony
Boat Tour on Catemalco Lake
Tour Does Not Include:
Airfare to Veracruz, Mexico
Cancellation & Medical Insurance (ask us for a quote if your are Canadian)
Meals and drinks not specified
Cost to obtain valid passport
Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks and telephone calls. Any item that is not specifically detailed on our website as being included in the journey.
Tour Price
Price Per Person (Land Only)
Single Supplement
USD $2995.00
USD $550.00
Note: The single supplement is ONLY for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour, at the indicated additional price. If you are not traveling with anyone you know and would like to share a room, we will be happy to work to find you a suitable roommate. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until two weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If by that date we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.
Arrive in the historical Port of Veracruz, Mexico’s largest and oldest port city, and be transferred to your hotel. Spend your time independently settling in, visiting some of the historical sites, strolling along the boardwalk, or relaxing in a city square. 
Enjoy an introductory breakfast with the group this morning and then travel by coach to charming Xico to arrive at the Agua Bendita Hotel & Spa. Once checked in, we will gather for our Introductory Meeting and Talk with Carlos De León, a doctor in clinical psychology and holistic medicine and renowned spiritual teacher. Together, we will review the theme and intention of our journey and be introduced to Carlos de León’s teachings and the 5 Elements of Chi Kung which we will be learning and practicing throughout the journey. We will also be introduced to the Odiyana Intentional Community. 
We then enjoy lunch followed by a discussion and Chi Kung demonstration and practice with Raúl. The discussion will include an introduction to the 5 main sources of chi kung, as well as a talk on cosmic energy, creative process, and loss of balance and harmony and how this brings illness and imbalance with the elements. We will also learn exercises for stabilizing the chi, or cosmic energy, and observe a presentation of the first sequence of chi kung which includes all the elements we will be working with. As a sacred tool to be carried with you throughout the journey, each participant will be gifted with a special and unique Talisman today with an explanation from Raúl on how we can empower these talismans and “bring them to life”. Enjoy dinner independently or gather with your new found friends to learn more about each other.
Today we explore the water element. After breakfast, we enjoy a visit of the Odiyana property where we take part in a 5 Element Chi Kung practice which will continue to be our morning practice throughout the journey. We will be offered a tour of the beautiful property and discuss the Odiyana Master Plan with Carlos De León.
We then make a stop in charming Xico, known for its delicious traditional cuisine, where you can enjoy lunch or browse the markets before heading off to visit the spectacular Cascada de Texolo waterfall with the group. Here, in this stunning area of waterfalls and rivers filled with the drumming sounds of cascading water, we will discuss and explore the water element. We will also hike the surrounding trails and participate in a special meditation ceremony at the edge of the river. We then return to Xico for a group dinner and a chance to share the day’s experiences.
Today we explore the ether (akash) element, the most subtle of all elements. We begin the day with our chi kung practice followed by an exercise which will allow us to feel the energy of all the elements from the chi kung and shamanic point of view. After breakfast, we visit the Anthropology Museum of Xalapa which guards the most important collection of pre-Columbian works and houses the largest collection of artifacts from cultures such as the Olmec, Huastec and Totonac. The most prominent exhibitions are that of the giant Olmec heads and the smaller Totonac heads, also known as the “caritas sonrientes” or “little smiling faces”. After lunch, enjoy some free time to independently explore Xalapa, which means “spring in the sand” in native Nahuatl, before returning to Coatepec. Once settled, we gather together for an informative session and discussion with Raúl. He will introduce us to Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent deity of the Aztecs, and discuss his role in Mexican spirituality and priesthood. Together we will also explore the ether element through chi kung and meditation. The evening is yours to reflect on all you have learned thus far in quiet meditation or join with friends for dinner. 
Today we explore the earth element. We begin the day with our chi kung practice, followed by breakfast, and then depart for a full day excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage site of El Tajin. This amazing archaeological site was once the largest and most important cities of the Classic and Mesoamerican era. Its most prominent feature is the majestic Pyramid of Niches, but the complex also contains a ballcourt, palaces, and numerous temples. Here, in the splendour of the ancients, we will gather for a special ceremony where we will connect with the Great Spiritual Mother and ask permission of the guardians to enter this sacred place. During this ceremony, we will learn how to approach the sacred sites in a safe and respectful way and how to work with the ancient energies that live at these special places. We will then carry this mood of honour and reverence at each sacred site that we visit. We will ask to be cleansed with a protective and healing energy and request the Great Mother’s blessings. You may then explore the site freely and sit in private meditation before heading off for lunch nearby. After lunch we board our bus and return to Veracruz for the evening.
Today we explore both the water and earth elements. We begin the day as usual with our chi kung practice followed by breakfast. We then spend the morning visiting the historical Mesoamerican city of Cempoala, also known as Zempoala meaning “20 waters”, and its impressive archaeological site. At the time of the conquest, Cempoala was the Totanac capital and largest city on the Gulf of Mexico. We then make our way to Chapala Beach for some fun in the sun. Spend your time swimming, exploring the huge sand dunes, or just lounging on the beach. In the afternoon we gather together for a Shamanic Ceremony at Quiahuiztlan, meaning “place of rain” in Nahuatl, an archaeological site and fortified settlement on the slopes of a volcanic mountain. This beautiful Toltec site offers a harmonic marriage of both earth and water elements with its unusual rock formations and breathtaking views of the ocean. We then make our way to Catemaco and our lovely hotel for the evening.
Today we explore the fire element. After our morning chi kung practice and breakfast, we return to the Eyipantla Falls for a powerful connection ceremony with the water element. With the sounds of the roaring falls reverberating throughout, we can also sense the commanding fiery energy that envelops the area. Here, you may spend some time independently for private meditation, have lunch, or purchase gifts and souvenirs. We will make a stop at the Santiago Tuxtla Market to pick up some herbs for our limpia (cleansing ceremony). Afterwards we make our way to the Nanciyaga Ecological Reserve where will have our cleansing ceremony with the local shaman. During the ceremony, the element of fire is incorporated through the use of smudging, herbal cleansing, and smoke as a vehicle for meditation. After dinner, cleansed and rejuvenated after our limpia, we gather around the fire pit for a bonfire and cleansing ceremony with fire. Stirred by the rhythm of the drums, we will join in a Fire Dance and for those more daring, a Fire Walk. Retire for the evening with the music of nature resounding in the night and drift off to sleep with the pulsating sounds of the drums beating along with your heart. Expect some powerful and revealing dreams on this night.
Today we explore the air element. Awaken to the vibrant sounds of nature and allow this vibrating energy to flow through you during our morning chi-kung practice. After our practice we enjoy an invigorating rainforest walk through the reserve with a local guide. We will also have the opportunity to indulge in some therapeutic treatments such as mud facials and mud baths. After lunch, we participate in a powerful Temazcal Ceremony. Here, in the belly of Mother Earth, surrendering to the powerful energies in the sweat lodge, we release all negativity which will evaporate into the heavens leaving us purified and rejuvenated. After dinner, enjoy some free time at the lodge to experience the abundance of nature and commune with our Great Mother.
This morning we participate in our final elemental chi kung practice which will incorporate all the elements we have worked with throughout the journey. This will allow us to fully integrate all we have learned and experienced and will act as a recapitulation of our entire time in Mexico.