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There is nothing better for the soul than to take a little time away from everything. To see a different place with fresh eyes, to have time to let thoughts rearrange themselves.

Mary Paterson of Lotus Yoga Studio at 100 Harbord St. in Toronto hosts a brilliant yoga retreat every year on the ideallic coast of Tulum at the exquisite Maya Tulum Resort. I can’t say that I’ve been to many retreats, but this week in Tulum was profoundly rejuvenating for me. The food alone was worth the trip: never-empty platters of pineapple, papaya & watermelon, tomatoes, avocado & lime, homemade salsas & fresh juices at every meal, tamales, wild rice, curries and delicately marinated fish, mmmmmmm. I could go on.

The beach is pristine, with powdery white sand and big rolling welcoming waves. My cabana was luxuriantly round, cool and squeaky clean. And Mary’s classes are always challenging and inspiring.

A perfect place to strengthen the mind & body.

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