Nature Medicine USA, Australia, Canada, Peru - El Sol Ayahuasca Healing Retreat Center

1. The Greek physician Hippocrates said: “Nature itself is the best physician,” and hisThe Greek physician Hippocrates said: “Nature itself is the best physician,” and his wisdom rings even more true today. Humans have evolved in communion with nature – indeed, we were never separate from it, despite today’s buildings and computer screens that seem to suggest otherwise. It is this very suggestion of separation that makes intentional connection to the natural world that much more crucial to our

2. health and well­being today. It is easy to underestimate the benefits or forget to gethealth and well­being today. It is easy to underestimate the benefits or forget to get outside regularly, but the latest research shows that taking the time to forest bathe or bask in the e몭ects of blue mind (the calm, meditative state which comes from looking at or experiencing bodies of water) has numerous measurable benefits. From boosting the immune system, mood, energy levels, focus, and sleep quality; to reducing blood pressure, stress hormones, and symptoms of depression, the answer is clear – if you’re feeling caught in a pattern that doesn’t serve you, going for a walk can help calm the mind, connect to the rhythm of life, and maybe o몭er a shi몭 in perspective that will get you out of that negative cycle. Even surrounding your indoor space with plants can boost mood (and productivity), o몭ering a way to reap the benefits throughout our daily lives. Many indigenous cultures practice animism – the belief that we are all part of a spiritual ecological system, that the world is vitally alive, and that there is a consciousness that underlies all things. In particular, animists believe that all of nature – the trees, the mountains, the earth – has a conscious spirit. There may be more truth to that than we think. On a macro­level, our planet is a living, breathing, interconnected organism that is – depending on your definition – vitally alive and conscious. Just as the collective living cells, bacteria, and other organisms in our bodies form a complete whole made of up individual, constantly interacting components, so too do all living things on the planet form a “whole” – a complete ecosystem that is continuously interacting with and reacting to its various component parts. Humans represent a significant part of this whole, and separating ourselves from it – physically and mentally – is detrimental to our health, and the health of the whole. We have evolved in a two­way relationship with the rest of our planet, and the further we disconnect, the worse it is for the well­being of all. Conversely, when we connect with the rest of life, it is there we can find the soul­li몭ing and powerful communion that many of us desire and spend much of our time and energy trying to find.

3. El Sol Ayahuasca healing Retreat Center - Nature Medicine Whether your approach is scienti몭c, spiritual, or otherwise, Nature has your back! Recognized in many parts of the world as a pillar of preventative healthcare, we are pleased to advocate for this deeply healing medicine at El SOL. Referred to by National Geographic as “one of the most biologically intense places on Earth,” our center’s home of Peru also houses more than 10% of the world’s wildlife (while comprising only 0.03% of its landmass!). Join us on excursions to one of the many local nature reserves, or enjoy the calm and expansive view of the Gulf from our sundeck. Among the various nature trails around our property, we offer an immersive experience connecting to Mother Earth and her awe-inspiring bounty -Nature Medicine   pRIVATE BEACH Embrace the Blue Mind! Enjoy relaxing on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the beautiful Gulf of Nicoya that is our front yard! Whether up close on our semi-private beach, or relaxing and taking in the view from the El SOL sundeck or your ocean view balcony, there is something about the expansive horizon and calm waves that is sure to inspire and soothe -Nature Medicine  

4. Nature Trails We are lucky to be surrounded by the mountainous jungle of the Nicoya Peninsula, a protected natural haven teeming with wild birds, monkeys, butter몭ies, and coati, among others. As such, all around our property are carefully tended nature trails where you can immerse yourself in the 몭ora and fauna that comprise the unique ecological beauty of Costa Rica. You’ll 몭nd nooks and crannies where you can take some space in quiet meditation, and perhaps a hammock or two!   Local Islands and Migratory Birds

5. Once mountainous terrain, the Gulf of Nicoya is an incredible example of Mother Nature at work. After a volcanic fault line plunged the land into the sea thousands of years ago, only hilltops remained to form the Gulf’s many speckled islands. Today, the aquatic wonderland is a beautiful combination of marine habitat and coastal wetlands, dotted by its numerous protected islands.   Nature Immersion The healing power of nature is all around us, with plenty of options to explore, commune, and immerse yourself in. Ask us for recommendations after your retreat to round out your days of healing, medicine, and growth.