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At the end of August, I married my now-husband, Cole, in a beautiful, intimate ceremony that was everything we had hoped for. Shortly afterward, we flew to Mexico for eight days of bliss—slowing down, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the beach.
Holistika Wellness in Tulum is a destination all its own. Nestled deep in the jungle, it feels like a hidden paradise. The dense canopy of trees keeps the sunlight at bay, while massive, body-sized leaves and the earthy scent of rain create an atmosphere of pure tranquility. The resort is made up of various buildings, including a hotel, spa, pottery studio, juice bar, and restaurant, all connected by winding pathways and playful, vibrant art installations. It’s a place where nature and wellness blend seamlessly.
As a wedding gift, we were given massages, and we chose to experience them at Holistika Wellness, a wellness retreat just a short distance from where we were staying. After looking through the options, we selected a ceremonial couples massage. The language barrier made it difficult to ask too many questions, but we happily chose the treatment that felt right for our honeymoon.
We were greeted by two kind and professional massage therapists who led us through the jungle to the top floor of the resort's boutique. The space was magical, filled with pillows, instruments, shells, and sacred totems. They invited us to hold hands, close our eyes, and take deep breaths. Our guides began a native chant, accompanied by a smoke ceremony meant to unite us.
Resort massages can be unpredictable, especially when you’re in a different country or immersed in a new culture. But after the ceremony, we were guided to the spa—a small, stunning building designed specifically for couples’ massages. Set within the jungle, the space had an incredible Aztec-inspired design. As someone who’s been a massage therapist for over 12 years and experienced bodywork all around the world, I’ve never seen anything like it.
The massage itself was wonderful—intuitive, gentle, yet thorough. As a therapist, it can be a delicate balance when receiving a massage: letting go of expectations, absorbing new techniques, and surrendering to the healing power of touch.
I tried to stay present, imagining the energy flowing through my body like steam rising from a hot cup of tea—always moving, impossible to grasp, but there to be felt in fleeting moments.
Afterward, as we sat in the resort’s sweat lodge, I reflected on the importance of connection. We often seek connection with others, but sometimes forget that true connection starts with ourselves. Massage is such a unique way to foster that self-connection while being cared for by another. Even the discomfort that sometimes arises—whether from tension or trigger points—reminds us to embrace our vulnerabilities. The deeper we connect with ourselves, the more space we can hold for others.
Our nervous systems benefit so much from receiving this inward connection. Slowing down, being nurtured—it’s a gift we should give ourselves more often.
These were the thoughts I journaled right after our massage. We spent the rest of the day exploring the resort and taking in everything Holistika had to offer. On our last day in Tulum, we had breakfast at their restaurant, where I enjoyed one of the most delicious meals of my life: a vegan falafel plate with kale lentil salad and roasted tomatoes. It was divine.
Our experience at Holistika Wellness was a 10/10, five-star getaway, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone.
If you’re curious about this incredible resort, you can find more information here: Holistika Tulum.
And if you’re craving your own experience of connection and relaxation, you can book a massage at Align Therapeutic Bodywork by clicking below!
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