Oaxaca, Mexico
"Roots & Flow" Retreat | Willis Johnston | Mexico
In the land of sun and sacred ruins, flow with the waves, rise with the mountains. Transformation begins here.
Overview
Yoga & Culture Retreat Immerse yourself in the magic of Mexico, wander through ancient temples, discover vibrant markets, flow by the Pacific Ocean, and experience a unique blend of culture, nature, and renewal on this unforgettable journey. Limited spots available, priority given to early bookings.
Hosts
Willis Johnston
From a young age, movement has been a source of freedom, joy, and peace for Willis. With a background in professional dance—including performances with the Metropolitan Opera, The Chase Brock Experience, and Cirque du Soleil—Willis discovered yoga in 2009 as a transformative practice that strengthened both his body and mind.
Schedule
Day 1 – Tuesday, October 20, 2026 (Departure from Athens)
06:55 – Flight departs Athens (ATH) → Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa LH1285
09:00 – Arrival in Frankfurt, 4h30 layover
13:30 – Flight departs Frankfurt (FRA) → Mexico City (MEX) – Lufthansa LH498
17:30 – Arrival in Mexico City, 3h50 layover
21:20 – Flight departs Mexico City (MEX) → Oaxaca (OAX) – AeroMexico AM1054
22:43 – Arrival in Oaxaca
Private transfer & check-in at boutique hotel in Oaxaca City
Day 2 – Wednesday, October 21, 2026
9:00–11:00 – Breakfast
11:00 - 17:00 Relaxing time, journaling, spa
17:00–18:00 – Gentle Arrival Yoga with Willis
19:00 – Dinner restaurant & Opening Circle with Marietta & Willis (included in the package)
(Overnight in Oaxaca)
Day 3 – Thursday, October 22, 2026 (Oaxaca City, Cooking)
07:30–09:00 – Morning Yoga with Willis – Breath & Flow
09:00 – Breakfast
10:00–13:00 – Oaxaca City Tour – markets, churches, artisan streets
13:00–16:00 – Optional - Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class – hands-on session & lunch (not included in the package)
16:00–19:00 – Free time for strolling around the city center or relax at the hotel
19:00 – Dinner (included in the package - restaurant recommended)
21:00 – Return to hotel (walking distance) and rest
(Overnight in Oaxaca)
Day 4 – Friday, October 23, 2026 (Eastern Route – Textiles, Waterfalls & Ruins)
07:00–08:30 – Morning Yoga
08:30 – Breakfast
10:00–19:00 – Full-day Eastern Route Tour:
Hierve el Agua – mineral pools & petrified waterfalls (swim & light lunch)- (not included in the package)
Teotitlán del Valle – weaving & beeswax candles
Mitla – Zapotec ruins with geometric mosaics
19:00 – Dinner (not included in the package - restaurant recommended)
21:00 – Return to hotel (walking distance) and rest
(Overnight in Oaxaca)
Day 5 – Saturday, October 24, 2026 (Southern Route – Alebrijes & Monte Albán)
07:00–08:30 – Sunrise Yoga with Willis
08:30 – Breakfast
10:00–19:00 – Full-day Southern Route Tour:
San Martín Tilcajete – visit Jacobo & María Ángeles
Monte Albán – UNESCO Zapotec ruins
19:00 – Dinner (not included in the package - restaurant recommended)
21:00 – Return to hotel (walking distance) and rest
(Overnight in Oaxaca)
Day 6 – Sunday, October 25, 2026 (Temazcal & Transfer to Puerto Escondido)
07:30–09:00 – Morning Yoga with Willis
09:00 – Breakfast & check-out
10:00–12:30 – Temazcal Ceremony – traditional sweat lodge ritual
13:00 – Light lunch (not included in the package - restaurant recommended)
14:00 – Private transfer to Puerto Escondido (5–6 hrs scenic drive)
20:00 – Arrival & dinner by the ocean (included in the package)
(Overnight in Puerto Escondido)
Day 7 – Monday, October 26, 2026 (Ocean & Renewal)
07:30–09:00 – Morning Beach Yoga with Willis
09:00 – Breakfast
10:30–17:00 – Free time (beach, surf, rest, optional excursion, lunch)
17:00–18:30 – Evening Yoga & Meditation – “Flow into Stillness”
19:00 - Activity “Turtle Release and Bioluminescent Plankton” (included in the package)
21:30 – Dinner at the hotel (included in the package)
(Overnight in Puerto Escondido)
Day 8 – Tuesday, October 27, 2026 (Integration & Farewell by the Sea)
07:30–09:00 – Morning Yoga – “Integration & Gratitude Flow”
09:00 – Breakfast
10:30–19:00 – Free time (swim, market, rest, lunch) & Optional activity “Puerto Escondido: Oaxaca Coast Wildlife Ecotour” (not included in the package)
19:30 – Farewell Dinner by the Ocean at the hotel (included in the package)
(Overnight in Puerto Escondido)
Day 9 – Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (Departure from Puerto Escondido)
09:00 – Breakfast
10:30 – Check-out
11:00 – Transfer to Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM)
Goodbyes are not forever ~
What's included
Gallery
FAQs
1) A 30% deposit of the total retreat cost is required at the time of booking.
To begin, you’ll need to log in or create an account on our booking platform. Please keep your login credentials safe and ensure your email address remains active, as important booking updates and retreat information will be sent there.
2) Book your flights according to the options we recommend for each retreat.
This ensures your arrival transfer will be fully arranged and covered by us, making your journey to the retreat smooth and worry-free.
3) Book your travel insurance for global coverage.
Travel insurance is mandatory for all guests for peace of mind and coverage during your journey. If you want, we are happy to connect you with our trusted travel insurance partner to assist you. Please send us your travel insurance at bookings@myndretreats.com .
LH1285 Y 20OCT ATH-FRA 06.55 - 09.00
LH 498 Y 20OCT FRA-MEX 13.30 - 17.30
AM1054 Y 20OCT MEX-OAX 21.20 - 22.43
AM1545 Y 28OCT PXM-MEX 14.15 - 15.45
LH 499 Y 28OCT MEX-FRA 21.00 - 14.40
LH1284 Y 29OCT FRA-ATH 20.40 - 00.25
Please note that by booking the above flights, your transfer from/to the airport/hotel is included in the package cost.
What’s the traveling group like?
Each MYND Retreat welcomes an intimate group of 15–20 like-minded participants, allowing for personalized attention, deep connection, and a nurturing, high-touch experience. You’ll be joining a premium community of high-end travelers, entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and thought leaders, individuals who have achieved success and are now seeking something deeper: authentic connection, emotional clarity, and personal transformation.
Is the retreat suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with lifelong friendships, and in some cases, even love stories. Beyond the retreat itself, you’ll become part of the broader MYND network, a growing international community where you can connect, collaborate, and network with other purpose-driven professionals long after your journey ends.
Are flights included in the retreat package?
Flights are not included. However, we’re happy to connect you with our trusted travel agency partner to assist with booking and logistics.
Is Mexico a safe destination?
Yes—Mexico is a welcoming destination with world-class hospitality, vibrant culture, and well-established tourism hubs. Like any large country, safety can vary by region, which is why we host our retreats in carefully vetted, traveler-friendly areas and work exclusively with trusted local partners. From secure accommodations and private transfers to guided experiences, our MYND team curates every detail for your peace of mind—so you can relax, explore, and feel fully supported throughout your journey.
How will I be supported during the retreat?
From the moment you book until the day you return home, you’ll be supported with love and precision. We provide pre-arrival guidance, on-site assistance, and create an environment rooted in privacy, emotional safety, and genuine presence.
What’s included in a MYND retreat?
Each MYND Retreat is a premium, thoughtfully curated experience. Your journey includes daily wellness sessions, breathwork, sound healing, mindful movement, as well as sacred ceremonies, nourishing meals, and intentional time for reflection and integration.
We explore authentic local destinations with the guidance of certified, trusted local experts, ensuring both cultural depth and your safety. You’ll enjoy exclusive excursions, soulful bonding moments, and the kind of meaningful stillness that renews you from the inside out.
Optional upgrades like spa rituals or the iconic hot air balloon ride are available for those seeking an extra layer of magic.
Is the retreat physically demanding?
Our experiences are accessible to most fitness levels. All activities (like hiking or horseback riding) are optional and adapted to your pace.
Are dietary preferences accommodated?
Yes. With advance notice, we can provide meals that align with your dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and more.
Essential Clothing
Light breathable layers (linen/cotton tees, airy shirts)
Light sweater/cardigan & scarf/pashmina (Oaxaca evenings can be cooler)
Light rain jacket or packable poncho
Comfortable walking shoes (city tours/ruins)
Sandals/flip-flops (beach & pool)
Casual outfits for dinners (smart-casual)
Modest outfit for churches/markets (shoulders/knees covered)
Sun hat / cap & sunglasses
Yoga & Wellness Gear
Yoga outfits (3–4 sets, quick-dry)
Swimwear (2+) for ocean, temazcal, bioluminescence night
Light microfiber towel (quick-dry)
Water shoes (Hierve el Agua pools, beach entries, bioluminescent tour)
Reusable water bottle (electrolyte tablets recommended)
Optional: personal yoga mat/travel mat (studios usually provide, but bring if you prefer)
Beach / Ocean Days (Puerto Escondido)
Beach bag & dry bag for boat/shore splashes
Reef-safe sunscreen (high SPF) & aloe or after-sun
Snorkel mask (optional), light rash guard for sun protection
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
Day Tours & Culture (Oaxaca)
Light daypack for city & full-day excursions
Small cash pouch for markets (artisans, tips)
Travel umbrella (sun/rain)
Compact first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes)
Temazcal Ceremony (sweat lodge)
Swimsuit (dark/secure fit)
Change of clothes & extra small towel
Hair tie/headband
Electrolytes & hydration pre/post session
Health & Personal Care
Personal meds + copies of prescriptions
Stomach kit (probiotics, rehydration salts, anti-diarrheal)
Motion-sickness tablets (winding mountain roads to coast)
Hand sanitizer, tissues, lip balm, moisturizer
Eco-friendly toiletries (solid shampoo/soap if you like)
Earplugs & eye mask (long-haul flights, city noise)
Compression socks (long flights)
Tech & Power
Phone + charger, portable power bank
Camera/extra storage (optional)
Universal plug adapter for Mexico Type A/B, 110V
eSIM/roaming set-up or offline maps (Google Maps/Maps.me)
Documents & Money
Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
Printed & digital copies of flights, hotel, retreat confirmation
Travel insurance (strongly recommended; policy details handy)
Credit/debit cards (notify bank of travel); some MXN pesos for small purchases/tips
Emergency contacts list (digital & paper)
Pro tips
Pack carry-on essentials (1 yoga outfit, meds, swimwear, charger) in case of luggage delay.
Break in walking shoes before the trip.
Keep sunscreen, water, and hat in your daypack for Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán, and city walks.
Deposit:
A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to confirm your booking. This deposit may not be credited to other events or retreats.
Balance Payment:
The remaining balance is due no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date. Failure to pay on time will result in cancellation of your booking without refund.
The following payment schedule applies:
1. Deposit – 30% (Non-Refundable) at the time of the booking
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit secures your place and is not transferable or refundable under any circumstances.
2. Remaining Payment – 70%
The remaining 70% balance due must be paid no later than 60 days (2 months) before the retreat start date.
Cancellations by the Client:
All cancellations must be made in writing via email.
Refunds are issued according to the timeline below:
---> Deposit is Non Refundable in any case.
---> Refund Entitlement:
* Up to 60 days (2 months) before the starting day of the retreat: 100% refund (excluding deposit & bank fees)
* Less than 60 days (2 months) from the starting day of the retreat: No refund available
Cancellation by the Company:
The Company reserves the right to cancel any retreat due to force majeure, insufficient registrations, safety concerns, or other uncontrollable events. In such cases:
* No refund will be given for travel costs or external bookings
* You will be offered a credit or transfer to a future retreat, subject to availability.
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