Into the Light: A Kundalini Spring Equinox Retreat

Into the Light is a seven-night kundalini yoga retreat held at the Spring Equinox at Haramara Retreat in Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico. It is led by Rachel O’Connor of Solas Yoga and is open to all levels. It suits anyone who wants to mark the turn of the season with kundalini movement, breathwork, chanting and meditation, in a rainforest setting.

Solas means light in Irish, a name that reflects a practice rooted in awakening, renewal and the growing light of spring. After attending several retreats at Haramara herself, Rachel is now leading her own here. The week is an invitation to pause, reconnect and make space for what wants to emerge, away from the demands of daily life.

What to Expect

Each day follows a steady rhythm. It begins with a sunrise sadhana among the awakening rainforest. A mid-morning practice follows, weaving together kundalini movement, flow, breathwork, chanting and meditation. Evenings are softer, with somatic and restorative practices that help the body settle and restore. Expect two to three yoga sessions a day.

The hours between sessions are left open for rest, meals, connection, exploring and simply being. The retreat also includes opening and closing ceremonies, a cacao ceremony, and a bonfire on the beach under the stars. Rachel’s intention is not to prescribe a particular way of being, but to invite curiosity, release what no longer serves, and make room for what’s possible.

About Rachel O’Connor

Rachel O’Connor has taught yoga for more than 20 years, with healing, self-inquiry and growth at the heart of her work. Her approach is warm and grounded, inviting students to turn inward, listen deeply and connect with their inner wisdom. She has taught in group and private settings to a wide range of students, including teens, athletes and people navigating health challenges.

Her training spans hatha yoga (RYT-200), essential yoga therapy (RYT-500) and kundalini yoga (RYT-220), along with mind-body health coaching and somatic work.

The Setting

Haramara is surrounded by rainforest, with a private beach, an infinity pool and a hot tub on the grounds. Jungle walks lead to Sayulita.

Accommodation is for seven nights, and the options include a luxurious open-air casita, a bed in a women’s dorm (which holds up to eight), and triple, double or single cabanas. Three meals a day are prepared with fresh, local ingredients. They are pescatarian-friendly, and special dietary needs are accommodated.

Haramara is about 40 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport (PVR).

Before You Go

No particular skill level is required. The practices can be adapted to different bodies and experience, and yoga mats and props are provided.

Optional activities are available for an additional fee: a temazcal sweat lodge ceremony and private spa services on site, a guided hike to nearby Monkey Mountain, a snorkeling trip to the Marietas Islands, and surfing, horseback riding or salsa dancing in Sayulita.

Not included are airfare, shuttles to and from Haramara, alcohol and specialty drinks, and staff gratuities. Travel insurance is recommended, particularly as Haramara keeps a strict cancellation policy.