PURE PLAY with Carly Lutz: A Holistic Surf, Yoga, Adventure Retreat in Northern Nicaragua

Location: Amaru in Aposentillo, Nicaragua

Dates: November 3-10, 2023

Overview: Join me, Carly Lutz, for an 8-day retreat at Amaru in Nicaragua. Having lived and worked at 3+ retreat centers in Nicaragua over the past three years, I am so excited to host this retreat at my favorite space and place, Amaru. Together, we will practice 'pure play' through yoga, meditation, surfing, various (optional) workshops, and via exploration of the incredible country of Nicaragua.

What is Pure Play? Pure play refers to the movement and activities that delight us and bring us joy. Think back to when you were young, and you could play for hours...what were the things that lit you up and made you belly-laugh? What was the sensation in your body? During this one-week retreat, our goal is to activate that feeling and tap into play. Often times in adulthood, we lose connection with our child self and our natural ability to be a goofball and play. This is the time to tap back into play, with support from Carly and a safe community. Research shows it's not only good for us, but in fact crucial to our survival.

Everyone and anyone looking to play and explore with a beautiful group of people, learn from locals, and explore 'off the beaten path.'

SURFING: Whether you are an experienced surfer or a newbie, there are waves and guides to meet your level. My favorite part about Amaru is that when you walk 15 mins south, you can watch and surf world-class barreling waves, and when you walk 15 minutes north, you can surf the friendliest beginner break with rights and lefts. This makes it the perfect place for all skill sets to play, learn from each other and improve your skill no matter where you are starting from. 

YOGA / MOVEMENT: Whether you have been practicing yoga and movement for years or have never been on a mat, there will be options for you. Carly will provide various workshops and classes throughout the week ranging from 60-minute Advanced Vinyasa Flows to 30-min Yin Restore classes. All of our classes and workshops will have the common goal of helping us connect with our bodies, listen to our bodies, and activate PURE PLAY. 

CERRO NEGRO - HIKE AND/OR BOARD DOWN A VOLCANO

Nicaragua is home to 17 volcanoes, several of which are active. Cerro Negro is a young, active volcano outside of the colonial city of León. The volcano only reaches 500 meters in height, so it’s climbable for any level of hiker. The slopes of Cerro Negro lack vegetation and are covered in volcanic ash. After an hour of somewhat strenuous hiking, guests are rewarded with an otherworldly view. For the daring, once at the top, you can “volcano board” down the steep slopes of Cerro Negro.

SURF DAY TRIPS - EXPLORE THE REGION

You will have the option to explore the region’s best waves by car, boat, and foot with Amaru's team of local guides. We’ll make game-time decisions based on the swell, the tides, and your skill level to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime. 

VISITS INTO TOWN - LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

A 15-minute walk from our yoga and surf resort will take you to the quaint fishing village of Asseradores. This community is filled with the most welcoming and kind people you’ll ever come across. We love to stay active within our community by participating in local events or just going out for a local meal as a group. This includes one of the best smoothies and locally made banana bread you've ever had!