Seeking Shamans in Tulum
by Danielle Robles
Tulum is far from the well-kept secret it once claimed to be. It’s no longer a sleepy beach town filled with little local artisan shops and hole-in-the-wall taco joints. Somehow we blinked and it became one of the world’s most Instagrammable locales. A place where Michelin-starred chefs grill five-star menus, boutiques now sell $500 kimonos, and avant-garde beachside hotel rooms charge in the thousands. It’s where the fashionable elite of Miami and NYC come to unwind. And everyone is either a “shaman”…or looking for one.
The truth is that social media has ruined the authenticity of this place. It’s a morbid display of capitalism at its finest. If there was a way to commoditize wellness, welp, this is it. But I can sit here and shit on “how the influencers ruined Tulum,” or I can take the time to uncover the magic of why so many people fell in love with the first place. I, begrudgingly, chose the latter. So in my quest to find a more spiritual side of Tulum (because I, myself, am clearly part of the problem), here is what I found:
Temazcal Ceremonies:
Part-sweat lodge/part-sacred ritual, the Temazcal ceremony is often lauded as a total rebirthing experience. Dating as far back as the Pre-Hispanic days, these ceremonies were a cleansing ritual rumored to have healing powers. Upon start, participants will enter a womb-shaped sweat lodge made from volcanic stone. Once inside, volcanic rocks are placed in the center, and water is poured over the rocks to produce steam. Herbs, typically sage or copal, are added to aid the cleansing process. Every ritual is unique, some include a shaman-led songs or chanting, but physical detoxification, mental clarity, and emotional release just a few of the benefits you can pretty much always count on.
Cenotes:
In Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a plethora of cenotes lure in travelers and locals alike — if not for the clear, chilled waters, then for the tales of a thinly-veiled route down to the underworld. These sacred sites are believed to hold spiritual energy, providing purification and renewal to those who explore their depths. They are truly magnificent sites, and unique to the region, so they’re a must see when you’re in Tulum. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or underwater exploration, these stunning sinkholes offer a refreshing refuge for swimming, snorkeling, and, for the super brave, diving adventures.
It me!
Mayan Ruins and Temples:
If you’re looking to embark on a mystical journey into history and spirituality, look no further than the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. The towering pyramids and impressively detailed carvings will instantly teleport you to another world. If you’re a history nerd like myself, do yourself a favor and book a guided tour if you really want to have your mind blown. It’s worth it.
(image credit: @holistikatulum)
Energy Healing:
After a weekend of popping bottles at the beach clubs, Tuluminatis love to restore balance and harmony with an energy healing session. While finding an energy healer is about as difficult as spotting an influencer in the wild, locating one with roots in ancient indigenous practices will be a bit more challenging. But fret not — they definitely do exist. From reiki to crystal therapy (and literally everything else in between), the tranquil jungle backdrop of Tulum provides the perfect environment for some seriously deep relaxation.
Is Tulum a place people go to pretend that they are wellness gurus or live some enlightened life? Perhaps. But Tulum is so much more than that. And if you take the time to swim in the bath-water-warm sea at midnight under the moonlight, you’ll see why. One sip of the Kool-Aid and you’re hooked.