Aufguss World Championships
Each year, sauna masters from around the world gather to express their unique stories using aromatic infusions, music, lighting and costumes. This year’s competition at the Netherlands, Thermen Bussloo named Italy’s
Michael Niedermair the winner. For those unfamiliar, Aufguss is a German ritual where the saunameister uses choreographed towel movements to create a unique airflow to circulate the suspended heat in the sauna.
Learn more at saunatimes.com
Peruvian Pachamama ceremonies
Visitors to Peru who want to connect with nature are often invited to take part in Pachamama ceremonies. A time honoured tradition that gives thanks to Mother Earth—the Pachamama. During what is referred to as an earth payment, an Andean shaman guides participants through a gratitude journey that involves offering cereals, grains, fruit and coco leaves to the land.
This deep act of love and respect symbolizes the repayment of gifts the Pachamama has given, establishing a cycle of harmony and reciprocity between humans and the earth.
tourinperu.com
Journeys to balance
Travellers who want to fully immerse themselves in traditional wellness rituals can explore Willka T’ika Wellness Retreat. Home to a sweat lodge, Seven Chakra Gardens and a healing centre. Treatment options include sound ceremonies with musicians guiding guests through journey to balance mental and physical equilibrium and Crystal Light Therapy that combines light quartz crystals and music to realign the body’s chakras. At sunset guests can indulge in an outdoor floral bath in a secluded stone tub to soak amongst medicinal herbs and Maras salt.
willkatika.com