Ayurvedic Retreat by Sylvia De Marco

March 14-19, 2025

"I am truly excited to host a 6-day retreat dedicated to sharing the wisdom of Ayurveda. Together, we will explore its principles and learn how to integrate this powerful knowledge into your everyday life. I believe that once you begin to connect with Ayurveda, it forms a unique relationship with you, supporting and balancing you in ways that enrich your health and allow you to live more fully. The more 'ayurvedized' your life becomes, the greater the magnetism in your energetic field—attracting more of what you radiate: vibrancy, joy, and wellness.

This retreat takes you behind the scenes of ancient Ayurvedic practices, offering you the tools to seamlessly incorporate them into your daily routine. It will be an honor to guide you through this hands-on, immersive experience, where you’ll learn to become the magician of your own well-being. You’ll discover how to create rituals, perform treatments, and adopt practices that will bring balance and vitality long after the retreat ends.

Think of this as the retreat to end all retreats—an opportunity to transform your everyday life into a sanctuary of healing and rejuvenation.

I like to think of Ayurveda as a reunion with feminine wisdom, not something we need to learn, but something to remember. It’s an invitation to tap into the ancient knowing that stirs within each of us, guiding us back to our true selves. With every herb, every meal, and every ritual, we will be designing portals to the divine, and to who we really are.

To ensure the most personalized experience, I will be welcoming only 14 students, allowing for optimum attention and connection within the group. I’ll be co-facilitating this retreat with my wonderful and knowledgeable team: Lindsay Calloway, our wellness coordinator and Ayurvedic consultant, and Monica Casanova, Ayurvedic practitioner and Panchakarma specialist."

– Sylvia De Marco

All Packages Include

  • Each participant will have either private or shared accommodation in one of our beautiful units. You get to pick which room category you desire.

  • We will arrange airport or ferry pick-up on your arrival date and drop-off on your departure date. (only applies between 8am-5pm)

  • We have separated pockets of time during the retreat to take you to explore this beautiful island. We will be taking you to different beaches as well as sharing with you a little bit of the history, flora and fauna.

  • A sequence performed in the morning to aid detoxification of the body and mind. It nourishes and rejuvenates the tissues and organ systems. Morning routines are a practice of self-love and alone-time with oneself which develops immense benefits— including self-awareness and mindfulness. Some of the Ayurvedic morning routines are as follows:

    Tongue scraping— to detoxify the lymphatic system

    Mouth swish with medicated oil— to nourish the gums, teeth, and tongue, and to decrease congestion in the chest, face, and throat

    Herbal eye wash-- to improve sight and activate the intuitive capabilities of the body

    Nasya— a procedure of medicated oil application through the nose to lubricate the nasal passageways, to decrease sinus blockages and allergies, and to nourish the facial cavities. Additionally, this Nasya treatment will decrease headaches and neck pain, and will improve pituitary gland actions that control a large amount of hormone production in the endocrine system.

  • Our classes will start with a 30 min yoga workshop and followed by an hour and a half of vinyasa flow. In our workshops we will discuss body placement on the mat, the art of transitions and yoga anatomy among other topics.

    If you are a beginner practitioner we will have a beginners class for you as well.

    Yoga is one of the dinacharyas of ayurveda, and part of the ayurvedic health system. Through yoga practices we can have an integrative approach with the body, prana, senses, mind and consciousness.  Yoga gives us an opportunity to be fully present, to digest life, to explore our capacities, state of mind, state of prana and to help us digest life, experiences.  We will be practicing invigoration vinyasa yoga every morning. 

  • Ayurvedic nutrition principles will include three hands-on cooking classes and one theoretical session. Throughout the retreat, we will follow a balanced Ayurvedic diet, allowing us to experience firsthand how our Agni (digestive fire) resets, supporting and optimizing our metabolic force.

    We will delve into Ayurvedic nutrition with a fresh perspective—moving beyond the misconception that eating Ayurvedically means solely Indian cuisine. Instead, we’ll focus on balancing flavors, spices, and the timing of our meals. I’ve designed a creative menu that explores various cuisines through an Ayurvedic lens, providing you with the tools to adapt your own cooking style to align with Ayurvedic principles.

    The three cooking classes will take place before three of our lunches, where we’ll prepare the meals ourselves, making each session a practical and immersive experience.

  • To ensure you become part of your own healing journey, we will equipt you with material & optional lectures where we go into the basic principles of Ayurveda

    Upon arrival you will be handed in a thorough panphlet which will guide you through the retreat but also suppoert you as you continue your journey at home.

  • The Ayurvedic Principles Part 1 and 2 workshops provide a deep dive into the core concepts of Ayurvedic wisdom. Part 1 focuses on Ayurvedic nutrition, teaching you how to balance your meals and incorporate the right spices to support your digestion and overall health. Part 2 explores the Ayurvedic clock, guiding you on how to align your daily routines with the natural rhythms of your body to optimize energy, balance, and well-being. Together, these workshops offer valuable insights into living in harmony with nature’s cycles.

  • The Self-Abhyanga Massage workshop teaches you the Ayurvedic practice of self-massage using warm, herbal oils. This technique involves applying rhythmic pressure to specific areas of the body, promoting the flow of energy, improving circulation, and enhancing detoxification. During the workshop, you will learn the correct methods for performing Abhyanga on yourself, including the types of oils best suited for your dosha and how to target key areas of tension. It’s an effective practice for nourishing the skin, calming the nervous system, and supporting overall wellness.

  • In the Dinacharya Making class, you'll learn how to create your own Ayurvedic self-care kit to incorporate into your daily routine. This hands-on workshop will teach you how to make your own mouth swish, Triphala eyewash, and other Ayurvedic remedies that support oral health, detoxification, and overall wellness. You’ll discover how to tailor these simple yet powerful practices to your needs, enhancing your daily rituals for improved digestion, mental clarity, and balance throughout the day.

  • The Dosha Test and Tongue Reading workshop offers an insightful exploration into understanding your unique Ayurvedic constitution. In this class, you’ll understand the dosha quiz to determine your dominant dosha and learn how it influences your physical, mental, and emotional traits. Additionally, you’ll discover how tongue reading can provide valuable information about your health and imbalances. This workshop equips you with the knowledge to better understand your body’s signals and how to adjust your lifestyle and diet to promote balance and wellness based on your dosha.

  • The Integration Circle is a supportive gathering designed to help you process and reflect on your experiences during the retreat. This circle provides a safe space to share your insights, emotions, and personal growth with others, fostering deep connection and understanding. Through guided discussion and shared experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to integrate the wisdom and practices from the retreat into your daily life. It’s an essential part of the journey, allowing you to fully embrace the transformation you’ve experienced.

  • Yoga Nidra, often referred to as "yogic sleep," is a deeply restorative practice that guides you into a state of conscious relaxation. In this session, you’ll be led through a body scan, breath awareness, and visualization techniques, allowing your mind and body to relax completely while staying aware. This practice promotes stress relief, mental clarity, and emotional healing, offering profound relaxation that recharges both your physical and mental energy. Yoga Nidra is the perfect way to unwind, rejuvenate, and cultivate inner peace.

  • The Kundalini Experience combines the traditional kundalini kriyas, together with the elent of a strong ceremonial set up. This experience will awaken and elevate your energy within, promoting deep healing, emotional release, and spiritual awakening. This practice helps to clear blockages, increase vitality, and create a profound connection to one’s inner self. The Kundalini Experience is designed to guide you into a heightened state of awareness, fostering transformation and a deep sense of inner peace.

    A space for journaling at the end of the practice will be provided.

  • One of the nights you will be gifted with a nourishing journey through sounds, music and smells in a very comfortable and beautiful enviroment. You will have the opportunity to lay back with a face mask, and journey through the vibration of sounds that will build a beautiful and intricate landscape.

Daily Itinerary

  • 3:00pm- Arrival time and welcome snacks 

    4:30pm- Landing yoga and meeting circle 

    6:00pm- Dinacharya explanation 

    7:00pm- Welcome dinner 


  • 6:00am- Wake up time, dinacharya, time alone, journal - Keep silence 

    7:30am- Yoga workshop

    8-9:30am- Yoga class

    10:00am- Breakfast 

    11:00am-1:00pm- Ayurvedic Principles part 1 - Nutrition 

    1:00pm- Lunch 

    1:00pm-4:00pm- Free time / massages 

    4:00pm–5:30pm- Self Abyanga class with Monica 

    6:30pm- Light dinner 

    7:30pm- Night event: Yoga Nidra 

  • 6:00am- Wake up time, dinacharya, time alone, journal - Keep silence 

    7:30am- Yoga workshop

    8:00am-9:30am- Yoga class

    10:00am- Breakfast 

    11:00am-1:00pm- Ayurvedic Principles part 2 - Ayurvedic Clock 

    1:00pm- Lunch 

    2:00pm-4:00pm- Free time, massages, rest

    4:00pm–6:00pm- Self Abyanga class with Monica 

    6:30pm- Light dinner 

    7:30pm- Night event: The Kundalini Experience  

  • 6:00am- Wake up time, dinacharya, time alone, journal - Keep silence 

    7:30am- Yoga workshop

    8:00am-9:30am- Yoga class

    10:00am- Breakfast 

    11:00am-1:00pm- Cooking class

    1:00pm- Lunch 

    1:00pm-4:00pm- Free beach ride

    5:00pm–6:00pm- Dinacharya making & herbal medicine

    6:30pm- Light dinner 

    7:30pm- Night event: Concert & soundescape

  • 6:00am- Wake up time, dinacharya, time alone, journal - Keep silence 

    7:30am- Yoga workshop

    8:00am-9:30am- Yoga class

    10:00am- Breakfast 

    11:00am-1:00pm- Ayurvedic Principles part 2 - Ayurvedic Clock 

    1:00pm- Lunch 

    1:00pm-4:00pm- Free time, massages, beach rides

    4:00pm–6:00pm- Learn Dosha test & tongue reading

    6:30pm- Light dinner 

    7:30pm- Night event: Integration & chai

  • 6:00am- Wake up time, dinacharya, time alone, journal - Keep silence 

    7:30am- Yoga workshop

    8:00am-9:30am- Yoga class

    10:00am- Breakfast & closing circle

    11:00am - Room Checkout

AYURVEDIC NUTRITION PRINCIPALS

This segment of Ayurvedic nutrition principles will be complemented by three hands-on cooking classes and one theoretical session. Throughout the retreat, we will indulge in a balanced Ayurvedic diet, allowing us to experiment firsthand with how our Agni (digestive fire) resets and supports our metabolic health, helping us bring our vitality to its optimal level.

We will approach Ayurvedic nutrition with creativity and openness. While many associate Ayurvedic eating exclusively with Indian cuisine, the true essence lies in balancing the flavors and spices of our meals, and understanding the when and how of eating. I have crafted an exciting, diverse menu that will allow us to explore various cuisines through an Ayurvedic lens. This will give you the knowledge and tools to transform your existing cooking style into an Ayurvedic one, enhancing both the flavor and the energetic qualities of your meals.  

The 3 cooking classes will be prior to 3 of our lunches, so we will be cooking for ourselves during this 3 meals. 

THE AYURVEDIC CLOCK & THE CIRCADIAN RHYTHM 

The retreat schedule is thoughtfully designed to immerse you fully in the wisdom of the Ayurvedic clock, offering a powerful opportunity to align with the circadian rhythms of the Earth. By syncing with these natural cycles, we can harmonize our cellular functions, which in turn fosters a profound sense of well-being and vitality.

In my experience, much of the dis-ease we face today stems from living out of sync with the natural rhythms, often due to the fast-paced nature of modern life and an overabundance of external stimuli. This is a topic I’m deeply passionate about, and I promise to make it both fun and accessible for you as we explore it together.

THE DOSHAS: OUR GENETIC BLUE PRINT

In this segment, we will dive into the wisdom of the doshas, which serve as a powerful guide to navigating your human experience. Understanding your dosha type provides you with deeper self-awareness and better tools for living a balanced life. You’ll discover the foods that are ideal for your body, how to adjust your daily activities to boost your energy and focus, ways to enhance your creativity, and the rituals and routines that best support you.

You’ll also learn how to identify the doshas in others, which will help you build more harmonious relationships with family members, coworkers, partners, and beyond. To make it fun, we’ll engage in dosha tests with each other, exchanging insights and wisdom along the way.

Additionally, we’ll explore how to read the body—learning to interpret signs from the tongue and other key areas that hold valuable information about your unique blueprint and any imbalances you may face.

DINACHARYA & AYURVEDIC HERBAL CONCOCTION 

Throughout the retreat, we will engage in several Ayurvedic routines, known as dinacharyas, which are essential for keeping the body detoxified and lubricated, ensuring optimal performance. These routines not only support the physical body but also nourish the energetic and spiritual aspects of our being.

We will work with ancient Ayurvedic herbal and oil formulas to create these rituals together. By the end of the retreat, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to continue your dinacharya practice at home, and even share these healing routines with those around you.


YOGA

Yoga is an essential part of the Ayurvedic system, serving as one of the key dinacharyas that supports overall health and balance. Through yoga, we create an integrative connection between the body, prana (life force), senses, mind, and consciousness. Yoga offers us the opportunity to be fully present, to "digest" life’s experiences, and to explore our physical, mental, and energetic states.

Each morning, we will practice invigorating Vinyasa yoga. Our sessions will begin with a 30-minute workshop focused on alignment and technique, followed by a 90-minute Vinyasa flow to energize and center the body and mind. If you're a beginner, don’t worry—we will offer a special class tailored to newcomers, ensuring everyone feels supported in their practice.

NIGHT EVENTS 

Our retreat features a series of transformative and soulful evening events, carefully designed to deepen your journey and cultivate meaningful connections. These gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to unwind, reflect, and engage in powerful practices that promote relaxation and personal growth. From the deep restfulness of Yoga Nidra to the dynamic energy of The Kundalini Experience, each event offers a unique and enriching experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Lodging & Rates

Private Room

$3,600 / person

Shared Room (Double Occupancy)

$2,300-2,700 / person

Couples Room

$4,500/ couple

** Monthly Payment Plans available at checkout **

Dorm Room (3-4 occupancy)

$1,900 / person

Cancelation Policy

If you cancel 90 days or more prior to the retreat start date, a full refund of the price will be issued *excluding transaction fees*

If you cancel within the 90-day period leading up to the retreat, the entire payment will be charged. However, we do make exceptions to this policy if we are able to fill the spot with another participant. 

In certain cases, we may be able to fill your spot with another guest. If we are successful in doing so, we will refund your payment, excluding the transaction fees. Please note that this is subject to availability, and we cannot guarantee that we will be able to fill your spot. 

Add Ons

  • We will have availability for massages in case you want to go deeper. Check out our menu here

  • We have an array of local brands & products available to purchase as souvenirs & essentials.

OUR CENTER & THE ISLAND

Nestled on a hillside with refreshing cross-ventilation, our center offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush vegetation and the soothing melodies of native Coqui frogs. Situated atop one of the island's highest vantage points, we enjoy breathtaking views of both sunrises and sunsets. This island boasts minimal light pollution— creating an ideal setting for stargazing. On clear nights, even the Milky Way graces our skies— adding to the awe-inspiring experience.

Spanning three acres, Finca Victoria encompasses a variety of architectural structures seamlessly integrated within the lush vegetation. The land is teeming with fertility— showcasing an array of tropical plants, fruit-bearing trees, blossoms, and cacti.

Vieques— a unique island embraced by the Caribbean Sea— boasts abundant vegetation, year-round warmth, and a surreal landscape accentuated by a population of 2,000 free-roaming horses. This special enclave is a part of Puerto Rico and can be accessed via ferry or a swift, “island-hopper” plane.

COMMUNAL AREAS

Boutique Shop

The boutique store is located in the hotel’s central structure. It carries fine jewelry from local designers such as Mic Urban. We have a beautiful section of clothing and accessories sourced in Puerto Rico— as well as other parts of the world by Sylvia De Marco. These include— kaftans, summer clothing, our own Finca Victoria tees, and so much more!

A part of our store has also been dedicated to outsourcing artisans that create wonderful natural products such as cold-pressed soaps, skincare products, reef-safe sunblock, scrubs, a variety of smoke blends, and more!

The Pavilion & Pool

The heart of the hotel is our exclusive Pavilion. It is a large, open structure overlooking the surrounding foliage and our pool. Here you will find numerous lounging areas— as well as a work space with excellent WiFi. Complimentary homemade teas and herbal infused water are available 24/7. Our host can also be found here, and is available to assist you from 9:00am-5:00pm .

Our Gardens

Perched amidst the central mountains of the island, Finca Victoria enjoys a more tropical climate and cooler temperatures than other parts of the island. Within this mini ecosystem, a variety of indigenous and fruit-bearing trees, tropical blooms, and charming inhabitants— like the coqui frogs— thrive.

In addition, we have herbs around the property that serve as the source of ingredients for some of our teas, herbal infused water and spa's herbal treatments. We extend a warm invitation to our guests to embark on journeys through the enchanting gardens that grace every corner of our property.

Beaches in Vieques

The beaches of Vieques offer an exquisite blend of natural beauty and tranquility. With powder-soft sands and crystal-clear waters, each beach has its own unique charm. From the bioluminescent wonder of Mosquito Bay to the secluded coves surrounded by lush foliage, Vieques' beaches promise a serene escape. Whether you seek vibrant snorkeling spots, peaceful sunbathing havens, or the chance to witness the island's wild horses against a coastal backdrop, Vieques' beaches invite you to immerse yourself in their captivating allure. Our daily beach ride add on serves as a great opportunity to experience a different beach every day!

The Maloka & Yoga

The Maloka— with its stunning ocean view— is our newest structure. This space is dedicated to our daily yoga practice and serves as a gathering place during our yoga classes, embodiment practices & shamanic rituals.

Our morning yoga classes are focused on matching breath with movement, alignment, and creative sequencing. Expect the crisp morning air, a beautiful Savasana under the open sky, and singing bowls to close the practice.

Additionally, the Maloka holds a profound spiritual significance as the sacred space where we conduct our most cherished ceremonies. Within its sheltering walls, we gather to honor ancient traditions, celebrate milestones, and connect with the deeper rhythms of existence. The Maloka's ambiance— coupled with its panoramic view of the ocean— enhances the sense of reverence and connection during these transformative moments.

Participants will enjoy a creative and flavorful ayurvedic diet that will expand your concept of ayurvedic food. Our breakfast will be served after yoga practice and will be chef’s choice. Most of our lunches will be part of our cooking classes in which we will explore how to ayurvedize different cuisines providing this way ideas and tools on how to adapt ayurveda into your already excisiting unique style of cooking. We will have light dinners as per ayurveda’s guidelines and suggestions, to ensure a restful night.

DAILY MEALS

Meet the Facilitators

Our facilitators bring years of expertise in Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic healing. They create a supportive, knowledgeable environment to help participants deepen their knowledge of Ayurvedic practices and support their journey toward balance and well-being.

  • When Sylvia started her journey with Ayurveda, she had no idea what life had in store for her. As she dove deeper in Ayurvedic practices, she had a constant feeling of remembering. The body and soul remembered their natural state of ease and flow. Through Ayurveda, she discovered that finding joy and harmony in the modern existence was a lot easier than she had thought. She simply had to go back to basics. Ayurveda and its yoga practices were one with nature and its natural processes and cycles.

    One of her biggest joys was sharing her yoga practice with others. For her, yoga was the practice of connecting with the body. From that deep connection, she could further connect to her spirituality. Yoga was a tool of embodiment— a space to integrate life and all its experiences— the beauty and sorrow, and all the ups and downs. It was an honor for her to guide others into this practice, and into inhabiting their bodies with intention and awareness.

  • Lindsay Calloway is a certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Herbalist, and Visual Artist with a BFA in Painting, Drawing, and Printmaking.

    The beautiful blend of nature, science, and mind-body practices that is the ancient healing system of Ayurveda, is what initially drew Lindsay in. She has enthusiastically been a student of Ayurveda since 2019, and a hands-on, practicing Panchakarma facilitator. She develops customized and unique treatment plans tailored to each individual's constitution with complete awareness, care, and attention to create balance. She is continually inspired by the transformations she witnesses thanks to the healing power of Ayurveda.

    Lindsay has a strong passion for healing with plants, herbs, and flowers— while also guiding others to connect with them on their own unique healing journeys. Her specialties include creating herbal medicines, teas, customized tonics, and herbal baths.

  • Mónica Casanova is a Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist, Panchakarma Therapist, ERYT, and Doula. She joined the Finca Victoria Wellness (+ La Botanica) team in 2021 as their Ayurvedic Bodyworker, Panchakarma Therapist and LMT Trainer. She currently serves as the resident Ayurvedic Therapist at La Finca.

    Since 2015, Mónica has been a devoted student and professional practitioner of Yoga and Ayurveda, catering specifically to expecting women, conceiving couples, and postpartum mamas through Therapeutic Yoga and Panchakarma protocols. She deeply believes in each human's innate healing power. Additionally, her Dharma is to aid and guide individuals in rekindling the remembrance of the healer within, through Vedic Healing Arts.

    Being 3rd generation Cuban, Panamanian, and Puerto Rican, her Afro-Taino raíces are her pride. She utilizes her heritage as an inspiration, and steeps her work in somatic literacy with a culturally-sensitive lens and trauma-informed approach. These serve as foundational support pillars in how Mónica guides folks from all walks of life to connect to their inner healer.

What our past participants have to say…

"I felt incredibly healthy by the end of it. I'm going to do it again”

Yung Pueblo- Writer

My time at the yoga and embodiment retreat at Finca Victoria this past November was nothing short of transformative. The Ayurvedic workshops were a true gift—filled with wisdom and practical tools that helped me understand my body’s unique needs in a whole new way. I left with a clearer sense of how to nurture myself and align with my natural rhythms. The Human Design sessions were equally eye-opening. I was
amazed by how much insight they offered into my strengths, challenges, and life’s purpose. Most importantly, the retreat helped me begin to reflect on my dharmic path from a place of genuine connection and clarity.

-Maria Gabriela Rodriguez

“ Every herb, every treatment, every meal, every ritual was a portal to the divineand a portal back to myself. A homecoming. What a sacred gift.”

-Lauren Bohm

FAQs

How do I get to Vieques?

Take a quick flight from Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (SJU) or Isla Grande Airport (SIG) via Cape Air or Vieques Airlink. You can also fly from the Ceiba Airport (RVR) or use the charter service Taxi Aereo for inter-island travel. Ferries are an option from Ceiba to Vieques, with tickets available on puertoricoferry.com. An Uber ride from San Juan to Ceiba is around $80. Ferry tickets are sold on the website or at the port, typically 3-4 weeks before departure.

Do you offer airport or ferry pick-up services?

Your journey begins seamlessly as we provide the ease of pick-up and drop-off services for your retreat.

What is the typical weather and climate on the island?

Rejoice in the beauty of the year-round summer weather that graces our enchanting island.

Can you recommend any local attractions or activities to do outside of the retreat schedule?

Immerse yourself in the wonders of our island with thrilling bio bay tours, exhilarating horseback riding, and a myriad of invigorating water sports.

Are there opportunities for sightseeing or exploring the island during free time?

Embrace the freedom to explore our island's captivating sights— including its stunning, shockingly beautiful, and empty beaches, along with vibrant, cultural treasures— during your leisure moments.

What is the refund policy if I need to cancel my reservation?

Plan with peace of mind — cancel 90+ days before the retreat for a full refund. Within 90 days, exceptions apply. Fillable spots may lead to refunds (excluding a transaction fee). Availability-dependent; we strive to accommodate your needs.

Still have questions? Contact us!

___

Retreat Coordinator

Email: retreat@lafinca.com