ELEMENTS OF JOY

Classical Pilates The original method, taught the way Joseph Pilates intended. Precise, controlled, deceptively challenging. A grounding first class for the week.

Contemporary Pilates Flow Classical foundations with modern sequencing. Full-body strength with movement that breathes.

Sculpt Strength-focused, combining Pilates principles with resistance work. Expect to feel it the next day.

Vinyasa Yoga Breath-led flowing practice, adaptable to every level, built to complement the Pilates programming across the week.

Pilates 101 Workshop A form deep dive. What you should and shouldn’t feel in the key exercises. How to break down the fundamentals, how to self-modify in any class you take at home, and how to level up when you’re ready to make things harder. We’ll revisit what you felt in the Classical class now that you’ve done it once, and cover breath properly. This is the workshop that changes every class you take afterwards.

Partner Yoga Workshop (Inversions) Playful, hands-on and a confidence builder. No experience needed, laughter guaranteed.

Journaling and Yoga Nidra Guided prompts flowing into deep yogic rest, timed for the evening before bed.

Cacao Ceremony & Welcome Circle Ceremonial cacao to open the retreat, set intentions and meet the group.

Temazcal Ceremony A traditional Mayan sweat lodge, led by local practitioners, on the final full evening. Ancient, intense and unforgettable, flowing straight into our long farewell dinner.

Not at all. All levels are welcome, and everything is designed to be accessible and empowering - whether you're brand new or more experienced. You’ll be supported every step of the way, and encouraged to move at a pace that feels right for you.

Yes and yes! Many of our guests come solo - and it's a beautiful way to meet like-minded people in a safe, welcoming space.

Alternatively, if you’re coming with a friend, you can let us know through your booking form and provided availability, we will pair you together in the same room!

Absolutely! When you book your spot, you’ll be asked to share any dietary requirements or allergies. We’re happy to accommodate vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, and we’ll do our best to make sure everyone is well-fed and feels great throughout the retreat.

Cancún is one of the easiest airports to reach, with direct flights from New York, Miami and most major US cities, as well as from London. It's around four and a half hours from NYC, which makes this an easy way out of the worst of winter. January is also one of the best times of year to be in the Yucatán, warm and dry without the summer humidity.

• Group transfers: We'll provide one group transfer from Cancún airport to the retreat, and back again at the end of your stay. We'll take care of the logistics so you can arrive ready to unwind.

• Flying into Tulum airport (TQO) instead? It's closer, around 40 minutes from the venue, but with fewer flights. If you'd rather fly into Tulum, we can help you arrange a private transfer.

• Extending your stay: The Yucatán is made for exploring. Many guests add a few days before or after the retreat for Holbox, Bacalar, Valladolid or the ruins at Chichén Itzá and Cobá. We're happy to help you plan.

Need help figuring out flights or connections? Just reach out. We've got you.

Check-in opens at 3:00pm on arrival day. If you're joining the group airport transfer, it will get you to the retreat by then. If you're making your own way there, aim to arrive around 3:00pm so you have time to settle in before our welcome circle at 5:00pm.

Check-out is at 12:00pm on departure day. We'll share our final morning practice and breakfast together before the group transfer back to Cancún. Flights leave at all sorts of times, so if yours doesn't line up neatly, let us know and we'll help you figure out the smoothest plan, whether that's somewhere to leave your bags and spend the afternoon in Tulum or a separate transfer.

Here’s what’s not included:
✈️ Flights to and from Mexico
💆 Additional spa treatments or excursions not included in the itinerary, such as massages (available to book on-site)
🧳 Travel insurance (highly recommended for peace of mind)

When you book, you'll have the option to pay in full or spread the cost over a payment plan. It's all automated through our booking platform, so once you're set up, the payments take care of themselves. Final payments must be made before the retreat begins.

If you have specific questions, just reach out to us at hello@heldretreats.com and we'll support you to the best of our ability!

Most guests won't. Travellers from the UK, US, EU, Switzerland, Singapore and many other countries can enter Mexico visa-free for tourism. You'll be issued a visitor permit (FMM) on arrival, which for air travellers is usually included in the price of your ticket.

One thing that catches people out: Tulum is in the state of Quintana Roo, which charges a separate visitor tax called Visitax. It's paid online before you travel and takes a couple of minutes.

Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and ideally for six months beyond your travel dates. Visa rules can change, so please check the official requirements for your nationality closer to your departure.

We keep this one simple so there are no surprises. All payments are non-refundable. If your plans change and you let us know at least 60 days before the retreat starts, you can transfer your booking to another retreat instead, so your spot (and your investment) isn't lost. Cancellations within 60 days of the start date, or leaving partway through the retreat, aren't eligible for a refund or transfer.

We know life happens, which is exactly why we recommend booking travel insurance that covers trip cancellation. It's inexpensive and gives you a safety net we're not able to offer ourselves.