Mystical Mexico

The mystical sites in Mexico just may be its saving grace. Amidst the white noise in the news it is difficult to discern the story of a magical transformation seeded within the borders of our neighboring country. Yet the transformation I speak of will profoundly effect all of us the world over.

There has been much written about the 2012 phenomenon. This is evidenced by the surge in spiritual seekers drawn to the sacred lands of the Maya. Many are in search of a new understanding of these ancients who left behind amazing works of astronomy and astrology. The civilization that left a mark on planet earth also left a message. This message can be read in the carvings along the walls of Mexico’s hidden caves and atop the stone monuments spotted across the Mesoamerican Mountains.

Of particular interest, is the discovery of the Mayan Long Count Calendar. Upon first impression, one is struck by the realization that the ending the Maya foresaw millennia ago could portend the extinction of mankind. Yet a more profound theory has emerged pointing our hearts to the evolution of mankind as an alternative. The spiritual power within individuals must unite in partnership to usher in the shift. In light of this revelation, many are drawing an analogous picture to the fall of the Berlin wall following the Harmonic Convergence.

In 1987, I considered myself a neophyte in these matters. Yet I was drawn to or rather “called” to be a part of the process. I cancelled my work commitments and met with a small group of like minded individuals in a friend’s living room. We spent that auspicious day in August practicing quiet meditation, hours at a time, praying. Later we learned how many hands were held world wide during those moments. The connection between this focus on peaceful freedom followed by the subsequent fall of an icon of bondage in 1989 was notably speculated.

One of the ways those called to the upcoming task are participating in the next universal transformation is by connecting directly with the forces at play on sacred lands. The Shamanic elders of the modern day Mayans are being guided to join with those individuals who feel the stirrings within. Excursions have begun to the lands of the early ones throughout the Mexico Guatemala region to reignite the celebratory fires.

One mission of these groups is to unravel the mystery. Another is the preservation of the tombs of antiquity that house Mayan cultural wisdom. Recent restoration projects have been underway at many formerly isolated locations. Some of the lesser known sites have open access to the archeology unearthed. This allows the opportunity for a first hand experience with the energy of the Maya. Those of us who tread these lands carry a great reverence and responsibility. When the tipping point is reached, evolution has begun.

by: Debra White-Stephens

Facebook Contest

Dates of Contest - May 21st - May 28th

How to Enter: Start asking all your friends through emails, facebook, texting, calling, telepathy however you want to join the All About Mexico fan page.

Judging:

1. In the left hand rail below "information" is a box showing you how many of your friends "like" All About Mexico.


2. At the end of one week take a screen shot of the page and how many friends of yours are fans of the All About Mexico page.


3. The person that adds the most Facebook fans in one week wins.

Prizes:

First and Second place both win a $200 credit towards activities at CaboExpeditions.com like snorkeling, snuba, kayaking, parasailing, submarine, whale watching, two bay snorkel & sea trek adventure.

Eligibility:

Anyone with a Facebook page that loves Mexico.

Sponsor:

All About Mexico and Cabo Expeditions

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Easter in Mexico

Easter in Mexico could not be more different than Easter in America. There are no bunnies laying eggs (how is that possible anyway) and you will not find any pastel colors plastered across the country. Instead, Easter in Mexico, or Semana Santa as they call it, lasts an entire week and is filled with richly decorated parades and festivities comparable to Spring Break or 4^th of July for Americans

This holy week preceding Easter and one of the most celebrated periods in Mexico is a site everyone must see at least once. Although originally a solemn holiday filled with dietary restrictions, fasting and lengthy masses the tradition has changed into one of much more celebration and mainly vacation for resident Mexicans. Through out the week lavish parades are held with various extravagant floats re-enacting the different days leading to Jesus' death. Mexicans leave their day jobs to become actors imitating ancient scripture, participants or onlookers. Despite their role in the celebration the week has transformed into a general time of vacation for many Mexicans not excluding plenty of feasting and drinking.

Perhaps its because its the last week of lent and they will soon be able to relish in whatever sinful indulgences they gave up for 40 days. Whatever the reason, the beaches are packed, resorts are booked and the streets are filled with parades. Book any plans far ahead of time because reservations fill up fast due to this being the most popular time of year for Mexicans to vacation. In the meantime, celebrate hunts for eggs with cash or candy in them. Happy Easter!

Aleasha Stephens

Mexican Activities: A Mayan Shamanic Sweat in Xcaret

When my husband an I went to Xcaret just outside of Cancun, the last thing we expected was a life altering experience at a Mexican amusement park. Who knew that tucked away in a little known corner of Xcaret, in an unassuming Shaman’s hut, there were unseen forces at work?

My husband and I met Eduardo on a chance encounter as we meandered through Xcaret with our tour guide Alberto.

“There is a true Mayan village, right here on the grounds of Xcaret,” Alberto of Cancun Tour Company exclaimed. “The sacred ways of the ancients are still practiced here every day.”

“Many believe the Mayan people disappeared from the earth,” he continued. “This is not so. The descendants of the Mayans remain in the Yucatan as they have for centuries.”

Just then, a shaman emerged from a stone hut. Of Mayan lineage, Eduardo was trained by his Grandfather and the Grandfathers that came before him.

With a wave, he greeted Xcaret passersby from below, shouting an invitation. “Come back at 2 pm - we will be conducting a sweat. Listen for the sound of the bell.”

I had read about the sweat lodge ceremony in the Native American custom in the US. The ancient ritual had piqued my curiosity over the years. The invitation was intriguing.

After an invigorating snorkel in the natural underground caves in Xcaret, we began our trek back to the Shaman. A sign close to the site, read “Temascal.” The origin of the Nahuatl word is “temas” for bath and “calli” for house – a place of ritual and healing. Eduardo was waiting with a welcoming smile.

There were two youthful, plump Argentinean girls participating along side my husband and myself. They did not speak a word of English and thus Eduardo along with his young assistant conducted the ceremony alternating between the Spanish and English translations.

We were introduced to the female Goddess whose statue stood guarding the stone structure. A prayer was recited to request her permission for us to enter the sacred space. Tea prepared from local plant life was served to us in turn from a tiny cup. Then we each were handed a conch shell gathered from the nearby sea and directed to blow into it with all our power. The sound signaled our readiness. Blessings bestowed, we were directed to enter a small, round dwelling made of natural rock.

In the center of the cave was a pit of hot stones. The Shaman embraced his mission and as the fire heated, the entrance was sealed. The Shaman announced we must rid ourselves of demons – the first of which is “fear.” We were asked to shout and the sound of our moans reverberated off the walls of the small enclosure.

Next, we were told to drop our “Mask.” Once again, painful noises bellowed as we felt our egos tear away. The release of guttural moans was soon followed by a hushed silence.

Slowly, the sweet sound of singing was heard. The Shaman’s voice grew stronger and soothing. He sang to mother earth and the forces of the heavens. He praised the Gods. It was no doubt a song that has been sung for Millennia. Despite the physical discomfort of the seething heat, we were transformed in that mystic moment.

Just then, with a sudden shock of frigid water, Eduardo began splashing us one by one; first with a large ladle and then from a bucket. Soaked to our skins, we departed the cave and were led to a sacred pool. We were told to submerge ourselves in the quiet relief of the still spring fed water. This process, Eduardo explained, is to cleanse ourselves from the negative forces released in the ceremony.

As we toweled dry and embraced, this time honored Shaman shared his hope that more people would show interest in Spirit to prepare for the changes coming to our world. “The Mayan long count calendar ends in 2012,” he remarked.

“Extinction or Evolution” I shared. Eduardo repeated my words.

“I like that,” he said.

“Well, I can’t claim it,” I confessed. “There are many spiritual teachers in the States talking about it. There is a fork in the road of humanity, a crossroads. The choice is ours.”

For a brief moment the Shaman and I locked eyes and the question beckoned, “When mankind meets the challenge, what path will prevail?”

Debra Mae White-Stephens, Contributing Writer

Mexico Vacations: Visiting Mazatlan!

Hi everyone! I am going to be visiting Mazatlan next week! While there, I will constantly keep you updated with pictures, comments and a little video.

In the meantime, I like taking people's advice. Does anyone have any suggestions of new places to try?

Mexico News: Gay Marriage in Mexico City

Washington Post reports that Mexico City permits gay marriage.

What do you think?

Mexico Food: Cancun Dining at La Habichuela

Fine dining is alive and well in Cancun. La Habichuela (loosely translated “the bean”) is one of the oldest restaurants in continuous operation in downtown Cancun. Armando Pescotti came to Cancun Island and established the eatery 32 years ago. The addition of a second, upscale location in the hotel district opened in 2009. This new, haute cuisine setting was only a leisurely, five minute walk from our hotel.

The first thing that strikes you upon entering the restaurant is the dramatic Mayan depictions etched in stone on opposing walls…true works of art. The highly coveted tables are on the deck but we were not disappointed to have a window seat overlooking the lagoon. A complimentary serving of fish foie gras prepared our palates. The menu displayed a selection of unique options including the signature string bean soup. We began with the fried soft shell crab, avocado and corn tortilla taco for appetizer. Scrumptious.

For the entree, my choice of roast duck in pear sauce with kirsch melted in my mouth. Our waiter, Nathaniel paired my duck with a full bodied Merlot from Mexico’s own Casa Madera. My date enjoyed the sliced tenderloin enchilada smothered in mole sauce; a house favorite. The tangy sherbet offered between these two courses cleared our tongues for the next delight. Did I forget to mention the bread? It is a challenge to single out a favorite roll with warm, fresh varieties from banana bread to onion bun to choose from.

The frothy cappuccino laced with liqueur came with compliments from the house. The unexpected surprise resulted from our hotel concierge scheduling the reservation. Our only regret was not having room in our bellies to try the desert menu that featured 3 flambé, including butterscotch crepes. We vowed to return.

Pescotti’s restaurants are a family affair. His personable son and daughter, Armando Jr. and Alana pay special attention to guests at the hotel location. Armando, Jr. was only too happy to share advice on the area golf courses. It seems that when he and his father are not catering to restaurant guests, they are on the golf course or putting on the green Pescotti had installed at his home.

Dining at La Habichuela was summed up on my comment card; Elegant surroundings, Delectable food, Exemplary service.

Cost for a shared appetizer, two entrees and 4 drinks: $93. We left a $20 tip.

By Debra White Stephens