One Month Teaching Yoga in Panama

A Yoga Trade on Bastimentos Island

After said project didn’t fall through (read my Schooner Windsong post), a dear friend came to the rescue, pulling some strings that led me to a yoga trade position at Palmar, a beach lodge on Bastimentos Island in a region known as Bocas del Toro, Panama. This charming beach lodge, nestled on Bastimentos Island in the enchanting region of Bocas del Toro, Panama, became an unexpected haven. With swift changes to my plans, I approached this new chapter with minimal expectations, discovering that stepping into the unknown with an open mind is truly the optimal mindset.

It was in this tropical sanctuary that I developed a deeper connection with the mermaid emoji archetype. A spontaneous month in Panama unfolded as one of the most liberating periods of my life; my only responsibilities being to teach yoga to the guests at the lodge and to orchestrate games and activities alongside other volunteer staff.

We all shared the same living space — one disgustingly grimy, mold-filled house. Oddly enough, it turned out to be an absolute blast! Amidst the gritty surroundings, I forged connections with newfound friends hailing from Germany, France, the Middle East, and South America.

I spent my days leading trash clean-ups, visiting local schools, conducting yoga workshops on the beach, and exploring nearby islands and coves. As the sun dipped below the horizon, my nights transformed into vibrant adventures—salsa dancing, hosting trivia for the guests, midnight swims in the ocean, and forming bonds with individuals from every corner of the globe.

Yet, amidst the tropical paradise, there were days when relentless rain confined us indoors. In those moments, there was an unexpected beauty in the simplicity of just being, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcended the weather and united us in the shared experience of just being.

My work trade arrangement turned out to be such a success that I only spent $100 to sustain my entire month-long stay! This experience illuminated the notion that immersive travel, even on a tight budget, is within reach for those who actively seek it and trust the process. What initially seemed like a missed opportunity unveiled a new door, leading to what turned out to be one of the most enriching and memorable months of my life.