The Temazcal bath was intended by the Maya to purify the body, mind and spirit in a serene garden setting.  The ancient ceremony blends a cleansing sweat bath with herbs and flowers.

The ceremony was used by many cultures including the Aztecs, Zapotecs, Mixtecs and Mayas as a purifying, therapeutic ritual.  It takes place in an adobe bath chamber, and an area reserved for massage, meditation and rest.

The bath chamber is heated by rocks which are warmed in a fireplace on one side with vents into the chamber.  Boughs of herbs are placed over hot rocks and the rocks then doused with water.  A deeply scented steam starts the sweating process to purify and relax the body.

This ritual is closely monitored by a temazcalera who makes sure the steam chamber is not too hot or cold, and that appropriate herbs are used to treat special complaints.  During the ceremony she gently beats the bather's body with herbs, encouraging deep breathing and relaxation.

After 10 to 30 minutes in the bath, the bather is wrapped in a dry cotton sheet and moves to a serene part of the garden to relax until the sweating has ceased.  A massage may be offered during this period.

We offer the use of the Temascal to groups of  six or more people at a time.  Reservations and sign-up sheets must be made at least 24 hours in advance to make sure our temazcalera is available for the session.